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’s Goldsboro Campus Relocates to Wayne Community College


On Monday, August 8, leaders from North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) and Wayne Community College (WCC) met at the Wayne Learning Center Atrium in Goldsboro to sign an Enhanced Institutional Partnership. The two schools have had a partnership agreement in place since 2017, allowing WCC students a seamless transfer to continue their education at NC Wesleyan following completion of their two-year degree at WCC.

Dr. Patricia A. “Patty” Pfeiffer, President of WCC, and Dr. Evan D. Duff, President of NCWU

Dr. Patricia A. “Patty” Pfeiffer, President of WCC, and Dr. Evan D. Duff, President of NCWU, signed the enhanced agreement renewing their Wesleyan Works transfer partnership, while also forging a closer-knit relationship between the two institutions. Earlier this summer, NCWU made the decision to relocate their Goldsboro Adult Studies location to the campus of Wayne Community College. This change positively impacts enrollment and will save the University over $1.5M over the next seven years. In addition, the move allows NCWU to have dedicated space on the campus of WCC, offering a more convenient option for students at WCC to pursue a degree from NC Wesleyan.

“NCWU’s mission has focused on providing seamless transfer pathways for our NC community college graduates. Through partnerships like this, we can see our vision come to fruition,” stated Katie Farrell, Associate Dean of Adult & Professional Studies: Strategy, Partnerships & Assessments. “We are excited to serve our Goldsboro community and Wayne Community College graduates in pursuing their educational goals.”

The agreement will enhance and expand the educational opportunities of graduates with an Associate in Arts, Associate in Fine Arts, Associate in Science or Associate in Applied Science. They will be offered access to the benefits of the Wesleyan Works program, pre-admission advising, generous transfer credit and a clear definition of the transfer of courses from WCC to NC Wesleyan. This partnership allows WCC Associate in Applied Science students to transfer an additional 15 hours of general education credits for a total of 75 transfer credits.

Students who graduate from WCC and transfer under this agreement may select any of NC Wesleyan’s programs of study or may transfer to the college’s Adult and Professional Studies program, taking advantage of the Wesleyan Works program. Students are required to maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0 and be in good academic standing. The agreement brings NC Wesleyan within the reach of WCC students who may not have otherwise been able to attend the University.

Wesleyan Works is a transfer program designed for community college students who plan to continue their education at NC Wesleyan. Students who participate in Wesleyan Works will have access to academic advising and financial aid counseling through NC Wesleyan, as well as access to events on the University’s main campus. The program is ideal for students who would like to attend NC Wesleyan’s evening or online programs.

About Wayne Community College

Wayne Community College is a public, learning-centered institution with an open-door admission policy located in Goldsboro, NC As it works to develop a highly skilled and competitive workforce, the college serves 11,000 individuals annually as well as businesses, industry, and community organizations with high quality, affordable, accessible learning opportunities, including more than 140 college credit programs. WCC’s mission is to meet the educational, training, and cultural needs of the communities it serves.

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 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.

NCWU to Welcome World’s Largest Exhibition of Bob Ross Paintings to North Carolina


ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – Fantastic Little Paintings by artist, Bob Ross, is set to adorn the walls of The Mims and Gravely Galleries at The Dunn Center in fall 2023. The exhibition will be open to the public with tickets available starting late summer 2023. This will be the first time a Bob Ross exhibit has been to North Carolina and the largest exhibition ever seen under one roof globally.

(L to R): NCWU President, Dr. Evan D. Duff, signs the art loan agreement for the exhibit along with previous Art Curator for The Dunn Center, Greg Purcell.

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.

Spending 20 years in the U.S. Airforce, this is where he developed an interest in painting after attending an art class at the Anchorage U.S.O. club. While still in the Airforce, Bob discovered a show called The Magic of Painting. This is where he learned a 16th century painting style called “alla prima” (Italian for “First Attempt”) widely known as “wet-on-wet.” This allowed him to create a painting in thirty minutes. Ross became a master at this technique and began to successfully sell his work.

During each thirty-minute episode of The Joy of Painting, Bob would teach his viewers the quick, wet-on-wet oil painting technique. He would paint a scene without sketching it first, creating the image directly from his mind in real-time. He explained his limited paint palette and made the process easy for everybody to understand in simple, easy-to-follow steps. Ross soothingly reminded his viewers that “we don’t make mistakes, just happy little accidents.”

Ross was said to have painted an estimated 30,000 pieces of art in his lifetime– many of which will be on display in The Dunn Center. Guests are invited to come experience the joy that Ross brought to the art world.

Receive updates and reminders on all the exciting exhibits coming to NCWU, including the world’s largest Bob Ross Painting Exhibition!


bob ross art exhibit

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.

