ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – The Golden LEAF Foundation awarded NC Wesleyan University with a $100,000 grant to support their new Logistics and Supply Chain Management baccalaureate program that actively started this fall. This award is in addition to a grant awarded by the NC Office of State Budget and Management in August 2018.
NC Wesleyan has offered a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a concentration in Logistics for a number of years. The new degree program, which kicked off this semester, offers a more comprehensive, focused curriculum designed with the needs of the local industry in mind. The program addresses cost efficiency, cutting-edge technologies and sophisticated strategies and practices as it relates to the movement of raw materials and goods in a global economy. Dr. Melanie Townsend was hired before the start of the semester as the full-time visiting professor for the program.
The program, offered on the Rocky Mount campus and online, is in response to the growing advanced manufacturing and distribution sector in the greater Rocky Mount area and eastern North Carolina. It will also address the immediate need for a well-prepared and qualified workforce for local companies such as Pfizer, Cummins-Rocky Mount Engine Plant and Eagle Transport, in addition to new companies such as the CCX Carolina Connector, Triangle Tire, Corning and FFE Transportation Services. Wesleyan’s program prepares students for middle- and senior-level management positions.
The program is targeted toward traditional students who choose to attend Wesleyan following high school, transfer students from community colleges, adult students interested in changing careers and workers who are already employed in the industry. Students can choose from traditional in-person classes, online classes or a hybrid program of both classroom and online.
Articulation agreements were signed at the beginning of August with Nash and Edgecombe Community Colleges that offer students with AAS degrees a seamless transfer to Wesleyan’s Logistics and Supply Chain Management degree program.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in Logistics and Supply Chain Management is projected to grow 7% through 2026 due to the transportation of goods in a global economy. The annual wage for logisticians with a four-year degree is $74,590.
The Golden LEAF Foundation is a nonprofit organization established in 1999 to receive a portion of North Carolina’s funding received from the 1998 Master Settlement Agreement with cigarette manufacturers. For 20 years, Golden LEAF has worked to increase economic opportunity in North Carolina’s rural and tobacco-dependent communities through leadership in grant making, collaboration, innovation, and stewardship as an independent and perpetual foundation.
Wesleyan Reports Increase in Returning Students
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – North Carolina Wesleyan University welcomed 373 new and 734 returning students to campus kicking off the 2019-2020 academic year. The College is pleased to report that retention rates are trending higher than last year by approximately 4% and the College’s residence halls are at 94% capacity. Recruitment efforts for this class emphasized local recruitment, a diverse representation, and building upon the College’s academic programs.
Local Focus
There has been a concerted effort to recruit local students from area high school and transfer partners. Seventy-one percent of the Class of 2023 comes from North Carolina, which is an increase of 5% over the previous year. Wesleyan admitted 112 students from Nash, Edgecombe, Wilson, Halifax and Franklin counties accounting for nearly 30% of the incoming 2019 student body. According to Paige Price Wells, Assistant Director of Recruiting for Admissions, “It is important that we continue to serve and provide for the educational needs of our community, whether a student is pursuing an undergraduate or graduate education.”
A Diverse Representation
While Wesleyan places a focus on serving local high school graduates, the incoming class also consists of students from 203 schools, 10 states and 20 different countries around the world. Thirty-three new international students now attend North Carolina Wesleyan University spanning the globe from Argentina to Japan.
NC Wesleyan’s Director of International Recruitment, Alex Rodriguez, states “Wesleyan hopes to sustain the recruitment success of international students. The College assists international students through scholarships, academic support and cultural activities. Each of these services are tailored to the individualized needs of our international students. Wesleyan provides students with a warm welcome as they arrive to their new home away from home and join our Bishop family.”
Academic Gains
This past May, Wesleyan graduated the first cohort of its new Master’s in Criminal Justice program. The College hopes to continue building upon those academic gains, with the addition of its second graduate degree in the near future. The Master of Business Administration (MBA) is currently pending approval by NC Wesleyan’s accreditor, the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACSCOC), with classes anticipated to start in January 2020.
Wesleyan Works, the Fast Track to a Bachelor’s Degree
For North Carolina Community College Graduates
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWC) is pleased to announce a guaranteed transfer pathway for North Carolina community college graduates—Wesleyan Works.
Designed for students who attend community college and want to earn their bachelor’s degree, Wesleyan Works is a set of simple guidelines to make their aspiration a seamless transition. The program is open to students who want to attend NCWC’s evening/online adult studies program once they have finished their two-year degree.
Community college graduates who earn an Associate of Arts (AA), Associate of Science (AS) or Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degrees are guaranteed automatic acceptance to North Carolina Wesleyan University through the Wesleyan Works program. Other highlights include students are able to apply to NCWC while being enrolled in their local community college, there are no application fees and students are provided with an NCWC Wesleyan Works student identification card, which will grant them access to events at the main Rocky Mount campus. Most importantly, participants will have access to joint academic advising and financial aid counseling to maximize their time and savings while attending both their local community college and NC Wesleyan University.
