ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – Due to the threat of severe weather approaching the Rocky Mount area, North Carolina Wesleyan University has made the decision to move the Saturday, October 1 football game against LaGrange College to 1:00 p.m. Friday, September 30. In addition, the University has postponed most of its Homecoming festivities originally scheduled for this weekend, which now includes the 1:00 p.m. Alumni Golf Outing. The Athletic Hall of Fame at 7:00 p.m. on Friday will still take place as planned.
All postponed Homecoming events will move to the weekend of Friday, November 4 through Sunday, November 6. The Homecoming game will now take place against Huntingdon College at noon on Saturday, November 5.
For a full updated schedule of events, visit ncwu.edu/homecoming.
Award-Winning Actress, Sharon Lawrence, to Serve as Actor in Residence at NCWU
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – Earlier this month, North Carolina Wesleyan University announced its new Practical Skills Academy (PSA) that will offer life and professional skills to students in areas not typically covered in traditional coursework. Through the PSA, NC Wesleyan University is also offering its newly-developed Resident Expert Program (WES-R.E.P.). To kick off this program, NCWU will be hosting award-winning actress Sharon Lawrence as its first Actor in Residence.
The WES-R.E.P. program provides students with an opportunity to work directly with industry leaders through mentoring and workshops. Through on-site and virtual opportunities, these professionals will connect with students to share their industry knowledge. Experts are chosen in a variety of fields including the fine arts, business, education, healthcare, the sciences and specific professional fields. This experiential learning program emphasizes the understanding of real-world applications of students’ chosen major(s), as well as more enhanced discovery and exploration of an industry.
“Based on her ties to North Carolina and her success in the entertainment industry, I’m proud to have Sharon back on campus as our first resident expert. Over the years, she has shown tremendous support to the University and I look forward to having her share her expertise and talent with our Entertainment Arts students,” stated President Dr. Evan D. Duff.
Ms. Lawrence will visit the University’s Acting I class on Tuesday, November 15 to provide a workshop on auditioning or an acting technique. This is not the first time that Lawrence has been to NC Wesleyan. After the COVID pandemic delayed her speaking at the University’s Spring 2020 Commencement, she returned to address the class of 2020 during Winter 2020 Commencement. Lawrence is an award-winning stage and screen actor who can most recently be seen in the Paramount+ and Spectrum drama series, JOE PICKETT, where she is completing Season 2 in Alberta, Canada. She also recently wrapped the final season of the DYNASTY remake as Laura Van Kirk. Her previous work includes NYPD Blue, ONE TREE HILL, RIZZOLI and ISLES, SHAMLESS, GREY’S ANATOMY and ABC’s REBEL.
“One of the great advantages in my early experience as a student-performer was the opportunity to work alongside and learn from professionals in industry. Whether at UNC Playmakers, summer stock, theme parks, outdoor dramas, regional theaters or the North Carolina Theater, Theater Raleigh and the countless film and TV productions shot here, our state has invested in its people by investing in the arts and entertainment business,” stated Lawrence.
A native of North Carolina, she was born in Charlotte and later moved to Raleigh where she graduated from Broughton High School. Lawrence attended the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, graduating in 1983 with a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism.
While at UNC, Lawrence was active onstage with the university’s Playmakers Repertory Company. She is a proud founding, and prior leading actress, at the North Carolina Theatre and the daughter of Tom Lawrence, former news reporter for WRAL News in Raleigh.
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 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 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 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.
NCWU Student to Win New Car, Courtesy of Joey Griffin Kia
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – North Carolina Wesleyan University has partnered with Joey Griffin Kia of Rocky Mount to give a current NCWU student the deal of a lifetime at this year’s Homecoming football game on November 5. One lucky and deserving Bishop will be the owner of a brand new 2022 Kia Rio courtesy of Joey Griffin Kia.
NCWU students, faculty and staff have from September 1 until November 2 to nominate a current, full-time student they believe deserves and needs a new car. Students are not allowed to self-nominate, but a student can be nominated more than once. Students will be notified of their nomination and confirm that they would like to be in the drawing.
“The Joey Griffin Deal of a Lifetime is more than just giving away a car, it’s giving a student opportunities— an opportunity to get an off-campus job, an internship that could jumpstart their career, and the freedom to enjoy and explore Rocky Mount, along with surrounding areas,” stated Elliott Smith, Director of Student Activities.
NC Wesleyan is unique in that it allows freshmen to have vehicles on campus their first year; however, nearly fifty percent of students do not, whether it’s due to financial reasons, distance from home, or other factors. The Joey Griffin Deal of a Lifetime will enhance an NCWU student’s life by providing them with safe, reliable transportation.
