ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – The Office of Career Development & Leadership at North Carolina Wesleyan University has established a new partnership with Ossid, a local corporation headquartered in Battleboro, to provide several job shadowing opportunities for its students. Ossid manufactures and sells machinery to a variety of businesses in need of wrapping, labeling and sealing equipment to package their products.
This unique learning opportunity was presented to all NC Wesleyan juniors and seniors with a major or minor in Marketing or Communications. Ossid’s Senior Marketing Specialist, Stacie Eberly, typically works out of Charlotte, but travels to the Battleboro location on a monthly basis. During her visit the week of September 13, she hosted a group of NC Wesleyan students to work on trade show preparations, digital marketing, blog content and meeting with other executives.
“It was a pleasure opening our doors to NC Wesleyan University students. They were engaged, asked great questions and provided support across multiple marketing projects. I look forward to continuing this partnership with Wesleyan,” stated Eberly.
Bijou Patel, a North Carolina Wesleyan senior majoring in Marketing, was able to shadow Eberly on Tuesday, September 14. During her time there, she participated in a business meeting, toured the facility and learned about the machinery and how it’s marketed. Patel had the opportunity to witness what she’s learned in the classroom in a real-world setting, stating “I got to see a lot of the things I learned in my classes implemented and thoroughly explained. I even got to provide input, which was heard and applied.”
This partnership came to fruition when Jessie Langley, Associate Dean of Career Development and Leadership at NC Wesleyan, met with Eberly to tour Ossid’s local facility. After learning more about Eberly’s role, Langley explored ways in which NCWC students could gain knowledge within the field.
“I can’t think Ms. Eberly enough for investing time in our students. I look forward to continuing to send students to shadow with her on a monthly basis. This model sets a precedent for other area businesses to consider. Structured job shadowing is one ideal way to invest in our students’ career development,” stated Langley.
About Ossid
Ossid is the industry leader for leak-resistant tray sealing for case-ready products, flexible packaging for healthcare, horizontal thermoform, fill and seal equipment, weigh/price labeling equipment, flow wrappers and case scales. Catering to customers of all sizes around the world, Ossid’s packaging solutions are ideal for fresh and processed meats, produce, convenience foods, consumer goods, and medical devices. Ossid is a product brand of ProMach, a global leader in packaging line solutions. As part of the ProMach Flexibles & Trays business line, Ossid helps our packaging customers protect their reputation and grow the trust of their consumers. ProMach is performance, and the proof is in every package. Learn more about Ossid at Ossid.com
NCWC Homecoming Returns
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – North Carolina Wesleyan University will kick off its Homecoming week festivities on Monday, October 4 leading up to the Bishops’ football game against Greensboro College on Saturday, October 9. For the second time, the Battling Bishops will play their Homecoming game on-campus at the Vernon T. Bradley, Jr. Football Field, after first doing so in 2019.
Throughout the week, many activities will take place both on-campus and throughout the community for students, alumni, faculty, staff and the public. There will also be opportunities to cheer on men’s and women’s soccer, as well as baseball. An alumni football game is scheduled for Friday, October 8 at 8:00 p.m. on the field adjacent to the Gateway Technology Center (GTC), located at the front of campus.
Saturday, tailgating will begin at 9:00 a.m. At 10:00 a.m., the College will be dedicating a plaque recognizing and honoring alumni who served in harm’s way during the Vietnam War. This will be an addition to the existing Vietnam Memorial Courts at the Slick Family Foundation Tennis Center. Also at 10:00 a.m., the Alumni & Kid Zone opens at the football field or catch the alumni softball game at Edge Field. A chili cook-off will be held at 11:00 a.m., followed by the Homecoming golf cart parade starting at 11:30 a.m. Kickoff against Greensboro College is at noon and alumni plan to round out the day at The Rocky Mount Mills from 6:00 p.m. until 10:00 p.m.
