GOLDSBORO, NC – Wayne Community College and North Carolina Wesleyan University have renewed their commitment to seamless transfer between the two schools.
Dr. Thomas A. Walker Jr., president of WCC, and Dr. Evan D. Duff, interim president of NC Wesleyan, signed an agreement for “Wesleyan Works,” a transfer program for community college students who plan to continue their education at NC Wesleyan.
Students who participate in Wesleyan Works are guaranteed acceptance into NC Wesleyan once they earn an Associate in Arts, Associate in Science, or other Associate in Applied Science degree from WCC and their WCC courses will transfer seamlessly into comparable bachelor’s degree programs at NCWC.
While they are enrolled in WCC, Wesleyan Works participants will have access to academic advising and financial aid counseling from both institutions and can attend events on both the WCC campus and the NCWC main campus in Rocky Mount.
“My first objective when I came to Wesleyan was to build partnerships to provide access to a bachelor’s degree to as many NC community college graduates as possible,” said Dr. Duff. “My goal is to be the best transfer partner.”
Dr. Walker agreed that such alliances enhance WCC’s programs by providing smooth transitions into further educational opportunities. “This program sets up our students to not only succeed here but also when they get to NC Wesleyan,” said Dr. Walker. “We are constantly striving to improve the path that takes our students to advanced educational options and better stations in life.”
Officials at both colleges view the agreement as a win-win situation for the schools and their respective students. The ability to pursue a four-year degree upon completion of an associate degree is attractive to WCC students and NC Wesleyan has the opportunity to grow its enrollment with a pool of students who have proven that they have the academic skills to succeed in an institution of higher education.
For more information, potential participants can contact Kacee Ingram, director of the WCC College Transfer Advising Center, at 919-739-6755 or klingram@waynecc.edu.
About Wayne Community College
Wayne Community College is a public, learning-centered institution with an open-door admission policy located in Goldsboro, N.C. 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.
FREE Concert: The United States Air Force Heritage of America Concert Band
Enjoy a concert given by the United States Air Force Heritage of America Concert Band at the Dunn Center – Minges Auditorium, February 18th, 2020, 7:00PM. The concert is FREE at open to the public.
For six decades, the USAF Heritage of America Concert Band has educated, inspired and entertained over 1.5 million people annually, by providing music for events that support Airmen and their families, honor our Nation’s veterans and build relationships of trust between the American people and their Air Force. The Concert Band is comprised of over 40 professional Airman-musicians who captivate audiences on regular tours throughout the East Coast with a variety of renditions of great orchestral classics, marches, Broadway hits, jazz standards, movie music and patriotic favorites.
Activated in 1941, The United States Air Force Heritage of America Band has a rich history of inspiring public patriotism and enhancing esprit de corps among all the US military service branches. These world-class airman-musicians are stationed at Joint Base Langley-Eustis in Hampton, Virginia. They travel throughout the Carolinas, Mid-Atlantic and Northeast regions, presenting over 300 events annually for the general public and in support of Airman morale and protocol events. Under the leadership of Major Rafael Toro-Quiñones, the USAF Heritage of America Band remains at the forefront of communicating Air Force core values and preserving and enriching America’s military and musical heritage into the 21st century.
For additional information about this free concert, please contact:or visit the band’s website: www.heritageofamericaband.af.mil
Contact Information:
MSgt Ryan Heseltine
Director of Operations
(757)225.3295
patrick.heseltine@us.af.mil
North Carolina Wesleyan, Forsyth Technical Community College Sign New Transfer Partnership Agreement
A new transfer partnership agreement will create a streamlined path for Forsyth Technical Community College graduates to pursue a bachelor’s degree from North Carolina Wesleyan.
WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. (January 8, 2020) –-During a formal signing event on Wednesday, January 8, North Carolina Wesleyan University announced a new agreement with Forsyth Technical Community College (Forsyth Tech) to facilitate degree completion and student success by improving access to undergraduate educational resources, college facilities and support systems.
“Forsyth Tech is thrilled to collaborate with NC Wesleyan in this agreement,” said President of Forsyth Tech Dr. Janet N. Spriggs. “Having this strategic alliance will offer tremendous benefits to our students and to the community in demonstrating how higher education works together to improve student completion and success.”
