In the spirit of compassion, generosity, and belief in second chances, North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) is proud to share the profound impact of a new Angel Donor Initiative supporting adult learners through the University’s Adult Professional Studies (APS) Scholarship Fund.
Over the past two weeks, the initiative, sparked by the generosity of NCWU supporters, has helped 13 adult students overcome financial barriers that threatened to derail their education. These timely gifts allowed students to pay current or future balances, register for upcoming courses, and remain on track toward graduation.
Over the past two weeks, the initiative, sparked by the generosity of NCWU supporters, has helped 13 adult students overcome financial barriers that threatened to derail their education. These timely gifts allowed students to pay current or future balances, register for upcoming courses, and remain on track toward graduation.
For many recipients, this support arrived at a critical moment. More than 75% of the students who were assisted had exhausted their federal financial aid eligibility due to life interruptions, prior enrollment attempts, or unforeseen hardships. Others were navigating deeply personal crises, including homelessness, the loss of a parent, recovery from a massive stroke, or job loss tied to a government shutdown.
“These gifts were not just scholarships; they were lifelines,” said Katie Farrell, Dean of Adult and Professional Studies. “They met students where they were and provided exactly what was needed at exactly the right time.”
Turning Deferred Dreams into Degrees
The immediate outcomes of the Angel Donor initiative are powerful and measurable:
- A Healthcare Administration student described the support as “Heaven-sent,” allowing her to complete the final course needed to graduate in May 2026.
- Multiple Educational Studies and Leadership students were able to overcome financial barriers. This funding not only prevented delays but also accelerated degree completion and career trajectories, allowing future educators to enter the classroom sooner, helping address critical workforce gaps in education across the region.
Stability During Life’s Hardest Moments
Some stories speak not only to academic persistence, but to human resilience:
- A Leadership student, also a retired grandmother, unexpectedly assumed custody of three grandchildren and experienced temporary homelessness. She used the funds to secure housing, cover tuition, meet basic needs, and create a modest holiday for her family.
- A Criminal Justice student experiencing homelessness was able to remain enrolled and complete her final credits.
- A police officer finishing a Criminal Justice degree received support during the loss of his father.
- A Leadership student, a recently elected Town Commissioner recovering from a massive stroke, was able to continue his education while focusing on recovery and community service.
While this summary highlights selected stories shared with permission, additional funds continue to be distributed to other deserving students whose privacy is being respectfully protected.
A Season of Hope
The Angel Donor initiative affirms NC Wesleyan’s unwavering commitment to adult learners, students who balance education with work, family, and life’s unexpected challenges. Through strategic, compassionate support, the University is proving that persistence paired with opportunity can change lives.
As the holiday season approaches, these gifts stand as a reminder that generosity can be transformational, not someday, but today.
NC Wesleyan extends its deepest gratitude to the Angel Donors whose belief in students made these life-altering moments possible.
Academic Honor Lists Announced for Fall 2025
North Carolina Wesleyan University’s Fall 2025 President’s Honor List and President’s List are issued at the end of the fall and spring semesters. To be eligible for inclusion, a student must carry a minimum of 12 semester hours on the “A-F” grading system, with no grades of “INC.” A student must attain a 3.75 grade point average with no grade below “C” for the President’s Honor List and a 3.25 grade point average with no grade below “C” for the President’s List for the semester. Congratulations to these students for an outstanding academic year!
To view entire Honor Lists for Fall 2025, visit ncwu.edu/academics/academic-honors
Provost Dr. Joe Lane expressed his pride in the students’ accomplishments, stating, “Our Presidents List honorees have displayed outstanding academic efforts inside the classroom. Their dedication and hard work are truly commendable, and we are confident that they will continue to excel in their future endeavors.”
North Carolina Wesleyan University remains committed to fostering an environment of academic excellence and leadership. We are proud to stand alongside these students to recognize and celebrate their achievements.
NCWU Announces Transformative Enhancements for 2026
As North Carolina Wesleyan University prepares to welcome a new year, the University is proud to announce a wide range of exciting updates, expanded programs, and student-centered initiatives designed to meet the evolving needs of today’s learners, whether they are recent high school graduates, working professionals, or global scholars. With a renewed commitment to accessibility, innovation, and lifelong learning, Wesleyan is positioning itself as the region’s premier institution for flexible, affordable, and high-impact education.
