ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – On Wednesday, March 18, North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) traveled to Charlotte, North Carolina, for a tour of Amazon’s CLT4 Distribution Facility, gaining a firsthand look at one of the most recognizable and sophisticated logistics operations in the world.
The visit was especially meaningful for NCWU students studying Supply Chain Management, Logistics, and related business disciplines. By stepping inside a major distribution environment, students were able to connect classroom learning with the realities of modern warehousing, distribution, operational flow, and large-scale supply chain execution.
Experiences like this reflect the core educational philosophy of NC Wesleyan: preparing students through education that is personal, practical, and purpose driven. At NC Wesleyan, learning is designed to go beyond textbooks and lectures by giving students meaningful opportunities to engage directly with industries, workplaces, and professionals in the field.
Hands-On Learning
For students pursuing careers in supply chain and logistics, field experiences such as the Amazon tour are especially valuable. They help students better understand how concepts such as transportation, distribution, inventory flow, process efficiency, and operations management function in a real-world setting. These opportunities also help students see how their coursework can translate into tangible career paths in a fast-moving and highly relevant sector of the economy.
North Carolina Wesleyan University’s School of Business & Professional Studies is committed to providing students with an education that blends academic rigor with practical application. Through strong faculty mentorship, industry-relevant programs, and hands-on learning opportunities, the University works to ensure that graduates are not only knowledgeable, but also career-ready and confident in applying what they have learned.
The Amazon facility visit serves as another example of NCWU’s commitment to creating transformative learning experiences that help students discover purpose in their education and confidence in their future. For a university with a growing interest in Supply Chain Management and Logistics, opportunities like this reinforce the importance of exposing students to real operational environments where strategy, technology, and execution come together.
At NC Wesleyan, these experiences are not extras; they are part of the institution’s broader mission to develop graduates who are prepared to lead, contribute, and thrive in today’s business world.
Learn more about our Supply Chain Management program and how it can open up new roads for you in your career.
Wesleyan Hosts Golden LEAF Scholarship Luncheon
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) proudly hosted the Annual Golden LEAF Foundation Luncheon on March 19 at The Dunn Center, celebrating a strong and enduring partnership that began in 2003. The event honored both past scholarship graduates and current recipients, highlighting the meaningful impact of the Golden LEAF Foundation (GLF) on student success.
The luncheon opened with remarks from NCWU President Dr. Evan D. Duff and Vice President of Advancement Mark Hinson, who expressed gratitude for the Foundation’s continued support. Both emphasized the vital role GLF plays in expanding educational opportunities and advancing the university’s mission.
Four-year Golden LEAF Scholarship recipient Benjamin Sellers ’26 reflected on his journey at Wesleyan, sharing how the scholarship shaped both his academic and personal growth. He credited NCWU and GLF for his success, including publishing two articles and graduating debt-free this May. Sellers noted that while he initially planned to pursue a career in chiropractic care, the connections and opportunities he discovered at Wesleyan opened doors to new possibilities.
Leah Hill, NCWU’s Director of Financial Aid, recognized and introduced the scholarship recipients, offering personal thanks to GLF members for their generosity. As a token of appreciation, the university presented gifts to Foundation representatives. Scholarship recipients in attendance included Benjamin Sellers, Finnegan Allen, Joseph Cooper, and Malachi Hayes. Other recipients include Nyasia Jones, and Amanda Layton.
The program concluded with remarks from GLF President Scott Hamilton, Scholarship Program Manager Arlena Dongilli, and President Duff, each reaffirming the strength and impact of the partnership. Hamilton shared, “We love watching our scholarship recipients grow. These scholarships are about more than education—they support the transformation of rural communities, and the impact students make when they return home.”
Through this ongoing collaboration of 23 years and counting, NCWU and the Golden LEAF Foundation continue to empower students, foster academic achievement, and invest in the future of North Carolina’s workforce.
About Golden Leaf Foundation
Golden LEAF’s mission is to increase economic opportunity in North Carolina’s rural, tobacco-dependent, and economically distressed communities through leadership in grantmaking, collaboration, innovation, and stewardship as an independent and perpetual foundation.