Students participating in Wesleyan Works must maintain a 2.0 GPA, complete our free application, obtain their AA/AS/AAS degree with a participating community college and submit all official college transcripts.
A full list of program details and participating community colleges can be found at ncwu.edu/wesleyanworks. NC Wesleyan University offers flexible program formats with majors in today’s growing industries and locations throughout Eastern North Carolina to make learning more accessible than ever.
In addition to our traditional campus in Rocky Mount with over 30 majors for traditional students, NCWC offers baccalaureate degree options for adult learners at sites in Goldsboro, Raleigh-Durham, and Rocky Mount, and at Brunswick Community College in Brunswick County; Craven Community College in New Bern; Pitt Community College in Greenville; The College of the Albemarle in Manteo; Beaufort County Community College in Washington; Wake Tech Community College in Raleigh and Cape Fear Community College in Wilmington.
North Carolina Wesleyan University is a private, coeducational, liberal arts institution affiliated with The United Methodist Church. Current enrollment is approximately 1,800 traditional and adult students. The College offers bachelor’s degrees and pre-professional programs such as law, medicine, pharmacy, optometry and more.
Wesleyan Hires Professor for New Logistics Program
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA— North Carolina Wesleyan University announces the hiring of Dr. Melanie Townsend as a full-time visiting professor for its new Bachelor of Science in Logistics and Supply Chain Management program. In June, Wesleyan acknowledged plans for the new major to start in fall 2019. The degree will be offered on its main campus in Rocky Mount and online.
Dr. Townsend holds a B.S. in Management and Organizational Development, a M.S. in Operations Management and a Ph.D. in Human Services & Non-Profit Management. She brings to Wesleyan a wealth of logistics experience, working with FedEx, Randstad, Dupre’ Logistics and KM Logistics. She also has experience with Six Sigma Project Management, grant writing and fundraising.
Dr. Evan Duff, Interim President stated, “The Bachelor of Science in Logistics and Supply Chain Management degree will meet the needs of many organizations who rely on skilled professionals to serve their logistical needs. Dispatchers, warehouse managers, inventory specialists, supply chain analysts, operation managers and transportation supervisors are just a few of the careers that require this degree. Every industry requires logistics professionals and our program will prepare individuals for these jobs. Our degree program is also aligned with Edgecombe and Nash Community Colleges’ related programs so that their graduates can easily apply their associate degree to our bachelor’s degree.”
In her spare time, Townsend volunteers with the Junior League of Raleigh and travels as much as possible. Her husband, Daniel, works as the Machining Director for the Cummins Rocky Mount Engine Plant.
To learn more about the new Bachelor of Science in Logistics and Supply Chain Management programs, contact the Office of Admissions at 252.985.5200.
Iconic TV Personality Welcomes Class of 2023 to NC Wesleyan University
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA— North Carolina Wesleyan University held its 63rd annual new student convocation today at The Dunn Center for the Performing Arts. Interim President, Dr. Evan D. Duff, welcomed the Class of 2023 and congratulated them on taking the next step in their educational journey.
“During your time at Wesleyan, you will learn meaningful skills that will help you to successfully navigate life… so you can make an impact on the world,” stated Duff. “
The ceremony highlight was keynote speaker David Crabtree, lead anchor/reporter for WRAL-TV in Raleigh. After addressing the crowd, the award-winning reporter of over 37 years challenged new students to “change the world and love your neighbor.”
Crabtree, a Tennessee native, is no stranger to dedicating one’s time and effort to advancing their education, after receiving his Master of Divinity from Duke Divinity School in May. Some of Crabtree’s most memorable assignments include the election of Pope Francis, the funeral of Nelson Mandela, an interview with Holocaust survivors, Pope John Paul II’s funeral, Mother Theresa’s funeral and covering seven major hurricanes, to name a few.
David Crabtree imparted this knowledge upon students— “You are on a magnificent journey. Embrace it. Love it. Love your neighbors. Change the world. Make us better.”
Other speakers included College chaplain, Reverend Barry Drum, Interim VP of Academic Affairs & Dean of Students, Dr. Molly Wyatt and Associate Dean of Students, Jessie Langley.
New students poured out of The Dunn Center embraced by a cheering crowd of returning students, faculty, staff and friends of the College who formed a time-honored tradition— the Bishop Tunnel. As they proceeded through the tunnel, they were each welcomed by Dr. and Mrs. Duff. Students then continued on to the annual Rock the Mount event at the Southern Bank Green, where they were also greeted by local businesses and community organizations.
Wesleyan Anticipates RN-to-BSN Program in Near Future
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – In an effort to increase academic opportunities, North Carolina Wesleyan University has announced the anticipation of an RN-to-BSN program for licensed nurses.
With the College’s growth in its biology, biomedical and exercise science programs, it is a natural fit for Wesleyan to explore adding this to their curriculum. This program will be for licensed nurses who have an Associate’s Degree in Nursing and desire to obtain a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. The Institute of Medicine strongly recommends hospitals to employ nurses with a bachelor’s degree (BSN), stating 80% of nurses should have this credential. With a strong focus on increased education in this field, Wesleyan believes this program will offer a great benefit to the community and the surrounding hospitals.
