The Dunn Center Gets a Makeover


ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – Over the last several months, The Dunn Center at North Carolina Wesleyan University has been the recipient of multiple grants that will allow for the renovation of various spaces in the facility. The Dunn Center was initially opened in 1996, with many of the spaces still in their original form.

(L to R):  Gus Tulloss, Joe Edwards III, Pam Larimer, George Whitaker, Dr. Dan Crocker, Sheila Martin, Vince Durham and Lank Dunton during the DeLeon Carter Foundation Check Presentation

The DeLeon Carter Foundation has donated $14,000 for the renovation of the Sweatt Courtyard, located adjacent to the Carlton Board Room. This will permit The Dunn Center to purchase new outdoor furnishings, heaters, art, lighting and an awning for the space. The DeLeon Carter Foundation was established by the late Myrtle Carter Henry in memory of her father, DeLeon Carter, for educational and scientific projects in Nash County. Since it began making grants in 1997, the DeLeon Carter Foundation has given approximately $900,000 in much-needed grants.

Additionally, The Honorable Phil Carlton has pledged $35,000 for the full redesign of the Carlton Board Room, which is named after him. Local interior designer, Leslie Bauer, has donated her time to assist with renovation. This will include paint, lighting, drapery, art, cabinetry, refinished tables and lamps.

“A Board of Trustees member, Thomas A. Betts, Jr., made the presentation to the Carter and Carlton Foundations that led to these awards. In 2022, he secured $30,200 from The Mims Foundation to renovate the Mims Art Gallery. That particular renovation is near completion with a formal reopening planned for early spring,” stated Greg Purcell, Art Curator.

These spaces are also available to the public to rent for board meetings, company gatherings, holiday parties and more. For additional information, visit ncwu.edu/event-venue-rentals

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. The skills cultivated by faculty and built into the curriculum include critical thinking and reflection, communication, collaboration, and information technology. North Carolina Wesleyan University delivers education that is personal, practical and purpose-driven. Personal…through mentoring and the connections that are provided. Practical…by helping students develop lifelong skills. Purpose-driven…by helping them fulfill their purpose in life. With students from all over the United States and more than 40 different countries, the University has immense cultural diversity. To learn more, visit ncwu.edu and follow on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, TikTok and Instagram.

NCWU President Installed for Additional Five Years


ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – The Executive Committee of North Carolina Wesleyan University’s Board of Trustees has extended a five-year contract renewal to Dr. Evan D. Duff, expanding his tenure until May 31, 2028.

Duff was appointed Acting President by the Board of Trustees in June 2019, later accepting a two-year contract as Interim President. In May 2020, he was appointed as President extending his contract for an additional two years. That extension positioned Duff as President through May 31, 2023.

Dr. Evan D. Duff

“I am enthusiastic and appreciative for the opportunity to continue to serve this great institution for an additional five years. Working with our faculty, staff, Board of Trustees, alumni and community to enrich the lives of the students we serve is extremely rewarding,” stated Duff. “I look forward to our continued growth in graduate programming, while strengthening our undergraduate programs to reinforce theoretical and practical knowledge. Our collective vision is to become a regional university of excellence that equips traditional and adult learners with skills that prepare them for any career or life challenge.”

Since becoming President in 2019, Dr. Duff has led the school from a $2M deficit to a positive change in net assets through 2022, along with securing the highest level of giving in the history of NC Wesleyan. To position the institution for the future, a new vision and core values was established in 2019 and a five-year strategic plan was created with initiatives to improve student success, the financial foundation and Wesleyan’s connection to the community. During his leadership, the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools- Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) reaffirmed the accreditation of North Carolina Wesleyan University through 2030. The University also attained accreditation by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP).

Experiencing one of the most difficult times in higher education during the COVID-19 pandemic, Duff actively worked with faculty and staff to develop a comprehensive strategy to reopen for in-person classes in fall 2020. He has also created student engagement activities, as well as an advisory council on diversity and inclusion. In just over three years as President, Dr. Duff has helped establish new degree programs such as RN to BSN, Master’s of Public Health, Healthcare Administration, Supply Chain Management and concentrations in the University’s MBA program. In spring 2022, a strategic marketing plan was developed to transition the College to a University with a new identity of Personal. Practical. Purpose-Driven.