The Golden LEAF Foundation is a nonprofit organization established in 1999 to receive a portion of North Carolina’s funding from the 1998 Master Settlement Agreement with cigarette manufacturers. For 25 years, Golden LEAF has worked to increase economic opportunity in North Carolina’s rural and tobacco-dependent communities through leadership in grantmaking, collaboration, innovation, and stewardship as an independent and perpetual foundation.
Golden LEAF has provided lasting impact to tobacco-dependent, economically distressed, and rural areas of the state by helping create 68,000 jobs, more than $780 million in new payrolls, and more than 98,000 workers trained or retrained for higher wages.
Governed by a board of directors appointed by leaders of NC’s legislative and executive branches, Golden LEAF has focused on critical issues facing North Carolina communities including bringing jobs and building industry by providing resources to communities, awarding scholarships to local students and administering the state’s relief efforts following natural disasters.
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.
NCWU offers a best-in-class value and a personally tailored private higher education experience. We invest in each and every student we accept by providing individualized awards, scholarships and grants. Wesleyan is YOUR hometown University that is Personal. Practical, and Purpose-Driven. With students from all over the United States and more than 40 different countries, the University has immense cultural diversity. In addition to its educational mission, NCWU serves as a vital economic engine for the region, contributing over $209 million to the local economy.
To learn more, visit ncwu.edu and follow on Facebook, LinkedIn, TikTok and Instagram.
Teacher Education Wesleyan Experience
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) continues to prepare the next generation of educators through its dedicated Teacher Education program, where students gain the knowledge, mentorship, and real-world experience needed to make an impact in the classroom.
Recently, two pre-service teachers in the program — Kathlene “Brooke” Rose and Kayden Comerford — shared their experiences studying Elementary Education at Wesleyan and reflected on how the University is helping prepare them for their future careers as licensed teachers.
Rose, a native of Nash County who recently transferred from East Carolina University, says she quickly found a sense of belonging on campus.
“Wesleyan feels like home,” Rose shared. “There is nowhere I would rather be as I learn to become a practicing licensed teacher.”
Comerford, who is originally from Apex, North Carolina and previously lived in Loudoun County, Virginia, emphasized the supportive learning environment that defines the Wesleyan community.
“Wesleyan is a tightknit community where I feel that all parties want the other to succeed,” said Comerford.
According to Dr. Kelvin Spragley, Director of Teacher Education at NCWU, the program is designed to equip students with both the academic foundation and hands-on classroom experience needed to succeed as educators.
“Preparing effective teachers requires more than coursework,” said Spragley. “Our students engage in meaningful field experiences and mentorship opportunities that allow them to build confidence, develop instructional skills, and understand the real needs of today’s classrooms.”
Wesleyan’s Teacher Education program prepares students for licensure in elementary education while emphasizing leadership, service, and community engagement. Through close faculty mentorship and partnerships with local schools, students graduate ready to step into classrooms and make a difference in the lives of their students.
As future educators like Rose and Comerford continue their journeys, Wesleyan remains committed to supporting students who feel called to teach and inspire the next generation.
Disc Golf Championship Brings Regional Players to NC Wesleyan
North Carolina Wesleyan University will welcome competitors from across the region as it hosts a round of the Spike Hyzer’s North Carolina Disc Golf Championship XV, a premier tournament in the sport of disc golf. The event will take place Friday through Sunday, March 20–22, 2026, with NC Wesleyan serving as one of the featured courses during the competition weekend.
The tournament is an A-Tier sanctioned event by the Professional Disc Golf Association (PDGA) and is presented by Discraft with support from Grip EQ. The championship is expected to draw players from across the United States and the Mid-Atlantic region.
The NC Wesleyan round will take place Saturday morning at 10:00 a.m., when amateur division players compete on the university’s scenic course located along a two-mile loop on campus. The round will feature a shotgun start, meaning players will begin simultaneously from multiple holes throughout the course.
Overall, the tournament features both professional and amateur divisions competing across three days at multiple courses in the area, including Sunset Park and Farmington Park. Professional competitors, currently totaling more than 50 registered players, will compete across three rounds over three days. The amateur field, which includes players from across North Carolina as well as Virginia, West Virginia, and Washington, D.C., will compete in multiple rounds throughout the weekend, including the Saturday morning competition at NC Wesleyan.
Notable competitors include professional players Chandler Kramer, Colten Montgomery, Barry Schultz, and Brian Schweberger, among others.