“The community has supported us greatly, so this is a chance to give back and maybe change someone’s life,” stated Griffin. “Through this, maybe somebody will become aware of our dealership. This gives our salespeople a chance to sell them a car or a technician the opportunity to service their car, hence helping them support their families.”
The Joey Griffin Deal of a Lifetime winner will be announced on Friday, November 4 at NCWU’s annual Homecoming Bonfire. They will receive the keys to their new Kia the following day, November 5, during halftime of this year’s Homecoming football game. The public is invited to attend and join in this exciting occasion to cheer on the Battling Bishops as they take on Huntingdon College. Kickoff is at noon at NCWU’s new Vernon T. Bradley, Jr. Stadium and gates open two hours prior. For more information, visit ncwu.edu/homecoming.
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.
Art Exhibit Highlighting Negro League Baseball Coming to The Dunn Center
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – Black Diamond, the newest exhibit coming to Gravely Gallery at The Dunn Center, will inspire you to dig deeper into the old American past time—baseball. This solo exhibition, featuring over 20 works by artist Darryl Matthews, will run from September 22 – November 10, 2022. An opening reception will be held on Thursday, September 22 from 5:00-7:00 p.m.
Matthews is the son of late Negro Leagues’ player, Francis Oliver Matthews. The exhibition provides an intimate view of the Negro Leagues through extraordinary paintings of players such as Buck Leonard, Josh Gibson, Satchel Paige, James Thomas “Cool Papa” Bell, Jackie Robinson, Francis Oliver Matthews, and female players Toni Stone, Mamie “Peanut” Johnson and Connie Morgan.
The Negro League underscored the racial, socioeconomic, recreational and political realities of the 19th and 20th centuries. In the African-American community, Negro League Baseball represented achievement, success, ingenuity, self-empowerment and perseverance. The leagues raised black consciousness and they were a catalyst for change. The stories of the games and the African-American and Latino players were chronicled in historically black publications, such as the Chicago Defender, Pittsburgh Courier and New York Amsterdam News. The teams barnstormed their way through U.S. cities and towns, the Caribbean and Canada, enthralling fans. Some athletes traveled overseas to play in Japan, as well. Wherever the players took to the field, they were building a legacy and creating history.
In December 2020, Major League Baseball (MLB) officially recognized the Negro League as Major Leaguers. All 3,400 players from 1920 to 1948 were elevated to MLB status—100 years after the start of the Negro League. The pronouncement is significant for a group of legends who broke new ground and paved the way for future generations.
Darryl Matthews: Black Diamond celebrates these legends and all that they accomplished and symbolized. Greg Purcell, Art Curator for The Dunn Center, states “As not only a lover of art, but also history, this exhibit will show what extraordinary people these ball players were.”
This exhibit is presented in part by both the Buck Leonard Association for Sports and Human Enrichment and the Drinking Gourd Gallery, as part of a series of public events celebrating the 50-year anniversary of Buck’s historic induction to the National Baseball Hall of Fame.
About the Buck Leonard Association for Sports & Human Enrichment
Established by family in 1999 to help organize and manage local youth baseball, the Buck Leonard Association for Sports and Human Enrichment (BLASHE) has evolved into an organization that engages and empowers children and families of Rocky Mount, NC with programming and resources that promote digital literacy, education, health, and community. For more information, please visit us at BuckLeonard.org.
About The Dunn Center
The Dunn Center is a premier venue for concerts, shows, exhibits 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 sculptures. 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 is Host Institution for American Council on Education Fellows Program
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – Starting this month, North Carolina Wesleyan University will welcome Dr. Timothy Channell as part of the American Council on Education (ACE) Fellows Program. ACE offers a prestigious Fellows Program for those aspiring to administrative level positions. Dr. Channell serves as the Assistant Provost of Budget and Academic Operations and Professor of Music Business at Radford University in Virginia and is a class of 2022-23 ACE Fellow.
Dr. Channell’s current role at Radford includes overseeing all academic budgets, along with serving as the university liaison to the State Council of Higher Education of Virginia and overseeing the Institutional Effectiveness and Quality Improvement Office. In addition, he is the liaison to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) and oversees academic human resources and two regional higher education center sites.
“The administration and I look forward to working with Dr. Tim Channell on his leadership journey. This ACE Fellowship will allow him to bring value back to Radford University, while also enhancing the operations of Wesleyan through a selected project based on his years of higher education experience,” stated President Dr. Evan D. Duff.
