North Carolina Wesleyan University has earned a spot among the Top 50 private universities in the South in the latest U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges rankings, ranking No. 6 among private universities in North Carolina in the Regional Universities South category.
The recognition is especially significant as NC Wesleyan enters the Regional Universities South category for the first time. The University’s growing number of graduate programs moved NCWU into a larger and more competitive classification, where it is now evaluated alongside universities with broader graduate-level offerings.
NC Wesleyan was also recognized as a Top 5 university in North Carolina for Social Mobility, reflecting the University’s impact in helping students from a wide range of backgrounds access and complete higher education.
“These rankings reflect the growth of North Carolina Wesleyan while affirming what has always been central to our mission, creating opportunities for students to achieve their goals,” said NCWU President Dr. Evan D. Duff. “We are proud to be recognized among the leading private universities in the South and especially proud of the impact our students and graduates continue to make.”
The latest recognition builds on NC Wesleyan’s continued momentum in academic growth, student outcomes and national recognition as the University approaches its 70th anniversary.
CIS 210 Students Bring Computer Hardware Concepts to Life
Students in NC Wesleyan University’s Computer Information Systems (CIS210) course recently took a hands-on approach to learning computer hardware by assembling miniature, 3D-printed desktop computer models.
The activity gave students the opportunity to move beyond diagrams and terminology and physically explore how major computer components—including the motherboard, memory, storage, graphics card, cooling system and power supply—fit together within a computer.
Designed as a low-risk introduction to computer assembly, the project allowed students to manipulate and assemble components without the complexities of working with full-size hardware. The hands-on experience supported tactile learning while encouraging curiosity, discussion and peer collaboration.
Beyond reinforcing technical concepts, the project helped students build confidence as they prepare to work with actual computer hardware. Students also received their miniature computers as keepsakes they can display, reassemble or use to share what they learned with friends and family.
The project is one example of how experiential learning in the classroom can make technical concepts more approachable, engaging and memorable.
NC Wesleyan Celebrates First Graduating Cohort of Applied Reproductive Biology Program with Strong Career Placement
North Carolina Wesleyan University is celebrating a milestone in its growing academic offerings and its commitment to workforce development with the completion of its inaugural Applied Reproductive Biology Laboratory (ARTLAB) cohort.
The first cohort of 11 students has completed NC Wesleyan’s Applied Reproductive Biology certificate program, designed to prepare students for careers in the rapidly growing field of assisted reproductive technology and in vitro fertilization (IVF) laboratory science.
And the results are already translating into careers.
Of the 11 students in the inaugural cohort, seven have confirmed job offers in the field, while the remaining four are currently in various stages of the interview process. Based on the progress of those students, the program projects 100% employment placement within the next month.
For NC Wesleyan, that early success represents more than the completion of a first class. It demonstrates the potential of ARTLAB to connect specialized education directly to workforce demand while creating new career opportunities for students and contributing to economic development in a growing industry.
“This is the first class — the first of many — to complete the nation’s finest training for positions in IVF labs across the nation under the auspices of North Carolina Wesleyan,” said Dr. Joe Lane, Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs at NC Wesleyan University. “We look forward to working with Dr. Schenkman and her colleagues to continue growing this program and to launching new programs in related fields.”
The Applied Reproductive Biology certificate is an accelerated, specialized program that provides students with hands-on training and academic preparation aligned with the needs of assisted reproductive technology laboratories. Students are prepared to pursue opportunities within IVF laboratories and related reproductive science settings.
The program was developed under the leadership of Dr. Eva Schenkman and her colleagues, whose expertise has helped establish NC Wesleyan as an emerging destination for specialized training in reproductive biology.
The inaugural cohort’s career outcomes underscore the value of that industry-focused approach.
Building a Workforce for a Growing Industry
The demand for professionals trained in assisted reproductive technology continues to create opportunities for individuals interested in laboratory science and reproductive health. NC Wesleyan’s ARTLAB program is designed to help meet that demand by providing focused training for students seeking a pathway into this specialized field.
