ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – North Carolina Wesleyan University announced today that it has earned the 2023-2024 Military Friendly® School Gold designation.
Institutions earning the Military Friendly® School designation were evaluated using both public data sources and responses from a proprietary survey. More than 1,800 schools participated in the 2023-2024 survey with 665 earning special awards for going above the standard.
The 2023-2024 Military Friendly® Schools list will be published in the May and October issue of G.I. Jobs magazine and can be found at militaryfriendly.com.
Methodology, criteria, and weightings were determined by Viqtory with input from the Military Friendly® Advisory Council of independent leaders in the higher education and military recruitment community. Final ratings were determined by combining the institution’s survey scores with the assessment of the institution’s ability to meet thresholds for Student Retention, Graduation, Job Placement, Loan Repayment, Persistence (Degree Advancement or Transfer) and Loan Default rates for all students and, specifically, for student veterans.
“I am excited that North Carolina Wesleyan University has received the Military Friendly Gold designation once again this year. At NCWU, we understand the sacrifices that veterans and their families make for our great Country and recognize the difficulties that come with transitioning into civilian life. Receiving the Military Friendly Gold designation demonstrates our commitment to continuously assist military-connected students by increasing support and offering acknowledgement at every opportunity,” stated Laura Brown Brown, Associate Dean of Veteran Services.
“Military Friendly® is committed to transparency and providing consistent data-driven standards in our designation process. Our standards provide a benchmark that promotes positive outcomes and support services that better the educational landscape and provide opportunity for the Military Community. This creates a competitive atmosphere that encourages colleges to evolve and invest in their programs consistently. Schools who achieve awards designation show true commitment in their efforts, going over and above that standard.” – Kayla Lopez, National Director of Military Partnerships, Military Friendly®
NC Wesleyan offers a 10% discount on tuition to all active-duty military students, veterans and their spouses. To learn more about the educational resources available to active duty personnel, veterans and those related to veterans or active duty personnel, visit ncwu.edu/veterans.
About Military Friendly® Schools:
The Military Friendly® Schools list is created each year based on extensive research using public data sources from more than 8,800 schools nationwide, input from student veterans, and responses to the proprietary, data-driven Military Friendly® Schools survey from participating institutions. The survey questions, methodology, criteria and weighting were developed with the assistance of an independent research firm and an advisory council of educators and employers. The survey is administered for free and is open to all postsecondary schools that wish to participate. Criteria for consideration can be found at militaryfriendly.com.
About Viqtory:
Founded in 2001, VIQTORY is a service-disabled, veteran-owned small business (SDVOSB) that connects the military community to civilian employment, educational and entrepreneurial
opportunities through its G.I. Jobs® and Military Friendly® brands. VIQTORY and its brands are not a part of or endorsed by the U.S. Dept of Defense or any federal government entity. Learn more about VIQTORY at www.viqtory.com.
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.
FREE Baseball Under the Lights Night at NCWU
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – Friday, March 24 mark your calendar and plan to join NC Wesleyan University in the Bishop Fan Zone at 5:00 p.m. for an evening full of music, food trucks, inflatables and baseball! Stay as NCWU flips the switch on the brand-new lights at Bauer Field, and meet the donors who made it all happen, as NCWU recognizes them during a dedication at the 6:00 p.m. game against Southern Virginia University. The event is open to the public and game admission is free.
The installation of eight new light poles was completely donor-funded, with over forty individuals helping make the lights a reality. Lloyd ’67 and Elliott ’66 Nelson, along with Joe Shearin ’78 and Sam Daniels, helped kickstart the project. A major catalyst to the overall success of the campaign was John Alden’s ’64 substantial matching gift. Finally, an anonymous gift in honor of former pitcher Jim Pittman ’92 significantly moved the needle, pushing the “Flip the Switch” fundraising campaign to exceed its goal.
When asked about the impact of the new lights, Head Baseball Coach Greg Clifton stated, “To be able to schedule practices and games without worrying about daylight is a game changer for the program. It has been a dream of many baseball alumni for years and to see them up now is truly amazing. I cannot wait to see the stands full during our night game against Southern Virginia!”
The lights not only improve NCWU’s baseball team’s ability to schedule practices and games later in the evening, but it also benefits them academically. In the past, student-athletes have had to miss afternoon classes for travel and games. They have also had to schedule practices during daylight hours, which becomes even earlier during standard time. The new addition allows the University to also use Bauer Field for hosting regional baseball tournaments.
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.
Black History Month Special Event Honors African American Servicemen and Women with Award-Winning Documentary
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU), Mayor Roberson and the City of Rocky Mount have partnered to present the Wesleyan student body and surrounding communities with a special Black History Month event honoring the sacrifices and accomplishments of African American servicemen and women.