Empowering Adult Learners Through Expanded APS Offerings
Many working adults don’t realize just how many pathways exist at Wesleyan to elevate their careers, switch industries, or complete a long-term educational goal. Through our Adult Professional Studies (APS) programs, students can choose from 10 flexible degree options, including Nursing (RN to BSN), Business, Education, Leadership, Supply Chain Management, Psychology, Criminal Justice, and more—each designed specifically for busy adults balancing work, family, and life.
Wesleyan also offers career-boosting certificates that can make an immediate difference in earning potential and workplace advancement. With as few as six courses, certificate completers can gain industry-relevant skills without committing to an additional full degree. These certificate credits can also be applied toward formal undergraduate or graduate degree programs, offering students a flexible pathway to continue their education if they choose. Additionally, the learning outcomes from select certificates may qualify students to apply or test for specific professional certifications not administered by North Carolina Wesleyan University.
“Many adults assume they need to start over,” said Katie Farrell, Dean of Adult and Professional Studies. “But at Wesleyan, you can upgrade your skills, gain confidence, and increase your value in the workplace in months, not years.”
Affordability: More Possible Than Ever
Another major misconception is that further education is financially out of reach. Wesleyan is committed to breaking that barrier. With scholarships, financial aid, employer partnerships, and personalized financial counseling, most students discover that earning their next credential is far more affordable than they imagined.
New this year is Wesleyan’s Refer-A-Friend Tiered Scholarship Program strictly for Adult and Graduate programs, offering up to $500 per referral with no limit to the number of referrals:
- Completed Application: $50
- Enrolled Student:
- 1st referral: $100 scholarship
- 2nd referral: $250 scholarship
- 3rd referral and beyond: $500 each in scholarship
This program not only rewards current students but also empowers them to actively support friends, colleagues, and family members looking to advance their careers.
Wesleyan Works: A Seamless Pathway from Community Colleges
Wesleyan continues to strengthen its partnerships across North Carolina with the Wesleyan Works Program, offering guaranteed admission for community college students who complete their associate degree. Participants enjoy Wesleyan benefits from day one, including transfer credit maximization, academic advising, and affordability support – making the transition to a bachelor’s degree smoother and more cost-effective than ever.
Reimagining Student Success for Traditional Students: Introducing the COMPASS Center
In addition to the enhancements for adult and professional students, Wesleyan is elevating the on-campus experience for traditional students by rebranding and relocating the Student Success Center to the Career and Opportunity Mentorship for Personal, Academic, and Student Success (COMPASS) Center.
The COMPASS Center marks a modern, holistic approach to student development. Integrating academic advising, first-year transition programs, leadership training, career readiness, and inclusive learning support, COMPASS equips students not just to succeed in the classroom but to design meaningful, purpose-driven lives.
“Our mission is simple,” Anne Aichele, Program Director, shared. “We want every student to explore, define, and design their academic, personal, and professional journey with confidence.”
Students will gain familiarity with this change when they return in January, but a full launch will take place for the 2026-2027 academic year.
Advancing Global Education: International Services Realigned for Excellence
To strengthen support for Wesleyan’s growing international community, International Student Services will now transition under the leadership of Dr. Oscar Rodriguez. Dr. Rodriguez’s extensive experience with PDSO/DSO operations, along with his bilingual fluency and deep commitment to compliance and cultural care, positions him as an exceptional advocate for global students.
“These enhancements demonstrate our dedication to positioning each department for maximum impact,” said University leadership. “Our priority is always student success – from local adult learners to students joining us from around the world.”
A Call to the Community
As Wesleyan continues to grow, innovate, and serve its region, the University invites local professionals, employers, adult learners, and community members to explore how Wesleyan can support their next chapter. Whether you want to advance in your career, change fields, finish a degree, or simply open new doors, there’s a place for you at Wesleyan—and we’re ready to help you begin.
In return, we welcome our community to partner with us in shaping the next generation of talent. Local businesses and organizations can make a powerful impact by offering internships, job-shadowing experiences, course-based project collaborations, mentoring opportunities, guest speaking, and other forms of professional engagement. These partnerships not only strengthen Wesleyan students’ real-world readiness, but also help employers build strong pipelines of skilled, motivated graduates who are eager to contribute to the regional workforce.