The tournament is organized by Chuck Connelly, tournament director of Spike Hyzer Disc Golf.
“I am looking forward to partnering with Chuck to present our course on the stage of one of his tournaments,” said Marcus Rich of North Carolina Wesleyan University. “This is the first year we have had the opportunity to present NC Wesleyan’s course in one of his tournaments, and this goes much further than just a round of disc golf. With this tournament, it expands our reach as more players set foot on campus and witness all that North Carolina Wesleyan University has to offer. We have a great course on a beautiful campus, and sharing this gem with the local community and beyond is a true honor.”
Spectators and members of the community are welcome to attend and experience the action as players navigate the university’s course.
More information about the tournament, including registration and schedules, can be found online.
Meet NCWU’s 2026 Commencement Speaker: Jessica Harrison ’10
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) will proudly celebrate its 62nd Spring Commencement Ceremony on Saturday, May 2, 2026, honoring the academic achievements of more than 330 graduates as they complete their Wesleyan journeys and prepare for lives of leadership, service, and purpose.
The ceremony will bring together graduates, families, faculty, staff, alumni, and community members for one of the University’s most meaningful traditions. Commencement serves as both a celebration of student accomplishment and a reflection of NCWU’s commitment to personalized education, mentorship, and community engagement.
“This moment represents years of perseverance, growth, and hard work by our students,” said Dr. Evan D. Duff, President of North Carolina Wesleyan University. “Commencement is not only a milestone for our graduates, but also a celebration for the families, faculty, and mentors who supported them along the way. We are incredibly proud of the Class of 2026 and excited to see the impact they will make in their communities and professions.”
Meet the Speaker
This year’s keynote address will be delivered by Jessica Daniels Harrison ‘10, a dedicated public servant, civic leader, and proud NCWU alumna. Harrison currently serves as Mayor of the Town of Zebulon, North Carolina, making history as the first woman elected to the role. She was initially appointed to the Town’s Board of Commissioners in February 2022 and later elected by the community in November 2023 as commissioner before being elected mayor in November 2025.
As mayor, Harrison is recognized for her strategic leadership, commitment to inclusive governance, and advocacy for initiatives that strengthen families, promote economic development, and engage youth. Her leadership extends beyond local government through her service as Regional Director for the National Black Caucus of Local Elected Officials and Assistant Secretary for the North Carolina Black Elected Municipal Officials. In 2024, she was honored with the 40 Under Impact Award by the National League of Cities.
Harrison is also the Founder and CEO of She Is ME, LLC, an organization focused on empowering women to recognize their potential, overcome stereotypes, and actively engage in their communities. Alongside her husband, she owns and operates The Harrison Institution, Inc., a nonprofit leadership development firm. Together, they also serve as Care Pastors at Life Worship Center in Raleigh.
A graduate of North Carolina Wesleyan University, Harrison earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology before completing a Master of Education in Educational Leadership at Concordia University. She is a proud member of Zeta Phi Beta, Inc., and considers her greatest roles to be wife to Tory and mother to TJ, Tyler, and Jordyn. Guided by her faith and the scripture Matthew 7:12, Harrison approaches leadership with integrity, compassion, and commitment to building strong, resilient communities.
The 2026 Spring Commencement Ceremony promises to be a meaningful celebration of achievement, reflection, and new beginnings, honoring the Class of 2026 as they step forward to shape the future.
NC Wesleyan Champions Silver Status at NCICU Ethics Bowl
North Carolina Wesleyan University’s Ethics Bowl team earned second place out of 17 participating institutions at the 15th Annual NCICU Ethics Bowl, marking the strongest finish in the University’s history.
The competition was held at the North Carolina State Legislative Complex and brought together undergraduate teams from North Carolina’s independent colleges and universities to engage in thoughtful, moderated discussions on complex ethical issues.
“We are deeply proud of this team,” said Dr. Joe Lane, Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs at North Carolina Wesleyan University. “They demonstrated great devotion, teamwork, and understanding throughout the competition.”
NCWU advanced through the regular rounds with an undefeated 4–0 record, securing wins against Catawba College, Salem College, Barton College, and Mars Hill University. The team then earned a victory over Wingate University in the semifinal round before falling to Johnson C. Smith University in the final round to claim second place overall. The final decision was closely contested.