“It’s an honor to showcase the stories of the African American men and women who have sacrificed so much for our country over the years,” said Rocky Mount Mayor Sandy Roberson. “Thank you, NCWU, for being the host of this important event.”
The event will include a one-hour viewing of the award-winning documentary series, ‘For the Love of Liberty: The Story of America’s Black Patriots.’ This documentary series honors heroic men and women who, despite enormous injustice, fought so valiantly for freedoms they themselves did not enjoy. General Gordon-Bray will then hold a discussion and Q&A to examine the award-winning documentary series.
What: Viewing of the award-winning documentary ‘For the Love of Liberty: The Story of America’s Black Patriots’ followed by discussion and Q&A with General Gordon-Bray
When: Monday, February 27, 2023
7:00 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Where: NCWU
Powers Recital Hall at The Dunn Center
3400 N. Wesleyan Blvd., Rocky Mount, N.C.
Why: Black History Month Special Event
“North Carolina Wesleyan is excited to partner with Mayor Roberson, the City of Rocky Mount and General Gordon-Bray in honoring the black servicemen and women who have made an incalculable contribution to our nation,” said Dr. Joe Lane, Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs at NCWU. “Celebrating Black History Month is ultimately an exercise in understanding how American history has been shaped and enriched by the contributions of black Americans, and this is an exciting opportunity for our campus to interact with the larger community in discussion about these contributions.”
Brigadier General Arnold Gordon-Bray has completed over three decades of service in the United States Army. He holds a Master of Arts in National Security & Strategic Studies from the U.S. Naval War College, a Master of Science in International Strategic Studies from the Air War College and a Bachelor of Science in Art from the University of Central Missouri. He is currently an independent consultant and owner of ANGB Consulting, LLC.
NC Wesleyan and Capitol Broadcasting Company Team up
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) has established a new partnership with Capitol Broadcasting Company (CBC) for students to gain practical, hands-on experience through job shadowing and internship opportunities. CBC is the parent company of the Durham Bulls, the Coastal Plain League and the Holly Springs Salamanders, among other companies. As part of this exclusive agreement, CBC will provide opportunities for NCWU Sports Administration majors to learn the business of sports firsthand.
This partnership will expand career development opportunities for NCWU students through learning about event venue management, ticket and sponsorship sales, enhancing the customer experience and the business aspects of running a successful sports venue. As part of NC Wesleyan’s Practical Skills Academy, a CBC baseball professional will offer their expertise as part of a scheduled class or discussion panel event.
“This exciting opportunity will expose our Sports Administration students to the real-world aspects of sports facilities, programs and businesses. The skills that they develop through job shadowing and internships will prepare them to be competitive candidates in their professional careers,” stated Dr. Robin Pietryk, Assistant Professor and Program Coordinator of Sports Administration.
“We are thrilled to partner with NC Wesleyan University, a sports-minded academic institution that shares our commitment to developing young talent and promoting excellence both on and off the field,” said Chip Allen, Commissioner of the Coastal Plain league. “This collaboration represents a unique opportunity for the Coastal Plain League to expand its reach and impact, while providing student-athletes with a pathway to success in sports and beyond.”
North Carolina Wesleyan University will also provide CBC employees with professional development opportunities and reduced tuition for employees who want to further their education, whether it’s undergraduate or graduate work, or through a certificate program at NCWU. CBC employees will also receive at least one professional development opportunity per year at no cost.
“This partnership demonstrates our continued commitment to providing our students with a practical and purpose-driven education,” said Dr. Joe Lane, Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs. “By working alongside employees at high-profile companies, these students are developing valuable contacts for their lives after Wesleyan.”
Future internship and job shadowing opportunities will be offered to students in Sports Administration, Marketing, Accounting and other related fields.
About Capitol Broadcasting Company (CBC)
CBC is a bold, future-thinking company, transforming media, entertainment & communities. Locally-owned and community-focused, CBC emphasizes excellence, integrity and teamwork in everything it does. CBC owns and/or operates WRAL-TV, WRAZ-TV, WRAL-FM, WRAL-HD2, WNGT-CD, WCMC-FM, WCMC-HD1, WDNC-AM, WCMC-HD2, WCMC-HD3, WCLY-AM, WCMC-HD4, Microspace, WRAL Digital and Wolfpack Sports Properties (a joint venture with Learfield) in Raleigh, NC; WILM-TV, WILT-LD and Sunrise Broadcasting in Wilmington, NC; The Durham Bulls Baseball Club, Bull City Hospitality in Durham; the Coastal Plain League and The Holly Springs Salamanders in Holly Springs, NC; the American Underground startup hub in Durham, NC; and real estate interests including the American Tobacco Historic District in Durham, NC, and Rocky Mount Mills in Rocky Mount, NC. To learn more, visit capitolbroadcasting.com
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.