Together, we can build a stronger, more connected community—one where education and opportunity thrive side by side.
Whether you want to advance in your career, change fields, finish a degree, or simply open new doors, there’s a place for you at Wesleyan, and we’re ready to help you begin.
Interested in learning more?
Visit our website or contact our admissions team to explore programs, certificates, scholarship opportunities, and upcoming enrollment dates.
NCWU Students Receive $40,000 in Scholarships
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) proudly hosted a Scholarship Appreciation Luncheon, bringing together Rotary leadership, Tackle the Tar organizers, and the Wesleyan students whose lives have been directly impacted by their generosity. This year, $40,000 in scholarships was awarded to NCWU students through proceeds from Tackle the Tar — marking another year of transformative community investment in local education.
Fourteen students were recognized as scholarship recipients: Caleb Allen, Emory Bunn, Aliyah Cooper, Victoria Dickens, Jaycie Hadnott, Aafrah Hasan, Shawanna Hyman, Natalie Messer, Tarnisha Ricks, Shala Wade, Sharon Whitaker, Danitha Williams, Aidan Willis, and Chemar Zeigler.
The luncheon opened with a welcome from Ashton Bunn ’26, followed by a blessing from Mark Hinson, Vice President of Advancement. Students and staff then shared reflections on the impact of Tackle the Tar, underscoring how financial support has eased the burden of higher education and strengthened their commitment to achieving personal and professional goals.
Robbie Davis, Rotary President and longtime champion of Tackle the Tar, delivered heartfelt remarks about the importance of keeping talent in the region.
“We need our young people to stay in Nash County, further their education, and give back to the community,” Davis shared. “Find the things you enjoy doing. Rotary develops leaders — consider joining us. Our club is very proud of each of you and what you are accomplishing.”
In closing, NCWU President Dr. Evan D. Duff expressed gratitude for the partnership and the opportunities it creates.
“I am grateful that both traditional and adult students can benefit from these scholarships,” Duff said. “Our recipients are already making meaningful contributions, and I know they will continue to do so. The Rotary’s support is helping shape the next generation of leaders.”
Through Tackle the Tar and the unwavering support of the Rocky Mount Rotary Club, students at North Carolina Wesleyan University continue to gain access to life-changing educational opportunities — strengthening both their futures and the future of the region.
First in the Family: Wesleyan Students Breaking Barriers
When Matthew Tiller walked across the stage at North Carolina Wesleyan University’s commencement in May 2025, he carried more than his own dreams. As a first-generation college student, he carried the hopes of his entire family.
“Being the first in my family to attend college means breaking a barrier and opening a door that was never there before, “Tiller shared. “It feels like I’ve paved a new way for my family, not just for myself.”
Tiler, who double-majored in English and Psychology, admitted that the journey was not easy. His family, though proud, did not know how to help navigate applications, deadlines, or financial aid. “Honestly, they didn’t really know how to support me, so college became a learning environment for both me and my family,” he said.
He isn’t alone. For fellow first-generation student Tamiya Rooks, a Biomedical Science major with a focus in Pre-Veterinary Medicine, the experience has also been about perseverance. “For me, being a first-generation college student means that I have managed to beat the odds,” Rooks said. “To my parents, it means that they did an amazing job with raising their children and get to see her grow more. Making them immensely proud.”
At Wesleyan, Tiller found mentors who guided him through. Professors in the English program offered academic and personal support, while supervisors in the Financial Aid office helped him grow into a leader. “Working there was more than a paycheck, it was mentorship,” he said. ‘I know I would not be the leader I am without their guidance.”
Rooks echoed that feeling of support. “Being the first in my family to go to college, I wanted a community that believed in my potential and would give me the resources to succeed, and Wesleyan offered that,” she said.
Faculty and staff play a vital role in this culture. Paige Wells, Director of the Campus Experience, knows the challenges first-generation students face because she lived them herself. “As someone who was a first-generation college student, I fully believe my personal experiences have uniquely equipped me to support students from similar backgrounds with greater empathy and intentionality,” she said. “To me, this work is more than just a job—it’s a personal mission.” Wells also notes that misconceptions about the financial side of college often discourage families. “It’s not because they don’t care—it’s simply a lack of information and familiarity with the process. That’s why it’s so important to create welcoming spaces where students and families feel safe asking questions and getting honest guidance.”