During his time at NC Wesleyan, Dr. Channell will work alongside President Duff and other members of the administration intermittently through April 2023. Since 1965, nearly 2,000 vice presidents, deans, department chairs, faculty and other emerging leaders have participated in the ACE Fellows Program. The Program offers Fellows a learning experience that enables them to immerse themselves in the study and practice of leadership, while experiencing the culture, policies and decision-making processes of another institution.
Dr. Channell received a Bachelor of Arts in Music Education from Marshall University, a Master of Business Administration from West Virginia Wesleyan College and a Doctor of Education in Higher Education Administration/Curriculum and Instruction from Marshall University.
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 Recognized by U.S. News & World Report
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – On Monday, September 12, U.S. News & World Report released their 2022-2023 Best Colleges rankings. This report evaluates 1,500 colleges and universities nationwide based on 17 measures of academic quality. Of the reports, North Carolina Wesleyan University was ranked in the Regional Colleges (South) categories of Best Colleges for Veterans, Best Value Schools, Best Regional Colleges, Social Mobility, Most International Students and Campus Ethnic Diversity.
Again, NC Wesleyan has been ranked in the top 50 for Best Regional Colleges, coming in at #47 of 99 schools. Also, NCWU was once more recognized as a Best Value School and was one of only 12 schools chosen as Best Colleges for Veterans. This ranking pairs well with the University’s 2022-2023 Military Friendly® School Gold designation.
“Our dedication to our students, and to the communities we serve, is reflected in this year’s rankings by U.S. News & World Report. I’m proud of the work that NCWU does to ensure a quality education through meaningful, real-world experiences,” stated President Dr. Evan D. Duff.
Other notable rankings include recognition in the Social Mobility category, which considers a university enrolling and graduating large proportions of first-generation college students and disadvantaged students who are awarded with Pell Grants. The vast mix of cultures that make up NCWU’s student population is reflected in this year’s ranking for Campus Ethnic Diversity. Only six colleges and university’s in North Carolina made the list of 82 that were ranked. With students from over 40 different countries, NC Wesleyan was the only school in North Carolina be recognized for Most International Students. To learn more about this year’s U.S. News & World Report rankings, visit usnews.com/college.
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, Real Estate, News 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 Extends Real-World Experiences Through Practical Skills Academy
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – North Carolina Wesleyan University has instituted a Practical Skills Academy (PSA) to offer life and professional skills to students in areas not typically covered in traditional coursework. Some of the learning opportunities that will be available starting fall 2022 include personal finance, navigating contracts, completing W-4 forms and other HR documents, presenting proposals, professional communication and appearance, work ethic and fine dining.
Learning opportunities will exist within the PSA, as well as demonstrated in some curricula through applied learning assignments. Faculty and staff will guide students as they develop practical skills that are broadly useful, fully transferable, and applicable to any challenge or career. The skills cultivated by our faculty and built into our curriculum include critical thinking and reflection, communication, collaboration, and information technology. Through this applied educational approach, faculty will help students connect their learning outcomes to real-world skills they will use in their personal and professional lives.
“At NC Wesleyan, we demonstrate what it means to be personal, practical and purpose-driven. Through our new Practical Skills Academy, we’re excited to offer students the chance to learn what it takes to be a well-rounded professional and world citizen. Upon graduation, they can be confident that what they’ve learned both inside and outside the classroom can be applied to their careers and lives,” stated President Dr. Evan D. Duff.
The University has partnered with Sqwire, an online financial wellness platform designed to help members reclaim ownership of their finances so they can live a more fulfilled, healthy life. Combining comprehensive financial education with personal support, members always have useful information at their fingertips – no matter what financial decisions they make. Nearly 70 lessons break down key concepts and relevant financial topics for everyday living, along with videos, infographics, worksheets, calculators, resources and curated content. Sqwire has partnered with President Duff to expand its suite of learning modules to include tax forms, employment documents, navigating contracts, and other aspects of everyday life. This complete platform will be available to NCWU students in 2023 at no cost.
The Practical Skills Academy will also offer North Carolina Wesleyan University’s newly-developed Resident Expert Program (WES-R.E.P.). This program provides students with an opportunity to work directly with industry leaders through mentoring and workshops. Through on-site and virtual opportunities, these professionals will connect with students to share their industry knowledge. Experts will be chosen in a variety of fields including the fine arts, business, education, healthcare, the sciences and specific professional fields. These high-profile experts are hand-selected by the President and the administrative team.
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.
Fall Art Exhibit Coming to The Mims Gallery at NCWU
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – Autumn Hues: A Collection of Diversity, the newest exhibit coming to The Mims Gallery at The Dunn Center, is a beautiful collection of works from the Wilson Active Artists Association. This free, colorful exhibit will run from September 1 to October 28, 2022 and is open to the public. A reception will be held on Thursday, September 1 from 5:00-7:00 p.m.
