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/.
NCWU Students Present at SETAC Conference
Six North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) students recently attended the Society of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry (SETAC) Carolinas Conference, a regional scientific meeting that brings together researchers, professionals, and students working in environmental science and ecotoxicology. NCWU students presented original research posters, gaining hands-on experience sharing scientific findings with experts in the field.
The Carolinas SETAC Conference serves as an important venue for environmental scientists to share research, receive professional feedback, and stay current on emerging environmental challenges. For students, the conference also provides valuable exposure to the professional scientific community and offers an opportunity to develop confidence in public speaking and research communication.
The students attended as part of BIO325 (Ecotoxicology), a course designed around independent student research that develops into a manuscript for publication and a professional presentation. Students prepared throughout the semester by developing research questions, designing experiments, collecting and analyzing data, and creating professional scientific posters. They also practiced presenting their findings and answering questions to prepare for conference discussions.
The students presented two posters focused on the environmental impacts of fluoxetine, a commonly prescribed antidepressant, and microplastics on freshwater snails.
Poster presentations included:
Poster 1: Ecotoxicological Effects of Fluoxetine on a Freshwater Bioindicator Snail, Physa acuta
Ben Sellers, Ayden Harper, Dr. Jason Doll, and Dr. Daniel Elías
Poster 2: Individual and Combined Effects of Fluoxetine and Microplastics on Physa acuta
Ben Sellers, Andrea Elaez Miranda, Kayla Atkins, Lauren Martin, Jadyn Smith, Christian Thompson, Dr. Jason Doll, Dr. Daniel Elías
To conduct their research, students completed controlled laboratory experiments using freshwater snails as a model organism. Methods included exposing snails to fluoxetine and microplastics, measuring biological responses such as movement, egestion, and reproduction, and analyzing data using statistical software.
Students received strong feedback and thoughtful questions from conference faculty, scientists, and professionals, which helped them strengthen their work and expand their understanding of the research process.
Dr. Daniel Elías, who helped guide the student research, said the experience of bringing students to a professional scientific conference is especially rewarding. “Students get to see how other undergraduate and graduate researchers present their work, and they also learn about emerging topics where science is currently focused,” Elías said. “It broadens their perspective and gives them an opportunity to interact with professionals in the field. At the same time, they build confidence in their presentation skills and begin expanding their professional network for future career or graduate opportunities.”
The conference experience directly aligns with the goals of BIO325, which emphasizes applied research and professional-level communication. The objective of the course is for students to complete independent research that leads to both publication-ready writing and a formal presentation of results.
NC Wesleyan supports undergraduate research opportunities through funding for supplies and conference attendance, helping ensure students can participate in meaningful, real-world academic experiences.
EasyFlyers Establishes Annual Scholarship at North Carolina Wesleyan University
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) is pleased to announce the creation of the EasyFlyers Annual Scholarship, established through the generosity of EasyFlyers, a global company recognized for its work in transportation and logistics solutions. The scholarship will be awarded each year to a Wesleyan student majoring in Supply Chain Management and Logistics.
As a leader in the movement of goods, materials, and critical shipments, EasyFlyers Logistics understands firsthand the growing demand for professionals who are well‑educated in supply chain systems, distribution strategies, and logistics technology. By supporting students in this field, the company is helping prepare future industry leaders who will drive efficiency, innovation, and reliability across global transportation networks.
“Supporting students pursuing supply chain management is a natural extension of what we do,” Nichol Ally, President of EasyFlyers USA shared. “Today’s logistics environment requires talent with strong analytical skills, practical problem‑solving abilities, and a commitment to continuous improvement. We believe Wesleyan students will help shape the future of our industry.”
At North Carolina Wesleyan University, scholarships are typically created with the long‑term goal of growing the fund through additional contributions, ensuring that students can rely on ongoing support throughout their academic journey. The EasyFlyers Annual Scholarship will follow this model. Recipients will be selected each fall in the academic year, however contributions to the scholarship fund are welcomed year‑round in order to expand the award’s impact.
Vice President of Institutional Advancement, Mark Hinson, noted, “Scholarships like this do more than reduce financial barriers – they open doors for students to enter high‑demand career fields that power our regional and national economy. We are grateful to EasyFlyers for investing in our students and their futures.”
EasyFlyers Annual Scholarship
The University looks forward to celebrating future scholarship recipients and strengthening its partnership with EasyFlyers in the years ahead. If you would like to contribute to the EasyFlyers Annual Scholarship, visit our dedicated scholarship funding website or you can also give at ncwu.edu/donate and follow link to our GiveCampus Donation website, type “EasyFlyers” in the designation field to select the scholarship fund.
ARTLAB and NC Wesleyan University Partner to Launch New Embryology and Andrology Education Programs
In recognition of National Infertility Awareness Week (NIAW), ARTLAB and North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) are highlighting a major step forward in reproductive science education with the launch of a new academic credential designed to strengthen the future workforce of fertility laboratory professionals. The partners are proud to announce the first stage in their strategic collaboration: a post-baccalaureate certificate in Applied Reproductive Biology, launching in Summer 2026. The first cohort will start July 6 – Sept 11, 2026.
This 16-credit (10-week) certificate program is now accepting applications from candidates who have completed a B.S. in a laboratory science or who will complete such a degree in May 2026. To inquire or apply for the first cohort, contact Dr. Eva Schenkman at eva@artlabconsulting.com.
Designed to meet the growing workforce demands of assisted reproductive technology (ART) laboratories across the United States, the program combines academic rigor with applied training. ARTLAB, currently the largest IVF training center in the world, brings extensive reproductive laboratory expertise and real-world industry experience to the curriculum.
“As one of the few academically affiliated programs in embryology, this collaboration with North Carolina Wesleyan University brings together training taught by globally recognized leaders with a commitment to standardization in a historically unregulated field,” said Dr. Eva Schenkman, MS, PhD, Founder of ARTLAB. “As fertility rates decline and demand for assisted reproductive technologies increases worldwide, the need for highly skilled embryologists has become increasingly urgent. Together, ARTLAB and NC Wesleyan are setting a new standard for the field.”
“We are excited to launch our first certificate program with ARTLAB. This is one example of our commitment to deliver career-focused programs that reflect our Personal, Practical, Purpose-driven Education promise,” said Dr. Joe Lane, Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs at North Carolina Wesleyan University. “We are especially excited about the opportunities this certificate will provide to our biology students seeking new professional pathways in this highly specialized and rapidly growing field. We also look forward to welcoming new students into the Wesleyan community as they come to Rocky Mount to complete this ten-week professional program.”
NCWU President Dr. Evan D. Duff added, “This partnership with ARTLAB and Dr. Eva Schenkman represents exactly where higher education needs to go—aligning academic rigor with real-world, high-demand careers that change lives. By launching one of the few academically grounded programs in embryology and andrology, North Carolina Wesleyan is not only expanding opportunity for our students but also helping to build the future workforce of reproductive medicine professionals. We are proud to lead in a space where science, purpose, and human impact intersect in such a profound way.”
Through this partnership, ARTLAB and NCWU will continue to develop both credit-bearing and professional training courses to support professionals entering and advancing within the field.
Students pursuing the post-baccalaureate certificate may be eligible for federal financial aid, student loans, and grant opportunities. Formalizing this program under the auspices of North Carolina Wesleyan University significantly expands access to advanced education in reproductive science.
Additional details regarding admissions requirements, program structure, and enrollment timelines will be available in the coming days.
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