That sense of belonging doesn’t end with graduation. Wesley Mercer, now a Helpdesk Technician at NCWU, once stood where today’s first-generation students do. “I feel like a lot of people are overwhelmed or scared of the idea of going to college. When I first started as a student, the staff and faculty were much more helpful than I originally thought,” he reflected.
Today, Mercer is proud to be part of the institution that helped him succeed. “I am excited that I get to be a ‘piece of the pie’ that is Wesleyan. It is amazing to be on the other side of the institution that meant so much to me as a student. It is almost surreal to see things from the other side.”
For Mercer, the highlight of his journey remains graduation. “Knowing that I finally did it is still my proudest moment,” he said. “Even as a staff member, I always really enjoy getting to go to graduation and seeing students get their diplomas.”
Both Tiller and Rooks admit the challenges were real. For Tiller, it meant forging ahead without a roadmap. For Rooks, it meant leaving home and stepping into the unknown. “Applying to college was the easy part really, but preparing for it was the most difficult,” she reflected. “It’s never easy to leave your home and family to go to a new place, even if it is for your benefit.”
Despite the obstacles, each points to proud milestones. Tiller cites leadership awards and internships. Rooks highlights completing her first year and joining the lacrosse team, something she had dreamed of for years. “I’ve made so many new friends who are really like family to me now, and that means so much,” she said.
Nearly 45% of Wesleyan’s student population are first-generation college students. Many faculty and staff were once first-generation themselves, making them uniquely able to mentor students like Tiller and Rooks. Wells notes that one of the biggest barriers is simply understanding the process. “One of the biggest misconceptions about college is the financial aspect, especially from the perspective of families who haven’t navigated the process before,” she said. “Many families don’t fully understand the true cost of attendance or know what questions to ask when comparing schools, which can unintentionally limit the options they consider. It’s not because they don’t care, it’s simply a lack of information and familiarity with the process. For any student, especially a first-generation student, the process can be overwhelming, and that’s why it’s so important to create welcoming spaces where students and their families feel comfortable and safe asking questions and getting honest, clear guidance.”
Looking ahead, Rooks hopes to become a veterinarian, serving her community by protecting and healing animals. “I want to show my family that dreams can be reached with dedication, and I hope to make them proud by turning my passion into a way to help others,” she said.
Supporting first-generation students is not just part of Wesleyan’s mission. It is woven into the fabric of who the university is. With nearly half its students blazing new trails, every diploma represents resilience, mentorship, and opportunity.
As Tiller puts it: “Take that leap! Do it! Be brave! The challenges are worth it, and you will always come out on top.”
NCWU Attracts Graduate Student from California Through Forbes Recognition
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) is proud to highlight the inspiring journey of Jill Griffith, a Master of Science in Strategic Leadership (MSSL) student who discovered Wesleyan more than 2,500 miles away in California.
Jill, who works in PepsiCo’s Strategy and Transformation division as a Sales Leader, sought to deepen her leadership skills with a structured and formal graduate program. With support from PepsiCo’s education reimbursement program, she began researching accredited, affordable, and career-aligned master’s degrees. Her search led to a Forbes article highlighting top accredited graduate programs, where NC Wesleyan’s MSSL program stood out.
“The course outline and program requirements were accessible, and the online resources gave me a confidence that the MSSL program matched both my interests and professional needs,” Griffith shared. “What truly made the experience personal was the exceptional support I received from Jennifer Phipps, Admissions and Advising Coordinator, who made the admissions process smooth and welcoming.”
While on a business trip to Winston-Salem, Jill made the three-hour drive to Rocky Mount to see NC Wesleyan’s main campus in person. She met with faculty, including University President and MSSL professor Dr. Evan Duff, and was welcomed by several staff members with personalized hospitality from parking instructions and workspace accommodations to a guided campus tour.
“I had seen photos of the campus online, but visiting in person was such a pleasant surprise,” said Griffith. “The historic buildings were beautifully maintained, and the welcoming atmosphere was evident from banners promoting patience, accountability, and respect, to spaces like volleyball courts and hammocks. I simply felt like this was my school.”
