North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) is proud to announce that Dr. Meir Magal, Program Director, Inaugural Souza Professor of Exercise Science, and Chair of the School of Health Sciences, is recognized as the second author of a newly published American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) consensus statement that redefines the components of physical fitness for the modern era.
Published in Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, the ACSM’s peer-reviewed flagship journal, widely recognized for top-tier multidisciplinary research in sports medicine and exercise science, The Components of Physical Fitness presents an updated, evidence-based framework that reflects decades of scientific advancement. The consensus statement identifies five interconnected components of physical fitness: cardiorespiratory fitness, muscular fitness, body composition, neuromotor fitness, and flexibility.
About the Publication
The publication replaces the longstanding distinction between “health-related” and “skill-related” fitness with a more comprehensive model that better reflects current research and supports individualized assessment across adulthood.
“This project took nearly five years to complete, and I am honored to have collaborated with leading experts in our field as the second author on this publication,” said Dr. Magal. “I believe this publication not only advances the field but also enhances the university’s visibility and reputation.”
Consensus statements published by ACSM are developed by nationally and internationally recognized experts and serve as important references for educators, researchers, clinicians, and exercise professionals. The updated framework is expected to influence how physical fitness is taught, assessed, and applied in academic, clinical, and performance settings.
“Dr. Magal’s contribution to this landmark publication reflects the caliber of scholarship and leadership found within our School of Health Sciences,” said NCWU President Dr. Evan D. Duff. “Having one of our faculty members help shape national conversations in exercise science reinforces our commitment to academic excellence and provides our students with the opportunity to learn from leaders who are actively advancing their profession.”
Why this matters for Wesleyan
As Chair of the School of Health Sciences, Dr. Magal brings decades of experience in exercise physiology, human performance, and research. His involvement in this international initiative further strengthens North Carolina Wesleyan University’s growing reputation for excellence in health sciences education and research.
NCWU continues to invest in innovative academic programs that prepare students to become leaders in healthcare, human performance, and related fields. Faculty scholarship such as this ensures students benefit from instruction grounded in the latest scientific discoveries while contributing to the advancement of their disciplines.
For more information about North Carolina Wesleyan University’s School of Health Sciences, visit ncwu.edu.
NCWU Alumnus Will Plyler Releases New Album
North Carolina Wesleyan University alumnus Will Plyler (’21) is taking listeners on a journey where faith and science fiction collide with the release of his newest album, Psalms of the Spheres, available July 17.
A 2021 graduate of NCWU’s Music Production program, Plyler now serves full-time as the Worship Arts Minister at The Church at Sandhurst in Florence, South Carolina, where he also leads the church’s songwriting and music production team. His latest project reflects both his creative growth as a musician and his desire to inspire worship through imaginative storytelling.
“I’ve always been fascinated with science fiction, especially anything involving space travel,” Plyler shared. “Some of my favorite movies include Interstellar, Guardians of the Galaxy, and of course, Star Wars. I started wondering whether I could combine my love of sci-fi with my passion for writing worship music.”
That idea became the foundation for Psalms of the Spheres, an album inspired by biblical passages that celebrate God’s creation of the universe, including Psalm 8, Isaiah 40, and Psalm 147. The result is a collection of worship songs that explores the majesty of creation while pointing listeners toward the Creator.
Musically, the album ventures into new territory for Plyler. Featuring orchestral crescendos, ambient soundscapes, experimental synthesizers, and even an audio recording from the Apollo 8 moon mission woven into the opening track, the project embraces a cinematic sound unlike anything he has previously produced.
“Honestly, this is probably my favorite musical project I’ve ever produced,” he said. “The theme of science fiction inspired me to pursue musical avenues I haven’t explored before, and that has been an incredibly rewarding process.”
Among the album’s standout tracks is “IMAGE OF GOD,” a song inspired by the belief that every person possesses inherent dignity and worth.
“It breaks my heart when I see people who claim to love Jesus and yet mistreat those who are different than they are,” Plyler explained. “No matter what someone believes, what they look like, or where they come from, every human being is made in the image of God. The God who created the stars and galaxies is also the God who said each of us is worth dying for.”
