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Lee University

Cleveland, TN

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

"Where Christ is King"

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

Where Christ is King: A Century of Faith, Growth, and Academic Pursuit.

Nestled as a private university, Lee University lives by its profound motto, "Where Christ is King," guiding its mission and academic endeavors. With a vibrant student body of 3,680, Lee has evolved significantly since its humble beginnings, maintaining a strong commitment to its founding principles while adapting to modern educational needs.

Lee University's rich history traces back to 1918 when it opened its doors as a Bible training school, initiated by the Church of God. Its journey began in the council chamber of the Church of God Publishing House in Cleveland, with just one teacher and twelve students. From these modest roots, the institution steadily expanded, acquiring larger facilities and broadening its academic scope. By 1930, it had grown to include a high school, a school of business, and a school of music, marking its intent to provide a more comprehensive education. Further expansion in 1941 saw the addition of a two-year junior-college, cementing its role in teacher training and business education.

The student experience at Lee has also grown over the decades, with the introduction of intramural athletic teams in the 1940s, fostering a sense of community and healthy competition. The tradition of student publications began with the Vindagua yearbook in 1942 and the Clarion student newspaper in 1946, providing platforms for student voice and memory-making. Prospective students and families will find a university with a deep-rooted history, a clear spiritual foundation, and a commitment to academic development that has shaped generations.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 1918 as a Bible training school by the Church of God.
  • A private university with an enduring motto: "Where Christ is King."
  • Serves a vibrant community of 3,680 students.
  • Expanded its offerings by 1930 to include a high school, a school of business, and a school of music.
  • Established a two-year junior-college in 1941, focusing on teacher training and business education.
  • The current campus has a historical lineage dating back to 1885, initially housing Centenary College and Music School.

Timeline

1885
The current campus housed a Methodist institution, Centenary College and Music School.
1911
The Church of God appointed a committee to establish plans for a Bible training school.
1918
The school's first term began on January 1, in the Church of God Publishing House.
1930
The institution added a high school, a school of business, and a school of music.
1938
The school moved to a 63-acre campus in Sevierville, Tennessee.
1941
A two-year junior-college was added, focusing 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

2 notable schools within Lee University

💼

School of Business

Established by 1930 as part of the institution's expansion into broader academic offerings.

🏫

School of Music

Added by 1930, enhancing the curriculum with artistic and performance education.

Leadership

Phil Cook
President

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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