Since beginning the program, Jill has completed eight courses and already sees a direct impact on her work with PepsiCo. The MSSL program has provided her with new tools to communicate strategy, improve execution, and inspire collaborative problem-solving.
“With my experience at PepsiCo, the program gave me a framework to better understand the building blocks of strategy and its evolving role in driving success,” she explained. “Some of the most exciting insights came from case studies and real-world examples that gave me the language to move ideas forward with greater impact.”
Griffith also values the broader ripple effect of online learning: “Whether it’s your partner, kids, friends, or colleagues, the excitement from learning often sparks meaningful conversations beyond the classroom. When you are authentic about your experience, it can bring value beyond what you expected.”
Her journey underscores N.C. Wesleyan’s national reach, offering high-quality, affordable programs that resonate with professionals across the country. Jill looks forward to completing her degree in the coming year and hopes to serve as a mentor for Wesleyan’s undergraduate students, continuing PepsiCo’s tradition of impactful mentorship.
“Jill’s story is a powerful example of how N.C. Wesleyan’s mission to prepare students for leadership extends beyond state lines,” says President Dr. Duff. “Her dedication reflects the type of scholar-practitioner we strive to develop, leaders who apply classroom knowledge directly to their professions and communities.”
Through the support of PepsiCo and the accessible, personalized experience offered at NCWU, Jill has reignited her passion for learning, proving that growth thrives when opportunity meets curiosity.
Wesleyan Signs with SIFEC
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) has announced a new partnership with Shanghai Textile Industry Workers’ College (SIFEC), further expanding its global educational reach. The agreement was officially signed on Monday, March 10, during a virtual ceremony attended by key leaders from both institutions.
Participants in the signing and partnership included NCWU President Dr. Evan D. Duff, Provost Dr. Joseph Lane, Associate Provost Dr. Molly Wyatt, Vice President of Enrollment Dr. Oscar Rodrigues, Chief Engagement Officer Cindy Edwards, and NCWU Trustee Jerome Ma. Representing SIFEC were President Xie Decheng, Contract Manager Jennifer Yang, Dean of International Education Sophia Liu, and VIP Investor for International Education Yan Yeti.
The 1+3 programs that we have signed with SIFEC (Shanghai International Fashion Education Center) and are exploring with other partners is a unique program in which students will complete one year of prerequisite and English courses at the Chinese institution before coming to the U.S. for three years to complete a B.S. in select fields (including Management and Marketing) at North Carolina Wesleyan University. These partnerships will allow students from our partner institutions to learn about U.S. business fields here in Rocky Mount while completing their NCWU degree and preparing for more industry-specific studies in China. We look forward to working with these students to provide an excellent international education experience.
The students will not be receiving online instruction. They will actually spend three years in residence on our Rocky Mount campus. However, online meeting technologies does allow students who are entering the program to meet with their future U.S. advisors to plan their educational experience as they complete their first year of prerequisite courses in China.
“We are excited to welcome these students and provide them with a seamless transfer pathway to complete their dual degrees,” said NCWU President Dr. Evan D. Duff. “This partnership reflects our commitment to expanding global education opportunities and fostering international collaboration.”
In a continued effort to strengthen ties with SIFEC, Dr. Duff will be visiting China June 22 – 27, 2025, where he will meet face-to-face with collaborators, explore new opportunities for academic cooperation, and further solidify NCWU’s presence in the international education landscape.
The agreement marks another step in NCWU’s dedication to providing accessible, high-quality education while strengthening its international partnerships.
Employees Turn Tuition Perk into Diplomas
Director of Campus Safety, Controller, Sports Information Director, and Accounts Payable Specialist give the inside scoop on graduating with a discount.
At North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU), employees aren’t just shaping student success—they’re living it. Through the University’s generous tuition discount program, eligible employees, their spouses, and their dependent children can pursue undergraduate degrees tuition-free. This 100% tuition discount opens doors for families to grow academically together, while also inspiring a culture of lifelong learning across campus. For those looking to advance even further, discounts are also available for graduate coursework, making it easier than ever for staff and faculty to sharpen their skills, earn advanced credentials, or pivot into new fields. At NC Wesleyan, education is not just a benefit—it’s a shared journey.