For a full list of activities, times and locations, visit ncwu.edu/homecoming or the NCWC Homecoming 2021 event on Facebook. Individual tickets can be purchased at the gate. Tickets are $5 for adults (18+), $3 for ages 12-18 and FREE for all under age 12. Alumni Homecoming Packets can be purchased online for $35 and include a game ticket, t-shirt, parking pass, bookstore discount and a list of Community Partner discounts.
The Janice Bryant Howroyd Endowment
Established at NC Wesleyan University
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – Janice Bryant Howroyd, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of the ActOne Group, has made a gift to North Carolina Wesleyan University to establish The Janice Bryant Howroyd Endowment.
The new endowment will allow for an annual scholarship to be presented, with preference given to a current NC Wesleyan female in their junior or senior year who earns and maintains a minimum overall GPA of 3.5. Students majoring in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) subjects are eligible. They should also demonstrate financial need, a passion for community service and good personal character. Application details are available through the College’s Financial Aid office, with the first scholarship expected to be awarded in the 2022-2023 academic year.
“Janice Bryant Howroyd is a vibrant beacon of light who guides others to attain success in their personal and professional lives. She is passionate about women in STEM, education and North Carolina Wesleyan University,” stated President Dr. Evan D. Duff. “This endowment exemplifies not only her values, but also her commitment to the community where she grew up. We are fortunate to have her as a Board of Trustee member and as part of the Wesleyan family.”
In early 2021, NC Wesleyan announced a partnership with the ActOne Group, a global workforce solutions leader based in California with operations in North Carolina, to provide extensive career development services for current students and alumni. Howroyd is a native of Tarboro, NC and a North Carolina Wesleyan University Board Member.
NC Wesleyan Kicks Off Annual Fall Fundraising Campaign
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – North Carolina Wesleyan University launched their annual fall fundraiser, The Wesleyan Promise Campaign, on Monday, September 27 at a kickoff breakfast in The Dunn Center. This campaign seeks vitally important support for various purposes including student scholarships, the latest in cutting-edge technology, lab enhancements, recruitment of students and faculty, additional library resources and more.
To help usher in the campaign, two highlights of the event included check presentations by First Carolina Bank and NC Wesleyan alumna, Jane Gravely. Lank Dunton, First Carolina Bank’s Market Executive for the Rocky Mount Area, presented the College with $25,000 to support the Sports Stadium Project. First Carolina Bank has been a banking partner with NC Wesleyan and is a strong supporter of the Sports Stadium Project and other ongoing efforts at the College. Jane Gravely ’74 donated $24,000 to establish the Gravely Arts Gallery in The Dunn Center and start an endowment supporting the visual arts programs at NC Wesleyan. She is a current NC Wesleyan Board of Visitors member and fan of the arts.
“We are so grateful for the support this community shows the College. For 65 years we’ve been serving not only our students, but the community as well. That partnership, from its beginning to today, has been mutually beneficial,” stated Eddie Coats, Vice President of Advancement. “As NC Wesleyan continues to grow and thrive, so will the opportunities we offer back to the area through the arts, academic excellence, quality athletics, entertainment and volunteer support. Regardless of the size, we are grateful for all gifts of support during this campaign.”
The College has set a goal of raising $280,000 by October 25. Those who are interested in supporting this campaign can give securely online at ncwu.edu/donate or by calling 252.985.5581.
Dr. Evan D. Duff Installed as 8th President of North Carolina Wesleyan University
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – North Carolina Wesleyan University officially installed Dr. Evan D. Duff as its 8th president on Friday, September 17, 2021. An inauguration ceremony was held in Minges Auditorium at The Dunn Center on the College’s campus.
Opening remarks were given by Rebecca Mitchell, NC Wesleyan senior, double majoring in Psychology and Biology and intern in the President’s Office. “From the beginning, Dr. Duff has demonstrated his passion for helping students, offering them a voice and a place to call home,” stated Mitchell. She continued, “Dr. Duff truly cares about his students and their overall well-being.”
