North Carolina Wesleyan University proudly announces the establishment of the Claire A. Parham and Samuel J. Parham, Jr. Endowed Scholarship Fund, honoring two individuals whose lives, service, and unwavering commitment to Wesleyan left a lasting impact on the University and the communities they served.
The scholarship memorializes Claire A. Parham, a 1968 graduate of NC Wesleyan College, who passed away on April 17, 2022, and her son, Samuel J. “Jay” Parham, Jr., a 1998 graduate of North Carolina Wesleyan University, who passed away on December 4, 2008.
Claire Parham dedicated her career to education, teaching English and French for many years at Northern Nash High School, Rocky Mount Academy, and later at her alma mater, North Carolina Wesleyan. Her passion for learning and commitment to student success touched countless lives throughout Eastern North Carolina.
Jay Parham carried forward his family’s deep connection to Wesleyan as an alumnus and supporter of the institution. Together, Claire and Jay represent generations of dedication to higher education, community service, and the values that define the Wesleyan experience.
The Parham Family
The Parham family has maintained a longstanding legacy of support for North Carolina Wesleyan University. In addition to Jay’s graduation from Wesleyan in 1998, his brother, Frank L. Parham ’96, is also an alumnus. Their aunt, Betty A. Sanderson ’64, was a member of Wesleyan’s first graduating class, while Claire Parham was among the early generations of graduates who helped shape the institution’s history.
The Claire A. Parham and Samuel J. Parham, Jr. Endowed Scholarship Fund was established through the generosity of Samuel J. Parham, Sr., Frank L. Parham ’96, and numerous family members and friends who wished to create a lasting tribute to Claire and Jay’s lives and legacies.
Scholorship Details
The scholarship will provide financial assistance to deserving students attending North Carolina Wesleyan University. Preference will be given to students from Nash County, Edgecombe County, or Eastern North Carolina. Both incoming freshmen and upper-class students are eligible for consideration, with no preference given to a particular academic major.
“This scholarship reflects the Parham family’s enduring belief in the transformative power of education and their deep affection for North Carolina Wesleyan University,” said Tammy Robinson, Director of Donor Engagement. “By investing in future generations of students, the Parham family is creating opportunities that will continue to impact lives for years to come.”
The family’s philanthropic commitment to Wesleyan extends beyond this newly established fund. In 2020, they established the Lloyd G. Boone and Shirley Parham Boone Endowment, honoring the lives and contributions of Lloyd G. Boone ’77 and Shirley Parham Boone. The scholarship provides preference to students from Nash County, Edgecombe County, or Eastern North Carolina who are pursuing degrees in Logistics or Nursing, further demonstrating the family’s commitment to educational opportunity and workforce development in the region.
A Legacy of Service, Learning, and Opportunity: Honoring Judith Vilagos Parsons ’75
North Carolina Wesleyan University is proud to recognize the extraordinary generosity and vision of Judith “Judi” Vilagos Parsons ’75, whose commitment to education and service continues to create life-changing opportunities for students.
In 2024, Judi established the Howard Parsons Biomedical Endowed Scholarship in memory of her late husband, Howard T. Parsons ’74, honoring the role Wesleyan played in shaping their lives, careers, and shared commitment to helping others. Through that gift, students pursuing degrees in biomedical science and related fields have gained access to resources that support their academic success and professional aspirations.
Double the Scholarships
Now, just two years later, Judi has expanded her legacy of philanthropy by establishing both the Vilagos Social Services Annual Scholarship and the Vilagos Social Services Endowed Scholarship. While her previous scholarship honored Howard’s memory, these new scholarships celebrate Judi’s own journey and the path she began when she arrived at Wesleyan as a student.
As a member of the Class of 1975, Judi understands firsthand the transformative power of education. Her latest gifts are designed to support students pursuing degrees in Psychology, Sociology, and programs within the School of Education and Social Sciences, fields dedicated to improving the lives of individuals, families, and communities. Preference is given to junior-year students who demonstrate strong academic achievement, good character, and a commitment to their studies.
