Salem Academy and College president takes new role leading Lenoir-Rhyne University

Summer McGee is stepping down as president of Salem Academy and College at the end of June, and will become the new president of Lenoir-Rhyne University in Hickory. 

Summer McGee came to Salem on a mission to strengthen the school’s focus on health leadership and science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics, or STEAM. 

Since she took the role in 2021, the college has added 11 new academic programs, started a leadership development initiative and seen significant enrollment growth. McGee says she feels like she did what she came to do. 

“I felt like I am leaving the institution in a really strong place with growing enrollment and a really thriving campus," McGee said. "And so, I feel good about what we have accomplished together, and look forward to the next leader having a chance to take Salem to even greater heights.”

McGee will be the first female president of Lenoir-Rhyne University, a private, Lutheran liberal arts school. When she starts in July, she says she’ll be working to develop its next strategic plan. 

"It is a wonderful, wonderful place, and I can't wait to see all the exciting things that we will do in the future," McGee said. 

Salem’s Board of Trustees will identify an interim president in the next few weeks, while launching a national search. 

Amy Diaz covers education for WFDD in partnership with Report For America. You can follow her on Twitter at @amydiaze.