Lenoir-Rhyne University: A Legacy of Notable Alumni

Lenoir-Rhyne University, a private Lutheran university nestled in Hickory, North Carolina, has a rich history of fostering talent and shaping individuals who have made significant contributions across various fields. Accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, the university offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs, alongside a vibrant campus life enriched with extracurricular activities and service-learning opportunities. This article delves into the lives and achievements of some of Lenoir-Rhyne's most notable alumni, showcasing the university's impact on their journeys and the world.

Honoring Alumni: A Tradition of Recognition

Lenoir-Rhyne University recognizes the outstanding achievements of its alumni through various awards and honors. Recently, seven alumni were honored for their exceptional service, contributions, and achievements. These awards highlight the diverse paths and accomplishments of LR graduates. The Opal L. Moretz Distinguished Service Award, for example, acknowledges alumni who have demonstrated exceptional dedication to their communities and professions.

Trailblazers and Achievers

Lenoir-Rhyne University boasts a diverse array of alumni who have excelled in their respective fields. Here are some notable examples:

Business and Entrepreneurship

Aroon Khatter ’12: A recipient of the Rising Star Young Alumnus/a Award, Khatter graduated with a bachelor’s degree in finance and economics. As a student-athlete, honor roll student, and member of Phi Kappa Phi honor society, he played at the number one position on the varsity LR Bears tennis team. Khatter started his entrepreneurial career at 22, eventually founding Vendekin Technologies, a global pioneer in touch-free and cashless vending experiences.
Kay Bowman Schmucker: A 1964 graduate with a bachelor’s degree in business administration, Schmucker has had an exemplary career in real estate. She joined Bonnie Mitchell’s company, which later became Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Hickory Metro Real Estate. Schmucker has received numerous accolades, including the Chairman’s Circle-Gold Level award and the Legend 15 Year Award, recognizing her as one of the top sales professionals in the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices network.

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Richard (“Dick”) Long Huffman Jr.: Earning his bachelor’s degree in business administration in 1972, Huffman went on to study law at Wake Forest University and earn an MBA at the University of North Carolina, Charlotte. He established Huffman Law Firm, developing expertise in occupational diseases and injuries, particularly asbestos-related cases.

Ministry and Service

The Rev. Palmer D. and Cynthia “Cindi” Long Clemmer: This couple, brought together by Lenoir-Rhyne University, has dedicated their lives to ministry and service. Palmer graduated in 1974 with a degree in sociology and later earned his divinity degree. He served seven parishes in four states before retiring in 2008. Cindi graduated summa cum laude in English in 1973 and then earned a master’s degree in journalism. She started her business, Clemmer Communications. The Clemmers created a scholarship fund in memory of Cindi’s parents and provide housing for LR students who need economic assistance.

Human Resources

Amy Lyster Floyd: A 1991 alumna with a bachelor’s degree in business administration, Floyd has held human resources management roles with healthcare organizations. She remains committed to LR, serving on the Board of Visitors and as former president of the Alumni Association board of directors.

Journalism and Photography

Jonathan Matthew Ernst: A 1993 honors graduate with a bachelor’s degree in English with an emphasis in journalism, Ernst is a senior photographer for Reuters News Pictures. He has worked on every continent except Antarctica and has covered four White House administrations.

Politics and Public Service

Cherie K. Berry: Served as the North Carolina Commissioner of Labor from 2001 to 2021.
James B. Black: A former member of the North Carolina General Assembly, who represented the state's 100th House district.
W. Stine Isenhower: Was an American politician in the state of North Carolina.

Law and Judiciary

Elizabeth K. Dillon: Is the chief United States district judge of the United States District Court for the Western District of Virginia.

Athletics

Kyle Dugger: An American professional football safety for the New England Patriots of the National Football League (NFL).
Rick Barnes: An American college basketball coach who is currently the head coach at the University of Tennessee.
Herm Starrette: Was an American relief pitcher; pitching and bullpen coach; and farm system official in Major League Baseball.

Arts and Entertainment

Tom Segura: An American stand-up comedian, writer, author, actor, and podcaster.
Burgess Jenkins: An American actor.

Faculty Contributions and Recognition

Beyond its notable alumni, Lenoir-Rhyne University has been shaped by dedicated faculty members who have devoted their careers to teaching, mentorship, and service.

Dr. Cooke: A physics professor with 60 years of experience at Lenoir-Rhyne, Cooke is a graduate of the school and a recipient of the Raymond Morris Bost Distinguished Professor Award. He is also a member of the LR Servus Universitas Society, which honors employees with at least 25 years of continuous, full-time service.
Dr. Fanning: Served as a Glenn R. Frye Professor of Biology, coordinator of the biology program, and chair of the School of Natural Sciences. Fanning received the Roediger Distinguished Service Professor Award and the Raymond Morris Bost Distinguished Professor Award.
Other Notable Faculty: McCuiston (librarian), Moore (associate professor of biology), Oder (coordinator of enrollment services), Richter (writing appears in the Encyclopedia of Television and The International Encyclopedia of Mass Communications), Schiffel (coach), Tinkelenberg (interim Chair of the School of Nursing), Turner (associate professor in the College of Business and Economics), Underwood (the director of the Spirit of LR marching band), Yoder (director for security services).

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University Achievements and Developments

Lenoir-Rhyne University has consistently evolved to meet the needs of its students and the changing landscape of higher education. Some recent achievements and developments include:

Record Fundraising: In 2022, LR raised a record $19.3 million in cash and commitments for scholarships, academics, and athletics.
Tuition Reduction: In 2023, LR lowered tuition by 30 percent for all new and returning, full-time undergraduate students.
New Fritz Honors College: Thanks to a $1 million gift, LR now has the Fritz Honors College, a selective program for high-achieving students.
Athletic Success: The men’s lacrosse team won the Division II National Championship in 2023.
Strategic Partnerships: An innovative partnership with Catawba Valley Community College allows CVCC students to live on LR’s campus and participate in LR student life.
Campus Safety Initiatives: Lenoir-Rhyne University partnered with the City of Hickory to place officers from the Hickory Police Department on campus full-time.

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