By creating both an annual scholarship that provides immediate support and an endowed scholarship that will benefit students for generations to come, Judi has ensured that her impact extends far beyond her own time on campus.
The Gift that Keeps on Giving
In addition to establishing these scholarships, Judi has further demonstrated her commitment to North Carolina Wesleyan by including the University in her estate plans. Through this legacy gift, she is helping secure Wesleyan’s future while creating opportunities for generations of students who will follow in her footsteps.
“Giving back to Wesleyan is a way of investing in students who are striving to create positive change,” said Judi. “Wesleyan provided me with the education and opportunities that made a rewarding career possible, and for that I will be forever grateful. Creating these scholarships and including Wesleyan in my estate plans are ways for me to pay it forward and help students pursue their own paths of service, leadership, and impact.”
Judi’s generosity serves as a powerful example of how alumni can transform lives through philanthropy.
For North Carolina Wesleyan University, the Vilagos Social Services Annual Scholarship, Vilagos Social Services Endowed Scholarship, and Howard Parsons Biomedical Endowed Scholarship stand as lasting reminders of the profound difference one alumna can make when she chooses to invest in the future of others.
NC Wesleyan launches School of Sports, Entertainment, and Venue Enterprise
The North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) today announces the establishment of a new School of Sports, Entertainment, and Venue Enterprise (SEVE School). This pivotal moment in NC Wesleyan’s history launches a first-of-its-kind academic pathway designed to prepare students for careers across sports & entertainment management, live event production, venue operations, and related industries.
This new school within NCWU is anchored by a $10 million lead gift courtesy of the Lonnie & Carol Poole Family Foundation. Lonnie Poole is the founder of Waste Industries and served as chairman, president, and CEO from its founding in 1970 to his retirement in 2008. Carol Poole serves as president of the Raleigh-based Foundation, which seeks to invest in transformative educational, civic, and community initiatives that expand opportunity, foster excellence, and generate lasting positive impact across North Carolina and beyond.
Led by the generosity of the Pooles, NCWU plans to launch a major initiative to raise $30 million to fund the full establishment, staffing, equipping, programming, and operations of the SEVE School.
NCWU President Dr. Evan Duff said, “The Pooles’ transformational gift comes to NC Wesleyan at exactly the right moment. The sports, entertainment, and venue industry is growing quickly across North Carolina and the rest of the country, producing hundreds of billions of dollars a year in revenue with steady demand for trained professionals. With the SEVE School, NCWU is uniquely positioned to meet that demand through our academic offerings and location, as our Rocky Mount campus is within driving distance of the region’s top sports franchises and event venues.”
What’s Next?
The Pooles’ lead gift catalyses the SEVE School’s five-year growth pathway, from launch in 2026 to a fully accredited, self-sustaining program on NCWU’s Rocky Mount campus serving 100’s of students by 2031.
At the recent signing ceremony, Lonnie Poole stated, “At any event, there are literally hundreds of people working behind the scenes to prepare, plan and deliver the experience for the public. But who trains them? Why not teach these skills at the university level? Why not give sports, entertainment and venue operations the same level of importance as those on the field, ice or stage? That is exactly what the School of Sports, Entertainment and Venue Enterprise at NC Wesleyan intends to do.”
Poole continued, “We believe the SEVE School represents exactly that kind of opportunity. Carol and I have confidence in the vision and leadership of Dr. Duff and the leadership cabinet at NCWU, and we are honored to be part of what they are building. We believe the impact of the SEVE School will reach far beyond the University in developing people, creating opportunity, and strengthening communities across North Carolina and beyond. We cannot wait to see what grows from this investment.”
The SEVE School
The SEVE School will house flagship offerings for undergraduate students including a B.S. in Sports & Entertainment Business, with soon to be developed certificates in Venue & Event Management and Esports Management. As those programs grow, additional bachelor programs will be developed along with other specialized tracks and graduate degrees. Through hands-on classes taught by professors with industry experience, SEVE School students will receive an education tailored to their intended career path, with bountiful opportunities for professional development, related internship experiences, and networking with professionals in the field.