We interviewed just a few who have taken advantage of this benefit and the results are telling.
Meet Wayne Sears, Director of Campus Safety. Mr. Sears has worked at Wesleyan for nine years and in May 2023 received a Master of Science in Criminal Justice, due to his desire of “wanting the option to teach in the field of Criminal Justice and wanting to understand what the educational environment is like for our NCWU student family”.
What advice do you have for people considering Wesleyan graduate school while working?
Don’t put off post-graduate work. A Master’s Degree now separates educational accomplishment and knowledge in the workforce. Wesleyan’s Criminal Justice Program is a structured progressive program from beginning to end.
How would you describe your relationships with your professors?
Great! I could text, email, or call them often on their cell phones. Which I did, and they always responded. I am friends with several of them to this day.
Was there a moment you felt especially proud of your accomplishment?
Having been in the Criminal Justice field since I was twenty years old gave me a complex that I had to do exceptionally well. That was a personal challenge to me. I was awarded the Outstanding MSCJ Student award backed with a perfect 4.0 GPA and that was extremely satisfying!
Describe your graduate school journey in 3 words.
Well. Worth It.
Teikisha Anderson, Controller and employee of over eleven years, is currently obtaining a Master of Strategic Leadership Degree and plans to graduate in May 2025. Her motivation was enhanced once receiving a promotion into a leadership position on campus and feels that this degree will equip her with the essential skills necessary to become an innovative and effective leader.
What advice do you have for people considering Wesleyan graduate school while working?
Do it! The Graduate Programs are designed and structured to meet the needs of the average working adult. With effective time management and dedication, they can successfully balance home, work, and academic responsibilities. While some temporary sacrifices may be necessary, the overall achievements and benefits will be worth it.
How would you describe your relationships with your professors?
Working at NC Wesleyan has allowed me to connect with some of my professors on a professional level. However, as a staff member, I do not receive any preferential treatment regarding my classes or expectations. While I am familiar with some professors, many of them are adjuncts whom I have never met personally. Regardless, my experiences with my professors have been overwhelmingly positive. They communicate effectively and respond to my questions and concerns. Even in taking all online classes, the smaller class sizes allow professors to address any issues, confusion, or concerns promptly, which I can truly appreciate.
Was there a moment you felt especially proud of your accomplishment?
My proudest moment will be walking across that stage wearing that hooded regalia but that has yet to come; however, for now, I am proud of myself for pushing forward every day and maintaining a 4.0 GPA. As a self-proclaimed perfectionist, I am slightly obsessed with and committed to doing my absolute best in all that I do. I am committed to this academic journey and that in itself is my proudest accomplishment.
Describe your graduate school journey in 3 words.
God’s Got Me!
Entering his sixth year at Wesleyan, Bayden Collins is Wesleyan’s Sports Information Director. He received his Master of Business Administration Degree in December 2024. Collins was self-motivated to obtain a Master’s Degree from a very early age and feels that it will greatly help him in his career of administration in collegiate athletics.
What advice do you have for people considering Wesleyan graduate school while working?
I would highly recommend the Graduate Program while working at NCWU because there is no better place that you can obtain a degree in one year online while working at the same time. I am extremely blessed to say I earned my MBA at the age of 22 and Wesleyan afforded me that opportunity.
How would you describe your relationships with your professors?
While I was online, I still felt a very close relationship with my professors. Whenever I needed something, I could call or email them at any time if I ever needed anything. Also, each professor would do a beginning-of-the-week video/lecture where you felt like you were in the classroom which led to an awesome learning experience!
Was there a moment you felt especially proud of your accomplishment?
I was especially proud at the hooding ceremony when I saw Coach Denton, Mr. Mike Armbruster, and Coach Thompson outside the Dunn Center waiting to congratulate me. It meant a lot, and I am glad to work with such great people!
Describe your graduate school journey in 3 words.
Rewarding, Challenging, Enlightening
DeOnna Wilson worked at Wesleyan in the Business Office for four years before she accepted her current role as an Accounts Payable Specialist. She completed her Master of Business Administration in 2023 with the support of her family and “work family”. Wilson learned that it was essential to never be afraid of asking questions, as “seeking help can lead to growth and understanding”.