The album concludes with “SUPERNATURAL,” a deeply personal reflection on worship as a source of healing and hope.
“I often say that writing worship songs is my therapy,” Plyler said. “When life becomes overwhelming, I sit down with an instrument and write. It’s how I process my thoughts and emotions before God. ‘SUPERNATURAL’ is really a love letter to that process finding peace, freedom, and refuge in the melodies that spill out.”
Plyler credits his time at North Carolina Wesleyan University with helping develop both the technical skills and creative confidence that continue to shape his career in music ministry.
As an alumnus of NCWU’s Music Production program, his success reflects the University’s commitment to preparing students to excel in creative industries while pursuing meaningful careers that make an impact in their communities.
Psalms of the Spheres will be released on July 17 and will be available on major streaming platforms.
NCWU Expands Global Reach Through New Philippines Partnership
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) has strengthened its commitment to global education through a newly established international partnership with Benguet State University (BSU) in the Philippines. The two institutions recently formalized their collaboration by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that will foster academic cooperation, research, cultural exchange, and international learning opportunities.
The agreement establishes a framework for collaboration in academics, research, skills development, and other initiatives designed to enhance the educational experience for students, faculty, and researchers at both universities. Through the partnership, NCWU and BSU will explore opportunities for faculty, researcher, and student exchanges, as well as the sharing of academic resources through both in-person and virtual formats.
NCWU President Dr. Evan Duff, a signatory to the agreement, was represented at the signing ceremony by Dr. Tim Dornemann, Associate Professor of Exercise Science. During the visit, Dr. Dornemann met with BSU President Dr. Kenneth Alip Laruan to discuss future initiatives that extend beyond the provisions of the MOU, reinforcing both institutions’ shared vision for meaningful international collaboration.
“Our partnership with Benguet State University represents an exciting opportunity to expand the global experiences available to our students and faculty,” said Dr. Duff. “By working together across cultures and disciplines, we can create meaningful educational opportunities, strengthen research collaborations, and prepare our students to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.”
The discussions provided university leaders with the opportunity to learn more about each institution’s academic programs, strategic priorities, and ongoing developments. The exchange highlighted a mutual commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and international engagement while identifying areas where collaboration can create lasting benefits for both universities.
Through this partnership, NCWU and BSU will combine their expertise and resources to develop collaborative programs that enrich teaching, research, and student learning. The agreement is expected to support joint research projects, academic exchanges, professional development opportunities, and initiatives that promote intercultural understanding and global citizenship.
As North Carolina Wesleyan University continues to expand its international partnerships, the collaboration with Benguet State University reflects the University’s dedication to providing students with transformative educational experiences that extend beyond the classroom and across the globe.
School of Mathematics & Sciences Celebrates a Year of Achievement
North Carolina Wesleyan University’s School of Mathematics and Sciences is proud to share highlights from the 2025–2026 academic year—showcasing outstanding student accomplishments, faculty excellence, and dynamic experiential learning opportunities across disciplines.
Encompassing programs in biology, biomedical science, chemistry, environmental science, earth science, mathematics, and physics, the School continues to provide students with rigorous academic training, mentorship, and real-world preparation for future success.
A Community That Goes “Beyond the Textbook”
the unique value of a Wesleyan education—one rooted not just in knowledge but in shared academic experience. Through collaborative learning, faculty mentorship, and hands-on engagement, students gain both intellectual depth and meaningful personal growth.
Honors Convocation Recognizes Academic Excellence
At the April 2, 2026 Honors Convocation, top students were recognized for their academic achievements:
- Biology Award: Benjamin Sellers
- Chemistry Award: Mary Bentley
- American Institute of Chemists Award: Mary Bentley
- Environmental Science Award: Andrea Elaez Miranda
- Kappa Mu Epsilon Mathematics Honor Society Inductees:
Cosima Geywitz, Ivy Joy Chelegat, Juan Felipe Gonzalez Leuro, Mary Bentley
Students Shine Through Research and Professional Experiences
NCWU students demonstrated exceptional achievement through research presentations, internships, and national conferences.