Since 2019 Duff has been named a Top 10 Most Influential Education Leader by The Education Magazine (2021), completed a certificate in Employment Law from Cornell University (2021), received the Outstanding Leadership Award from Education 2.0 (2022), as well as became a certified Global Career Development Facilitator (2021) and Certified Career Services Provider (2022). Dr. Duff earned his bachelor’s degree in business administration from Mount Olive College, a master’s in administration from Central Michigan University and a doctorate in organizational leadership from Nova Southeastern University. He has served in multiple leadership roles at the University since 2011, including Provost and Vice President of Adult Studies.

Dr. Duff and his wife of 24 years, Marcy, have three sons and a daughter – Tyson, Landon, Peyton and Chloe. Tyson graduated Magna Cum Laude from NC Wesleyan in December 2022 with a degree in Marketing and minors in Cybercrime and Computer Information Systems. Landon currently has NCWU on his short list of schools to attend in fall 2023 and is active in the theater program at Rocky Mount Academy (RMA). Peyton and Chloe also attend RMA in the 8th and 7th grades, respectively. The two are active in competitive cheer and dance, they both play soccer for RMA, and Chloe plays volleyball for RMA as well. Marcy is a Talent Acquisition Specialist at Syneos Health. Their family enjoys worshiping at the various Methodist churches in Rocky Mount and visiting Rise Church, adjacent to NC Wesleyan, from time to time. The Duff family enjoys living on campus and supporting all things Wesleyan.

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. The skills cultivated by faculty and built into the curriculum include critical thinking and reflection, communication, collaboration, and information technology. North Carolina Wesleyan University delivers education that is personal, practical and purpose-driven. Personal…through mentoring and the connections that are provided. Practical…by helping students develop lifelong skills. Purpose-driven…by helping them fulfill their purpose in life. With students from all over the United States and more than 40 different countries, the University has immense cultural diversity. To learn more, visit ncwu.edu and follow on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, TikTok and Instagram.

NC Wesleyan Alumna Establishes New Endowed Scholarship


ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – Nancy S. Parker, a 1970 graduate of North Carolina Wesleyan, has fully funded the new Nancy S. Parker Endowment at NCWU. The scholarship will be awarded to NCWU students, preferably majoring in Math or Education, from Halifax or Northampton Counties in North Carolina.

After graduating from NC Wesleyan with a bachelor’s degree in Math, Ms. Parker went on to become a middle school and high school Math teacher with the Roanoke Rapids Graded School District for 30 years. When asked why she established the Nancy S. Parker Endowment, she responded, “Back in 1966, I couldn’t afford to attend college. However, I arrived at NC Wesleyan because of the financial aid and other scholarships I received. I was able to fulfill my dream of attending a four-year college.” She further emphasized, “This is my way of paying it forward. I wouldn’t trade my time at Wesleyan for any other experience. I was able to live a very good life and I want to help other students have the same opportunity.”

In the event there are no students majoring in Math or Education, the Nancy S. Parker Endowed Scholarship will be available for other incoming freshmen and upper-class students to apply. The recipient should maintain good personal character, as well as an overall 2.5 GPA.

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. The skills cultivated by faculty and built into the curriculum include critical thinking and reflection, communication, collaboration, and information technology. North Carolina Wesleyan University delivers education that is personal, practical and purpose-driven. Personal…through mentoring and the connections that are provided. Practical…by helping students develop lifelong skills. Purpose-driven…by helping them fulfill their purpose in life. With students from all over the United States and more than 40 different countries, the University has immense cultural diversity. To learn more, visit ncwu.edu and follow on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, TikTok and Instagram.

NCWU Announces Dates for World’s Largest Bob Ross Exhibit


ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA Fantastic Little Paintings by artist, Bob Ross, is set to adorn the walls of The Mims Gallery at The Dunn Center from November 2, 2023 through January 4, 2024. The 2023 exhibition will be open to the public. Purchase Tickets for $15 per person. Free admission for children under five. This will be the first time a Bob Ross exhibit has been to North Carolina. With over 75 paintings, this will be the largest exhibition ever seen under one roof globally.