In partnership, NC Wesleyan and Forsyth Tech will enhance and expand the educational opportunities for Forsyth Tech’s Associate in Science specifically in Business Administration and Criminal Justice programs. NC Wesleyan will maintain a full-time Coordinator of Transfer Admission at one of the Forsyth Tech campus sites.
“NCWC has a long history of partnering with NC Community Colleges and we are excited to add FT to our list of partners,” said Interim President of NC Wesleyan Dr. Evan D. Duff. “It is collaborations like this that enable students to attain their bachelor’s or master’s degree without having to leave their family or job.”
FT has launched five new co-admission partnerships over the last two years with Bellevue University, North Carolina Agricultural and Technical University, Salem College University of North Carolina – Greensboro and Winston-Salem State University, to improve student access to undergraduate and graduate education. The programs begin enrolling in fall 2019.
North Carolina Wesleyan University, a private institution affiliated with the United Methodist Church, prepares students for professional advancement, life-long learning and responsible participation in their communities. NC Wesleyan University provides a highly personalized education in a dynamic and challenging environment. With students from all over the United States and more than 40 different countries, NC Wesleyan is a small college with a big taste for cultural diversity. Follow NCWC on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and Instagram.
About Forsyth Tech
Forsyth Technical Community College is a catalyst for equitable economic mobility, empowering lives and transforming communities. The college offers associate degrees, diplomas, and certificates in over 200 programs of study, including programs that promote personal and professional development through non-credit courses and seminars, as well as customized training for business and industry. Forsyth Tech serves more than 35,000 students with approximately 1,500 full and part-time faculty and staff. For additional information, visit forsythtech.edu and follow on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and Instagram.
The Dunn Center for the Performing Arts Receives Bequest from Trustee Emeriti
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – The Dunn Center for the Performing Arts recently received a gift from the late John J. Ferebee, Sr. This gift will be held as an endowment fund to be used for the annual costs of maintenance and upkeep of The Dunn Center.
John J. Ferebee, Sr., who passed away on October 7, 2019, was the previous Board of Trustees Vice Chairman for North Carolina Wesleyan University and a recipient of the College’s prestigious Algernon Sydney Sullivan Award. His son, John “Jett” Ferebee is a current member of the College’s Board of Trustees.
“The Dunn Center staff is so grateful for this generous gift,” stated Sheila Martin, Executive Director of The Dunn Center for the Performing Arts. “Mr. Ferebee and his family have been strong supporters of the performing arts on campus since the building opened 23 years ago. He had the same two seats for all of our season shows until his health declined a number of years ago. Mr. Ferebee’s gift will be used to greatly enhance the quality of the lighting and audio on our proscenium stage in the Minges Auditorium.”
The Dunn Center for the Performing Arts is located on the campus of North Carolina Wesleyan University. The facility includes the 1,181 seat Minges Auditorium, the intimate Powers Recital Hall and several galleries including Mims Gallery. Other spaces include the Carlton Board Room, Garner Lobby, as well as an acting classroom. The Dunn Center features a variety of campus and community events, including Wesleyan Players productions and concerts of the Tar River Swing Band and Orchestra.
Wesleyan Holds Winter Commencement
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – On Saturday, December 14, North Carolina Wesleyan University held its winter commencement for approximately 225 graduates at the Rocky Mount Event Center.
This is the College’s 78th graduation, with the first occurring in 1960. There were 11 international graduates from three countries: El Salvador, Nepal and Argentina. This commencement also included the second cohort of Wesleyan’s new Master’s in Criminal Justice program.
“These degrees are provided by an institution which seeks not only to dispense knowledge and develop the habits for lifelong learning, but also expects its graduates to be responsible citizens, contributors to the common good, women and men who care about others,” stated Interim President Dr. Evan D. Duff.
The commencement address was given by Ms. Constance D. Williams, Senior Vice President and Head of Human Resources, Americas, Sony Music Entertainment located in New York, NY. In this role, she leads Sony Music’s talent acquisition and talent management functions. Prior to her employment at Sony Music Entertainment, Ms. Williams was an adjunct professor at North Carolina Wesleyan University, credentialed to teach courses in Psychology, Business and Organizational Administration at all levels.
Williams addressed the graduates, stating “The world you’re graduating into is complex and is full of hope and optimism…you have to remain optimistic and you have to believe that you can impact change. That it’s up to you to give this world a better and brighter future.” She informed them “It is your duty to leave every place better than when you arrived. While you’re diploma will help pave the way for success, it is your commitment to impacting your own greatness that will translate into success. Don’t be a bystander.”