“This was the most fun team I’ve ever been on,” said Niana Gunter, senior and team member. “I learned a lot about formulating an argument in conjunction with other people.”
Senior team member Shafiq Jair Nuijts reflected on the experience, adding, “Going into this bowl, I was nervous considering the tremendous amount of work my teammates and I put into this. Seeing the results of our efforts pay off in this manner was an unforgettable experience.”
This year’s finish represents a milestone for NCWU, surpassing the team’s previous best performance of third place at the 2020 Ethics Bowl.
The award was presented by Dr. A. Hope Williams, President of the North Carolina Independent Colleges and Universities (NCICU).
Competition Highlights
Throughout the day, NCWU students addressed a range of contemporary ethical topics, including corporate responsibility, international relations in global sporting events, the ethics of weapons of mass destruction, public education reform, civil-military leadership, and funding public schools during financial crises.
Team Members
Pictured (left to right; students in bold):
- Deon Bailey, Sophomore
- Dr. Jarrod Kelly
- Jolyna Sundbom, Junior
- Dr. Shane Thompson
- Dr. A. Hope Williams, President, NCICU
- Shafiq Nuijts, Senior
- Niana Gunter, Senior
- Dr. Jason Buel
- Maxima Iglesias, Senior
Not pictured: Dunya Salem, Senior, who is a member of the team but was unable to attend the competition.
Participating Institutions
The 2026 Ethics Bowl included teams from:
Barton College, Campbell University, Catawba College, Gardner-Webb University, High Point University, Johnson C. Smith University, Livingstone College, Mars Hill University, Methodist University, Montreat College, Pfeiffer University, Queens University, Salem College, University of Mount Olive, William Peace University, Wingate University, and North Carolina Wesleyan University.
The NCICU Ethics Bowl promotes civil discourse, ethical reasoning, and collaborative problem-solving—skills central to North Carolina Wesleyan University’s commitment to academic excellence and student development.
Elevating Teacher Preparation: NC Wesleyan’s Education Program Earns National Distinction
The impact of a great teacher lasts a lifetime, and at North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU), aspiring educators are gaining the experience, knowledge, and values to make that impact from day one. Colleges of Distinction has honored NCWU with the 2025-2026 Education College of Distinction award, recognizing its proven ability to graduate confident, compassionate, and classroom-ready teachers.
“In a field where the stakes are high and the landscape constantly evolving, NCWU has built a program that blends strong academic foundations with real-world practice,” said Tyson Schritter, Chief Operating Officer at Colleges of Distinction. “They’re equipping future educators with the tools and heart to lead diverse classrooms with care.”
This national recognition is based on the institution’s demonstrated excellence in key areas, including:
- Stability – The School of Education has a longstanding presence, operating for at least 10 years with consistent enrollment and an established number of degrees awarded annually.
- Accreditation – The NCWU Education Programs holds regional accreditation from AAQEP, or the Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation. Additionally, the NCWU Teacher Education Program is accredited by the state of North Carolina
- Multidisciplinarity – The Education Program offers students the opportunity to specialize in three or more distinct disciplines (Specifically, students can earn a license to teach in one of the following content areas: Elementary Education, K-6; Middle Grades, 6-9 (Math, Science, Social Studies, or English/Language Arts), Secondary, 9-12 (Math, Biology Social Studies, English), and Special Education, K-12).
- Practical Experience – Starting from the first year, students in the Education Program engage in real-world teaching experiences, including urban and rural settings, diverse socioeconomic backgrounds, and different school sizes.
- Non-Education Specialization – The Education Program requires students to graduate with a minor, emphasis, specialization, or related credential in a subject they intend to teach professionally.
- Dedicated Advising and Counseling – The Education Program provides high-quality academic advising, major-specific advising, and career advising tailored to Education majors.
- High-Impact Practices – Students in the Education Program enhance their undergraduate studies through high-impact practices such as common intellectual experiences in methodology and content, undergraduate research, diverse learning opportunities in and out of the classroom, common first-year experiences such as seminar attendance and field placement experiences of at least 30 hours in a respective school, writing-intensive courses, collaborative assignments and projects, service-/community-based learning like tutoring in our Award Winning After School Program, living-learning communities, internships, and capstone courses and projects.