Robert Norman Ross, an American painter, art instructor and television host known by so many for his permed hair, showed the world how to paint fun pieces of art. He was the creator and host of The Joy of Painting, an instructional television program that aired from 1983 to 1994 on PBS in the United States, CBC in Canada, and similar channels in Latin America, Europe and elsewhere. Ross subsequently became known through his posthumous internet presence.

Greg Purcell, previous Art Curator for the Galleries at The Dunn Center, says “there will be more to this event than just the paintings on the walls. As we get closer to the opening, there will be classes taught by Bob Ross Certified Instructors so that you can learn how to paint like Bob Ross. The excitement is already building for this exhibit which is now less than a year away. Keep checking our website regularly and join our email list to be the first to hear about all the fun plans, as well as having the chance to get early access to tickets.”

Bob Ross, Inc. will allow the funds raised from this exhibit to go directly toward bringing future artists to the Galleries at The Dunn Center. Guests are invited to come experience the joy that Ross brought to the art world. For more information, contact Jan Volz, Gallery Art Curator at 252.985.5268 or jvolz@ncwu.edu and sign up for the email list at ncwu.edu/artgalleries.    

About The Dunn Center
The Dunn Center is a premier venue for concerts, shows and conferences in eastern NC. Located on the campus of NC Wesleyan University, in the heart of Rocky Mount, The Dunn Center is proud to host the Wesleyan Season Series of cultural events and concerts. In addition to these world-class performances, The Dunn Center features a variety of campus and community events, including Wesleyan Players productions, concerts of the Tar River Swing Band and Orchestra and other various performances by nationally known artists. The Mims and Gravely Galleries, located within The Dunn Center, hosts a variety of exhibits, including paintings, drawings, and sculpture. The galleries are open weekdays from 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., as well as during performances. To learn more, visit dunncenter.com and follow on Facebook.

NCWU Celebrates Founding Anniversary this Month


ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – On Thursday, October 20, North Carolina Wesleyan University will celebrate its 66th Founding Anniversary during its annual Founders’ Day Celebration. The event, which is open to the public, will take place from 5:30 – 6:30 p.m. in Minges Auditorium at The Dunn Center.

“This is a unique Founders’ Day because it is the first time in our institution’s history that we will be celebrating as a University. With our new identity ushering in our 66th year, I’m excited for NC Wesleyan to continue offering a personal, practical and purpose-driven approach to learning,” stated President Dr. Evan D. Duff.

Mrs. Kelly Joyner Lee

Guest speaker for this year’s event will be Mrs. Kelly Joyner Lee, Program Officer for the North Carolina Community Foundation. Mrs. Lee manages nonprofit outreach, engagement and affiliate grantmaking, as well as scholarships for eighteen counties in central North Carolina. She is a founding member of the Women Givers of Nash-Rocky Mount and an avid supporter and volunteer for Special Olympics. She holds a Certificate in Nonprofit Management from Duke University and special certifications in event planning, small group facilitation and nonprofit marketing, as well as Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE) credentials. Mrs. Lee completed Disney’s Approach to Leadership Excellence through the Disney Institute and is trained through Reconnect for Resilience™, addressing trauma-impacted communities.

Mrs. Lee is also the co-creator of the Leading for Tomorrow Nonprofit Capacity Building Summit. As an instructor for the Duke Nonprofit Certificate program, she teaches courses in Community Collaboration and Engagement, Nonprofit Marketing and Volunteer Management. She holds a master’s degree in management and leadership from WGU North Carolina and a bachelor’s degree in leadership in the public sector from NC State University where she graduated summa cum laude.

About the North Carolina Community Foundation

The North Carolina Community Foundation (NCCF) is the only statewide community foundation serving North Carolina and has administered over $243 million in grants since 1988. With more than $440 million in assets, NCCF sustains over 1,200 endowments and partners with a network of affiliates to award grants and scholarships in communities across the state. An important component of NCCF’s mission is to ensure rural philanthropy has a voice at the local, regional and national levels.