For the University, the program also represents a broader commitment to creating educational opportunities that have a direct impact beyond the classroom.
Students gain specialized skills. Employers gain access to trained talent. And communities benefit when graduates are able to transition into meaningful careers.
The inaugural cohort provides an early example of that workforce-development model in action.
With seven students already holding confirmed positions and the remaining four actively interviewing, the first ARTLAB cohort is poised to achieve a 100% placement rate shortly after completing the program.
Applications Open for 2027 Cohorts
With the success of its first cohort, NC Wesleyan is preparing to welcome the next group of students interested in entering the field of applied reproductive biology.
Applications are now being accepted for two 2027 cohorts:
- Spring 2027 Cohort: January 18 – March 26, 2027
- Summer 2027 Cohort: May 24 – July 30, 2027
The University encourages individuals interested in pursuing careers in IVF laboratory science and applied reproductive biology to learn more about the program and apply for an upcoming cohort.
The first cohort may have been the beginning, but NC Wesleyan sees it as just that, the beginning.
As the University continues to expand its offerings in applied reproductive biology and related fields, ARTLAB is positioned to become an important part of NC Wesleyan’s commitment to innovative education, career preparation and workforce development.
To learn more about NC Wesleyan’s Applied Reproductive Biology program or apply for an upcoming cohort, visit ncwu.edu.
NC Wesleyan and Rocky Mount Academy Establish Partnership to Expand Teacher Education Experiences
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) and Rocky Mount Academy (RMA) have entered into a new partnership that will provide NC Wesleyan teacher education students with expanded opportunities to gain hands-on experience in a private-school setting.
Through the agreement, NC Wesleyan students pursuing teacher education will have opportunities to participate in field placements, practicums and student teaching experiences at Rocky Mount Academy. Students may also engage in classroom observations, tutoring, mini-lessons and other educational activities alongside experienced educators.
The partnership represents a new dimension of experiential learning for NC Wesleyan’s Teacher Education Program. The university has previously established formal partnerships with traditional public-school systems and public charter schools, but this agreement marks an opportunity for teacher candidates to gain experience within a private-school environment.
“This MOU represents a creative and important partnership for both NC Wesleyan and Rocky Mount Academy that will allow our candidates for teacher education to gain valuable experience in the RMA classrooms and activities while strengthening our relationship to RMA,” said Dr. Joe Lane, Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs at NC Wesleyan University. “We look forward to strengthening these institutional connections as well as the many opportunities for our students to gain valuable experiences with RMA students and classes.”
Accreditation Specific
The agreement also provides NC Wesleyan students with the opportunity to learn from fully licensed teachers while experiencing the distinct instructional environment of a private school.
“While our program accreditation with the North Carolina State Board of Education and our national accreditation agency, AAQEP, both require official agreements with school systems and schools for pre-service teachers to gain experience, this one is different,” said Dr. Kelvin Spragley, Director of Teacher Education and Chief Diversity Officer at NC Wesleyan University.
“This agreement is with a private school, which provides a great opportunity since we do have graduates who will decide to teach at private, and not public, institutions upon graduation.”
Under the agreement, NC Wesleyan teacher education students will be able to complete placement activities at Rocky Mount Academy while gaining experience through activities such as tutoring students, observing teachers and teaching mini-lessons. The agreement also establishes expectations for cooperating teachers, student teachers and college supervisors throughout the placement experience.
Meet Lily Taylor
Lily Taylor, NCWU rising junior, is a Special Education major who is currently taking prerequisite Teacher Education courses prior to formally applying for entry into the program. She will be the first to participate in this opportunity.
April Whitehead, Director of Exceptional Children at RMA, shares “Rocky Mount Academy is excited to partner with North Carolina Wesleyan University to help enhance the educational experiences of future educators. We are thrilled to welcome Lily to RMA and provide her with the opportunity to apply the knowledge and skills she has gained through her coursework in a real classroom setting.
