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
NCWU’s New Applied Reproductive Biology Certificate Attracts Students Nationwide
North Carolina Wesleyan University’s new Applied Reproductive Biology Certificate, offered in partnership with ARTLAB IVF Training and Research Center, is already making a national impact. Following the successful launch of its inaugural cohort this summer, the innovative workforce–focused program is attracting students from across the United States and building strong momentum for its next cohort.
The inaugural 10-week certificate program welcomed 11 students representing North Carolina, Texas, Georgia, Indiana, Nebraska, Tennessee, Virginia, and Oklahoma, highlighting the growing national demand for specialized training in assisted reproductive technology (ART).
Dr. Eva Schenkman, Founder and Chief Science Officer of ARTLAB, expressed her gratitude to the inaugural cohort for helping launch a first-of-its-kind educational partnership.
“I want to thank all of you for taking a leap of faith with us and helping establish this program,” said Schenkman. “Your willingness to be part of our inaugural class is laying the foundation for future students while helping address a critical need for highly trained professionals in reproductive medicine.”
The Student’s Perception
Among those students is Courtney Agurs of Charlotte, North Carolina, who began her journey toward becoming an embryologist after earning a bachelor’s degree in biology from High Point University. After discovering the program through TikTok, Agurs said she knew it was the opportunity she had been searching for.
“What excites me most about the program is we are able to be hands-on; we are able to be involved in the process of someone starting their family,” said Agurs. “This is something that is vital to a lot, a lot of people.”
Developed through a first-of-its-kind collaboration between NC Wesleyan and ARTLAB, the world’s largest IVF training center, the Applied Reproductive Biology Certificate addresses the increasing workforce demand for highly trained professionals in fertility and reproductive laboratories. The intensive four-course, 10-week program combines university-level instruction with immersive laboratory training to prepare graduates for immediate employment in assisted reproductive technology laboratories.
Students receive comprehensive instruction in andrology and embryology laboratory procedures through daily hands-on training, faculty-led lectures, and competency-based assessments. Upon successful completion, participants earn 16 post-baccalaureate credit hours and are prepared to sit for the American Board of Registry (ABOR) certification examinations in Andrology Laboratory Science and Embryology Laboratory Science.
For Agurs, the hands-on experience has been one of the program’s greatest strengths.
“Honestly it sounds so simple, but hand control,” she said when asked what has surprised her most about the experience. “We almost have to be like surgeons. Our skill control and hand stability for learning the freezing and thawing of embryos and sperm has been the biggest learning experiences.”
She encourages others with a passion for science and laboratory work to consider the field.
“Do it,” Agurs said. “If you are a person that likes hands-on experience, you have a lot of patience, and you have lab experience, it will carry you far.”
What’s next?
Interest in the program continues to accelerate. The January 2027 cohort already has 16 accepted students, with more than 35 additional applicants currently in the admissions pipeline and new applicants arriving daily. The expanding applicant pool now includes prospective students from California, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, Texas, and several other states, demonstrating the program’s rapidly growing national reach.
“Seeing students travel from across the country to attend this program affirms the need for accessible, high-quality training in reproductive biology,” said Katie Farrell, Interim Dean of Enrollment. “Our partnership with ARTLAB allows us to provide a unique educational experience that equips graduates with the specialized skills employers are actively seeking.”
The program was designed in response to the growing need for qualified embryologists and reproductive laboratory professionals as demand for fertility treatment continues to increase. Graduates receive personalized career support, including resume development and employer connections, contributing to an impressive 95% job placement rate within 60 days through ARTLAB’s established training programs.
The Applied Reproductive Biology Certificate is open to qualified post-baccalaureate applicants with degrees in laboratory sciences, as well as NC Wesleyan biology majors who have completed at least 90 credit hours. Students benefit from an immersive educational experience that emphasizes technical excellence, quality assurance, ethical practice, and the professional standards required in modern ART laboratories.
With growing enrollment, expanding geographic reach, and strong workforce outcomes, NC Wesleyan and ARTLAB are establishing the program as a premier destination for advanced reproductive biology education and training.
For more information about the Applied Reproductive Biology Certificate, visit ncwu.edu or contact the North Carolina Wesleyan University Office of Admissions.
NCWU Named to PTK’s 2026 Transfer Honor Roll
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) has been named to the 2026 Pi Theta Kappa (PTK) Transfer Honor Roll, placing the University among just 275 four-year colleges and universities nationwide recognized for excellence in serving community college transfer students.
The Transfer Honor Roll recognizes institutions that have demonstrated exceptional success in helping transfer students earn bachelor’s degrees through strong academic pathways, student support services, financial assistance, and campus engagement.
Why This Matters for Bishops
At NC Wesleyan, transfer students are more than just a growing population; they are a priority. The university has intentionally designed flexible transfer pathways that help students maximize previously earned credits and complete their degrees efficiently.
One of NCWU’s most distinctive transfer initiatives is its 75-hour transfer pathway, which allows eligible students to transfer up to 75 credit hours towards a bachelor’s degree. The pathway is designed to accommodate students from nearly every educational background, making it easier than ever for those who have attended community colleges or other institutions to continue their education without losing momentum.
In addition to traditional college coursework, NNCWU recognizes the value of learning that takes place beyond the classroom. The university awards academic credit for eligible professional licenses, certificates, military training, and other approved prior learning experiences, helping students receive credit for the knowledge and skills they have already earned through their careers.
“At NC Wesleyan, we understand that every transfer student’s journey is unique,” said Katie Farrell, Interim Dean of Enrollment. “Whether a student is transferring from a community college, another university, or returning to finish a degree after gaining professional experience, our goal is to remove barriers and create a clear pathway to graduation. This national recognition reflects our commitment to meeting students where they are and helping them reach where they want to be.”
Phi Theta Kappa evaluates institutions across five key areas that contribute to transfer student success:
- Transfer student success outcomes
- Credit mobility and degree applicability
- Financial support for transfer students
- Recruitment and admission practices
- Campus engagement and student support
Rather than measuring a single outcome, the Honor Roll recognizes colleges and universities that have intentionally created policies and practices that help transfer students thrive from admission through graduation.
“The recognition is about much more than transfer agreements,” said Dr. Lynn Tincher-Ladner, President and CEO of Phi Theta Kappa. “Successful transfer happens when institutions intentionally design policies, practices, and campus cultures that help students thrive when they arrive. These colleges have demonstrated that transfer student success is not accidental. It is strategic priority.”
NCWU’s personalized advising, small class size, flexible course delivery, and career-focused academic programs ensure that transfer students receive individualized support throughout their educational journey. Combined with generous transfer credit evaluations and recognition of prior learning, the university continues to make earning a bachelor’s degree more accessible for students from all backgrounds.
Students interested in transferring to North Carolina Wesleyan University can learn more about transfer pathways, credit evaluations, scholarships, and academic programs by visiting https://ncwu.edu/academics/adult-professional-studies/adult-transfer-students/ or contacting the Office of Admissions.
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 comma unities. 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 Phi Theta Kappa
Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society recognizes the academic achievement of students at associate degree-granting colleges and helps them grow as scholars and leaders. Recognized by the American Association of Community Colleges as the official honor society for two-year colleges, PTK also serves as the nation’s largest honor society in higher education, with more than 4.5 million members and nearly 1,200 chapters in 11 countries, including approximately 220,000 active members in colleges today. Through scholarships, leadership development, and transfer and career pathways, PTK helps students turn their potential into opportunity. Learn more at ptk.org.
NC Wesleyan Faculty Member Helps Shape New National Standard for Physical Fitness
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.