What advice do you have for people considering Wesleyan graduate school while working?
For those pursuing Graduate School while working, mastering time management and establishing a realistic schedule is essential. Prioritize your tasks and confidently seek clarification from professors whenever necessary—they are there to support you. Don’t forget to include breaks in your schedule; maintaining a healthy balance between work and study is crucial for your success.
How would you describe your relationships with your professors?
I had varied relationships with my professors during my studies. With the professors I connected with, I fI had varied relationships with my professors during my studies. I found myself emailing some professors almost every other day to clarify assignments or projects. They were incredibly supportive and always willing to go the extra mile to assist me. Whenever they were on campus, they would take the time to meet with me, walking me through my mistakes and helping me understand the material better. I appreciated their pride in my efforts to learn, and their quick responses to my emails made it even easier to seek help. It truly made a difference in my learning experience.
Was there a moment you felt especially proud of your accomplishment?
The moment I felt a wave of pride for my accomplishment was when I walked across that stage to receive my diploma. Seeing all my family and work family there, beaming with smiles as I crossed that stage, made the achievement even more special. I completed my Master’s Degree despite the doubts I faced at the beginning and the many nights filled with tears questioning whether I could pull it off. In the end, it was all worth it, as I not only passed all my classes but also got to celebrate this significant milestone with my loved ones.
Describe your graduate school journey in 3 words.
Determined. Nervous. Time Management.
NC Wesleyan University Sends Off Class of 2025
On Saturday, May 2025, North Carolina Wesleyan University held its annual commencement ceremony at the Rocky Mount Event Center. The University celebrated over 360 graduates, marking its 85th graduation.
The event was open to graduates, faculty, the platform party and guests of graduates where over 2000 were in attendance. University Chaplain, Rev. Edwin Ferguson, gave the invocation, followed by a performance of the Star-Spangled Banner by alumna, Ms. Latisha Scott ’06.
President Dr. Evan D. Duff welcomed the crowd to the momentous occasion and congratulated the graduates on their accomplishments noting, “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. As we celebrate together, we acknowledge the obligations all of us have to help bring about a better world.”
Commencement Keynote Speaker
The commencement address was given by Mr. Danijel Velicki, Entrepreneur, Financial Educator, and Founder of Opus Wealth Strategies and Sqwire, LLC. Originally from Zagreb, Croatia, Velicki immigrated to the United States in 1995 with just $40 to his name. He worked tirelessly to fund his education, earning a bachelor’s degree in marketing and finance from Fairmont State University. Today, Velicki is a thriving business owner and is pursuing a graduate degree in Innovation and Strategy at Oxford University’s Saïd Business School.
Through his financial education platform, Sqwire, Velicki aims to empower individuals and families with the tools they need to achieve financial stability and success. The platform offers online lessons and personalized support to help users develop smart spending habits and make informed financial decisions for to support a prosperous life. Velicki’s philosophy is deeply rooted in his belief that the “American Dream” is attainable for everyone with the right support and determination.
Velicki addressed the graduates stating, “Success is not about comfort. Growth does not happen when you play it safe. The secret to success is passion, conviction, and discipline. Don’t be a gray speck on the wall. If you walk into a room, be heard, be seen, and be remembered. And most importantly, ASK! Most people are afraid to ask, but here’s what I know for certain – ‘you miss 100% of the shots you don’t take’ as Michael Jordan once said.”
He went on to offer the Class of 2025 three key relationships for a lifetime of growth: a mentor, a peer, and a mentee. A mentor is someone who has walked the path before you. A peer is someone who grows with you, challenges you, pushes you and celebrates with you. A mentee is someone you help lift up because the best way to learn is to teach.
Velicki ended with “Your life is a blank canvas. You may be the first in your family to earn a degree. You may have changed careers to get here. You may have doubted whether you’d even make it to this moment. But here you are. Be bold in your dreams. Be relentless in your pursuits. Be kind in your interactions. The world is waiting for the unique imprint that each of you will leave- and I have no doubt it will be extraordinary”.
