Nadia Simmons, a standout student in Business and Sports Administration at North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU), continues to pave the way toward a promising career in athletics and sports leadership. A dual graduate of North Carolina Wesleyan University—earning her undergraduate degree in 2024 and her Master of Business in 2025—Simmons exemplifies the impact of hands-on experience, academic commitment, and personal initiative.
From 2021 to 2023, Simmons interned as a Youth Sports Coordinator at the Henderson Family YMCA through support from the Golden LEAF Foundation. During her internship, she led engaging youth sports programs, promoted teamwork and fitness, supported coaches, and built strong relationships with families in the community.
“Witnessing the development of the youth and building bonds with families was incredibly rewarding,” said Simmons. “It strengthened my leadership skills and deepened my passion for community involvement and youth athletics.”
Currently serving as a Graduate Intern in NCWU’s athletic department, Simmons remains focused on preparing for a future career in athletics. She continues to actively explore professional opportunities and credits her proactive networking and the foundational support of the Golden LEAF Foundation with helping position her for success.
“My time at NCWU has been truly exceptional,” Simmons said. “The diverse and welcoming environment here has expanded my skill set and connected me with inspiring individuals across campus. The relationships I’ve built have created a vibrant and supportive academic community.”
A five-year member of the NC Wesleyan Women’s Basketball Team, Simmons chose the university for its unique blend of academic excellence and athletic competitiveness. “I was drawn to NCWU’s family atmosphere and strong athletics program. Being able to pursue my degree while playing the sport I love made my college experience meaningful,” she added.
Simmons also shares a personal connection to Wesleyan through her family – she is the proud older sister of twin sisters who are set to graduate from NCWU next year.
As she looks ahead to her graduation in 2025, Simmons remains a powerful example of how passion, purpose, and perseverance can create lasting impact both on and off the court.
NCWU Graduate to Ph.D. at Texas A&M University
Andy Rizzo, a standout graduate of North Carolina Wesleyan University’s Class of 2025, has dual-earned Bachelor of Science degrees in Biology and Environmental Science. Hailing from Buenos Aires, Argentina, Andy chose NCWU for its small, welcoming campus and strong support for international students.
“I felt it would make my transition as an international student easier,” Andy said. “But what made me stay was the community – the friends, faculty, and staff who made my college journey truly amazing.”
Andy’s time at Wesleyan was marked by involvement and leadership. She served as RA and Head RA, led both the Student Entertainment & Activities Team (S.E.A.T.) and the International Bishop Association, and was active in multiple honor societies and student organizations. Her dedication was recognized with several awards, including the Algernon Sydney Sullivan Award, Environmental Science Award, Internship Award for her work at Pfizer, and being crowned Homecoming Princess in 2023 and Homecoming Queen in 2024.
One of her biggest academic influences was Dr. Daniel Elias, under whom Andy conducted research on environmental pollutants. Dr. Elias reflected, “Watching Andy grow as a researcher has been one of the most rewarding parts of my work. Through her leadership on projects studying PFAS, salinity, microplastics, and predatory cues in Physa acuta, her presentations at multiple conferences, and her mentorship through the NSF GeoPath program, Andy showed true academic growth, resilience, and responsibility. Beyond the lab, she also helped lead outreach efforts, native planting projects, and citizen science initiatives. I could not be prouder of her journey and everything still ahead.”
Now, Andy is heading to Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi to pursue her Ph.D. in Marine Biology, backed by a teaching assistantship with Dr. Seemann. She’ll be researching the effects of environmental pollutants on fish – continuing the meaningful work she started at Wesleyan.
“I’m very grateful for my journey at Wesleyan,” she said. “None of my accomplishments would have been possible without the support of my parents, my friends from home and at Wesleyan, Mrs. Dawn Turner, and Dr. Daniel Elias.”
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, she has published more than two 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 creates a dynamic and energized 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 she 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/.
University Celebrates 2025 Honors Convocation
Rocky Mount, NC – April 3, 2025 – 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, Exercise Science, Environmental Science, Public Health, and Mathematics.
- School of Business: 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 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 See entire list and photos from event, visit ncwu.edu/academics/academic-honors
A Day for Wesleyan Giving Campaign- March 25th
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – On March 25, 2025, friends and alumni of NC Wesleyan will have an opportunity to show their Bishop Pride and support the University during its six annual, 24-hour day of giving campaign, A Day for Wesleyan
WHAT IS A DAY FOR WESLEYAN?
