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/.
OnlineMasters.com Ranks North Carolina Wesleyan University Among Best in the U.S.
OnlineMasters.com, a trusted resource for accredited online graduate education, has recognized North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) in its annual rankings, naming the University among the Best Online Master’s in Criminal Justice Programs for 2026.
This distinction reflects NCWU’s commitment to delivering high-quality, career-focused graduate education, particularly for adult learners balancing work, family, and personal responsibilities while pursuing advanced degrees.
Unlike traditional ranking systems, OnlineMasters.com uses a data-driven methodology designed to provide prospective graduate students with practical insights into academic quality, affordability, graduation outcomes, and student support. Institutions are evaluated using a proprietary scoring model that incorporates national data sources such as the U.S. Department of Education, College Scorecard, NCES College Navigator, the Bureau of Labor Statistics, College Board, and institutional disclosures, as well as benchmarking indicators from organizations including U.S. News & World Report.
NCWU’s Criminal Justice program stands out for its accessibility, flexibility, and emphasis on real-world preparation. The program is designed with the adult learner in mind, providing a supportive, engaging online environment that allows students to advance professionally while continuing to meet the demands of everyday life.
“At North Carolina Wesleyan, we understand that many of our graduate students are working professionals already serving in their communities,” said Katie Farrell, Dean of Adult & Professional Studies. “Our online programs are built to meet students where they are, providing flexibility, individualized support, and coursework that directly connects to career advancement in the criminal justice field.”
NCWU’s Master of Criminal Justice program equips students with advanced knowledge in criminal justice leadership, policy, ethics, and contemporary challenges in law enforcement and public safety. Graduates leave the program prepared to pursue higher-level roles in corrections, law enforcement administration, investigative services, homeland security, and other related fields.
“Our goal is to ensure students are not only earning a degree, but also gaining the confidence and expertise needed to take the next step in their careers,” said Dr. Gail Marsal, Associate Professor of Criminal Justice and Program Coordinator. “This program supports students as they transition into leadership roles and expand their impact within the criminal justice system.”
OnlineMasters.com’s rankings are focused exclusively on accredited, nonprofit institutions offering online and hybrid master’s programs. Each school is assigned an Online Master’s Score ranging from 0 to 100, measuring overall performance across the criteria most predictive of graduate student success.
NCWU’s recognition in the 2026 rankings reinforces the University’s growing reputation for providing adult learners with innovative graduate opportunities that lead to meaningful career outcomes.
To view the complete ranking, visit:
https://www.onlinemasters.com/best-degree-programs/criminal-justice/
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 ONLINEMASTERS.COM
OnlineMasters.com is an independent higher education research platform dedicated to helping students identify high-quality online master’s programs. Led by a team of data analysts and higher education researchers, the organization operates separately from editorial and marketing functions to preserve objectivity and methodological integrity.
Using verified federal education data, aggregated third-party rankings including U.S. News & World Report, and labor market research from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, OnlineMasters.com produces transparent, research-driven rankings that evaluate academic quality, affordability, return on investment, and student support. Its mission is to provide clear, unbiased insights that empower prospective graduate students to make confident, informed decisions about advanced education.
To learn more, visit https://www.onlinemasters.com.
University Celebrates 2026 Honors Convocation
Rocky Mount, NC – April 2, 2026 – North Carolina Wesleyan University proudly hosted its annual Honors Convocation, celebrating the exceptional achievements of its students. The event, held at the Dunn Center for the Performing Arts, recognized students who have demonstrated outstanding leadership, academic excellence, community service, and contributions to the university.
The ceremony included the presentation of various awards from each school within the university:
- School of Math and Sciences: Awards for outstanding achievements in disciplines such as Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science, and Mathematics.
- School of Business & Professional Studies: Recognized excellence in fields like Accounting, Marketing, Computer Information Systems, and Organizational and Sports Administration.
- School of Education and Social Sciences : Honored students who have demonstrated exceptional dedication and skill in teaching, educational leadership, History, Political Science, Psychology and Criminal Justice.
- School of Health Sciences: Recognized excellence in fields like Exercise Science, Nursing, Public Health, Sports Science and more.
- School of Humanities: Awards for outstanding achievements in disciplines such as Writing, Religious Studies, English and more.
