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Lee University

Cleveland, TN

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

"Where Christ is King"

Wikipedia
1918
Founded
Private university
Type
2,712
Total Students
$33M
Endowment
(2024)
$23K
Tuition (In-State)
$23K
Tuition (Out-State)
$20K
Avg Net Price
72%
Acceptance Rate
61%
Graduation Rate
6-year
81%
Retention Rate
Master's Colleges & Universities
Classification
President: Phil Cook

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About Lee University

Lee University: Where Christ is King, fostering academic excellence and spiritual growth since 1918.

Lee University stands as a prominent private institution, guided by its enduring motto, "Where Christ is King." Since its founding in 1918, Lee has evolved from a modest Bible training school into a comprehensive university with a vibrant community of 3,680 students. Its rich history and unwavering commitment to faith-based education make it a unique and nurturing environment for aspiring scholars.

The university's journey began with humble origins in the council chamber of the Church of God Publishing House, featuring a single teacher and just twelve students. Over the decades, Lee experienced remarkable growth, expanding its facilities and academic offerings. This foundational period laid the groundwork for a university that not only values intellectual pursuit but also emphasizes spiritual development and community engagement.

Academically, Lee University has strategically diversified its programs. While rooted in its initial mission, it expanded to include a high school, a school of business, and a school of music in 1930, followed by a two-year junior-college in 1941 focusing on teacher training and business education. This expansion demonstrates Lee's dedication to providing practical and robust education across various disciplines. Students can also look forward to a dynamic campus life, enriched by traditions like intramural athletic teams, the "Vindagua" yearbook, and the "Clarion" student newspaper, fostering a well-rounded collegiate experience.

For prospective students and families, Lee University offers an engaging blend of academic rigor and a supportive, faith-centered community. It's a place where personal growth is nurtured alongside academic achievement, preparing graduates not just for careers, but for lives of purpose and impact.

Key Highlights

  • Established in 1918 with a steadfast commitment to Christian education.
  • Guided by the inspirational motto, "Where Christ is King."
  • A thriving private university serving a student body of 3,680.
  • Began with a pioneering class of just 12 students and a single teacher.
  • Expanded to offer comprehensive programs, including a School of Business and a School of Music.
  • Pioneered a junior-college program in 1941 focused on teacher training and business education.
  • Cultivates a rich student experience with intramural sports, a student newspaper, and yearbook.

Timeline

1911
Church of God appointed a committee to establish plans for a Bible training school.
1918
Lee University's first term began with 12 students and tuition of $1 per week.
1920
School expanded to the old sanctuary of the North Cleveland Church of God and included a dormitory.
1930
Added a high school, school of business, and school of music.
1937
Constructed its first building, a women's dormitory.
1938
Moved to a 63-acre campus in Sevierville, Tennessee, after purchasing the Murphy Collegiate Institute.
1941
Added a two-year junior-college focused on teacher training and business education.
1942
The "Vindagua" yearbook began publication.
1946
The "Clarion" student newspaper was first published.
🏛️
108 Years
of Excellence

Schools & Colleges

3 notable schools within Lee University

💼

School of Business

Established in 1930 as part of the institution's expansion.

🏫

School of Music

Founded in 1930, broadening the university's arts offerings.

🏫

Junior-College

Added in 1941, specializing in teacher training and business education.

Leadership

via Wikipedia
Phil Cook
President

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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