Wesleyan also honored the families of four young ladies with Honorary Posthumous Degrees: Robyne Barnes, Quedeshia “Donyell” Brown, Kandis McBride-Jones and Donesha “Dee” Scott. These NC Wesleyan freshmen passed away on March 21, 2016 in a car accident in front of the campus entrance.
Wesleyan will hold its spring commencement on Saturday, April 25.
Wesleyan Board Chair Establishes Nell Rose Ellis Boone Endowment
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – Dr. Daniel and Mrs. Brenda Crocker recently established the Nell Rose Ellis Boone Endowment at North Carolina Wesleyan University in memory of their longtime friend, Mrs. Nell Boone. It was the Crocker’s desire that the scholarship qualifications be established by Mrs. Boone’s surviving sons, Bert and Neal Boone. The recipient must be an upperclassman, maintain at least a 3.0 GPA, be active in their church, involved in community service, and demonstrate good personal character and academic achievement. The criteria specifies the student should be from northeastern North Carolina pursuing a major in Education.
Mrs. Boone, who passed away February 20 of this year, retired from the Nash-Rocky Mount School System after 35 dedicated years as a high school chemistry and physics teacher. Her joy of teaching was evident through her love for all of her students through the years. She was very active in her church, Red Oak Baptist Church, having served in many capacities including faithfully teaching Sunday school for over 70 years.
The Crockers have been loyal supporters of North Carolina Wesleyan University for almost 40 years. Dr. Daniel Crocker currently serves as Chair for the Board of Trustees and Mrs. Crocker previously served as Chair of the Board of Visitors. This isn’t the first endowment established by the Crockers; they also funded the Essie Mae Batten Crocker Endowment in memory of Dr. Crocker’s late mother, as well as the Dr. James Durant Melton Outward Bound Scholarship in memory of Crocker’s dear friend. The Crockers are also supporters of the Taylor-Crocker Honors Program which encourages students in Wesleyan’s Honors Program to engage and excel in activities that may not have been available to them without the funding. The Crockers were chosen as recipients of Wesleyan’s 2016 Algernon Sydney Sullivan Award which recognizes members of the College community of noble character and who have acted as humble servants to others by putting service above self.
The power of an endowment is never-ending— it is a gift that continues to serve the College in perpetuity and is a wonderful way to honor or cherish the memory of loved ones. If you would like to impact lives while continuing a family legacy, please contact Tammy Robinson in the Office of Advancement at trobinson@ncwu.edu or 252.985.5581.
Bishops Bounce Back After Summer Storm
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – On June 20, 2019, a sudden and severe storm hit NC Wesleyan University causing damage to the Vernon T. Bradley Sports Complex. It was later confirmed by the National Weather Service that the damage was caused by straight-line winds. The College was fortunate that the damage was isolated to the sports fields and that no person or building was harmed. Now, the College is bouncing back and rebuilding better than ever.
The storm resulted in approximately $250,000 of damages, including significant destruction to Edge softball field, the most prevalent being downed fencing, damaged bleachers, a torn down scoreboard and the home field dugout was destroyed. Other areas of campus, such as the Bauer baseball field and Vernon T. Bradley practice football field, also sustained fence damage. Approximately ninety-two trees were broken off or down in the woods bordering Thomas A. Betts Parkway. That day, many from the Wesleyan family quickly poured in and assisted in removing debris, gathering equipment and collecting field maintenance gear from the damaged softball storage house adjacent to the field.
Home Softball Field Dugout Damage 
Fencing & Roof Damage 
Tree Damage 
Home Softball Field Reconstruction 
Wesleyan Rebuilds
A substantial portion of the damage was covered by insurance and since then, Wesleyan has been busy rebuilding what was lost and improving what was damaged. This includes a new and improved softball dugout, a new fence around the Bauer Baseball Field and a new softball scoreboard.
“The softball facility sustained significant damage to the scoreboard, dugout, storage shed and fencing during the June storm. We currently have new fencing and a new dugout with a storage area and bathrooms. Our new scoreboard will be going up in the next couple of weeks,” stated Head Softball Coach, John Brackett. “The teamwork that was displayed that day was just as stunning as the storm itself. I am truly thankful for all of those that pitched in to help that day, as well as those that have been instrumental in the rebuilding process.” Wesleyan was able to show off some of these campus improvements during their Homecoming Weekend on October 12. Students, faculty, staff, alumni and friends of the College came together for a weekend full of festivities, including their first-ever on-campus football game. As final repairs take shape, the College looks forward to the New Year and utilizing these improvements in the spring.