- Industry Connections – Students enrolled in the Education Program have numerous opportunities to establish professional connections in their field through job placement, internships, co-op opportunities, advisory councils, and networking activities.
Dr. Kelvin Spragley, NCWU Director of Teacher Education and Chief Diversity Officer, states “The NCWU Teacher Education program has consistently proven that the personal and professional relationships developed between faculty and students are our formula for success. It is with this model in mind that we will continue our efforts at producing the next generation of quality, licensed teacher”.
Through these program elements, students are learning how to inspire, adapt, and lead. The Education Program at NCWU reflects the core belief that teaching is both a profession and a calling.
To learn more about NCWU’s award-winning programs, visit https://collegesofdistinction.com/school/north-carolina-wesleyan-university/.
About Colleges of Distinction
Since 2000, Colleges of Distinction has been committed to recognizing schools across the United States for their exceptional contributions to higher education. Member institutions within the Colleges of Distinction consortium distinguish themselves through their unwavering focus on providing an outstanding undergraduate experience. Their website offers dynamic college profiles, customized tools, and valuable resources for students, parents, and high school counselors. For more information and to discover how to become a College of Distinction, visit CollegesofDistinction.com.
Heroes Served Here: NC Wesleyan Acclaimed…
In a higher education landscape often dominated by rankings and test scores, North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) is being recognized for what matters most: a transformative, student-centered undergraduate experience. For the 2025–2026 academic year, NCWU has been named a College of Distinction, a prestigious designation awarded to institutions whose commitment to engaged learning, experiential education, and student success sets them apart.
This recognition is based on Colleges of Distinction’s unique evaluation framework known as the Four Distinctions: Engaged Students, Great Teaching, Vibrant Community, and Successful Outcomes. Through extensive research and in-depth interviews, Colleges of Distinction identifies colleges and universities that make a meaningful, measurable impact on students’ lives—not those driven solely by rankings or prestige metrics.
“North Carolina Wesleyan University has cultivated a campus culture where students are empowered to take ownership of their learning,” said Tyson Schritter, Chief Operating Officer at Colleges of Distinction. “Its programs reflect the innovation, intentionality, and personalized support that prepare students not just for graduation, but for life beyond college.”
Unlike traditional rankings, Colleges of Distinction highlights institutions that prioritize educational impact through high-impact practices such as first-year seminars, collaborative projects, undergraduate research, global learning, and internships. NCWU’s selection reflects its long-standing commitment to these practices and to providing individualized support throughout the student journey.
Business College of Distinction
In addition to its institutional recognition, NCWU has also been named a 2025–2026 Business College of Distinction, honoring the University’s undergraduate business programs for their balance of academic rigor and real-world application.
This distinction is awarded to schools that demonstrate accreditation, a well-rounded and multidisciplinary curriculum, applied learning opportunities, and a strong record of graduate outcomes.
“NCWU understands that effective business education is about more than numbers—it’s about developing innovative, ethical leaders,” Schritter said. “Through faculty mentorship, interdisciplinary coursework, and immersive learning experiences, students gain the skills and adaptability needed to thrive in a rapidly changing global economy.”
Colleges of Distinction highlighted NCWU’s School of Business for its:
- Stability and longevity, with a well-established program and consistent enrollment
- Multidisciplinary offerings, including majors and minors across multiple business disciplines
- Hands-on learning, such as internships, consulting projects, and networking opportunities
- Collaborative coursework, including case-method teaching and business plan competitions
- Strong emphasis on business ethics and social responsibility
- Dedicated academic and career advising
- High-impact educational practices, including capstones and service-based learning
- Robust industry connections that support internships and job placement
Graduates of NCWU’s School of Business leave with more than technical proficiency—they develop leadership, critical thinking, and collaboration skills in environments that mirror the complexity of today’s marketplace.
Military Support College of Distinction
Further reinforcing its commitment to student success, NCWU was also named a Military Support College of Distinction, recognizing the University’s outstanding services and resources for veterans, active-duty service members, and military-affiliated students.
As more military students pursue higher education, Colleges of Distinction honors only select institutions that provide intentional, comprehensive support tailored to their unique needs.
“Rather than viewing military students as a statistic, NCWU supports them as individuals—each with their own goals, strengths, and challenges,” Schritter said. “We are proud to recognize institutions that go above and beyond to serve those who have served our country.”
