Lees-McRae College

Nestled in the picturesque North Carolina mountains, Lees-McRae College stands as a private, coeducational institution renowned for its commitment to a personalized and engaging educational journey. With a close-knit community of 855 students, it offers a distinct atmosphere where individuals are encouraged to thrive amidst stunning natural beauty and a supportive academic environment.

The college's story began in 1899, founded by the Reverend Edgar Tufts as an all-female high school in Banner Elk. Initially named "The Elizabeth McRae Institute," it soon honored another benefactor, Suzanna Lees, becoming "The Lees–McRae Institute" by 1903. A significant chapter unfolded in 1927 when the Plumtree all-male branch merged with the Banner Elk campus after a fire, leading to a pivotal transformation. By 1931, the institution evolved into an accredited, coeducational junior college, laying the groundwork for its future growth.

Lees-McRae continued its forward trajectory, making a strategic move towards offering four-year programs in the late 1980s. This dedication to expanding educational horizons culminated in 1990 when it proudly received accreditation as a four-year college. Beyond its academic programs, Lees-McRae also demonstrates a strong commitment to community empowerment, notably becoming the first expansion site for the New Opportunity School for Women in 2005, a program dedicated to educating and employing women in Appalachia.

Prospective students and families considering Lees-McRae will find an institution that blends historical depth with modern academic excellence, all set against the inspiring backdrop of the mountains. It's a place where a vibrant student experience is cultivated, encouraging personal growth and academic achievement, truly living up to its motto: "In Montibus, Ex Montibus, Pro Montibus" (In the Mountains, From the Mountains, For the Mountains).