“The President’s Own” U.S. Marine Band to Perform at Dunn Center on Oct. 5
America’s oldest continuously active professional musical organization brings a free concert to North Carolina Wesleyan University.
For the first time in five years, “The President’s Own” United States Marine Band will return to Rocky Mount, North Carolina, as part of its 2026 National Concert Tour. The nationally renowned ensemble will perform a free public concert at 7:30 p.m. on Monday, October 5, 2026, at the Dunn Center on the campus of North Carolina Wesleyan University.
Reserve Free Tickets
- Limit: Four (4) tickets per request
- General admission seating
- Ticket holders must be seated by 7:15 p.m.
- Unclaimed seats will be released to the standby line after 7:15 p.m.
Tickets are free but required and are available now.
A Historic American Musical Tradition
Founded in 1798, “The President’s Own” United States Marine Band is the nation’s oldest continuously active professional musical organization. The band’s primary mission is to provide music for the President of the United States and the Commandant of the Marine Corps.
Since legendary band director John Philip Sousa launched the concert tour tradition in 1891, Marine Band performances have brought a unique White House musical experience to communities across America.
During its 2026 National Concert Tour, the Marine Band will perform 27 concerts across seven states, including Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, and Alabama.
What to Expect
Under the direction of Lt. Col. Ryan Nowlin, audiences will enjoy a diverse and inspiring program featuring:
- Traditional concert band repertoire
- Classic John Philip Sousa marches
- Contemporary musical compositions
- Vocal and instrumental solo performances
- A patriotic salute to the U.S. Armed Forces
“We are incredibly excited to continue the tradition of our national concert tour,” said Marine Band Director Lt. Col. Ryan Nowlin. “Musicians of the band are more eager than ever to share their musical talents with audiences live and in person on this year’s tour.”
Nowlin noted that the concert program is designed to reflect the richness and diversity of America’s musical heritage while offering something for every audience member.
Concert Information
Event
The President’s Own United States Marine Band
Date & Time
Monday, October 5, 2026
7:30 p.m.
Location
The Dunn Center
North Carolina Wesleyan University
Rocky Mount, NC
Admission
Free
Tickets
Required, Limited to four (4) per request
Seating
Ticket holders must be seated by 7:15 p.m. Open seating begins afterward.
Learn More and Reserve Tickets
Don’t miss this rare opportunity to experience one of America’s premier musical ensembles live in Rocky Mount.
For full details, please visit www.marineband.marines.mil/Tour.
NC Wesleyan Celebrates First Graduating Cohort of Applied Reproductive Biology Program with Strong Career Placement
North Carolina Wesleyan University is celebrating a milestone in its growing academic offerings and its commitment to workforce development with the completion of its inaugural Applied Reproductive Biology Laboratory (ARTLAB) cohort.
The first cohort of 11 students has completed NC Wesleyan’s Applied Reproductive Biology certificate program, designed to prepare students for careers in the rapidly growing field of assisted reproductive technology and in vitro fertilization (IVF) laboratory science.
And the results are already translating into careers.
Of the 11 students in the inaugural cohort, seven have confirmed job offers in the field, while the remaining four are currently in various stages of the interview process. Based on the progress of those students, the program projects 100% employment placement within the next month.
For NC Wesleyan, that early success represents more than the completion of a first class. It demonstrates the potential of ARTLAB to connect specialized education directly to workforce demand while creating new career opportunities for students and contributing to economic development in a growing industry.
“This is the first class — the first of many — to complete the nation’s finest training for positions in IVF labs across the nation under the auspices of North Carolina Wesleyan,” said Dr. Joe Lane, Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs at NC Wesleyan University. “We look forward to working with Dr. Schenkman and her colleagues to continue growing this program and to launching new programs in related fields.”
