Cannon Charitable Trusts grants to fund multiple building enhancements


In support of continued efforts to improve the on-campus experience for students, faculty, staff and community members, The Cannon Charitable Trusts have awarded multiple grants totaling $436,990 to Lenoir-Rhyne University.

Provided by the Charles A. Cannon Charitable Trusts of Concord, North Carolina, $300,000 will go towards the repair/replacement of the HVAC system located in the Daniel Rhyne Building – the university’s main academic building. The project scope, which vendors have estimated at $750,000, will include new compressor units, new fan coil units, new air handling units, new fan coil units, and then cleaning and ensuring that all other pieces are functional.

On the Columbia campus, funds totaling $136,990 were awarded to the Lutheran Theological Southern Seminary for elevators repairs in the student center and the replacement of the HVAC unit located in Beam dorms. The elevator in the student union is currently non-functioning – causing issues for students, faculty, staff and visitors who have mobility issues. The failing HVAC unit in the upstairs portion of Beam needs replacing to ensure more consistent heating and cooling.

“I would like to thank The Cannon Charitable Trusts for this generous investment in both our Hickory and Columbia campuses,” said University President Dr. Fred Whitt. “These grants are a catalyst that elevates not only our buildings but the quality of education we deliver to our students.”

 The implementation of these upgrades is scheduled to begin immediately.

Based in Concord, North Carolina, The Cannon Foundation and the Charles A. Cannon Charitable Trusts were established to carry on the charitable works of Mr. Charles A. Cannon, president and chairman of Cannon Mills Company.

In front of red backdrop with LR logo visible, two female students hold out Bears Say Thanks stickers to foreground

Lenoir-Rhyne celebrates the success of Giving Tuesday, an annual global giving movement for the causes and organizations we care most about.

View More
Jocelyn Florez hands out healthcare pamphlets on campus

Public health major Jocelyn Florez '25 shares her passion for evaluation, prevention and protection as she does her part to build healthier communities.

View More