MISSION:
Lyon College, founded in 1872, is the oldest college in Arkansas still operating under its original charter. Rooted in a rich Presbyterian heritage, the college has evolved from its humble beginnings as a small Presbyterian school to a dynamic institution dedicated to academic excellence and the holistic development of its students. Lyon’s mission is to cultivate a transformative educational experience through a rigorous liberal arts curriculum while fostering critical thinking, ethical leadership and a commitment to lifelong learning. The college remains steadfast in its dedication to nurturing compassionate, globally-minded citizens who are prepared to make meaningful contributions to society.
FUNDRAISERS AND EVENTS:
- Enjoy bagpipes? Visit ScotsFest, Oct. 18-20, 2024. arscottishfest.com
- Springtime fun? Attend Scots Spectacular, April 12, 2025
GIVING OPPORTUNITIES:
- Named endowed scholarships begin at $25,000. They help students now and in the future.
- Gifts of any amount to annual scholarships help students now and are our greatest need.
- Help Arkansas with gifts to the School of Dental Medicine, our state’s first dental school.
- Love animals? We do, too! Support Arkansas’ first School of Veterinary Medicine.
FUNDING SOURCES:
- Student Tuition and Fees: 32%
- Government Grants and Contracts: 8%
- Auxiliary Enterprises: 25%
- Endowment: 25%
- Charitable Contributions: 7%
- Other: 3%
2300 Highland Road
Batesville, AR 72501
870.307.7211 | lyon.edu | Facebook | Instagram | X
Established: 1872
Employees: 190
Service area: Arkansas, National, Global
Leadership
President: Dr. Melissa P. Taverner
Board of Trustees
Victor Werley, Chair
John Beller, Vice Chair
Gary Paxson, Secretary/Treasurer
Isabella Beasley, Young Alumni Trustee
Suzanne (Evans) Blair
Ben Brainard
Rev. Dr. William “Bill” Branch Jr.
Jason Earley
Rachel Golden, Alumni Trustee
David Jones
Terrell King
Camryn “Cali” Long
Enid (Rorex) Olvey
James L. “Skip” Rutherford III
Dr. Melissa P. Taverner
Jonathan Thompson
The 2024/2025 Arkansas Giving Guide is presented by Wright Lindsey Jennings. Click here to read a letter from our sponsors.