Lees-McRae College

Banner Elk, NC

private nonprofitbachelors

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Quick Facts

“In Montibus, Ex Montibus, Pro Montibus (Latin)”(In the mountains, of the mountains, for the mountains)

Private college

Type

817

Total Students

$35M

Endowment

$31K

Tuition (In-State)

$31K

Tuition (Out-State)

$26K

Avg Net Price

81%

Acceptance Rate

44%

Graduation Rate

6-year

62%

Retention Rate

Baccalaureate Colleges

Classification

President: H. Lee King

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

About Lees-McRae College

Mountain adventures meet academic excellence at Lees-McRae College in a vibrant, supportive community.

Nestled in the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains of Banner Elk, North Carolina, Lees-McRae College offers an unparalleled educational experience where a passion for learning converges with the spirit of adventure. Guided by its inspiring Latin motto, "In Montibus, Ex Montibus, Pro Montibus" (In the Mountains, From the Mountains, For the Mountains), this private college cultivates a unique environment for its 855 students, blending rigorous academics with immersive outdoor opportunities and a strong sense of community.

The college's rich history began in 1899 as an all-female high school, founded by Presbyterian minister Reverend Edgar Tufts. It underwent several transformations, including a merger of its male and female branches and a renaming to The Lees-McRae Institute. By 1931, it had evolved into an accredited, coeducational junior college, showcasing its enduring commitment to expanding educational access. This tradition of growth culminated in 1990 when Lees-McRae was granted status as a four-year college, a significant milestone that broadened its academic offerings and appeal.

Today, Lees-McRae College continues to build on its legacy of innovation and community engagement. Beyond its academic programs, the college is notable for its social impact, becoming the first expansion site for the New Opportunity School for Women in 2005—a testament to its dedication to empowering individuals in the Appalachian region. Under the leadership of President H. Lee King, Lees-McRae provides a distinctive collegiate experience, inviting prospective students and families to discover a place where personal growth, academic achievement, and the majestic beauty of the mountains converge.

Key Highlights

✦Located in the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains of Banner Elk, North Carolina.
✦Guided by the meaningful motto: "In Montibus, Ex Montibus, Pro Montibus" (In the Mountains, From the Mountains, For the Mountains).
✦A private college fostering a close-knit community with 855 students.
✦Evolved from an all-female high school (founded 1899) into an accredited coeducational four-year college by 1990.
✦Serves as the first expansion site for the New Opportunity School for Women (since 2005), supporting women in Appalachia.

Timeline

1899

Founded as an all-female high school by Reverend Edgar Tufts.

1900

Named "The Elizabeth McRae Institute."

1903

Name changed to "The Lees–McRae Institute" with the addition of Suzanna Lees' name.

1907

Chartered by the state as "The Lees–McRae Institute"; an all-male branch founded in Plumtree.

1927

Plumtree facility destroyed by fire, leading to the merger of campuses at Banner Elk.

1931

Renamed "Lees–McRae College" as an accredited, coeducational junior college.

1990

Granted status as a four-year college by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

2005

Became the first expansion site for New Opportunity School for Women.

Leadership

H. Lee King

President

Pam Vesely

Provost

Data from Wikipedia – CC BY-SA 4.0

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