Wesleyan to Host 14th Annual “Lighting of Wesleyan”
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – North Carolina Wesleyan University will host its 14th annual Lighting of Wesleyan event on Thursday, December 5 from 5:30 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at The Dunn Center for the Performing Arts.
This event is open to the community and will cover many festive activities including a live nativity performed by Englewood United Methodist Church, free hayrides by the Battling Bishops baseball team and a meet and greet with Santa. Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer, Snowman and Wesleyan Puppy will all be on hand for hugs and photos. In addition, the NC Wesleyan women’s soccer and volleyball teams will be selling hot beverages and other concessions to benefit their programs. Guests can stroll through the College commons while enjoying a large collection of inflatables and Christmas lights.
Everyone is invited inside The Dunn Center to sing along with the Wesleyan Singers as they perform carols and other Christmas favorites on stage in the Garner Lobby. Then stick around for a free concert by the Northern Nash High School Band, followed by free photos with Santa after the show in the Garner Lobby.
Santa and Interim President Dr. Evan D. Duff, will arrive near the end of the evening aboard a Rocky Mount Fire Department fire truck. Come out and experience NC Wesleyan’s beautiful campus while kicking off the Christmas season!
Wesleyan Welcomes Woofs, Wags & Wiggles
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – North Carolina Wesleyan University has announced that it is now a dog-friendly campus. The community is encouraged to bring their dogs for a walk along Wesleyan’s two-mile walking trail around the perimeter of campus or complete their full 5K path all while enjoying the campus’ beautiful scenery.
Canine family and friends are now allowed on campus for occasional visits, as long as they are accompanied by their owner and stay within designated “dog-friendly” areas, such as the outer walking trail and sidewalks around campus. To maintain the cleanliness of campus and safety of guests, all indoor areas and athletic fields are not classified as dog-friendly locations. The College’s new dog policy states they must be on a flea and tick program, remain leashed at all times and have their vaccine ID tag visible or paperwork available if asked by security. It also acknowledges that owners are responsible for any clean up and disposal of their dog’s waste. Dog waste stations will start to appear on campus within the coming weeks. These will be placed around the walking trail and in other convenient locations.
“Although Wesleyan has been open to community members walking their dogs on campus, this policy makes it an official endorsement. We love our dogs and what better place to take them for a stroll than Wesleyan’s walking trail,” acknowledged Interim President Dr. Evan D. Duff.
In order to ensure access for individuals with disabilities, service dogs are permitted on the premises per the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. Service dogs have access to all buildings and facilities on campus, as long as they are behaving appropriately, are house broken and do not pose a threat to the health and safety of others.
NC Wesleyan looks forward to seeing their new canine guests on campus and are “pawsitive” they’ll have a dog-gone good time. For more information on the College’s dog policy, please visit ncwu.edu/dogsoncampus.
Wesleyan’s New MBA Program Slated to Begin January 6
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – North Carolina Wesleyan University is thrilled to announce that its new Master of Business Administration program has been fully approved by its regional accreditor, the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools-Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). The inaugural class will start on January 6, 2020.
“NC Wesleyan University has been equipping business students to be industry leaders at the undergraduate level for over 60 years. We are taking our expertise in this subject matter to the next level. Our MBA will meet the region’s needs to having highly qualified managers and leaders at all levels of an organization,” commented Interim President Dr. Evan D. Duff.
The MBA program will be 100% online and consist of 33 credit hours to accommodate those seeking work or who are already working. The one-year program will consist of five eight-week sessions, two classes per session and end with a final capstone class. The program is designed for students seeking to develop their knowledge and broaden their skills in management and leadership. The curriculum is designed to enhance students’ ability to develop and implement organizational strategies that deliver business results. The MBA degree offers rolling admission, meaning those attending can start the program throughout the year at the beginning of any new eight-week session.
NC Wesleyan is the only private, non-profit college currently offering an online MBA degree in the region. Those who are interested in learning more about the MBA program can contact Dani Somers, Director of Adults Studies & Graduate Admissions, at dsomers@ncwu.edu.