We are excited to watch Lily grow as an educator, build meaningful relationships with our students, and gain valuable hands-on experience. We are honored to have Lily learn alongside some of the best educators in the business and become part of the RMA community. We look forward to supporting her as she continues to develop the skills, confidence, and passion needed to make a difference in the lives of her future students.”
Program Distinction
For NC Wesleyan, the partnership adds another important perspective to the preparation of future educators.
“During my five-year stint at NC Wesleyan, we have only partnered with traditional public-school systems and public charter schools,” Spragley said. “This MOU provides an opportunity for our Teacher Education students to gain valuable experience in a high-quality private school. As a result, our students will be able to concretely compare and contrast their respective experiences between a traditional public, public charter and private school. To say I am excited is an understatement.”
The partnership reflects a shared commitment to connecting future educators with authentic classroom experiences while building stronger relationships between NC Wesleyan and the Rocky Mount community.
For NC Wesleyan students, the experience will offer an opportunity to broaden their understanding of the educational landscape and explore the different environments in which they may ultimately build their teaching careers.
NC Wesleyan Correctional Institutions Class Welcomes Guest Speaker from Nash Correctional Institution
Students in North Carolina Wesleyan University’s Correctional Institutions class received an inside look at the realities of working in corrections when current NCWU psychology student and newly appointed Correctional Officer Ulrick Volk visited the class as a guest speaker.
Officer Volk, a former student of Professor Florence R. Jones, shared his experiences transitioning from college student to correctional officer at Nash Correctional Institution. He was escorted by Warden Talena Lee, who also spoke with students about careers, professional advancement, and opportunities within corrections.
Dressed in his professionally pressed correctional officer uniform, Officer Volk presented “Inside Corrections: The Reality of Working in a Correctional Institution.” His presentation covered a variety of topics, including why he chose corrections, his expectations versus the realities of the profession, the role and responsibilities of a correctional officer, direct supervision, de-escalation, prevention and response, contraband prevention, and lessons he has learned since entering the field.
About Officer Volk
Officer Volk’s journey into corrections began in April 2026, near the end of the Spring semester, when he contacted Professor Jones to express his interest in pursuing a career in corrections. Recognizing his potential and commitment, Professor Jones contacted Warden Lee, who assisted in supporting his transition into the profession.
Officer Volk went on to attend Correctional Officer Basic Training, where he distinguished himself among his peers. He graduated at the top of his class in firearms training, placed second on the final examination, and was selected to serve as the class speaker at graduation.
His presentation generated considerable interest and discussion among the students. Class members asked thoughtful questions about his fears and experiences, daily job responsibilities, balancing college with full-time employment, safety, and the challenges of working in a correctional environment. His professional and candid responses provided students with a realistic perspective on the profession and sparked interest in corrections as a potential career path for several students.
Warden Lee also engaged with the class, sharing her own experiences in corrections, discussing career advancement and promotional opportunities, and providing students with additional information about Nash Correctional Institution. Students eagerly took advantage of the opportunity to ask questions and learn from her extensive experience as a correctional leader.
Mr. Lance Woodard also accompanied Officer Volk and Warden Lee. Warden Lee introduced him and provided students with additional insight into his background and experience in corrections, as well as his professional access and connection to Nash Correctional Institution.
Criminal Justice at NCWU
The visit provided students with an invaluable opportunity to connect classroom instruction with real-world correctional experiences. Rather than simply learning about corrections from a textbook, students were able to hear directly from professionals working within the field and gain a better understanding of the responsibilities, challenges, opportunities, and rewards associated with a career in corrections.
On behalf of Dr. Gail Marsal, Associate Professor and Program Coordinator for Criminal Justice; Professor Florence R. Jones; and North Carolina Wesleyan University, we extend our sincere appreciation to Officer Ulrick Volk, Warden Talena Lee, and Mr. Lance Woodard for taking the time to visit the Correctional Institutions class and share their knowledge, experiences, and professional insight with our students.