Greetings to Dr. Duff were given by students, faculty, staff, board members and friends. Some unable to attend sent personal greetings via video. Constance Williams, NCWC Board Member and human resource professional, offered her congratulations, stating “President Duff is by far one of the most visionary, humble and forward-thinking executives I have ever had the privilege to know. He prioritizes and operates from a position of fairness, excellence, inclusion and kindness.”
Janice Bryant Howroyd, Founder/Chief Executive Officer of the ActOne Group and NCWC Board Member, also sent her well-wishes, noting “Dr. Duff’s vision for the school is only exceeded by his strong competency and his vision for what life can be like for all of us.”
Award-winning actress, Sharon Lawrence, delivered her virtual greeting saying “I know that under Dr. Duff’s successful leadership, this institution has thrived in very challenging circumstances. I also recognize that today’s installation honors the tradition of Wesleyan excellence and investment in education for our region.”
A surprise, handwritten letter from Governor Roy Cooper was presented to Dr. Duff on his accomplishments. It read, “Rocky Mount is proud to be home to North Carolina Wesleyan University and the outstanding programs and experiences it offers to its students. I know under your leadership, it will continue to grow and be an important North Carolina institution of higher learning. On a personal note: thanks Dr. Duff— this is my home area and I know how important this great College is.”
Dr. Dan Crocker, Chairman of NC Wesleyan’s Board of Trustees, conducted the Investiture of the President. Afterwards, Paul Bauer, Vice-chairman of the Board of Trustees, presented Dr. Duff with a Presidential Medallion, a symbol of authority and a token of esteem and confidence. One side displays the President’s name and date of Inauguration, the other the College seal. The Seal includes five symbols – an owl is shown for wisdom, a lion for courage, a triangle for the Trinity, a budded cross for Christianity and a lamp for learning.
Dr. Duff was then joined on stage by his wife of 23 years, Marcy, and their four children – Tyson, Landon, Peyton and Chloe – as Rev. Laura Wittman gave a blessing of the presidential family.
Immediately following the Inauguration, a luncheon honoring Dr. Duff was held at the Rocky Mount Event Center for family and close friends.
NCWC Announces Co-Chairs for Annual Fall Giving Campaign
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – North Carolina Wesleyan University has named Brigadier General Arnold Gordon-Bray, USA (Ret.) and Janet F. Watson as co-chairs of their annual fall fundraiser, The Wesleyan Promise Campaign. For nearly four decades, the College has held its fall giving campaign by which all gifts go toward helping fulfill and exceed the College’s commitment to students attending NCWC.
Brigadier General Arnold Gordon-Bray completed over three decades of service in the United States Army, demonstrating professional leadership skills in strategic communications, combat operations, foreign affairs and effective modernization in support of the Department of Defense and National Interests. He is now an independent consultant and owner of ANGB Consulting, LLC. 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. Additionally, he holds an Honorary Doctorate of Humanities from North Carolina Wesleyan University. A lifelong learner, he has executive training from UNC Kenan–Flagler Business School and Administrative Management from Central Michigan University.
“A quality city has to have a quality, senior college or university for the purposes of advancing the arts and sciences for the aspiration of its citizens and [local] academic institutions. I’m involved with North Carolina Wesleyan because this is my city,” stated Gordon-Bray.
Janet Watson is the owner of Coldwell Banker Watson Properties in Rocky Mount and has been a Licensed Real Estate Professional in North Carolina since 1986. She continues to conduct business as a member of the Rocky Mount Regional MLS and Triangle MLS. Janet is a lifelong resident of Rocky Mount who attended North Carolina Wesleyan University and Meredith College. She is currently a member of NC Wesleyan’s Board of Visitors and the Rocky Mount Chamber of Commerce. She previously served as a board member for Southern Bank and the American Red Cross.