Students and Teacher Awards
After Velicki’s inspiring speech, Dr. Lane, Provost and Sr. Vice President of Academic Affairs, presented the Exemplary Teacher Award to Dr. Doreen Thierauf, Associate Professor of English. This award recognizes excellence in teaching and promotion of student learning, civility and concern for students and colleagues, commitment to value-centered education, service to students beyond the classroom and service to the larger community beyond campus. During her eight years on our faculty, Dr. Thierauf has published more than a dozen articles, edited volume chapters, and reviews, and she averages more than four publications and more than four newly presented talks or papers each and every year. She further creates a dynamic and energized classroom space in which students are invited to share their own thoughts and feelings on some of the most challenging concepts you can possibly discuss, and in spite of, or perhaps because of, the heavy subjects that Dr. Thierauf asks to students to reflect on, her students routinely rise to the occasion.
Andrea Belen Rizzo received the Algernon Sydney Sullivan Award, which honors a senior who best exemplifies excellence in character, leadership, service to the community and a commitment to spiritual values. This humanitarian award is meant to recognize those who have selflessly given to others or served others in some way. The recipient is chosen by the Honors Awards Committee.
Ms. Rizzo is a Biology and Environmental Science graduate from Argentina who has distinguished herself on the Wesleyan campus and in the community by her leadership of the Worldwide Welcome Team for international students at North Carolina Wesleyan and is a member of S.E.A.T., Science Club, NSLS, Phi Beta Sigma Honor Society, President of IBA, id on the President’s Honors List, and both Homecoming Princess and Queen. She will be continuing her education at Texas A&M as she was recently accepted into their Ph.D. Marine Biology program.
The President’s Cup Award was presented to Anna Elizabeth Ray, a senior who best exhibits those characteristics considered most desirable in a graduate. Of particular importance is the attainment of the highest standards of academic performance as demonstrated by the overall grade point average at North Carolina Wesleyan University. The recipient is also chosen by the Honors Awards Committee.
Ms. Ray is from Richlands, North Carolina. She graduated with a major in Psychology, and was a member of the Cross-Country Team. She became an active student leader, serving as a member of S.E.A.T. and a Resident Advisor. Graduating with honors, she plans to pursue a master’s degree in Human Resource Management.
Upon the recommendation of the Honorary Degree Committee and the approval of the Board of Trustees, Mr. Danijel Velicki was honored with the degree of Doctor of Humanities Honorary Degree from NC Wesleyan University.
Clemmons Family Honored
This commencement ceremony was especially moving as Wesleyan honored Matthew Clemmons, who passed away September of 2021, with a Posthumous Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology. Matthew was a student-athlete and part of the NCWU football team. He was on the Dean’s List and was soon to be inducted into the Student Leadership Society. Twelve of his family members, friends, and former coach were in attendance to receive the degree in his memory.
The event was live streamed and recorded so family and friends who were not able to attend in person could celebrate with their students virtually. The recording can be viewed at ncwu.edu and the University’s Facebook page.
Photos can be viewed at gradphotos.ncwc.edu/.
NCWU Welcomes Transfers
With the recent and difficult announcements of the impending closures of Saint Andrews University and Limestone University, North Carolina Wesleyan University is stepping forward to offer a new home and a supportive community for affected students. Understanding the whirlwind of emotions — uncertainty, frustration, and concern about the future — Wesleyan is committed to providing not just a pathway to continue their education but a family to stand beside them every step of the way.
“We recognize that many students are facing unexpected transitions, and we want them to know they are not alone,” said Dr. Evan Duff, President of NC Wesleyan. “Our goal is to offer a safe place, clear guidance, and a community that cheers them on to the finish line.”
To ease the transfer process, NC Wesleyan is waiving application and deposit fees and offering competitive financial aid packages. The University provides robust opportunities, including athletic programs, military and veteran support, international student services, and flexible adult studies. Students can also choose from top academic programs such as Business Administration, Education, Science, Exercise Science, and Criminal Justice.
Additionally, Wesleyan offers housing options and one-on-one advising to ensure a seamless transition. Named one of the safest and most affordable universities in North Carolina, NC Wesleyan delivers a personal, practical, and purpose-driven educational experience.
“Your academic journey isn’t over,” added Dr. Duff. “It’s simply finding a new chapter — and we are ready to help you finish strong, as part of our Bishop family.”
Learn more about these special transfer opportunities for SAU and LU students.
