Wofford students have weekly opportunities to gather with their peers, create and destress, taking home watercolor paintings, succulent plants, mental health banners, Halloween door hangers, etc., thanks to Lisa Lefebvre. Faculty and staff now have healthier hearts after participating in walking challenges and yoga classes initiated by Lisa. Lisa Lefebvre worked almost around the clock to keep the Wofford community safe and reassured during COVID-19.
She died May 21 at her home in Spartanburg surrounded by her husband, Dr. John Lefebvre; their sons, Alex ’18 and Max ’21; and her sister, Linda McGahey DeHaven. Lisa was diagnosed with kidney cancer in December 2023, and prayed, adapted and fought for 17 months. She continued her work as director of employee wellness and medical services until almost the end.
“Our community is devastated,” says President Nayef Samhat. “Lisa placed the care of others before herself. Prema and I would check on her, and she’d turn the tables, asking about our health or children and grandchildren, and others experienced the same. She gave so much to so many, and we extend our deepest sympathy to John, Alex and Max.”
Lisa Lefebvre joined the Wofford community in 2011. Previously she served as director of health services at Converse University, beginning in 2001. She earned a BSN from Clemson University and was working at the Duke University Medical Center when she met John Lefebvre, who was a doctoral student at Duke. They fell in love and became partners, parents and adventure companions who loved to travel and spend time with friends.
Lisa also worked as a nurse at AnMed, Spartanburg Regional Medical Center and for the American Red Cross. Her varied professional experiences made her an excellent communicator, organizer and event planner as well as a no-nonsense but compassionate healthcare provider.
“In her role at Wofford, Lisa spearheaded many of the college’s wellness initiatives including a campaign to make Wofford a tobacco-free campus. She promoted healthy relationships and raised student awareness for the dangers of substance abuse and unhealthy habits. She regularly brought therapy dogs to campus,” says Beth Wallace ’82, vice president for campus life and student development and dean of students. “Her colleagues in the Wofford Wellness Center, Campus Life and Student Development and I were inspired by her work ethic and focus on getting things done. She loved this college community and was willing to roll up her sleeves and do whatever was needed to make it better. She will be missed deeply as a dear friend and colleague.”
Lisa pioneered and managed the Employee Wellness Program. She brought the Blood Mobile to campus and increased the availability of immunizations. Her work during COVID-19 was recognized in the Old Gold and Black student newspaper and by the Southern Conference when they named her to the 2020 SoCon Faculty and Staff Team. In 2024, she was named Campus Union Staff Member of the Year.
Lisa had a reputation for supporting students in all areas of college life. When John was hired at Wofford, they decided to purchase a house in Spartanburg so they could immerse themselves in the life of the college, far beyond what was required by their employment. The Wofford volleyball team gave Lisa a 2024 championship ring for her support.
Lisa was also known for her focus on gratitude. In November 2020, at Lisa’s suggestion, the college asked people on campus to share notes of gratitude. Below is a note that specifically mentions Lisa. Below that is the note Lisa wrote.
“I am appreciative of the support of the Wofford community throughout this unique semester. I am especially grateful for the work of Lisa Lefebvre and the Wellness Center staff who have diligently worked to keep us all safe. Their work comforting, counseling and advising students is what has allowed us to have a full semester on campus, and for that I am extremely grateful.” Megan Leonard ’21, a biology and Spanish major from Charlotte, N.C.
“I am thankful for my family (both immediate and ones I can’t see regularly), health and home. In a time of uncertainty, I appreciate the little things like going for a walk with my dog, watching the leaves fall and reading a good book. I hope that others find their peace and contentment in the little things in life that make them happy.” Lisa McGahey Lefebvre, RN, BSN, director of employee wellness and medical services
A celebration of life will be held for Lisa at 2 p.m., Friday, June 13 at First Presbyterian Church of Spartanburg. A reception will follow at the church.
The college has established a fund to support the Create program and other initiatives that Lisa championed. If you would like to make a gift, visit Wofford.edu/give. Make sure to mention that the gift is in memory of Lisa Lefebvre.