Their willingness to invest in the next generation of criminal justice professionals made this an educational and memorable experience for the class.
NC Wesleyan Offers Nursing Students a Path Forward Amid Regional Program Changes
As nursing students across Eastern North Carolina navigate changes in regional nursing education, North Carolina Wesleyan University is highlighting both the strength of its growing nursing programs and the impact its graduates are making throughout the region.
Great 100 Nurses
One example is NC Wesleyan University alumna Celina Hawkins ‘24, BSN, RN, who has been named one of the Great 100 Nurses of North Carolina for 2026.
Hawkins, who serves as Education Coordinator at ECU Health Edgecombe Hospital, was selected among 100 nurses statewide recognized for their professional excellence, dedication to the nursing profession and contributions to their communities.
The Great 100 Nurses of North Carolina has recognized nurses across the state since 1989. Each year, thousands of nominations are submitted by patients, healthcare professionals, friends and family members, with 100 nurses ultimately selected for the honor.
Hawkins began her nursing education at Edgecombe Community College, earning her associate degree in nursing before continuing her education at North Carolina Wesleyan University, where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Our RN to BSN program for registered nurses can be completed 100% online and has one of the lowest tuition rates in the state.
She has spent 14 years with ECU Health, beginning her career in the Surgical Unit at ECU Health Edgecombe Hospital before moving into nursing education. In her current role, Hawkins supports professional development, clinical excellence and lifelong learning among nursing staff.
Her recognition comes at a time when prospective and current nursing students throughout the region may be reassessing their educational options following recent changes to regional nursing programs.
NC Wesleyan’s Accredited Nursing Programs
North Carolina Wesleyan is prepared to help students explore their next steps.
The university offers a growing prelicensure Bachelor of Science in Nursing program, along with an established RN-to-BSN program for registered nurses seeking to complete their bachelor’s degree. NC Wesleyan’s RN-to-BSN program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
“We want students pursuing nursing to know that there are options available to them,” said Dr. Crystal Ostheim, Director of Nursing Programs and Initiatives. “Our goal is to provide students with a strong educational foundation and the support they need to build successful careers in nursing and make a difference in their communities.”
NC Wesleyan recently welcomed 29 students into its prelicensure BSN program, marking another milestone in the university’s growing commitment to nursing education.
For students who are reconsidering their nursing education plans, NC Wesleyan encourages prospective students to connect with its admissions and nursing teams to discuss their individual circumstances, academic backgrounds and potential pathways.
“Every student’s situation is different,” said Dr. Ostheim. “We’re here to listen, answer questions and help students understand what their options may be.”
Hawkins’ recognition as one of North Carolina’s Great 100 Nurses provides a powerful example of where a Wesleyan nursing education can lead. From earning her BSN at NC Wesleyan to becoming a nursing educator and now being recognized among the state’s Great 100 Nurses, Hawkins continues to make an impact on the healthcare profession and the communities she serves.
For students considering nursing or exploring a change in their educational plans, NC Wesleyan is ready to help them take the next step.
Our Fall 2027 BSN Nursing Program Application will OPEN on September 15, 2026 in order to accommodate the growing demand for our nursing program. APPLY first using our Traditional Admissions process.
NOTE: The Nursing Program (BSN) application is for students who have met all requirements and desire to apply to the Nursing program. Students MUST apply to Traditional admissions first and then be accepted to NC Wesleyan BEFORE they complete the BSN Application.
NC Wesleyan and Rocky Mount Academy Launch BGA NEXTGEN Media Fellowship
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) and Rocky Mount Academy (RMA) are partnering to launch BGA NEXTGEN, a new media production fellowship designed to give RMA students hands-on experience in digital storytelling, video production and post-production while connecting them with college-level mentors and industry-standard technology.