Students were selected for these prestigious honors by a panel of faculty and staff, based on their leadership, academic achievement, community service, contributions to the university, and good citizenship. There is no doubt that these students will go on to accomplish great things.
Provost Dr. Joe Lane expressed his pride in the students’ accomplishments, stating, “Our awardees and honor society members have displayed outstanding contributions both inside and outside 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, and the Honors Convocation is a testament to the university’s dedication to recognizing and celebrating student achievements.
When you see these students, please take a moment to congratulate them.
To view entire 2026 honors list and photos from event, visit ncwu.edu/academics/academic-honors
NC Wesleyan Student Turns Pain into Purpose Through Published Memoir
North Carolina Wesleyan University student Ella Quinn, currently pursuing a degree in Business Administration, is using her voice to inspire others through her newly released book, A Woman in Crisis Living on Broken Pieces.
Inspired by personal life experiences, including navigating an abusive relationship, Quinn says she felt called to share her story as a message of hope for others facing hardship.
“This book came from my personal life experiences,” Quinn shared. “I felt led to share my story to bring hope, healing, and encouragement to others who may be in this situation and think there is no way out, feel broken, and/or overlooked.”
Quinn described the writing process as both emotional and healing, requiring her to revisit painful moments while also reflecting on how far she has come.
“The writing process was both emotional and healing,” she said. “It required me to revisit painful moments, but it also allowed me to see how far God has brought me.”
In addition to writing the book, Quinn also learned the publishing process firsthand—taking on formatting, designing her own cover, and navigating distribution. She credits the experience with strengthening her confidence not only as an author, but as an entrepreneur. Quinn said the moment she realized she wanted to become an author was when she understood her story had purpose beyond herself.
“I realized I wanted to become an author when I understood that my story was not just for me; it was meant to help others,” she said.
Through her book, Quinn hopes readers recognize that healing is possible—even in the most difficult circumstances.
“I want readers to know that no matter how broken their situation may seem, they are not beyond restoration,” she said. “There is healing, there is purpose, and there is still life after crisis.”
Quinn also shared how her experience at NC Wesleyan has supported her growth as she balances academics and personal goals.
“My time at NCWU has strengthened my leadership skills, discipline, and confidence,” she said. “The program has helped me grow both personally and professionally, giving me the structure and encouragement needed to pursue my goals, including becoming a published author.”
For students who may dream of writing or publishing a book, Quinn encourages them to begin now rather than waiting for the “perfect moment.”
“Start writing and don’t wait,” she said. “Your story matters, and someone needs to hear what you have to say. Stay consistent, be willing to learn the process step-by-step, and believe in your voice.”
Quinn says her greatest accomplishment is having the courage to share her truth.
“This book represents healing, strength, and obedience to what I believe God placed in my heart to do,” she said.
Her book, A Woman in Crisis Living on Broken Pieces, is available for purchase on Amazon and through her website at ellanquinnauthor.com.
Looking ahead, Quinn plans to continue growing her author brand, “Her Voice His Glory,” while expanding her speaking and ministry platform. She is also preparing future writing projects, including a workbook and a new book titled Your Brokenness Was Necessary.
Ensuring Opportunity Never Pauses: The Power of Philanthropy
Across higher education, recent federal developments have prompted important conversations—particularly among Minority Serving Institutions (MSIs). New guidance and decisions from the U.S. Department of Justice and the Department of Education signal changes to how certain discretionary federal grant programs will operate moving forward. Many of these programs have historically provided mission-critical support to both MSIs and the students they serve.
For many colleges and universities, these shifts raise understandable questions. Federal funding has long played a role in helping institutions expand access, support students through challenges, and respond to workforce needs. When the funding landscape changes, institutions must take a step back and thoughtfully consider what comes next.
For North Carolina Wesleyan University, a proud Minority Serving Institution, this moment reinforces the importance of planning ahead, diversifying support, and strengthening partnerships that ensure long-term stability for our students and our mission.
“Higher education is constantly evolving, and moments like this remind us that adaptability and community support are essential,” said Dr. Evan D. Duff, President of North Carolina Wesleyan University. “Our responsibility is to continue serving students with excellence, regardless of shifts in the external environment.”