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. The skills cultivated by faculty and built into the curriculum include critical thinking and reflection, communication, collaboration, and information technology. North Carolina Wesleyan University delivers education that is personal, practical and purpose-driven. Personal…through mentoring and the connections that are provided. Practical…by helping students develop lifelong skills. Purpose-driven…by helping them fulfill their purpose in life. With students from all over the United States and more than 40 different countries, the University has immense cultural diversity. To learn more, visit ncwu.edu and follow on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, TikTok and Instagram.

NCWU Receives Grant Funds for Educator Preparation Program


North Carolina Wesleyan University is one of 31 schools to recently receive grant funds to support its Educator Preparation Program (EPP). North Carolina Independent Colleges and Universities (NCICU), the statewide office representing 36 private, nonprofit colleges and universities, recently disbursed a total of $248,000 in subgrants from the Goodnight Educational Foundation to support the work of the faculty in each individual program. The work includes enhancing, redesigning, and developing effective literacy coursework, practica, and internships based on the Science of Reading. Each of NCICU’s 31 EPPs received $8,000 in grant funds following an application and review process. Pending continued funding from the Goodnight Educational Foundation, each of the 31 EPPs will receive an additional $7,600 in 2023 to fully implement their projects. To learn more, please visit NCICU’s website.

NCWU Kicks Off Annual Fall Giving Campaign


ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – North Carolina Wesleyan University kicked off its annual fall fundraiser, The Wesleyan Promise Campaign, on Thursday, September 22 with a goal of raising $325,000. The campaign will run through the month of October and will be co-chaired by Erin Gall ’05 and Kirby Slade ’01. In addition, there are 37 community volunteers who are assisting in the campaign by calling on local businesses and individuals for support.

Erin Gall

Erin Gall studied history at NC Wesleyan and worked in the Admissions Office for a few years after graduation. “I came to Wesleyan to get an education and never left because I also found a home in the process,” stated Gall.  In 2008, she joined Allegra in Rocky Mount as a Customer Service Representative and has recently been promoted to General Manager of the local business. She is active in the Rocky Mount Chamber of Commerce and on several local boards, including various committees at NC Wesleyan. Always willing to give back financially to help another student in ways that she herself received 20 years ago, Gall is passionate about co-chairing this fundraising campaign.

Kirby Slade

Kirby Slade was a transfer student when he arrived at NC Wesleyan. Slade noted “Wesleyan was there for me when I needed them. The small classroom sizes and close relationships I was able to develop helped me become more involved in activities and excel in my classes.” He works as the Community Development Officer at Nash UNC Health Care and enjoys finding ways to make a difference in his community. An Enfield, NC native, Slade also serves on several nonprofit boards in the community and is delighted to see the impact Wesleyan is still making on students, the community and the broader region as it continues to grow.

The Wesleyan Promise campaign benefits NC Wesleyan students through scholarships, technology, facility improvements, lab equipment, safety gear for athletes and much more. To make a gift, regardless of size, visit ncwu.edu/donate or call 252.985.5266.

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. The skills cultivated by faculty and built into the curriculum include critical thinking and reflection, communication, collaboration, and information technology. North Carolina Wesleyan University delivers education that is personal, practical and purpose-driven. Personal…through mentoring and the connections that are provided. Practical…by helping students develop lifelong skills. Purpose-driven…by helping them fulfill their purpose in life. With students from all over the United States and more than 40 different countries, the University has immense cultural diversity. To learn more, visit ncwu.edu and follow on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, TikTok and Instagram.

Ready, Set, PULL! For Wesleyan Sporting Clays Classic Returning for Second Year


ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – On Thursday, October 13 North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) will host its second annual PULL! For Wesleyan Bishops Sporting Clays Classic. The fundraising event will be held at one of the finest clay shooting courses in the state—Rose Hill Farm Sporting Clays and Hunting Preserve in Nashville, NC. All proceeds from this event will support various efforts to help Wesleyan students in their journey for lifelong learning and achievement as they prepare to make a difference in the communities where they’ll live and serve.

Wimberly Braswell competes in the inaugural Bishops Sporting Clays Classic as part of the Braswell Family Farms team in 2021.