“My parents were part of this community and church who had the vision in the 1950’s to establish North Carolina Wesleyan University here in Rocky Mount. I can remember as a small child how important it was to them to have and support an institution of higher learning here in the area,” stated Watson. “Wesleyan should continue to be an important part of our vision for this community. Our continued support ensures that Wesleyan’s strong foundation is maintained and that growth in student population, curriculum, faculty and athletic programs continues.”
The Wesleyan Promise campaign benefits NC Wesleyan students through scholarships, technology, facility improvements, lab equipment, safety gear for athletes and much more. The College has set a goal of raising $280,000 during this year’s campaign, which kicks off on Monday, September 27.
NCWC Graduate Returns to Alma Mater as Alumni Relations Coordinator
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – North Carolina Wesleyan University alumna, Caroline Little ’07, has joined the College as Alumni Relations Coordinator. As an ambassador for the College, she will collaborate with colleagues to create and maintain pathways for alumni participation in order to advance the mission and vision of NC Wesleyan.
Little graduated from NC Wesleyan in 2007 with a degree in Psychology, earning President’s List and National Dean’s List honors. During her time as a student, she was a resident advisor, writing lab tutor, orientation leader and admissions/financial aid ambassador. Little was involved with student activities, President of Alpha Sigma Tau sorority, Treasurer for the Greek Council, a member of the Wesleyan Singers and participated in the music club. In 2004, Little received the James R. Hailey Leadership and Service award.
Most recently, Little was Executive Director of Teal Toes (TT), an organization dedicated to creating ovarian cancer awareness. This cause is especially important to Little, as she is an ovarian cancer survivor.
“Caroline’s love for Wesleyan and the experience she gained while working in the nonprofit world will benefit her greatly in this role. It is with great pleasure to have someone with Caroline’s experience and passion join our team,” stated Eddie Coats, Vice President of Advancement.
In her new role as Alumni Relations Coordinator, Little will be responsible for the planning and implementation of programs and events that strategically engage alumni with the College while providing tangible benefits to alumni and current students. She will work with colleagues to identify, cultivate, solicit and steward alumni giving, while also serving as a liaison between the Alumni Association Board and NCWC’s Advancement team. In addition, she will educate graduating students about alumni benefits and help increase engagement in programs.
“I’m excited to be working with the Office of Advancement to create, support and cultivate programs for all members of the Wesleyan alumni community,” stated Little.
Little has also been involved with NC Wesleyan’s Alumni Association Board since December 2018. She was most recently elected Vice President of the board and has been acting President since May 2021.
NCWC & McDowell Tech Community College Sign Memorandum of Understanding
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWC) recently signed an agreement that will help qualified graduates of McDowell Tech Community College (MTCC) transfer to Wesleyan. The agreement aims to provide a seamless transfer for students who enroll at Wesleyan following completion of their two-year degree at MTCC.
Leaders of both colleges signed the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) in a virtual ceremony on Wednesday, September 15. This new agreement adds MTCC to a list of over 30 other colleges and community colleges throughout North Carolina that have a transfer partnership with NCWC.
“We are very happy to establish a partnership with NCWC. Partnerships like this are essential for our students as many of them do want to transfer after they have attended MTCC. This partnership agreement gives students a great opportunity to gain needed credentials by offering a pathway for them to transfer from one institution to another. It is imperative that students not lose time or credits in the transition, and this agreement will assure that the transfer goes smoothly,” stated Dr. Penelope “Penny” Cross, CAO of McDowell Tech Community College.
The agreement will enhance and expand the educational opportunities of Associate in Arts, Associate in Fine Arts, Associate in Science and Associate in Applied Science graduates by offering MTCC graduates 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 MTCC to NC Wesleyan. This MOU allows MTCC Associate in Applied Science students to transfer an additional 15 hours of general education credits for a total of 75 transfer credits.
“NCWC is excited for this new partnership with MTCC, which recognizes the value of a community college education. This partnership will provide MTCC graduates with flexible transfer opportunities to complete their four-year degree in a supportive environment similar to their experience in their associate’s program. Our goal has always been to support the community college mission and provide their graduates with convenient and affordable transfer pathways,” stated Katie Farrell, Associate Dean of Adult & Professional Studies.