This is a day when all NC Wesleyan University supporters, particularly alumni, celebrate the University through donations to support its vision and its students. In a short period of time, donors to the campaign can help advance the educational experiences for all students, help invest in new technologies for learning, create more scholarship opportunities, allow students to grow into their purpose, and help build Wesleyan’s future in the region.
“The A Day for Wesleyan campaign this year is focusing on the emerging needs for the University. Supporting the Annual Fund, also known as the Wesleyan Fund, gives the university the flexibility to grant more scholarships and financial aid to students in need, create more internships within our business community, invest in relevant technologies for the library and classrooms, and provide more co-curricular activities for all students,” said Mark Hinson, Sr. Executive for Philanthropic Engagement. “All gifts during A Day for Wesleyan Giving Day, regardless of size, add up to make a huge impact!”
When asked about the importance of A Day for Wesleyan , NC Wesleyan President, Dr. Evan Duff, stated; “We hope that our alumni and the community will join us in showing their Bishop Pride and support this campaign on Tuesday, March 25. When alumni and friends of the University unite to share their passion for Wesleyan, amazing things can happen for this entire community.”
Help Wesleyan continue impacting this community while also providing its students with a personal, practical and purpose-driven education. Donors can learn more and participate in A Day for Wesleyan by visiting the secure giving website, A Day for Wesleyan , or by calling 252.985.5581.
Wesleyan Hosts GLF Scholarship Luncheon
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) proudly hosted the Annual Golden LEAF Foundation Luncheon on March 13 at The Dunn Center, celebrating the strong partnership between the two institutions. The event honored both past scholarship graduates and new recipients, highlighting the impact of the Golden LEAF Foundation (GLF) on student success.
The luncheon opened with a warm welcome from Mark Hinson, NCWU’s Vice President of Advancement, who expressed gratitude for the Foundation’s continued support. He emphasized the significant role GLF plays in providing educational opportunities for NCWU students and strengthening the university’s mission.
Golden LEAF Alumni Speaker and NCWU graduate, Nadia Simmons, reflected on her time at Wesleyan, sharing how her experience was profoundly shaped by the scholarship. During her time as a student, she interned with GLF—an opportunity that led to her current role post-graduation. She credited the Foundation not only for her academic success but also for the meaningful relationships and shared values it fostered among students from small towns who aspire to make a big impact.
Leah Hill, NCWU’s Director of Financial Aid, recognized and introduced the scholarship recipients, personally thanking GLF members for their generosity. As a token of appreciation, the university presented gifts to the Foundation’s representatives. Five scholarship recipients were in attendance to celebrate this milestone: Benjamin Sellers, Finnegan Allen, Joseph Cooper, Nyasia Jones, and Alexis Whitfield.
The event concluded with remarks from Arlena Dongilli, GLF Scholarship Program Manager, and NCWU President Dr. Evan D. Duff, who reaffirmed the university’s gratitude for this life-changing partnership.
Through this ongoing collaboration, NCWU and the Golden LEAF Foundation continue to empower students, foster academic achievement, and invest in the future of North Carolina’s workforce.
Bishops Bond with Donors
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) welcomed their generous donors for a time to fellowship, dine and meet face-to-face the students whose lives they are making a difference in. The Battling Bishop Brunch Scholarship Appreciation event was held on Thursday, February 27in the Dunn Center on campus.
In attendance were several sponsors, including Gold Sponsor North Carolina Conference of The United Methodist Church. The brunch began with a warm welcome from Seth Badders, NCWU Junior majoring in Biology. With a passion for serving others, Seth is involved in multiple clubs and organizations including Student Government Association (SGA), Disc Golf Club, Psychology Club, Nu Gamma Phi, and is also a Resident Assistant (RA). Eddie McKoy III ’85, Former NCWU Basketball Player and Don Scalf Scholarship Recipient, introduced the Key Note Guest Speaker.
Jeff Hood ’84, NCWU Sports Hall of Fame Inductee and CEO for Hoodies House of Hope for Youth Charitable Organization, was the guest speaker. Hood has been involved with several youth related causes for more than 35 years. A native of Queens, NY and a graduate of North Carolina Wesleyan College where he received a BA Degree. In September 2007, Jeff was inducted into the N.C. Wesleyan Sports Hall of Fame after having completed a stellar basketball career. In 2018, Jeff was recognized by the NBA’s Charlotte Hornets as their Tissot Gift of Time Community Service Person of the Year. He was also Honored and Recognized as a “Made Man” of Charlotte, NC. In 2019 NOBLE recognized Jeff as their Civil Rights Justice by Action for Youth of the Year Award. Jeff is married to Gloria Sledge Hood and together have a wonderful daughter named Maya.