Wesleyan…Worth It!
A hot topic right now—is a college degree still worth the time, effort and money that it takes to obtain one? At NC Wesleyan University, we think it most definitely is and here is why.
For those concerned about debt due to college loans, Wesleyan offers several options to make your education affordable and attainable: 100% of traditional program students are eligible for some source of financial assistance and we award $24 million in scholarships, grants and financial aid each year. In fact, our average scholarship package actually lowers the cost of attending NCWU to be comparable to the cost of attending an in-state public university.
Many may think that they can make more money coming straight out of high school and going into the workforce. This may be true in certain instances, for the short-term. However, over time studies show that bachelor degree holders are known to earn as much as $1 million in additional income over their lifespan. Employers recognize that college graduates have been trained in areas of communication, problem-solving and critical thinking— skills that are transferable to any field. In a world where competition for jobs is increasingly fierce, a college degree can be a valuable asset in helping job seekers stand out from the crowd and secure their place in the workforce.
A college degree demonstrates that a potential job candidate is dedicated to learning and improving their skills. College graduates are exposed to opportunities that prepare them to make sound decisions, think strategically and offer innovative solutions to problems. In today’s economy, employers are more likely to hire candidates who have a degree than those without one, opening the door to greater and more varied job opportunities. For those who are thinking about or currently pursuing an associate degree, we have great partnerships in place to provide a seamless transfer to NCWU following completion of your two-year degree at many NC community colleges.
In college, you also gain experiential learning through project-based assignments that partner with real organizations, internships and student clubs and organizations. You can leverage these valuable experiences on your resume, in your portfolio of work and during job interviews to show employers that you are a competitive candidate. Through our Office of Career Development & Leadership, Resident Expert Program (WES-R.E.P.) and partnerships with local organizations, our students have the ability to explore potential careers through workshops, one-on-one mentoring, career fairs, internships and job shadowing opportunities. In addition, college students are exposed to a wide range of peers from all over the world allowing them to learn about different cultures, make connections and build a professional network.
Higher education is an invaluable tool. At NCWU, we provide opportunities that are personal, practical and purpose-driven to help you unlock your potential and accomplish your goals in life. To learn more about our offerings for traditional and adult students, visit our website at ncwu.edu/academics.
Emmy Award-Winning WRAL Anchor Slated as NCWU Commencement Speaker
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – Renee Chou, news anchor and reporter for WRAL-TV, will be the spring Commencement speaker at North Carolina Wesleyan University. Chou will address NCWU’s Class of 2023 during their ceremony at the Rocky Mount Event Center on Saturday, May 6, 2023.
Chou is a three-time, Emmy Award-winning anchor/reporter for WRAL-TV News. You can wake up with her every weekday morning on WRAL from 4:30 to 7:00 a.m. and from 7:00 to 8:00 a.m. on Fox 50. She also appears on WRAL’s Noon Newscast, anchoring a total of 4.5 hours of live TV every day in addition to special assignments. She joined WRAL in October 2004 as a general assignment reporter. Over the years, she served as the weekend morning anchor and weekend evening anchor. Chou was promoted to weekday morning anchor in March of 2014.
“I look forward to having Mrs. Chou address our Class of 2023. As a distinguished news anchor with a wealth of experience, I’m confident that she will bring a fresh perspective and valuable insights to our graduates,” stated President Dr. Evan D. Duff.
In 2015, Chou won a Regional Emmy for General Assignment Reporting. Her coverage of Hurricane Sandy also earned her Regional Emmy in 2014, as well as the distinction of “Best Weather Reporting” from the NC Associated Press Broadcast Awards. She won her first Emmy in 2013 for her work on the Kathy Taft murder trial. Her reports have also garnered awards from the Radio Television Digital News Association of the Carolinas; Iowa Associated Press Broadcasters Association; and Missouri Broadcasters Association.
“I’m honored and humbled to speak to North Carolina Wesleyan University’s Class of 2023 on their momentous day to celebrate their amazing achievements. As a journalist covering North Carolina communities for nearly two decades, I look forward to sharing my experiences and insights about change, challenges and new chapters,” stated Chou. “Commencement is one of life’s biggest chapters and I’m excited to help the graduates mark the milestone.”
Prior to WRAL, she worked as an anchor/reporter for KCRG-TV in Cedar Rapids, Iowa and KOMU-TV in Columbia, Missouri. Chou earned her broadcast journalism degree from the University of Missouri-Columbia. She’s a founding member and past President of the North Carolina chapter of the Asian American Journalists Association. Chou enjoys making community appearances throughout the year, from emceeing fundraisers and special events to talking with, and helping, students aspiring to be journalists.