The partnership marks the first collaboration of its kind between North Carolina Wesleyan University’s Bishop Gaming Association (BGA) and a K-12 school, extending NCWU’s commitment to experiential learning beyond the university campus and into the local community.
Through BGA NEXTGEN, a select group of RMA students will work alongside collegiate media specialists Chantoni Grant, NCWU Director of Esports, and Shafiq Nuijts ’26, a current NCWU senior, who will provide mentorship and hands-on instruction in digital media production.
“NC Wesleyan has given me the experience and tools to develop and hone my editing and audiovisual skills,” said Nuijts. “The fact that I am now able to pass that knowledge on to the next generation is both an honor and a privilege.”
What to expect
Students participating in the inaugural fellowship will learn DaVinci Resolve, an industry-standard platform used for professional video editing, visual effects and color grading. Rather than functioning as a traditional extracurricular club, BGA NEXTGEN is structured as a focused, project-based fellowship in which students will create public-facing media for RMA, including athletic highlight videos, hype videos, event documentaries and short-form film content.
Alec Lockhart, RMA Upper School Chemistry & Physics, Esports, Media Productions, shares “We are moving past the traditional model of a high school AV club. By partnering with NC Wesleyan, we’re giving our students a direct pipeline to collegiate-level mentorship and industry-standard tools. This partnership allows our students to treat the Rocky Mount Academy campus as their own production studio, transforming theoretical tech skills into a public-facing, professional portfolio before they even graduate.”
“BGA NEXTGEN is an opportunity to take what our students have learned through the Bishop Gaming Association and create a meaningful pipeline for younger students who are interested in digital media,” said Grant. “We want these students to not only learn the technical skills, but to understand what it means to create content for a real audience, meet deadlines and build a professional body of work.”
The fellowship will be limited to five students during its inaugural fall session. While prior editing experience is beneficial, the program is designed for students who demonstrate creativity, reliability, dedication and a willingness to learn. All necessary cameras, editing hardware and software will be provided.
About BGA
Established in 2019, the Bishop Gaming Association has grown into one of NCWU’s largest and most active student organizations, engaging approximately 80 to 100 students through competitive esports, media production, content creation and professional development. The organization has evolved beyond gaming to provide students with opportunities to develop skills in leadership, communication, teamwork, broadcasting, technology and digital media.
Through BGA Productions, NCWU students have explored areas including broadcasting, journalism, graphic design, social media management, podcasting, streaming and video production. Students have produced original programming, including BGA News, while building portfolios that connect their collegiate experiences to potential career pathways.
The association has also developed community partnerships that provide students with opportunities to gain professional experience. Collaborations with WHIG-TV, for example, have connected BGA students with internships, job-shadowing experiences and broadcast production opportunities.
The Merging of Opportunities
BGA NEXTGEN builds on that experiential learning model by giving RMA students the opportunity to begin developing their own professional portfolios before entering college.
Students who successfully complete the fall fellowship will be positioned to take on leadership roles in the spring and following academic year, helping serve as technical mentors for future participants. The goal is to create a sustainable student-led program in which each cohort helps prepare the next generation.
The inaugural BGA NEXTGEN fellowship will take place in two phases between September and October. By the conclusion of the program, participating students will have completed real-world media projects, gained experience with professional production tools and developed a portfolio that can strengthen their future college and career opportunities.
BGA NEXTGEN reflects the shared commitment of North Carolina Wesleyan University and Rocky Mount Academy to creating meaningful opportunities for students to explore their interests, develop career-ready skills and see what is possible when education and community partnerships come together.
NC Wesleyan Emphasizes Access and Opportunity in Higher Ed
North Carolina Wesleyan University is adapting to an increasingly unpredictable higher education landscape by expanding flexible learning pathways for a diverse student population. As a federally designated Minority-Serving Institution, NCWU serves a very diverse student body that includes African-american, first-generation, adult, international, and rural students. Across campus and in the classroom, Wesleyan continues to provide college access and opportunity that is practical for our students.