The Applied Reproductive Biology certificate is an accelerated, specialized program that provides students with hands-on training and academic preparation aligned with the needs of assisted reproductive technology laboratories. Students are prepared to pursue opportunities within IVF laboratories and related reproductive science settings.
The program was developed under the leadership of Dr. Eva Schenkman and her colleagues, whose expertise has helped establish NC Wesleyan as an emerging destination for specialized training in reproductive biology.
The inaugural cohort’s career outcomes underscore the value of that industry-focused approach.
Building a Workforce for a Growing Industry
The demand for professionals trained in assisted reproductive technology continues to create opportunities for individuals interested in laboratory science and reproductive health. NC Wesleyan’s ARTLAB program is designed to help meet that demand by providing focused training for students seeking a pathway into this specialized field.
For the University, the program also represents a broader commitment to creating educational opportunities that have a direct impact beyond the classroom.
Students gain specialized skills. Employers gain access to trained talent. And communities benefit when graduates are able to transition into meaningful careers.
The inaugural cohort provides an early example of that workforce-development model in action.
With seven students already holding confirmed positions and the remaining four actively interviewing, the first ARTLAB cohort is poised to achieve a 100% placement rate shortly after completing the program.
Applications Open for 2027 Cohorts
With the success of its first cohort, NC Wesleyan is preparing to welcome the next group of students interested in entering the field of applied reproductive biology.
Applications are now being accepted for two 2027 cohorts:
- Spring 2027 Cohort: January 18 – March 26, 2027
- Summer 2027 Cohort: May 24 – July 30, 2027
The University encourages individuals interested in pursuing careers in IVF laboratory science and applied reproductive biology to learn more about the program and apply for an upcoming cohort.
The first cohort may have been the beginning, but NC Wesleyan sees it as just that, the beginning.
As the University continues to expand its offerings in applied reproductive biology and related fields, ARTLAB is positioned to become an important part of NC Wesleyan’s commitment to innovative education, career preparation and workforce development.
To learn more about NC Wesleyan’s Applied Reproductive Biology program or apply for an upcoming cohort, visit ncwu.edu.
NC Wesleyan Mourns the Passing of Longtime Trustee and Champion Marion Barnes
North Carolina Wesleyan University mourns the passing of Francis “Marion” Barnes, a longtime member of the University’s Board of Trustees, generous benefactor and devoted champion of Wesleyan and its students. Barnes passed away September 2, 2026, at the age of 81.
For Marion Barnes, Wesleyan was more than an institution he served, it was part of his family’s legacy. His father, Guy E. Barnes, was one of Wesleyan’s founders, and Marion carried that connection forward through decades of service, leadership and generosity to the University.
Barnes served on the NC Wesleyan Board of Trustees from 2012–2020 and again from 2023 until his passing in 2026. During his years of service, he served on numerous committees, including Athletics, Building & Grounds, the Executive Committee, Committee on Trustees, Development, Investment and Finance. He chaired the Investment Committee from 2019–2022, the Committee on Trustees from 2023–2025 and the Athletics Committee from 2025–2026.
“Marion Barnes understood that Wesleyan is a special place because of the people who believe in it and the students whose lives are changed here,” said Dr. Evan D. Duff, President of North Carolina Wesleyan University. “He carried a deep sense of responsibility for the University that came from his family’s history, but his commitment to Wesleyan was uniquely his own. He gave his time, his leadership, his resources and, most importantly, his heart to this University. We are deeply grateful for his service and friendship, and we will miss his presence on our campus and in our Wesleyan family.”
Barnes’ Passion
Barnes’ commitment to NC Wesleyan was especially visible through his support of athletics. A lifelong football enthusiast, he attended most home football games and took great pride in Wesleyan’s student-athletes. His leadership and fundraising efforts helped generate more than $2 million toward the University’s stadium expansion. His obituary notes that his efforts were instrumental in advancing the stadium project.