NC Wesleyan University Earns National Accreditation of Teacher Education Program


ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – The Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP) has awarded full 7-year accreditation to North Carolina Wesleyan University’s Teacher Education program.

After reviewing the evidence collected through a process of self-study and peer review, the AAQEP Accreditation Commission issued the decision at its June 10 meeting along with the following rationale:

The Commission evaluated the program’s evidence for each AAQEP standard and determined that all four standards are met. Completers of the program are prepared to work effectively as professional educators who are able to adapt to different contexts and to grow professionally. The Teacher Education Program analyzes evidence of its effectiveness and makes revisions to benefit candidates, maintaining a high level of quality in a small and personalized program. In addition, the program engages with stakeholders and partners to strengthen the local P-20 education system.

North Carolina Wesleyan University’s teacher candidates learn to engage in data-driven decision making and become action-oriented, culturally responsive professionals. The program deploys evidence-based practices to support and empower P-12 students and their families while developing candidates’ growth as educators.

“Congratulations to NC Wesleyan and to all of the faculty, staff, and stakeholders who have achieved their goal of national accreditation by AAQEP,” said AAQEP President and CEO Mark LaCelle-Peterson. “The University’s commitment to this program’s strength supports the deep engagement of faculty with families and communities and personalized guidance for teacher candidates.”

National accreditation assures the quality of professional preparation programs through a nongovernmental, nonregulatory process of self-study and peer review. This standards- and evidence-based process serves two broad aims: accountability and continuous improvement. The AAQEP model is also designed to honor local context and foster innovation and collaboration among institutions. AAQEP currently has members in 30 states and other jurisdictions with over 180 educator preparation providers participating in the accreditation system.

“Being accredited by AAQEP ensures our Teacher Education program candidates that they are going to receive high quality preparation as they journey into the profession. As an agency, AAQEP requires that we provide evidence that our students are prepared to work with diverse populations, external partners, and are grounded in content knowledge and education theory,” stated Dr. Kelvin Spragley, Director of Teacher Education at NC Wesleyan. “As a result of meeting these requirements, our graduates have a 100% pass rate on licensure tests and 100% job placement.”

About AAQEP

Founded in 2017, AAQEP is a membership association and quality assurance agency that provides accreditation services and formative support to all types of educator preparation providers. The organization promotes excellent, effective, and innovative educator preparation that is committed to evidence-based improvement in a collaborative professional environment. AAQEP is nationally recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation. Visit aaqep.org for more information.

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 Partners with First Carolina Bank


ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – On Thursday, June 23, leaders from North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) and First Carolina Bank (FCB) met to establish a formal relationship between the two to expand educational opportunities for FCB employees. This partnership will allow employees to develop practical skills that they can apply to their careers through certificate, undergraduate and graduate degree programs.

(L to R): Ron Day, President/CEO of First Carolina Bank and Dr. Evan D. Duff, President of NCWU

“The partnership between First Carolina Bank and North Carolina Wesleyan University is unique in that both were founded in Nash County. This agreement enhances the ability of both institutions by continuing to provide services to our community and beyond,” stated Michael Drew, Vice President of Enrollment. “North Carolina Wesleyan University is proud to serve our region and welcomes First Carolina Bank as our newest partner in carrying out our mission of offering professional advancement at the certificate, undergraduate and graduate level.”

Mutually benefitting both organizations, this partnership allows FCB employees to receive financial aid awards to attend NCWU. In return, FCB will market this opportunity and NC Wesleyan’s programs to all of their employees. Each employee is offered a one-time $250 award from the University to be used towards a certificate program. Receipt of the award is provided during the last semester of enrollment. They can also receive a $1000 award at the end of their first semester of enrollment in undergraduate classes, as well as an additional $1000 award at the end of the last semester, for a total University award of $2,000. In addition, those who pursue a graduate degree at NCWU are offered a $500 award at the end of their first semester of enrollment and a second $500 award at the end of the last semester, for a total University award of $1,000.

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.

North Carolina Wesleyan University Announces New Provost


ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – On Wednesday, June 15, North Carolina Wesleyan University welcomed its new Provost, Dr. Joseph “Joe” Lane. Dr. Lane comes to Wesleyan from Bethany College in Bethany, West Virginia where he held the position of Provost and Dean of Faculty.

Dr. Joe Lane

As an academic administrator at Bethany, Lane was responsible for a broad portfolio including all of the college’s academic programs, student success and retention initiatives, career development, study abroad and accreditation. He played a leading role in creating new programs (including three master’s degree programs), which were connected to admissions and retention strategies. He also led an initiative that resulted in more than a 12% improvement in fall-to-fall retention over a three-year period.