In a recent interview with WUNC, President Evan Duff highlighted the importance of meeting students where they are through programs designed for working adults, community college transfers, and traditional undergraduates. Despite enrollment pressures facing many private colleges, Wesleyan is focused on creating multiple pathways to success while continuing its mission of serving economically disadvantaged communities across eastern and central North Carolina. READ ARTICLE >
NCWU Welcomes 29 Students to BSN Program at White Coat Ceremony
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) celebrated the newest members of its Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program during the university’s White Coat Ceremony on August 20th.
The ceremony formally welcomed 29 students to the Fall 2026 BSN cohort and recognized their commitment to pursuing a career in nursing. The special evening brought together students, faculty, university leadership, family members and friends to mark this important milestone in their nursing education.
The Ceremony
The ceremony began with a welcome from Dr. Crystal Ostheim, Director of Nursing Programs and BSN Program Director, and Dr. Monica Massey, BSN Program Coordinator. This was followed with an invocation by Reverend Dr. Robert Simpson, NC Wesleyan University Chaplain, and Dr. Evan D. Duff, NC Wesleyan President, provided opening remarks.
The evening also featured the introduction of the university’s nursing faculty and a welcome statement from Dr. Meir Magal, Chair of the School of Health Sciences. Students then received their white coats, symbolizing their entry into the nursing profession and their commitment to the values and responsibilities of patient care.
A highlight of the ceremony was the White Coat Ceremony Oath, led by Dr. Massey and Dr. Brittany Bass, followed by an Academic Integrity Oath led by Drs. Christa Jones-Hooker and Consuela Blaizes.
The ceremony featured guest speaker Dr. Brittany Bass, Adjunct Nursing Faculty, who addressed the incoming students as they began this next chapter of their academic and professional journeys.
The evening concluded with remarks from Dr. Ostheim and a Blessing of the Hands led by Reverend Dr. Simpson, which offered a meaningful reflection on the role nursing students will soon play in caring for others.
The Future of the Program
“White Coat Ceremony is an important milestone for our students as they begin their journey into the nursing profession,” said Dr. Ostheim. “We are proud to welcome this exceptional group of students to our BSN program and look forward to supporting them as they develop the knowledge, skills and compassion needed to become outstanding nurses.”
The Fall 2026 BSN cohort includes students from a variety of backgrounds who are beginning their nursing education at NC Wesleyan. The university’s BSN program is designed to prepare students for professional nursing practice through rigorous academic coursework, hands-on learning and clinical experiences.
The White Coat Ceremony is a milestone not only for the students but also for their families, faculty and the NC Wesleyan community as the university celebrates the next generation of nursing professionals.
Our Fall 2027 BSN Nursing Program Application will OPEN on September 15, 2026 in order to accommodate the growing demand for our nursing program. APPLY first using our Traditional Admissions process.
NOTE: The Nursing Program (BSN) application is for students who have met all requirements and desire to apply to the Nursing program. Students MUST apply to Traditional admissions first and then be accepted to NC Wesleyan BEFORE they complete the BSN Application.
NC Wesleyan Earns 2026–2027 Military Friendly® Designation for 13th Consecutive Year
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) has been named a 2026–2027 Military Friendly® School, earning a Silver designation for the 13th consecutive year. The University also earned Gold status as a Military Spouse Friendly® School, reaffirming NCWU’s longstanding commitment to supporting veterans, active-duty service members, military spouses and their families.
The Military Friendly® Schools designation recognizes institutions that demonstrate a strong commitment to serving military-connected students. More than 3,200 organizations participated in the 2026–2027 Military Friendly® survey and were evaluated using a combination of public data and responses to a proprietary survey.
The evaluation considers an institution’s ability to meet and exceed established benchmarks related to student recruitment and retention, academic progress, graduation rates, career placement and support services for veterans, transitioning service members and military spouses. Methodology and criteria are developed in consultation with the Military Friendly® Advisory Council, a group of independent leaders within the military community.