In recognition of his longstanding commitment to Wesleyan, the University has designated the future Marion Barnes Press Box, which will be part of Phase II of the stadium project once the project is fully funded and constructed. The naming recognizes Barnes’ many contributions to the University, including his years of dedicated service, personal contributions to the University, personal support of the stadium fundraising effort, leadership in raising more than $2 million toward the stadium project, and the longstanding Barnes family legacy at NC Wesleyan and throughout the Rocky Mount community.
Barnes’ generosity extended beyond athletics. In December 2025, he was the lead donor supporting Wesleyan’s “Angel Scholarships,” which provided financial assistance to working adult students during the Christmas season. The gift reflected his belief in removing barriers for students and helping them pursue their education and build a better future.
“He cared deeply about our students and understood that an investment in Wesleyan is an investment in the future,” Duff said. “Whether he was working to strengthen our athletics programs, helping advance a major campus project, supporting a working adult who needed a little extra help, or simply sitting in the stands cheering for our Battling Bishops, Marion was always showing up for Wesleyan.”
Barnes’ Legacy
Barnes’ connection to Wesleyan was part of a much larger legacy of service to the Rocky Mount community. His father, Guy E. Barnes, was among the University’s founders, and Marion continued the family’s commitment to the institution throughout his life. He was also a successful businessman, athlete, philanthropist and mentor whose influence extended throughout the region and beyond. His obituary notes his leadership in business, his football career at UNC-Chapel Hill, his military service and his extensive philanthropic contributions to education, athletics and health care.
At NC Wesleyan, however, his legacy will be remembered most personally through the students, student-athletes, colleagues and friends who experienced his generosity and enthusiasm firsthand.
From the Board room to the football stands, Barnes was a familiar and steadfast presence. He believed in Wesleyan’s mission, cared about its students and worked to help secure its future.
The future Marion Barnes Press Box will provide a lasting physical reminder of that commitment. His greater legacy, however, will live in the people he supported and in the University he worked so diligently to strengthen.
“Marion believed in Wesleyan’s future,” Duff said. “He wanted to see this University thrive, and he wanted our students to have every opportunity to succeed. We are honored to carry forward the legacy he helped build, and we are grateful that generations of Wesleyans will know his name and the difference he made.”
North Carolina Wesleyan University extends its deepest condolences to Barnes’ wife, Kate, his family and friends, and the many members of the Wesleyan and Rocky Mount communities who knew and loved him.
His legacy will remain an enduring part of NC Wesleyan.
NC Wesleyan Offers Nursing Students a Path Forward Amid Regional Program Changes
As nursing students across Eastern North Carolina navigate changes in regional nursing education, North Carolina Wesleyan University is highlighting both the strength of its growing nursing programs and the impact its graduates are making throughout the region.
Great 100 Nurses
One example is NC Wesleyan University alumna Celina Hawkins ‘24, BSN, RN, who has been named one of the Great 100 Nurses of North Carolina for 2026.
Hawkins, who serves as Education Coordinator at ECU Health Edgecombe Hospital, was selected among 100 nurses statewide recognized for their professional excellence, dedication to the nursing profession and contributions to their communities.
The Great 100 Nurses of North Carolina has recognized nurses across the state since 1989. Each year, thousands of nominations are submitted by patients, healthcare professionals, friends and family members, with 100 nurses ultimately selected for the honor.
Hawkins began her nursing education at Edgecombe Community College, earning her associate degree in nursing before continuing her education at North Carolina Wesleyan University, where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Our RN to BSN program for registered nurses can be completed 100% online and has one of the lowest tuition rates in the state.
She has spent 14 years with ECU Health, beginning her career in the Surgical Unit at ECU Health Edgecombe Hospital before moving into nursing education. In her current role, Hawkins supports professional development, clinical excellence and lifelong learning among nursing staff.
Her recognition comes at a time when prospective and current nursing students throughout the region may be reassessing their educational options following recent changes to regional nursing programs.
NC Wesleyan’s Accredited Nursing Programs
North Carolina Wesleyan is prepared to help students explore their next steps.