The Wilson Active Artists Association is one of the longest running nonprofit organizations in Wilson, North Carolina. Founded in 1965, its mission is to help promote art in Wilson. Over time, the Association has grown from its original eight members by providing opportunities for its artists to showcase their work in Wilson and the surrounding areas, as well as having education and awareness classes.
“I’m thrilled to be having the Wilson Active Artists showcasing their work in the Gallery. The chance to work with such a talented local group of artists was too great to pass up,” stated Greg Purcell, Art Curator for The Dunn Center.
Wilson Active Artists Association works in a variety of mediums which include paintings, flow art, sculpture, ceramics, pottery, jewelry and fiber art. The Association is always welcoming new members not only from Wilson, but eastern North Carolina as well. For more information about the Wilson Active Artists Association, visit wilsonactiveartists.com.
Upcoming shows at The Mims Gallery include:
- Connections featuring the work of Kim Valentine & Tracey Penrod from November 3, 2022 – January 2, 2023
- A Colorful Chaos by artist Delayna Robbins from January 19, 2023 – March 9, 2023
- Action Paintings by Wes Day from March 16, 2023 – April 27, 2023
- Just Imagine by Mark Cole from May 4, 2023 – August 4, 2023
About The Dunn Center
The Dunn Center is a premier venue for concerts, shows, exhibits 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 sculptures. 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.
About Wilson Active Artists Association
Wilson Active Artist Association is an organization that seeks to create, promote, and support an interest in the visual arts through communication and the exchange of artistic ideas; to serve as a meeting place for artists; to furnish workshops in various art fields and mediums; to encourage participation in exhibits in Wilson and other areas. The Association holds monthly meetings on the second Tuesday of every month at 4:30 p.m. To learn more, visit wilsonactiveartists.com.
NC Wesleyan Welcomes First-Ever Incoming Class as University
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – North Carolina Wesleyan University held its 66th annual New Student Convocation today in Minges Auditorium at The Dunn Center. The 314 new Bishops are the first class of incoming freshmen to begin their educational journey under NC Wesleyan’s new identity as a university. President Dr. Evan D. Duff welcomed the Class of 2026, congratulating them on taking the next step in their educational journey.
“We are your family, your home away from home. We want you to have a personal relationship, a connection, not only with your peers, but with faculty, staff and the administration. In everything you’re learning or doing here, whether it’s inside or outside the classroom, we want it to be relevant and practical. We really want you to find your purpose here at Wesleyan,” stated Duff.
Guest speaker for the event was Carl Thomas, a 2002 Sociology alumnus and Co-Founder/Co-CEO of Professional Readiness Equals Progress (P.R.E.P.), LLC in the DC-Baltimore area. P.R.E.P., founded in 2014, is a full-service job readiness and workforce development program designed to provide comprehensive support to disadvantaged youth and adults.
While addressing the newest class of Bishops, Thomas shared his experiences at NC Wesleyan and why he chose to attend. He noted that although he was accepted at other larger institutions, Wesleyan’s small environment and friendly staff suited his needs best. Thomas reminded students to focus on the importance of seizing opportunities when they are in front of them, to learn how to identify and solve problems in their community, and to take advantage of the many leadership and development activities available at North Carolina Wesleyan University.
“You will digest three truths that will frame your time here at North Carolina Wesleyan University—the first: you are exactly where you should be. The second: the people around you conspire with the universe for your greatness. The third: you could be anywhere else in the world, but you’re here right now. Make that worth it. Take advantage of the many leadership opportunities and development activities at Wesleyan. Seize the opportunity to be great,” stated Thomas. “As I look back on all the opportunities I’ve had, Wesleyan offered me so many things to grow and build on. At Wesleyan, I found a springboard which nurtured my capacity to see the value in my community and in my voice.”
Afterwards, students exited The Dunn Center and were immediately greeted by a cheering crowd of returning students, faculty, staff and friends of NC Wesleyan who formed a time-honored tradition— the Bishop Tunnel. As they proceeded through the tunnel to enter the annual Rock the Mount event, they were each welcomed by President Duff and his wife, Marcy. Rock the Mount is an annual tradition for NC Wesleyan to welcome new students to campus and to the community. It takes place the day before the University’s first day of classes, serving as the official kick-off event for the new academic year. Local businesses and organizations are given the opportunity to come and celebrate the start of a new school year with food, music and advertising. This year, almost 90 community organizations lined the street in the center of campus to celebrate Wesleyan’s Class of 2026.
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.