Sponsorship of the Bishops Sporting Clays Classic gives businesses and individuals the chance to enjoy a day of fun in the great outdoors while entertaining special clients, vendors or potential clients and strengthening those relationships in a unique and unforgettable atmosphere. Shooters can participate recreationally or competitively.

“The beauty of Rose Hill Farms, the fun of the sport itself for both beginners and experts, and the strengthening of relationships makes this event so enjoyable,” states Mark Hinson, Senior Executive for Philanthropic Engagement at NC Wesleyan. “As Wesleyan prepares students and alumni for career opportunities in this region, having companies and industries participate in this event helps us develop connections that can benefit our students and community.”

Check-in will begin at noon, followed by lunch with a 1:30 p.m. shotgun start. There will also be raffle items and awards in various categories. The entry fee is $750 for a four-person team, which includes all necessary ammo for each participant and eye/ear protection. If you have your own cart for course transportation and wish to use it, feel free to bring it at your own risk. You are responsible for it at the event. Visit ncwu.edu/pullforwesleyan for sponsorship details and to register. If you prefer to register and pay by phone, call 252.985.5266. If mailing a company check, make checks payable to NC Wesleyan University, Attn: Bishops Sporting Clays Classic, 3400 N. Wesleyan Blvd., Rocky Mount, NC 27804. Please include Sporting Clays Classic on the memo/reference line. For questions, contact Mark Hinson at mhinson@ncwu.edu or 252.985.5145.

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. The skills cultivated by faculty and built into the curriculum include critical thinking and reflection, communication, collaboration, and information technology. North Carolina Wesleyan University delivers education that is personal, practical and purpose-driven. Personal…through mentoring and the connections that are provided. Practical…by helping students develop lifelong skills. Purpose-driven…by helping them fulfill their purpose in life. With students from all over the United States and more than 40 different countries, the University has immense cultural diversity. To learn more, visit ncwu.edu and follow on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, TikTok and Instagram.

Grant Makes Renovations Possible for The Mims Gallery


ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA After nearly thirty years, The Mims Gallery, located in The Dunn Center at North Carolina Wesleyan University will receive a much-needed facelift. The Mims Foundation recently awarded a grant to the University for a complete renovation of the art gallery named for Allan C. and Margaret L. Mims. A local Nash County businessman, Mr. Mims was one of the founding members of NC Wesleyan nearly 66 years ago.

The Mims Gallery Concept Image

“I’m grateful to Tom Betts, one of our board members, and the representatives of the Mims Foundation Board of Directors for making this renovation possible,” stated Dr. Evan D. Duff, NCWU President.

Sheila Martin, Executive Director of The Dunn Center and Greg Purcell, Art Curator, note that this renovation will include the work of local artists, Marilyn Anselmi and Jan Sullivan-Volz. The new shelving will feature wood from the Rocky Mount Mills, circa 1850, as well as a copper mobile hanging from the skylight that depicts the indigenous leaves of North Carolina, a sight sure to marvel visitors.

The Mims Foundation gift is a game changer for the gallery. Work will begin soon, ensuring that the space will be ready for art exhibits previously booked for late 2022 and early 2023. These updates are also timely in that they will transform the area prior to The Mims Gallery welcoming thousands of visitors anticipated for the Fantastic Little Paintings exhibit featuring the work of the late Bob Ross. The Ross collection of 88 paintings will fill The Mims and Gravely Galleries from November 2, 2023 until January 4, 2024. 

About The Dunn Center
The Dunn Center is a premier venue for concerts, shows and conferences in eastern NC. Located on the campus of NC Wesleyan University, in the heart of Rocky Mount, The Dunn Center is proud to host the Wesleyan Season Series of cultural events and concerts. In addition to these world-class performances, The Dunn Center features a variety of campus and community events, including Wesleyan Players productions, concerts of the Tar River Swing Band and Orchestra and other various performances by nationally known artists. The Mims and Gravely Galleries, located within The Dunn Center, hosts a variety of exhibits, including paintings, drawings, and sculpture. The galleries are open weekdays from 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., as well as during performances. To learn more, visit dunncenter.com and follow on Facebook.