Understanding the Broader Context
Two recent federal actions have contributed to growing discussion within the MSI community:
One involves increased federal scrutiny of certain programs that previously provided targeted support to Minority Serving Institutions. These changes leave many institutions facing questions about the future funding availability and compliance requirements. Another includes the Department of Education’s decision to discontinue specific discretionary grant programs tied to MSI designation.
While these decisions are rooted in legal and regulatory considerations, their ripple effects are being felt across higher education. Institutions that serve large numbers of first-generation students, adult learners, Pell Grant recipients, and students from rural or economically challenged regions must now plan amid greater uncertainty.
As leaders across the country reflect on these changes, a common question emerges: How do institutions continue to deliver opportunity and access when traditional funding streams become less predictable?
What This Means for Minority Serving Institutions
Minority Serving Institutions play a critical role in the higher education ecosystem. They often serve students with significant potential and determination, many of whom balance academics with work, family responsibilities, and financial constraints. Federal support has historically helped MSIs:
- Reduce financial barriers for first-generation students and students from economically challenged households
- Build and sustain academic programs
- Provide tutoring, mentoring, and career readiness resources
- Strengthen workforce pipelines in education, healthcare, business, and public service
When funding becomes less certain, institutions must work harder to preserve these supports. Program growth may slow, student services can feel stretched, and workforce pathways that communities rely on may face added pressure.
At the same time, institutions like NC Wesleyan remain deeply committed to innovation, student success, and regional impact even as they navigate these challenges.
NC Wesleyan’s Ongoing Commitment
North Carolina Wesleyan University has long focused on providing a personalized, practical, and purpose-driven education, particularly for students from central and eastern North Carolina. As an MSI, the University places student potential at the center of everything it does, preparing graduates not only for careers but for lives of leadership and service.
“Our students come to us with ambition, resilience, and a desire to make a difference,” said Dr. Joseph Lane, Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs. “Our role is to meet them where they are, support their growth, and ensure they have access to the resources needed to succeed.”
Maintaining this level of support in a shifting funding environment calls for new approaches, thoughtful stewardship, and strong relationships beyond federal sources.
Why Private Support Matters More Than Ever
Private philanthropy, whether from individuals, foundations, corporations, or community partners, has always been an important part of NC Wesleyan’s story. Today, it plays an even more critical role.
Private support helps the University:
- Provide emergency and retention funding when students face unexpected challenges
- Create new academic programs and realign existing programs with evolving workforce needs and expectations
- Offer scholarships that reduce financial strain and increase access
- Strengthen career preparation, advising, and student success initiatives
Simply put, philanthropy helps ensure that opportunity does not pause when circumstances change.
In recent years, private philanthropy has played a stabilizing role for many institutions navigating change. Philanthropists such as MacKenzie Scott, who has made significant unrestricted gifts to colleges and universities across North Carolina and beyond, and Bloomberg Philanthropies, which has invested nationally in strengthening nursing and healthcare education, illustrate how private support can reinforce institutional capacity. Similarly, historic gifts like the more than $370 million pledged to Cornell University to endow and name its College of Engineering show how visionary donors can expand research, teaching, and student opportunity at scale across the higher education landscape.
Where Philanthropy Makes a Difference
Support for NC Wesleyan can take many forms, each with meaningful impact:
- Scholarships and endowed funds for first-generation students, adult learners, and career changers
- Program innovation that opens new academic pathways and created opportunities for hands-on learning
- Student success initiatives including enhanced advising, mentorship programs, internships, and practica to foster career readiness
- Community partnerships that strengthen regional education, healthcare, and workforce development
These investments don’t just support individual students, they strengthen families, employers, and communities throughout the region.
Looking Ahead, Together
Federal policy changes serve as a reminder that higher education thrives best when it is supported by a broad and engaged community. For NC Wesleyan, this moment is both a challenge and an opportunity: a chance to deepen partnerships, invite new voices into the conversation, and ensure the University remains strong for generations to come.
“Our mission has always been about opening doors,” Tammy Robinson, Director of Donor Engagement, shared. “With the support of our partners and supporters, we will continue to do just that, creating pathways to success for students and strengthening the communities we serve.”
NC Wesleyan’s students are ready to lead. With stability, opportunity, and shared investment, they will continue to do so—across North Carolina and beyond.
Wesleyan Donors Provide “Heaven Sent” Initiative
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.