The university offers a growing prelicensure Bachelor of Science in Nursing program, along with an established RN-to-BSN program for registered nurses seeking to complete their bachelor’s degree. NC Wesleyan’s RN-to-BSN program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
“We want students pursuing nursing to know that there are options available to them,” said Dr. Crystal Ostheim, Director of Nursing Programs and Initiatives. “Our goal is to provide students with a strong educational foundation and the support they need to build successful careers in nursing and make a difference in their communities.”
NC Wesleyan recently welcomed 29 students into its prelicensure BSN program, marking another milestone in the university’s growing commitment to nursing education.
For students who are reconsidering their nursing education plans, NC Wesleyan encourages prospective students to connect with its admissions and nursing teams to discuss their individual circumstances, academic backgrounds and potential pathways.
“Every student’s situation is different,” said Dr. Ostheim. “We’re here to listen, answer questions and help students understand what their options may be.”
Hawkins’ recognition as one of North Carolina’s Great 100 Nurses provides a powerful example of where a Wesleyan nursing education can lead. From earning her BSN at NC Wesleyan to becoming a nursing educator and now being recognized among the state’s Great 100 Nurses, Hawkins continues to make an impact on the healthcare profession and the communities she serves.
For students considering nursing or exploring a change in their educational plans, NC Wesleyan is ready to help them take the next step.
Our Fall 2027 BSN Nursing Program Application will OPEN on September 15, 2026 in order to accommodate the growing demand for our nursing program. APPLY first using our Traditional Admissions process.
NOTE: The Nursing Program (BSN) application is for students who have met all requirements and desire to apply to the Nursing program. Students MUST apply to Traditional admissions first and then be accepted to NC Wesleyan BEFORE they complete the BSN Application.
NCWU Set to Host Second Annual Women’s Volleyball Invitational
Following a highly successful debut in 2025, North Carolina Wesleyan University is proud to announce the return of the N.C. Wesleyan Women’s Volleyball Invitational, set to take place September 4-5, 2026, inside Everett Gymnasium on the University’s campus.
The unique event will once again bring together NCAA Division III programs from across the East Coast for two days of high-level competition and an unmatched student-athlete experience. Participating institutions in this year’s invitational include North Carolina Wesleyan University, Hollins University, Regent University, Randolph College, Mary Baldwin University, and Mount Aloysius College.
Invitational Structure
Building upon the foundation established during its inaugural year, the 2026 invitational continues to reflect N.C. Wesleyan’s commitment to elevating the student-athlete experience while creating a premier event atmosphere. Teams will compete in a pool-play format on Friday before advancing into championship bracket play on Saturday, with prize money awarded to the top five finishers.
“Our goal has always been to create an event that goes beyond the matches being played on the court,” said N.C. Wesleyan Women’s Volleyball Head Coach Vicky Gentile. “The invitational is an opportunity to showcase our campus, our community, and our commitment to providing a first-class experience for student-athletes. We are excited to welcome another outstanding field of programs to Rocky Mount and continue growing this event.”
Prize Pool
The tournament champion will receive $3,000, while the runner-up will earn $2,000. Third place will receive $1,000, fourth place will earn $750, and the fifth-place finisher will take home $500. The competitive structure ensures meaningful matches throughout the weekend while rewarding excellence on the court.
The six-team field will be divided into two three-team brackets during Friday’s pool play, with Saturday’s schedule featuring a fifth-place match, third-place match, and championship contest. The format guarantees every team multiple opportunities to compete while creating an exciting championship atmosphere for fans and participants alike.
As the tournament enters its second year, N.C. Wesleyan remains committed to growing the event into one of the premier early-season tournaments in NCAA Division III volleyball. With competitive programs, a championship atmosphere, and a focus on student-athlete experience, the 2026 N.C. Wesleyan Women’s Volleyball Invitational is poised to build upon the momentum generated during its inaugural season.
Additional tournament information, including team previews, match coverage, and event details, will be released in the coming weeks through N.C. Wesleyan Athletics social media channels and ncwports.com.