- Environmental science students presented original research at the Carolinas SETAC Conference hosted by NC State.
- Andrea Elaez Miranda presented at the Society for Freshwater Science Meeting in Washington, gaining valuable professional insights and networking opportunities.
- Through an NSF GeoPath grant, students engaged with local schools, promoting STEM education in the community.
Notable Student Highlights
- Cosima Geywitz earned the prestigious GlaxoSmithKline Women in Science Scholar Award.
- Mary Bentley achieved remarkable success, including:
- Acceptance into multiple nationally funded research programs
- Internship at Los Alamos National Laboratory
- Over $12,000 in Department of Energy funding
- Multiple research opportunities and publications in progress
- Environmental Science students gained field experience through internships with the NC Wildlife Resources Commission, contributing to conservation initiatives statewide.
Student Symposium Highlights Innovation
The annual Student Science Symposium, held April 9, 2026, featured cutting-edge undergraduate research.
Poster Competition Winners:
- Lower-Level: Connor Jones & Daniel Smith
- Upper-Level: Benjamin Sellers & Ayden Harper
Honors Program Milestones
Students in the Taylor-Crocker Honors Program completed impactful research projects spanning chemistry and environmental science.
The School also recognized Dr. Bill Yankosky for his extraordinary 18 years of service as Honors Program Director. His leadership fostered strong student mentorship and a thriving academic community.
Faculty Achievements and Leadership
Faculty continued to excel in teaching, research, and service:
- Dr. Brent Dozier was promoted to Professor of Mathematics
- Dr. Emily Weber earned tenure, promotion, and the Excellence in Teaching Award
- Dr. Justin Davis published research through Caltech’s microPublication platform
- Ms. Brittany Al Attabi successfully launched NCWU’s first Regional Science Olympiad, hosting over 300 students
- Dr. Daniel Elías published research, mentored student publications, and led an immersive ecological study abroad experience in Belize
Global and Experiential Learning
Students participated in a transformative field experience in Belize, exploring ecosystems, conservation efforts, and cultural history. This hands-on opportunity reinforced NCWU’s commitment to experiential and global learning.
Building Community Through STEM
The School also hosted engaging campus events, including:
- Science Olympiad Tournament bringing regional students to campus
- Pi Day 2026 celebrations, blending mathematics with campus fun
Looking Ahead
The 2025–2026 academic year reflects the School’s dedication to academic excellence, experiential learning, and community engagement. With strong student outcomes, innovative research, and passionate faculty, NCWU’s School of Mathematics and Sciences continues to prepare students for success beyond the classroom.
Explore more and join our community of scholars. Your journey starts here.
NCWU’s Exercise Science Program Sets the Standard for Student Success and Academic Excellence
At North Carolina Wesleyan University, success is more than a benchmark—it is a sustained tradition. Nowhere is that more evident than in the NCWU’s Exercise Science (EXS) program, where student achievement, academic rigor, and professional preparation converge to produce exceptional outcomes year after year.
As the demand for highly trained professionals in health, wellness, and human performance continues to rise, NCWU’s Exercise Science program has positioned itself as a leader—not only within the state of North Carolina but across the nation. Through a combination of rigorous academics, hands-on experiences, and dedicated faculty mentorship, the program continues to transform student aspirations into tangible results.
A Nationally Recognized Program of Distinction
NCWU’s Exercise Science program holds a distinction that places it among an elite group of institutions. It is one of only four programs in North Carolina—and approximately 120 nationwide—to be accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP).
This accreditation signals more than quality—it reflects a deep commitment to preparing students for real-world success in clinical, academic, and professional settings. It ensures that graduates leave NCWU equipped with the knowledge, skills, and competencies required to excel in competitive industries and advanced degree programs.
NCWU’s Exercise Science Outcomes That Speak for Themselves
While accreditation is a critical benchmark, the true measure of a program lies in the success of its students. By that measure, NCWU’s Exercise Science program continues to exceed expectations.