In his speech, Hood shares his journey of overcoming financial challenges to attend college, emphasizing the importance of scholarships, grants, and work-study programs. He recounts memorable experiences, such as guarding diplomas the night before graduation, highlighting the lengths he went to achieve his goals. He urged scholarship recipients to appreciate the support they receive and to be grateful to donors. He underscored the role of faith in his life, drawing parallels to the biblical story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. Reflecting on his upbringing in a tough neighborhood, he discussed his determination to succeed and his initial struggles with racism, unfamiliar environments, and the pressure of being the first in his family to attend college. Despite these challenges, he found support and mentorship from Coach McCarthy and others, which helped him persevere. Hood emphasized the importance of resilience, the impact of receiving love and care from people different from himself, and the significance of giving back to support the next generation. He shared his commitment to youth programs and mentoring, encouraging young people to keep their faith and reminding donors of the impact of their contributions.
Vice President of Advancement, Mark Hinson, expressed his gratitude by saying, “To our scholarship recipients, know that those who invest in your education believe in your potential. Honor this opportunity with dedication and, when the time comes, we encourage you to pay it forward to help others.”
Acknowledgement of the Scholarship Donors and Recipients was conducted by NC Wesleyan Senior, Lovely Thornton. She is majoring in Elementary Education with a minor in Psychology. Preceding the presentation was a beautiful singing of the Alma Mater by Latisha Scott ’06 who is currently working on her debut album. Senior Matthew Tiller, who is double majoring in English and Psychology, presented ways to give. Tiller is actively involved in leadership and service on campus through his membership of Omicron Delta Kappa, Student Government Association (SGA), and the University Honor Board.
The brunch was concluded by NCWU President, Dr. Evan D. Duff, reinforcing the university’s commitment to student success and the power of philanthropy in shaping their futures.
Station 4 Embraces Bishop Branding
In a powerful celebration of community and school spirit, Rocky Mount Fire Department’s Station 4 has partnered with North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) to proudly brand their firetrucks with a unifying theme: “Guardians of the Bishops.” When challenged to choose a theme reflecting something meaningful in their area, the station found its inspiration in the heart of Wesleyan.
The partnership is more than a creative design. Station 4 has fully embraced its role as protectors of the campus and community. Firetrucks now display the “Guardians of the Bishops” motto on their windshields, while axes and tools are painted in Wesleyan’s signature navy and gold. The latest touch—a custom mud flap at the rear of the truck—completes the transformation, turning essential equipment into a living symbol of pride and unity.
For Fire Chief Darvin Moore, this connection is deeply personal. A proud NCWU Class of 2016 alumnus, Moore’s Wesleyan roots run deep, making this partnership a true reflection of his journey.
The students couldn’t be more excited to see their local heroes embrace the Battling Bishop spirit. What began as a branding project has grown into something far greater—a visible bond of support, community, and shared pride that strengthens both the campus and the city it calls home.
NCWU Announces Danijel Velicki as 2025 Commencement Speaker
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) is gearing up for its 61st Spring Commencement, set to take place on Saturday, May 3, 2025. This year, the university will celebrate the achievements of over 300 graduates, marking a significant milestone in their academic journeys.
The keynote address will be delivered by Danijel Velicki, a successful entrepreneur, financial educator, and founder of Opus Wealth Strategies and Sqwire, LLC—a financial education platform that has already made an impact at NCWU. Velicki’s inspiring story is one of perseverance and determination.
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 the long term.
Velicki’s philosophy is deeply rooted in his belief that the “American Dream” is attainable for everyone with the right support and determination. “It takes the right support system, people you can trust to answer the tough questions, and a commitment to never giving up,” Velicki said. “I want to ensure that every person in this country has the same opportunities I did, along with a team of people truly invested in their success.”
Dr. Evan D. Duff, President of NCWU, expressed his enthusiasm for Velicki’s participation in this year’s commencement ceremony. “Danijel represents what you can achieve through hard work and determination,” said Dr. Duff. “NCWU is grateful for his ‘pay it forward’ mantra, as we utilize the Sqwire platform on campus to enhance our students’ practical and life skills. I am looking forward to his inspirational message on May 3.”
With Velicki’s compelling story and dedication to empowering others, the 2025 Spring Commencement promises to be a day filled with celebration, reflection, and hope for the future. Graduates and their families can look forward to a memorable event as they honor the achievements of the Class of 2025 and prepare for the opportunities that lie ahead.