Key elements of NCWU’s military support include:
- Comprehensive educational benefits, including participation in federal tuition assistance and training programs
- A dedicated Military and Veterans Affairs team to assist with enrollment, benefits, transition support, and career services
- Flexible academic options, such as online programs, flexible enrollment, and credit for military service
- Intentional campus community support, including dedicated spaces, student organizations, and counselors trained in areas such as PTSD and suicide prevention
“As a Military Support College of Distinction, NCWU has proven itself as a place where military-affiliated students aren’t just welcomed—they’re championed,” Schritter added.
Dr. Joseph Lane, NCWU Provost and Senior VP for academic affairs shares, “North Carolina Wesleyan takes pride in offering students degree pathways that fulfill our promise of a personal, practical, and purpose-driven education. We appreciate that Colleges of Distinction recognizes our superior educational outcomes and commitment to student success.”
About Colleges of Distinction
Since 2000, Colleges of Distinction has been committed to recognizing schools across the United States for their exceptional contributions to higher education. Member institutions within the Colleges of Distinction consortium distinguish themselves through their unwavering focus on providing an outstanding undergraduate experience. Their website offers dynamic college profiles, customized tools, and valuable resources for students, parents, and high school counselors. For more information and to discover how to become a College of Distinction, visit CollegesofDistinction.com.
Ensuring Opportunity Never Pauses: The Power of Philanthropy
Across higher education, recent federal developments have prompted important conversations—particularly among Minority Serving Institutions (MSIs). New guidance and decisions from the U.S. Department of Justice and the Department of Education signal changes to how certain discretionary federal grant programs will operate moving forward. Many of these programs have historically provided mission-critical support to both MSIs and the students they serve.
For many colleges and universities, these shifts raise understandable questions. Federal funding has long played a role in helping institutions expand access, support students through challenges, and respond to workforce needs. When the funding landscape changes, institutions must take a step back and thoughtfully consider what comes next.
For North Carolina Wesleyan University, a proud Minority Serving Institution, this moment reinforces the importance of planning ahead, diversifying support, and strengthening partnerships that ensure long-term stability for our students and our mission.
“Higher education is constantly evolving, and moments like this remind us that adaptability and community support are essential,” said Dr. Evan D. Duff, President of North Carolina Wesleyan University. “Our responsibility is to continue serving students with excellence, regardless of shifts in the external environment.”
Understanding the Broader Context
Two recent federal actions have contributed to growing discussion within the MSI community:
One involves increased federal scrutiny of certain programs that previously provided targeted support to Minority Serving Institutions. These changes leave many institutions facing questions about the future funding availability and compliance requirements. Another includes the Department of Education’s decision to discontinue specific discretionary grant programs tied to MSI designation.
While these decisions are rooted in legal and regulatory considerations, their ripple effects are being felt across higher education. Institutions that serve large numbers of first-generation students, adult learners, Pell Grant recipients, and students from rural or economically challenged regions must now plan amid greater uncertainty.
As leaders across the country reflect on these changes, a common question emerges: How do institutions continue to deliver opportunity and access when traditional funding streams become less predictable?
What This Means for Minority Serving Institutions
Minority Serving Institutions play a critical role in the higher education ecosystem. They often serve students with significant potential and determination, many of whom balance academics with work, family responsibilities, and financial constraints. Federal support has historically helped MSIs:
- Reduce financial barriers for first-generation students and students from economically challenged households
- Build and sustain academic programs
- Provide tutoring, mentoring, and career readiness resources
- Strengthen workforce pipelines in education, healthcare, business, and public service
When funding becomes less certain, institutions must work harder to preserve these supports. Program growth may slow, student services can feel stretched, and workforce pathways that communities rely on may face added pressure.
At the same time, institutions like NC Wesleyan remain deeply committed to innovation, student success, and regional impact even as they navigate these challenges.
NC Wesleyan’s Ongoing Commitment
North Carolina Wesleyan University has long focused on providing a personalized, practical, and purpose-driven education, particularly for students from central and eastern North Carolina. As an MSI, the University places student potential at the center of everything it does, preparing graduates not only for careers but for lives of leadership and service.