Originally from Michigan, Renee is happy to call North Carolina home with her husband, Mike, and daughter Elsa, who is 8.
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 Supports Nash County Emergency Services
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – On Thursday, February 9 leaders from North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) and Nash County Emergency Services (NCES) met on the University’s campus to sign a partnership agreement offering educational opportunities to employees of NCES. The alliance allows employees and their immediate families to develop practical skills they can apply to their careers through certificate, undergraduate and graduate degree programs at NCWU.
“Much like our local law enforcement agencies, employees of Nash County Emergency Services play a vital role in our community,” stated Michael Drew, VP of Enrollment. “We’re honored to be able to assist these employees and their families in attaining their educational goals through a personal approach to learning.”
As the only certificate-awarding University in Nash County, Wesleyan offers a one-time, $250 University Award of enrollment in certificate classes to each NCES employee and their immediate family member(s). This one-time award is applied during their last semester of enrollment. North Carolina Wesleyan University has certificate programs in Executive Leadership, Healthcare Administration and Human Resource Management that can be completed in as little as 16 weeks.
For anyone interested in pursuing a bachelor’s degree, NCWU will offer a $1,000 University Award at the end of the first semester of enrollment in undergraduate classes. Additionally, a second award of $1,000 will be presented at the end of their last semester, for a total University Award amount of $2,000.
Employees enrolling in NC Wesleyan’s Master of Business Administration (MBA) or Master of Criminal Justice (MSCJ) programs will receive a $500 University Award at the end of their first semester of enrollment in graduate classes. In addition, NCWU will award a second $500 at the end of their last semester, for a total University Award amount of $1,000.
The alliance mutually benefits both organizations, as NCES now has a new benefit offering for employees and NCWU receives an opportunity to promote these services. Nash County Emergency Services employees must remain employed with NCES in order for the employee and/or their immediate family member(s) to remain eligible for this award.
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.
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.
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.
U.S. News & World Report Ranks NC Wesleyan Among Best Online Programs
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) has been ranked among the 2023 Best Online Master’s in Criminal Justice Programs by U.S. News & World Report.
U.S. News assessed schools in the Best Online Programs category based on a variety of objective factors, such as student engagement, faculty credentials, as well as services and technologies.
“We understand that many adults are looking to return to school, but may face challenges with balancing work, family and other responsibilities,” said Dr. Elizabeth Gail Marsal, Associate Professor and Program Coordinator for Criminal Justice. “This recognition by U.S. News & World Report demonstrates the quality education that NCWU provides for online adult learners through practical and purpose-driven experiences. I’m honored that NC Wesleyan was the only private, nonprofit University in NC and one of only three schools total in NC to receive this ranking.”
NC Wesleyan’s Master of Science in Criminal Justice program offers many benefits including: rolling admissions with 100% online classes starting every eight weeks, finish in as little as 12 months, one-on-one mentoring, supportive faculty who have real-world experience offering applied assignments and career assistance. The program offers concentrations in Criminal Justice Administration or Criminal Justice Practice. North Carolina Wesleyan University is the only private, nonprofit higher education school in the region to offer a Master of Science in Criminal Justice. To learn more about admission requirements and curriculum information, visit ncwu.edu/cjmasters.
Designed for individuals looking to complete or further their education, this year’s edition of U.S. News & World Report evaluates more than 1,800 online bachelor’s and master’s degree programs. The Best Online Programs include rankings of bachelor’s programs as well as the following master’s-level disciplines: MBA, business (non-MBA), computer information technology (including computer science), criminal justice/criminology, education, engineering and nursing. While the methodologies are different for each discipline, they all incorporate metrics specific to online learning. The rankings only include degree-granting programs that are offered primarily online by regionally accredited institutions.
“Most of the undergraduate programs in the Best Online Programs rankings are degree completion programs, meaning the vast majority of their students already have some college credit,” said Liana Loewus, managing editor of Education at U.S. News. “The methodologies are developed with those students in mind, setting these rankings apart from those that are focused on recent high school graduates pursuing higher education for the first time.”
Prospective students can see how NCWU compares to other institutions and how the rankings are calculated on USNews.com.
About U.S. News & World Report
U.S. News & World Report is the global leader in quality rankings that empower consumers, business leaders and policy officials to make better, more informed decisions about important issues affecting their lives and communities. A multifaceted digital media company with Education, Health, Money, Travel, Cars, News, Real Estate and 360 Reviews platforms, U.S. News provides rankings, independent reporting, data journalism, consumer advice and U.S. News Live events. More than 40 million people visit USNews.com each month for research and guidance. Founded in 1933, U.S. News is headquartered in Washington, D.C.
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.
“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.
