Lee University's Worthy Now Celebrates Identity, Faith, and Community
Cleveland, TN (11/06/2026) — Lee University recently hosted "Worthy Now," a biannual gathering for women of all ages that is celebrating its 12th year on campus. This semester's theme, "Identity," featured a keynote address from Dr. Holly Perleoni, dean of the School of Business.
"I saw God at work in the way He brought women from across campus and from all walks of life together, making room for them to encourage and invest in one another," said Stacey York, spiritual life events coordinator at Lee. "Our hope is that the women left feeling encouraged, reminded of who God says they are, and how deeply they are loved by Him."
Upon arrival, attendees were seated at tables hosted by Lee faculty and staff members. Throughout the evening, table hosts guided discussions and reflection centered on the theme of identity.
In her keynote address, Perleoni spoke about accepting God's unconditional love across time, place, and circumstances. Following her address, Lee faculty members Briley Williams and Rachael Pitts led "Couch Conversations," a panel featuring Perleoni and students Gracie Waite and Callie Brewer. The discussion encouraged women to resist comparison and instead find their identity in God.
The evening concluded with worship and prayer, followed by a dessert bar.
"There are few opportunities for just women to get together and talk about faith and life," said Sadie Beth Eby, a senior English writing major at Lee. "'Worthy Now' cultivates an environment that holds space for the Holy Spirit's presence in a really tender and tangible way. We aren't alone, and 'Worthy Now' is a beautiful way to hear that spoken and to see it genuinely demonstrated."
"Worthy Now" is dedicated to encouraging the women at Lee to embrace their worth, empower others to do the same, and inspire the calling on their lives.
For more information about "Worthy Now," contact York at syork@leeuniversity.edu.
Media Attachments
Dr. Holly Perleoni delivers the keynote address during the fall “Worthy Now” gathering.
Lee students lead worship during this year's "Worthy Now."
Attendees engage in discussion with their table host Gloria Scott-Richmond, director of racial and ethnic relations at Lee.
Students display one of the treats they received from their table host.