During the 2024–2025 academic year, the program achieved an 80% positive placement rate, indicating that a strong majority of graduates secured employment or entered graduate school soon after completing their degree. Even more impressive is the program’s 100% graduate satisfaction rate, a milestone it has maintained for eight consecutive years—a testament to the quality of both the academic experience and student support.
In addition, NCWU has earned recognition as an Exercise is Medicine® (EIM) Campus, driven by the efforts of the Health and Movement Science Club. This designation reflects the University’s commitment to promoting physical activity as a vital component of health and wellness—not only for students, but for the broader community as well.
A Record-Breaking Year for Academic Achievement
This past academic year marked a historic milestone for the Exercise Science program. The graduating class of 15 students achieved an average GPA of 3.52, the highest since the program first received accreditation.
This achievement is more than a numerical milestone—it represents a culture of academic excellence, discipline, and perseverance. It also reflects the effectiveness of NCWU’s faculty, who are deeply invested in fostering student success through personalized instruction, mentorship, and academic guidance.
Preparing Students for the Next Level
Perhaps the most compelling indicator of the program’s strength is the success of its graduates in gaining admission to advanced degree programs.
Of the 15 graduates in the most recent class, 13 students—87%—have already been accepted into graduate programs across a range of highly competitive disciplines. These include:
- Doctoral programs in Physical Therapy (DPT)
- Doctoral programs in Occupational Therapy (OTD)
- Athletic Training programs
- NCWU’s own Master of Public Health (MPH) and Human Performance and Sports Science (HPSS) programs
This high acceptance rate demonstrates not only academic preparedness but also the confidence that graduate schools place in NCWU graduates.
Visitors can explore detailed alumni outcomes and placements here:
https://ncwu.edu/academics/majors-minors/exercise-science/exs-alumni/
A Transformational Student Experience
Beyond statistics and outcomes, the true strength of the Exercise Science program lies in the experiences it offers students every day.
At NCWU, Exercise Science students benefit from a student-centered approach that blends classroom learning with real-world application. Small class sizes allow for individualized instruction, ensuring that each student receives the attention and support they need to thrive.
Hands-on laboratory work, clinical exposure, and internship opportunities provide practical experience in settings such as rehabilitation clinics, fitness centers, hospitals, and sports performance facilities. These experiences not only enhance learning but also help students build valuable professional networks before graduation.
Student engagement also plays a vital role. Through organizations like the Health and Movement Science Club, students participate in outreach, leadership, and wellness initiatives—helping to create a campus culture centered on health and well-being.
Why Prospective Students Choose NCWU’s Exercise Science
For students considering a future in Exercise Science, NCWU offers a compelling and proven pathway to success. The program provides:
- CAAHEP-accredited curriculum recognized nationwide
- Strong job placement and graduate school acceptance rates
- Hands-on learning experiences and internships
- Personalized instruction and faculty mentorship
- Opportunities for leadership and campus involvement
- Preparation for in-demand careers in healthcare, rehabilitation, and fitness
Whether a student’s goal is to pursue advanced study or enter the workforce immediately, NCWU equips them with the tools, knowledge, and confidence needed to succeed.
Leadership and Vision
At the heart of the program’s continued success is a dedicated faculty committed to student growth and achievement. Among them is Dr. Meir Magal, whose leadership and vision have helped guide the program to new heights.
“We are incredibly proud of our students and their accomplishments. These outcomes reflect their hard work, dedication, and passion, as well as the supportive environment we strive to create. Our mission is to prepare students for meaningful careers and to make a lasting impact in the field of health and human performance.”
— Dr. Meir Magal
This commitment to excellence is evident in every aspect of the program including curriculum design to student mentorship and career preparation.
Building on Momentum
The continued growth and success of the Exercise Science program would not be possible without the collective efforts of faculty, students, alumni, and supporters. Each milestone reflects a shared commitment to excellence and a belief in the transformative power of education.