NCWU Collaborates with Rocky Mount Prep


ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) has partnered with Rocky Mount Preparatory School (Rocky Mount Prep) to offer educational opportunities to their employees who are pursuing their Teaching License with NCWU’s Teacher Education Program. This opportunity is available to those seeking teacher licensure as a Residency Student, as a bachelor’s-only student, those pursuing a second bachelor’s degree, or for those seeking tutoring support for licensure exam preparation.

Rocky Mount Prep’s campus (L) is adjacent to NC Wesleyan University’s campus (R) on Bishop Road.

“This partnership with Rocky Mount Prep provides an invaluable opportunity to support our local school systems and the teachers that have a direct impact on future generations,” noted Katie Farrell, Associate Dean of Strategy, Partnerships & Assessment at NC Wesleyan. “We have enjoyed witnessing the support the Rocky Mount Prep administrators provide to their teachers and look forward to helping these teachers grow in their profession.”

Rocky Mount Prep staff who apply to North Carolina Wesleyan University in pursuit of a degree and/or teacher licensure, must do so via the University’s Adult & Professional Studies Program. Those who are accepted will receive a discounted tuition rate through one of two scholarships: a Public Service Scholarship equating to 10% of the total semester tuition or NC Wesleyan alumni will receive a scholarship equivalent to 50% of tuition. In addition, Rocky Mount Prep is supporting their employees’ pursuit by offering a $4,000 per year tuition reimbursement.

“We know the importance of having highly-qualified and well-supported teachers in our classroom. We pride ourselves on a strong culture of support for our team members. At Rocky Mount Prep, we have an amazing team that serves diligently every day and shares invaluable experiences with our scholars in support of their academic attainment,” said Dr. Chaunte Garrett, Rocky Mount Prep Superintendent. “We are delighted to partner with NCWU to support the teacher development pipeline in this region and to offer our current team members, and any new team members who want to become highly-qualified teachers, the opportunity to do so. It is a win for Rocky Mount Prep and NCWU, but most importantly it will have a great impact on our region.”

North Carolina Wesleyan University’s Teacher Education Program will provide exclusive tutoring assistance at a rate of $35 per hour for Rocky Mount Prep staff. Tutoring services will be provided face-to-face or virtually via a third party or by NCWU Teacher Education faculty.

In addition, Rocky Mount Prep will promote the partnership to all staff and provide the option for NCWU Teacher Education students to gain practical training experience and observe live classes. Dr. Garrett mentioned that “Team Rocky Mount Prep is a diverse family of educators with several of our teachers scoring in the top 25% of teachers in the state in scholar academic growth. We are glad to share this wealth of knowledge with future educators.”

“This seamless partnership provides a wonderful opportunity to enlarge the pool of licensed and highly-qualified teachers to educate North Carolina’s K-12 students,” stated Dr. Kelvin Spragley, NCWU’s Director of Teacher Education.

During their time observing live classes and teaching techniques at Rocky Mount Prep, NC Wesleyan’s Teacher Education students will also have the chance to be trained as North Carolina Education Corps tutors for Rocky Mount Prep. North Carolina Education Corps partners with local public school units to recruit, train, and support corps members to accelerate learning and provide support for students. Corps members are employed by schools to work part-time as high-impact literacy tutors grounded in the science of reading and reading instruction.

About Rocky Mount Prep

Rocky Mount Prep is a tuition-free public charter school. Rocky Mount Prep educates scholars from Kindergarten to 12th grade from school districts across the Eastern North Carolina Region. Our instructional model serves the whole child in alignment with our mission “to educate, equip, and empower each scholar to excel.” The school is accepting applications for enrollment for the 2022-2023 school year. To learn more, visit rmprep.org.

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. The skills cultivated by faculty and built into the curriculum include critical thinking and reflection, communication, collaboration, and information technology. North Carolina Wesleyan University delivers education that is personal, practical and purpose-driven. Personal…through mentoring and the connections that are provided. Practical…by helping students develop lifelong skills. Purpose-driven…by helping them fulfill their purpose in life. With students from all over the United States and more than 40 different countries, the University has immense cultural diversity. To learn more, visit ncwu.edu and follow on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, TikTok and Instagram.