NC Wesleyan Emphasizes Access and Opportunity in Higher Ed
North Carolina Wesleyan University is adapting to an increasingly unpredictable higher education landscape by expanding flexible learning pathways for a diverse student population. As a federally designated Minority-Serving Institution, NCWU serves a very diverse student body that includes African-american, first-generation, adult, international, and rural students. Across campus and in the classroom, Wesleyan continues to provide college access and opportunity that is practical for our students.
In a recent interview with WUNC, President Evan Duff highlighted the importance of meeting students where they are through programs designed for working adults, community college transfers, and traditional undergraduates. Despite enrollment pressures facing many private colleges, Wesleyan is focused on creating multiple pathways to success while continuing its mission of serving economically disadvantaged communities across eastern and central North Carolina. READ ARTICLE >
NCWU Welcomes Students for First Day of Classes During 70th Anniversary Year
A new academic year is underway at North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) as students return to campus today for the first day of classes and the beginning of a milestone year for the University.
As NC Wesleyan celebrates its 70th anniversary, the university is welcoming new students, new cohorts and new academic opportunities while celebrating recent accolades and the continued growth of the Wesleyan community.
The 2026-27 academic year marks seven decades of preparing students for lives of purpose, leadership and impact. This year, that tradition continues with expanded programs, new students joining the Battling Bishop community and exciting momentum across the university.
A Celebration to Kick Off the Semester
The University officially kicked off the semester Monday with Rock the Mount, NC Wesleyan’s annual campus welcome event sponsored by First Carolina Bank.
More than 80 vendors and campus and community partners gathered on campus to welcome students and help launch the new academic year. The event gave students an opportunity to connect with local organizations, campus resources and one another while celebrating the start of a new semester.
The day also included Welcoming Convocation for the Class of 2030, officially welcoming the University’s newest traditional undergraduate students to the Wesleyan community.
The keynote address was delivered by Jessica D. Harrison, mayor of Zebulon, who challenged the incoming class to think differently about success and the impact they can make during their college years.
“Success isn’t having the perfect GPA. Success isn’t having the perfect résumé. Success isn’t becoming famous,” Harrison told the Class of 2030. “Success is becoming faithful to the person God created you to be. Success is leaving people better than you found them. Success is using your gifts to make someone else’s life a little brighter.”
Harrison encouraged students to focus less on impressing others and more on making a meaningful difference.
“Don’t spend your college years trying to become impressive. Spend them becoming impactful,” she said. “The world already has enough people chasing applause. What it needs are people willing to make a difference.”
She closed her message by reminding students that their Wesleyan experience will ultimately be defined by more than their academic accomplishments.
“Don’t just earn a degree here. Build relationships here. Build memories here. Build character here,” Harrison said. “Because one day, years from now, when someone asks you about North Carolina Wesleyan, I hope you won’t just talk about classes. I hope you’ll talk about the people who believed in you, the moments that changed you and the version of yourself you discovered here.”
A Year of Growth and Momentum
The new academic year arrives as NC Wesleyan celebrates new accolades, continued academic growth and the expansion of programs designed to meet the needs of today’s students and workforce.
The University is welcoming new cohorts across its academic programs, including students beginning their journeys in growing fields and professional programs. These students join a campus community that continues to expand its academic offerings while maintaining its commitment to personalized learning and student success.
NC Wesleyan is also entering its 70th anniversary year with a growing list of accomplishments and recognitions that reflect the University’s commitment to serving students and the broader community.
From new academic programs and partnerships to recognition for excellence across the University, the 2026-27 academic year represents both a celebration of Wesleyan’s history and a look toward its future.
For today’s students, however, the beginning of the semester is about something much more immediate: a new chapter.
For the Class of 2030, it is the beginning of their Wesleyan story. For returning students, it is another opportunity to learn, grow and create memories with the people who make the University home.
And for NC Wesleyan, it is the beginning of the next chapter in a 70-year story of pride, purpose and progress.
Welcome back, Battling Bishops. Here’s to 70 years and everything still to come.