Take the Next Step Toward Your Future
The journey toward a rewarding career in health and human performance begins here.
Apply to NCWU’s Exercise Science Program
Start building your future with a program designed for success.
Visit Campus
See firsthand how NCWU students learn, grow, and thrive.
Connect with Our Faculty
Discover how the EXS program can help you achieve your goals.
Learn more and get started today:
https://ncwu.edu/academics/majors-minors/exercise-science/
NC Wesleyan Earns Clean Fifth-Year Accreditation Review from SACSCOC
What is SACSCOC?
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) is proud to announce it has successfully completed its Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) Fifth-Year Interim Committee Review, receiving a completely clean audit, full compliance across all reviewed standards with no follow-up reports, no referrals, and no additional monitoring required. It will formally go to the SACSCOC Board of Trustees in June for approval.
The SACSCOC Fifth-Year Interim Review is a rigorous evaluation that takes place midway through an institution’s 10-year accreditation cycle. The review assesses continued compliance with key accreditation standards and evaluates the progress and effectiveness of the institution’s Quality Enhancement Plan (QEP), a long-term initiative designed to improve student learning and success.
During the review, SACSCOC evaluated NCWU’s compliance with 22 specific core requirements and standards, including areas such as faculty qualifications and adequacy, student achievement, academic program quality, student support services, distance education policies, transparency, and institutional effectiveness.
In addition, NCWU submitted its Quality Enhancement Plan Impact Report, which was reviewed and accepted by the SACSCOC committee. “Dr. Daniel Elias (Associate Professor of Environmental Science/Program Coordinator, Environmental Science) provided extraordinary leadership in preparing NCWU’s Quality Enhancement Plan,” said Dr. Joe Lane, Provost and Senior Vice President of Academic Affairs.
Contributions & Recognitions
“This is an extraordinary milestone for North Carolina Wesleyan University,” said Dr. Evan D. Duff, President of NCWU. “Successfully completing the SACSCOC Fifth-Year Interim Review with a completely clean audit is a tremendous accomplishment and a powerful affirmation of the quality, integrity, and dedication that defines Wesleyan. Our faculty and staff don’t simply prepare for accreditation, they live our standards every day, ensuring our students receive an exceptional educational experience.”
A clean Fifth-Year Interim Review is an achievement reached by only a small percentage of institutions, making the outcome a significant validation of NCWU’s commitment to excellence and continuous improvement.
The successful review reflects the work of the University’s Institutional Effectiveness team, along with strong collaboration across academic and administrative departments.
Dr. Duff specifically recognized the leadership of Dr. Jarrod Kelly, Associate Provost for Institutional Effectiveness and Accreditation, and Scott Marsigli, Institutional Effectiveness Analyst and Administrative Assessment Coordinator, who played key roles in coordinating the review process and preparing the comprehensive report submitted to SACSCOC. The Provost’s Office was also acknowledged for its coordination and oversight to ensure academic programs and student outcomes were thoroughly documented and aligned with accreditation expectations.
In reflection, Dr. Jarrod Kelly shares, “Having the SACSCOC Review Committee raise zero questions or concerns about our report speaks to the dedication and commitment of faculty and staff, particularly the team who spent over a year working on the report. To my knowledge, NCWU has never had a completely clean review with no committee findings. I believe that this reflects positively on our approach since our last reaffirmation to better educate and inform the campus community about the goals and importance of accreditation processes for maintaining quality and building a culture of continuous improvement.”
“This accomplishment is a reflection of the collective excellence of our entire campus community,” Dr. Duff added. “It reinforces that North Carolina Wesleyan University is not only meeting expectations, but we are exceeding them. We are on strong footing as we continue toward our next full reaffirmation, and I could not be prouder of the team that makes this institution so special.”
NC Wesleyan remains committed to providing a high-quality educational experience that supports student success, strengthens academic programs, and serves the broader community with integrity and purpose.
