Choosing a university is about more than academics—it’s also about finding a place to grow, connect, and thrive. At Lee University, campus life is intentionally designed to support not just your educational goals, but your personal, social, and spiritual development as well.
Located in Cleveland, Tennessee, Lee University offers students a vibrant Christian college experience rooted in fellowship, faith, and fun. In this article, we’ll walk you through what student life is like at Lee—from dorm life and student clubs to chapel services and community outreach—so you can get a full picture of what to expect.
A Christ-Centered Campus Culture
Lee University is a Christian liberal arts college affiliated with the Church of God. Its mission is to develop students holistically—intellectually, spiritually, socially, and physically.
Faith isn’t just an add-on here—it’s embedded in the fabric of campus life:
- Weekly chapel services
- Small group Bible studies
- Campus worship nights
- Faculty who mentor students spiritually and academically
Students are encouraged to grow in their personal faith, discover their purpose, and build meaningful relationships in a Christ-centered environment.
Dorm Life and Housing Options
Living on campus is an integral part of the Lee experience. First-year students are typically required to live on campus, and many upperclassmen choose to stay in university housing due to its convenience and strong community feel.
Residence Halls Highlights:
- Residential Communities: Most dorms have Resident Chaplains who lead devotionals and prayer nights.
- Safe and Supportive: Campus security and residence life staff ensure a welcoming and protected environment.
- Styles: Traditional dormitories, suite-style housing, and apartment options are available.
- Common Amenities: Study lounges, laundry rooms, recreation areas, high-speed Wi-Fi
🛏️ Tip: Apply for housing early to get your preferred dorm!
Chapel and Spiritual Formation
All students are required to attend chapel services twice per week—a key spiritual rhythm of campus life. Chapel services include:
- Worship music led by talented student musicians
- Messages from Lee faculty, guest pastors, and alumni
- Themed series exploring Christian living, theology, and mission
Beyond chapel, students can join small groups, participate in discipleship programs, and engage in mentorship opportunities with staff and local church leaders.
Student Life and Organizations
Lee has over 100 student-led clubs and organizations, so there’s something for everyone:
Academic and Professional
- Pre-med Club
- Business Society
- Future Educators Association
Arts and Performance
- Lee University Chorale
- Theater Club
- Film and Media Society
Faith and Ministry
- Campus Ministries
- Men’s and Women’s Discipleship
- Missionary Preparation Teams
Social and Cultural
- Black Student Union
- Latinx Student Fellowship
- International Student Services
✝️ Student-led ministries are at the heart of campus life, providing weekly gatherings, worship events, and outreach projects.
Campus Events and Traditions
Lee’s calendar is full of community-building traditions and events that make student life memorable:
- U-Church (University Church): Live concerts and worship nights with guest artists and speakers.
- Homecoming Weekend: Includes a parade, student talent shows, and alumni reunions.
- Lee Day: A massive open house for prospective students with games, concerts, and campus tours.
- Dorm Wars: Inter-dorm competitions in sports, talent, and creativity.
These events create lasting memories and foster deep connections among students, faculty, and alumni.
Athletics and Recreation
While Lee University is a Division II school in the NCAA, you don’t need to be a varsity athlete to stay active.
Varsity Sports
- Soccer, basketball, volleyball, cross country, golf, tennis, and more
Intramural Sports
- Flag football
- Basketball
- Volleyball
- Ultimate frisbee
Recreation Facilities
- DeVos Recreation Center: Fitness equipment, indoor track, courts
- Outdoor spaces: Walking trails, basketball courts, and green areas for gatherings
🏐 Intramural leagues are one of the most popular ways to meet new friends!
Service and Outreach Opportunities
Lee students are encouraged to live out their faith through service. Whether local or global, service is woven into the student experience.
Popular Service Opportunities:
- Global Perspectives Program: Every student completes a cross-cultural experience before graduating.
- Cleveland Outreach: Tutoring, feeding programs, and partnerships with local nonprofits.
- Mission Trips: Organized annually through Campus Ministries.
🌍 The Global Perspectives requirement ensures that every Lee graduate gains international or intercultural experience.
Dining and Campus Life Amenities
Lee University’s campus dining options include:
- Deacon Jones Dining Hall – All-you-can-eat buffet
- Einstein Bros. Bagels – Popular for breakfast and study sessions
- Sandella’s Flatbread Café – Health-conscious and quick options
- The Paul Conn Student Union (PCSU): Central hangout spot with food, seating, and activity rooms
The PCSU also includes:
- A post office
- Student leadership offices
- Campus store
- Game rooms and social areas
Testimonials from Lee Students
“I’ve grown so much in my faith since coming to Lee. The people here are encouraging, and I feel like I’m not just learning about my major—I’m learning about life.”
— Sierra M., Nursing Student
“Dorm life was the best part of my freshman year. Our whole floor became a family—midnight worship sessions, group devos, and Chick-fil-A runs!”
— Trevor L., Youth Ministry Major
“At Lee, it’s easy to get involved. I joined three clubs in my first semester and found my best friends through student ministries.”
— Faith R., Psychology Major
External Links & Resources
- Lee University Campus Life
- Lee University Campus Ministries
- Lee University Residence Life
- Lee Athletics
Conclusion
Lee University offers a dynamic campus life experience where faith and fellowship are central. From spiritual formation and service to social events and sports, students at Lee are immersed in a holistic college journey that fosters growth in every area of life.
Whether you’re joining a choir, leading a Bible study, or just enjoying life in the dorms, you’ll find that Lee is more than a university—it’s a faith-filled community ready to welcome you in.