“At North Carolina Wesleyan University, we are deeply grateful for the service and sacrifices made by our nation’s veterans and their families,” said Melanie Hudak-Williamson, VA School Certifying Official. “These designations reaffirm our mission to support military-connected students through accessible education, dedicated resources and a community that recognizes and honors their unique experiences.”
The Student Perspective
That commitment is reflected in the experiences of Nicholas and Amelia Hosine ’25, a Bishop couple and U.S. Army veterans who earned their degrees in Organizational Leadership from NCWU in December 2025.
After transferring from Wake Technical Community College, the Hosines found NCWU’s flexible online programs and transfer-friendly pathways to be an ideal fit for balancing their education, careers and family life.
“The transition from military to college life was both challenging and rewarding,” Nicholas said. “NCWU provided a welcoming environment where I felt supported from the moment I applied. The advisors, faculty and staff have gone above and beyond to ensure student veterans are set up for success.”
The Hosines also point to NCWU’s quarterly class schedule as an important part of their experience. The accelerated format helped them remain focused and engaged while steadily progressing toward their degrees.
Their military experience provided a strong foundation in discipline, leadership and perseverance, while their Wesleyan education strengthened their critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
“The combination of military experience and a Wesleyan education is preparing us for impactful careers where we can lead, support others and continue to grow,” Nicholas said.
For Nicholas, being recognized as a Military Friendly® institution reflects the experience he and Amelia had throughout their time at NCWU.
“I truly believe NCWU deserves this award, and I am proud to be part of a school that values and supports military-affiliated students,” he said. “The support I received throughout the registration process and while working with advisors has been outstanding. Everyone has been helpful, understanding and committed to student success, especially for veterans.”
More than a Badge of Honor
“Earning the Military Friendly® designation is more than a badge of honor; it is a reflection of an institution’s deep-rooted values and strategic commitment to those who served,” said Kayla Lopez, Vice President of Memberships, Military Friendly®. “These schools don’t just open doors for veterans and military spouses; they build sustainable pathways for academic success and long-term impact. Their support is transformative, proving that investing in military-connected students is both a moral imperative and a standard for educational excellence.”
NC Wesleyan will be featured in the 2026–2027 Guide to Schools® in the April issue of Military Friendly G.I. Jobs® magazine and on MilitaryFriendly.com.
As NCWU prepares the next generation of leaders, the University remains committed to meeting students where they are — whether in the classroom, online or as they transition from military service to civilian life.
About North Carolina Wesleyan University
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) is a small, private Methodist-affiliated institution with a liberal arts-based core curriculum that prepares students for professional advancement, life-long learning and responsible participation in their communities. NCWU offers liberal arts, professional and graduate degree programs for traditional, transfer and working-adult students.
NCWU offers a best-in-class value and a personally tailored private higher education experience. We invest in each and every student we accept by providing individualized awards, scholarships and grants. Wesleyan is YOUR hometown University that is Personal. Practical, and Purpose-Driven. With students from all over the United States and more than 40 different countries, the University has immense cultural diversity. In addition to its educational mission, NCWU serves as a vital economic engine for the region, contributing over $209 million to the local economy.
To learn more, visit ncwu.edu and follow on Facebook, LinkedIn, TikTok and Instagram.
About Military Friendly ® Schools:
Military Friendly® is the standard that measures an organization’s commitment, effort, and success in creating sustainable and meaningful benefits for the military community. Over 3,200 organizations compete annually for the Military Friendly Schools® designation. Military Friendly® is a service-disabled, veteran-owned small business. Military Friendly® is not affiliated with or endorsed by the U.S. Department of Defense or the federal government. Results are produced via a rules-based algorithm. The data-driven Military Friendly® lists and methodology can be found at https://www.militaryfriendly.com