A Legacy of Friendship: New NCWU Endowed Scholarship
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) is proud to announce the establishment of the Martin A. Sarra Endowed Scholarship Fund in Honor of Rachel T. Dix, a permanently restricted endowment created by alumnus Daulton West, Jr. ’72 (listed in official paperwork as Henry D. West, Jr.). The scholarship honors the life and legacy of Martin “Marty” Sarra ’68, while also recognizing the lasting impact of beloved campus figure Rachel T. Dix, longtime namesake of the University bookstore.
This new endowed scholarship reflects what NC Wesleyan is built upon: relationships, tradition, and the deep bonds that form within the Bishop community and last long after graduation.
The scholarship will support junior or senior students of any major, with preference given to students employed in the Rachel T. Dix Bookstore, who demonstrate academic achievement or financial need, and who exhibit strong personal character. Students may be domestic or international. Once the endowment reaches the University’s required minimum funding level, the scholarship will be awarded annually and is renewable in accordance with University guidelines.
“This scholarship is about more than financial support,” said West. “It’s about honoring people who made our lives better and remembering the moments that made Wesleyan feel like home.”
A Homecoming Tradition “Like No Other”
The scholarship’s origin is rooted in a cherished NC Wesleyan Homecoming tradition shared by West and his close friends beginning in the early 1990s. Each year, West reunited with Marty Sarra and Brian Richardson for a weekend filled with Homecoming activities, camaraderie, and the University’s alumni golf tournament. A few years later, Phillip Boone ’70 joined the group, completing the foursome that would continue their tradition for nearly three decades.
One of their most meaningful stops each year wasn’t on the golf course — it was inside the Rachel T. Dix Bookstore.
On Saturday mornings during Homecoming, the friends made it a point to visit the bookstore, pick up new Wesleyan gear, and spend time catching up with “Miss Rachel.” For them, it became one of the most special parts of the weekend.
“Our visits with Rachel were always memorable,” West shared. “We looked forward to seeing Rachel every year, and she looked forward to seeing us too, always welcoming us with open arms, and a big smile on her face.”
Honoring Marty’s Commitment and Character
Marty Sarra’s dedication to this annual tradition was unmatched. In later years, he famously made the long drive from Canada each year to return to Rocky Mount and play in what many know today as the Wesleyan Cup Golf Tournament, simply because the weekend—and the friendships tied to it—meant that much to him.
West said Marty’s presence brought something special to everyone around him.
“Marty was a dear friend for life,” West said. “All our lives were better because he came our way.”
A Scholarship Rooted in Service and Memory
By centering the scholarship around students who work in the bookstore, West hopes to honor Rachel Dix’s spirit of kindness and connection, while also supporting today’s students who balance employment with academic responsibility.
The Martin A. Sarra Endowed Scholarship Fund in Honor of Rachel T. Dix will be invested as part of NCWU’s permanently restricted endowment and awarded in perpetuity. In accordance with University policy, the scholarship will be awarded once the fund meets the required minimum endowment level. Annual scholarship amounts will follow NC Wesleyan’s endowment payout guidelines.
A Call to Celebrate Bishop Friendships
NC Wesleyan hopes this scholarship will inspire alumni and friends to reflect on the people who shaped their college experience—and to consider honoring those memories through giving.
This new scholarship serves as a reminder that the Wesleyan experience does not end at graduation. It continues through friendships, traditions, and the people who make the campus feel like home.
Those interested in contributing to the scholarship fund, or establishing an endowed scholarship of their own, are encouraged to contact the NC Wesleyan Office of Advancement.
To learn more about giving opportunities at NCWU, visit ncwu.edu/give.
NC Wesleyan Music Production Program Releases First EP, “Indie Rock”
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) is proud to announce the release of the first-ever music Extended Play (EP) produced through its Music Production degree program. The four-song cover EP, titled “Indie Rock,” is now available on Spotify, YouTube, iTunes, Apple Music, and other major streaming platforms.
Released on April 10, 2026, the Extended Play represents a major milestone for the growing Music Production program and showcases the hands-on learning experiences offered to students at NCWU. The project was a collaborative effort between two music production courses during the Fall 2025 semester, providing students with real-world experience in multiple stages of professional music creation.