“Our students come to us with ambition, resilience, and a desire to make a difference,” said Dr. Joseph Lane, Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs. “Our role is to meet them where they are, support their growth, and ensure they have access to the resources needed to succeed.”
Maintaining this level of support in a shifting funding environment calls for new approaches, thoughtful stewardship, and strong relationships beyond federal sources.
Why Private Support Matters More Than Ever
Private philanthropy, whether from individuals, foundations, corporations, or community partners, has always been an important part of NC Wesleyan’s story. Today, it plays an even more critical role.
Private support helps the University:
- Provide emergency and retention funding when students face unexpected challenges
- Create new academic programs and realign existing programs with evolving workforce needs and expectations
- Offer scholarships that reduce financial strain and increase access
- Strengthen career preparation, advising, and student success initiatives
Simply put, philanthropy helps ensure that opportunity does not pause when circumstances change.
In recent years, private philanthropy has played a stabilizing role for many institutions navigating change. Philanthropists such as MacKenzie Scott, who has made significant unrestricted gifts to colleges and universities across North Carolina and beyond, and Bloomberg Philanthropies, which has invested nationally in strengthening nursing and healthcare education, illustrate how private support can reinforce institutional capacity. Similarly, historic gifts like the more than $370 million pledged to Cornell University to endow and name its College of Engineering show how visionary donors can expand research, teaching, and student opportunity at scale across the higher education landscape.
Where Philanthropy Makes a Difference
Support for NC Wesleyan can take many forms, each with meaningful impact:
- Scholarships and endowed funds for first-generation students, adult learners, and career changers
- Program innovation that opens new academic pathways and created opportunities for hands-on learning
- Student success initiatives including enhanced advising, mentorship programs, internships, and practica to foster career readiness
- Community partnerships that strengthen regional education, healthcare, and workforce development
These investments don’t just support individual students, they strengthen families, employers, and communities throughout the region.
Looking Ahead, Together
Federal policy changes serve as a reminder that higher education thrives best when it is supported by a broad and engaged community. For NC Wesleyan, this moment is both a challenge and an opportunity: a chance to deepen partnerships, invite new voices into the conversation, and ensure the University remains strong for generations to come.
“Our mission has always been about opening doors,” Tammy Robinson, Director of Donor Engagement, shared. “With the support of our partners and supporters, we will continue to do just that, creating pathways to success for students and strengthening the communities we serve.”
NC Wesleyan’s students are ready to lead. With stability, opportunity, and shared investment, they will continue to do so—across North Carolina and beyond.
NCWU Grad Hits Home Run with Internship Mentorship!
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) continues to highlight the power of experiential learning and alumni engagement through a unique internship opportunity connecting a current student-athlete with a Bishop alumna working in professional sports.
NC Wesleyan student Brooklynn Covic, a communications major and member of the Bishops Volleyball team, gained hands-on experience this past summer as a Creative Video Intern with the Greensboro Grasshoppers, the High-A affiliate of the Pittsburgh Pirates. Covic’s internship was guided by Callie Cline, a North Carolina Wesleyan alumna and the Grasshoppers’ Manager of Social Media and Media Services.
Covic’s journey began on campus, where she works as a student assistant with NC Wesleyan Athletics, creating social media content and graphics to promote Bishop athletic programs. That foundational experience helped prepare her for the professional sports environment she now navigates daily.
“I really hope to bring these skills back to our athletic department to continue capturing and celebrating our student-athletes,” Covic said. “This internship has allowed me to grow creatively and professionally while seeing how the skills I’ve learned at NC Wesleyan translate to the real world.”
For Cline, the opportunity to mentor a current Bishop is both personal and purposeful. As a former NC Wesleyan volleyball student-athlete and multimedia intern, she understands the impact early professional experience can have on a student’s career trajectory.
“I wish I would have started sooner and prioritized internships and experience earlier,” Cline said. “Being able to give back and help a current student see what’s possible is incredibly rewarding. NC Wesleyan helped lay the foundation for my career, and it’s exciting to be part of that process for someone else.”
This internship reflects NC Wesleyan’s commitment to hands-on learning, career readiness, and fostering meaningful alumni connections. By creating opportunities that extend beyond the classroom, the university continues to prepare students for success in competitive professional fields.
For more information about internship opportunities and experiential learning at North Carolina Wesleyan University, visit ncwu.edu.