Prior to coming to Bethany, Lane served 17 years on the faculty of Emory & Henry College where he held the Hawthorne Professor of Politics and served as an instructor, department chair and founding director of the College Honors Program. Lane has also held faculty appointments at Bowdoin College and Hampden-Sydney College. He earned his B.A. in Classical Studies and Political Science at Hampden-Sydney and his Ph.D. in Political Science from Boston College. 

“Dr. Lane’s extensive background in private higher education, paired with his vast skillset, make him an excellent asset to NC Wesleyan University. I look forward to working with him as we continue to develop personal, practical and purpose-driven initiatives positioning Wesleyan, and our students, with a brighter future,” stated President, Dr. Evan D. Duff.

In his role as Provost, Dr. Lane will serve as Chief Academic Officer overseeing academic and student affairs. This includes Student Life, Residence Life, academic programs, faculty, Registrar’s office, Elizabeth Braswell Pearsall Library and institutional research. Lane will work with Division Chairs and faculty leaders to maintain appropriate and up-to-date academic programs and curricula. He will also advise the President on all matters concerning University-wide planning, policy and operations, while establishing measures of institutional effectiveness and progress.

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.

University Honors Marion Barnes Family with Press Box Naming


ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – NCWU’s Board of Trustees recently voted to name the future Vernon T. Bradley, Jr. Sports Stadium Press Box in honor of Marion Barnes’ family. Barnes’ father, Guy Barnes, was one of the original founders of NC Wesleyan. The Marion Barnes Family Press Box will kick off Phase II of NC Wesleyan’s Sports Stadium Campaign.

(L to R) Don Stallings, Dr. Evan D. Duff, Marion Barnes and Jeff Filkovski stand on the new Stallings Turf Field at Vernon T. Bradley, Jr. Stadium.

Marion Barnes is the owner of Frontier Trailer Associates, Inc. in Rocky Mount, NC directly adjacent to Wesleyan’s new stadium. NCWU recognizes the many and longstanding efforts of Mr. Barnes, including years of dedicated service and personal contributions to the University, as well as additional gifts to the Sports Stadium fundraising efforts. To date, he has single-handedly raised over $2 million towards construction of the stadium.

“Marion’s love for Wesleyan and his belief in the ability to shape students’ lives through athletics remains evident in his personal commitments, as well as the tenacity in which he has led the fundraising effort for the stadium. He and his family’s dedication to education in Rocky Mount, specifically at Wesleyan, will forever be one of their family’s legacies,” stated Aaron Denton, VP of Athletics.

Phase I of the Sports Stadium Campaign was unveiled this April when Vernon T. Bradley, Jr. presented a $1 million check. Stallings Field at Vernon T. Bradley, Jr. Stadium consists of a new turf field, lighting and additional parking. As funding allows, additional phases will include permanent seating, scoreboards and a new fieldhouse. The new fieldhouse will contain an athletic training room, weight room, classrooms, meeting space and offices. Others who are interested in helping with Phase II of the campaign can contact Aaron Denton, VP of Athletics, at adenton@ncwu.edu.

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.

New Graphic Designer Joins NCWU Marketing


ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – North Carolina Wesleyan University welcomes Judie Taylor as Graphic Designer. Taylor has gained comprehensive graphic design experience over the last five years in various roles throughout the country and as a freelance designer.

Judie Taylor, Graphic Designer for NC Wesleyan
Judie Taylor, Graphic Designer

In her new role with NC Wesleyan’s Office of Marketing & Communications, Taylor will be responsible for the design, development and execution of both digital and print marketing. She will also develop new, fresh and distinctive ideas for departmental projects used across a wide variety of platforms to communicate and market the value of NC Wesleyan University. In addition, she will maintain vendor partnerships to ensure quality and timely production of materials, collaborating with them throughout the various phases of a project.

“Attractive graphic design gains high brand visibility,” stated Crystal Hill, NC Wesleyan Director of Marketing and Communications. “The Office of Marketing & Communications provides services to support the advancement of the University’s brand. We’re always striving to develop new, innovative concepts to help tell the story of Wesleyan. Expanding our team brings a new perspective, fresh ideas and growth opportunity. We’re thrilled to have Judie join our team and to continue raising the bar.”

Most recently, Taylor worked for Vida Shoes International as the Marketing Graphic Designer where she designed packaging, catalogs and other print materials for children’s brands such as Stride Rite, Carter’s and OshKosh B’gosh. She also established branding for new product launches and campaigns and created in-store fixture mock-ups for pitch decks. Taylor is a native of, and currently resides in, Rocky Mount, NC. She holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Savannah College of Art & Design (SCAD).