Throughout the project, students applied key skills developed through the program, including music analysis, live performance preparation, studio recording techniques, mixing, and mastering, culminating in a polished final production distributed through the University’s official record label, 301 North Records.
Students involved in the project include:
- Noah Jacques – production
- Elly Luna – production, vocals
- Dakota Lynch – production, vocals, guitars
- Edgar Ortiz-Morales – production, bass
- Adrian Parson – production
- Lamont Taylor Jr. – production, vocals, keyboards
Also contributing to the project was Elic Gurganus, Technical Director of the Dunn Center at NCWU, who served as a guest vocalist on the EP. The project’s Executive Producer was Tony Sawyer, Assistant Professor of Music Production, who also performed all drums and percussion for the recordings.
The “Indie Rock” EP features covers of four well-known songs from prominent indie artists: Hozier (“Too Sweet”), Djo (“End of Beginning”), Tame Impala (“Elephant”), and Peter Bjorn and John (“Young Folks”).
With this release, NCWU continues expanding creative opportunities for students through experiential learning and professional-level production experiences. The EP stands as a strong example of the University’s commitment to preparing students for careers in the music and entertainment industries.
The EP is now available on all major streaming services.
NC Wesleyan Teacher Education Program Maintains 100% edTPA Pass Rate
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) is proud to announce that its Teacher Education program has once again achieved a 100% pass rate on the edTPA portfolio assessment, a nationally scored and required evaluation used by accredited teacher preparation programs across the country.
A total of 13 NCWU students have successfully submitted and passed the edTPA since the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction required that the item be used as the singular portfolio option for accredited Teacher Education programs beginning Fall 2025. Most recently, three additional students received passing scores, including one traditional student and two Adult and Professional Study (APS) students.
Quotes from NCWU Faculty & Staff
“This is a tremendous accomplishment for our students and our faculty,” said Kelvin L. Spragley, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Education and Director of Teacher Education. “The edTPA is a rigorous assessment that requires significant preparation, support, and dedication. To maintain a 100% pass rate reflects the strength of our program and the commitment of our instructors to student success.”
Spragley also recognized the work of the program’s faculty, specifically highlighting Dr. Hart and Dr. Collins for their leadership and support of students throughout the semester in EDU 415.
“The guidance and encouragement provided in EDU 415 played an essential role in helping our teacher candidates complete this important milestone as they finalize their North Carolina teaching licenses,” Spragley said. “And it’s important to note teachers are licensed, not certified.”
Dr. Joseph H. Lane, Jr., Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs, praised the Teacher Education program for its continued success and commitment to preparing highly qualified educators.
“Maintaining a 100% pass rate on a nationally scored assessment like the edTPA is a remarkable achievement,” Lane said. “It reflects the academic excellence of our Teacher Education program and the dedication of our faculty to ensuring that NC Wesleyan graduates are fully prepared to serve and lead in today’s classrooms. We are incredibly proud of our students and the faculty members who support them.”
The Student Experience
One of the students who recently passed the edTPA is Emily Mason, an Elementary Education major in the Fall 2026 graduating class. Mason said the process strengthened her ability to create meaningful lessons that support every learner.
“The edTPA experience taught me about the importance of planning your lessons and using knowledge of students to create the best possible lessons so that every student can learn,” Mason said. “It taught me to look at my students and figure out how to plan my lessons to fit and meet all my students’ needs.”
Mason added that completing the portfolio is an exciting step toward her future career in education.
“Completing this licensure requirement makes me feel excited for what’s to come in my student teaching and beyond,” she said. “It also allows me to breathe a bit easier. I feel a lot more relaxed and prepared for what is to come.”
As she looks ahead, Mason said her goal is to create a classroom environment where students feel supported emotionally and academically.
“I want to make sure that every student who walks in my room feels heard and understood,” she said. “I want to make sure to meet my students where they are emotionally and academically.”
Mason also offered encouragement to future teacher candidates preparing for the edTPA.