Students who graduate from MTCC 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 MTCC students who may not have otherwise been able to attend the College.
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 College’s main campus. The program is ideal for students who would like to attend NC Wesleyan’s evening or online programs.
About McDowell Tech Community College
McDowell Technical Community College is a member of the North Carolina Community College System, dedicated to providing student-centered accessible, high-quality educational opportunities and services which fulfill the personal development, training and employment needs of the residents, businesses, and industries of McDowell County and the surrounding areas through an open-door admissions policy.
NCWC’s E-Sports Club Partners with WHIG-TV
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – North Carolina Wesleyan University’s e-sports club, The Bishop Gaming Association (BGA), recently developed a partnership with WHIG-TV to provide training opportunities for students. Future plans of the partnership include the development of a 30-minute show that will be aired on WHIG-TV, along with job shadowing and internship opportunities.
“We are delighted to be partnering with WHIG-TV. They have been the source of local TV content in Rocky Mount for years. This partnership will provide our students with a unique way to engage with the local community,” stated Chantoni Grant, Admissions Counselor and Director of the Bishop Gaming Association. “This would not have been possible without Dr. Gena Messer-Knode (NC Wesleyan’s Dean of Career Services and Business Innovation), Sandra Smith (General Manager of WHIG-TV) and Robert Morris (Technical Director of WHIG-TV) who were committed to providing Wesleyan students with a remarkable learning opportunity.”
The BGA was founded by Grant during his time as a student in 2019. The club aims to promote the culture of gaming, media and entertainment by providing experiences, advice, awareness and resources to students who are interested in growing in these fields. It has quickly become the College’s largest student organization, averaging more than 80 members over the past three years. Students within the club shoot, edit and produce a bi-weekly segment called “BGA News,” which is broadcast on televisions throughout campus and on The BGA’s social media accounts.
The BGA partnership with WHIG-TV will provide students with the ability to explore broadcast technique, filming, editing and production. Through these opportunities, students will receive hands-on experience applicable to their future career paths.
Local Artist, Ashley Fabrizio, Coming to The Mims Gallery at NC Wesleyan
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – The Mims Gallery at The Dunn Center will kick off their 2021-22 season with an opening reception featuring local artist, Ashley Fabrizio. This free, public event will take place on Thursday, September 9 from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. Gallery receptions provide a unique opportunity to enjoy new art, socialize and meet the artist.
Already famous in local community, Fabrizio is the artist behind the 125-foot by 30-foot CSX mural on the side of Station Square in downtown Rocky Mount. Fabrizio will discuss her experiences as a muralist, commission painter and paint party hostess, as well as a creative force in regional expressionist painting. A “fearless” artist, there is no subject she will shy away from, including portraits of friends, celebrities and dogs in vivid color and bold brushwork. You can feel the energy and excitement in her paintings, as well as envision her ideas and thoughts about her subject matter.
Educated in local schools and a student of painting and art education at Barton College, Fabrizio has found her artistic voice as an expressionist where emotion and bursts of excitement drive her vision and painting style. She is an active member of both the Wilson and Rocky Mount art communities, as well as other regional venues.
A mother of two young children, Fabrizio balances her creative life with parenting. Her determination to make a living as a career artist is to be admired. You can find Ashley at the Bel Air Art Center in downtown Rocky Mount where her lively, free-spirited mural is already a Bel Air landmark.
Don’t miss this opportunity to view Fabrizio’s work. Her studio paintings will be on display and for sale in The Mims Gallery through October 22, making a great addition for your home or office collection.
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 Gallery, located within The Dunn Center, hosts a variety of exhibits, including paintings, drawings, and sculpture. The Gallery is open weekdays from 2:00-4:00 p.m., as well as during performances. To learn more, visit dunncenter.com and follow on Facebook.