“Take your time and manage your time,” she said. “Look at your handbooks and listen to the feedback provided by your professor. Most of all—you’ve got this!”
Why it matters…
Maintaining state and regional accreditation standards, while also preparing students to succeed on licensure assessments such as edTPA, requires extensive faculty effort and resources. Spragley emphasized that achieving these results within a small liberal arts institution makes the accomplishment even more significant.
“To maintain high pass rates on licensure tests and performance portfolios as a small program within a small liberal arts university is a juggernaut of a task,” he said. “While we may not have the resources that many larger institutions possess, we continue to meet the challenge and achieve exceptional outcomes.”
NCWU’s Teacher Education program continues to prepare future educators through rigorous coursework, hands-on field experiences, and strong faculty mentorship ensuring graduates are equipped to lead and succeed in today’s classrooms.
NCWU Celebrates 2026 Commencement
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) celebrated the accomplishments of more than 360 graduates during its annual Commencement Ceremony on Saturday, May 2, 2026, at the Rocky Mount Event Center. The ceremony marked the University’s 86th graduating class and welcomed more than 2,000 attendees, including graduates, faculty, platform party members, and guests.
The ceremony opened with an invocation by University Chaplain Rev. Edwin Ferguson, followed by a performance of the national anthem by NCWU alumna Latisha Scott ’06.
NCWU President Dr. Evan D. Duff welcomed graduates and guests, congratulating the Class of 2026 and emphasizing the University’s commitment to preparing students for meaningful lives of leadership and service.
“Your degree is provided by an institution which seeks not only to dispense knowledge and develop the habits for lifelong learning, but also expects its graduates to be responsible citizens, contributors to the common good and individuals who care about others,” Duff said. “As we celebrate together, we acknowledge the obligations all of us have to help bring about a better world.”
Keynote Address
The Commencement address was delivered by Jessica Daniels Harrison ’10, a proud NCWU alumna and public servant currently serving as Mayor of the Town of Zebulon. Harrison made history as the first woman elected mayor of Zebulon. She was appointed to the town’s Board of Commissioners in February 2022, elected as a commissioner in November 2023, and later elected mayor in November 2025.
Harrison encouraged graduates to recognize their accomplishments and the perseverance that brought them to Commencement Day.
“Today is a day of celebration. A day of reflection. And a day of crossing over,” Harrison said. “Graduates—today, you didn’t just complete a program… you proved something to yourself. And I stand here not just as your commencement speaker… but as someone who once sat exactly where you are.”
Harrison challenged graduates to become “catalysts” for change, reminding them that success is strengthened through community and connection. She urged the Class of 2026 to advocate for others, reach back to support those following behind them, and remain connected to their purpose and their NCWU community.
Awards & Honors
Following the keynote address, Provost and Senior Vice President of Academic Affairs Dr. Joe Lane presented the Exemplary Teacher Award to Dr. Emily Weber, Associate Professor of Biology, recognizing outstanding commitment to student learning, civility, value-centered education, and service to both students and the broader community.
Several student honors were also presented during the ceremony. Jillian Alexis Stone received the Algernon Sydney Sullivan Award, which recognizes a graduating senior who exemplifies strong character, leadership, service, and commitment to spiritual values.
The President’s Cup Award was presented to Emily Foraker, honoring a senior who demonstrates the highest standards of academic achievement and the qualities considered most desirable in a graduate of North Carolina Wesleyan University.
Upon recommendation of the Honorary Degree Committee and approval of the NCWU Board of Trustees, Harrison was also awarded an Honorary Doctor of Humanities degree in recognition of her leadership and service.
The ceremony included a special tribute honoring Joshua Gregory Moore, who passed away on April 9, 2022. Moore was posthumously awarded a Bachelor of Science degree in Communication Information Systems. University officials recognized his resilience, compassion, and servant leadership, honoring his memory and the impact he made on those around him.
For those unable to attend in person, the event was livestreamed and recorded. The full Commencement ceremony is available for viewing at ncwu.edu.
Photos from commencement can be found here: https://gradphotos.ncwc.edu/.