“An RN-to-BSN program at Wesleyan will not only strengthen the collaboration between the three main colleges in the Twin Counties and the hospital, but it will enhance opportunities for registered nurses to further their education with a college in their community,” stated Dr. Evan D. Duff, Interim President of North Carolina Wesleyan University.
After conversations with Nash UNC Health Care and area community colleges, Nash Community College and Edgecombe Community College, Wesleyan’s Board of Trustees in April unanimously voted to move forward with a feasibility study that included donor and grant solicitation to fund startup costs required for a nursing program. Wesleyan has received a $150,000 grant over a three-year period from Nash UNC Health Care to support the development of the program.
“We are excited to enhance the growing network of continuing education available for the nursing profession in our community,” said Lee Isley, president and Chief Executive Officer of Nash UNC Health Care. “Our partnerships with all three local colleges help to ensure we are developing a pipeline of local talent who are well prepared to work in our local institutions and to continue to advance and improve the health care landscape in our community.”
A search is currently underway for the newly created position of Director of the RN-to-BSN Program. The person in this role will be responsible for curriculum development, oversight of day-to-day functions within the program and charged with attaining accreditation from both our regional accreditor, Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACSCOC) and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) accreditation. Once a Director has been hired for the new program, he or she will work with key stakeholders to develop the curriculum and apply for approval to offer the program with SACSCOC. Wesleyan hopes to begin classes in fall 2020, pending application submission and approval from the SACSCOC.
NC Wesleyan University Indoor Sports & Education Facility
We have received a commitment from an anonymous donor for the building of an indoor sports and education facility that will completely cover the cost of construction, along with a grant from the Nash County Tourism Development Authority. The vision is to provide North Carolina Wesleyan University the opportunity to enhance the scope of its educational and sports offerings, along with increasing partnerships and involvement within the local community through educational and sports programs for adults and youth. Wesleyan hopes to provide sports not readily available in this area, namely squash, indoor tennis and pickleball. Wesleyan has applied and been approved for a building permit with the Rocky Mount Planning Board. A construction start date has not been set at this time. The hope is that the facility will be completed by Spring of 2020.
Twin County Higher Education Unites for Student Success
NCWC, NCC & ECC Sign Statement of Collaboration
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – As the local colleges are ramping up for a new academic year, they are also working to foster a culture of collaboration between themselves. On August 1, the presidents of North Carolina Wesleyan University, Nash Community College and Edgecombe Community College met to sign a Statement of Collaboration.
“It’s important that local higher education institutions work together. What better way to collaborate than to have a Statement of Collaboration that shows Wesleyan as well as Nash and Edgecombe Community Colleges are working together on joint program development and grant opportunities. Let’s show the community we are not competitors, we work as a team,” stated Dr. Evan D. Duff, Interim President of North Carolina Wesleyan University.
This agreement strengthens the need for collaborative discussions regarding trade-specific training and educational opportunities for the region. Each institution certifies that they will work in sync with one another to contribute to industry demands. This alliance will lead to cross-professional development opportunities for faculty and staff, while also serving the needs of students, organizations and members of these communities.
“As we collaborate and look for partnerships we welcome these opportunities… together we can make this a better region,” commented Nash Community College President Dr. Bill Carver.
The Twin Counties is an ideal place for families to live, work and learn. This partnership benefits the community and our students as each institution unites to seek out new educational offerings and programs.
Dr. Gregory K. McLeod, President of Edgecombe Community College, closed with, “I believe the residents of the Twin Counties and surrounding areas deserve our best, and our best can only be realized through our collaboration and teamwork. For them and for us, we can’t afford not to work together… Together We Can. Together We Will.”
Wesleyan Provost Appointed Interim President
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – Dr. Evan D. Duff, Provost of North Carolina Wesleyan University, has accepted a two-year contract as Interim President of the College. Duff was appointed as Acting President by Board of Trustees on Friday, June 14.
“I am dedicated to Wesleyan and to continuing to move the College in a positive direction, where the mission of the College is fulfilled and a liberal arts education makes a difference in the lives of the students it serves,” stated Duff.
Dr. Duff earned his bachelor’s degree in business administration from Mount Olive College, a master’s in administration from Central Michigan University and a doctorate in organizational leadership from Nova Southeastern University. He has served in multiple leadership roles at the College since 2011, most recently as Provost.
During his time at Wesleyan, Duff held positions as Senior Vice President of Academic Affairs, Vice President of Adult & Professional Studies, adjunct professor and Provost. In these roles, he was responsible for leading efforts to approve new majors, co-writing the College’s first graduate application to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools- Commission on Colleges (SACS-COC) and creating seven new off-site instructional locations. He was also responsible for facilitating the development of partnerships with 20 two-year and four-year colleges, which led to articulation agreements or memorandums of understanding between those colleges and NC Wesleyan.
Prior to joining Wesleyan, Dr. Duff was the Dean of Extended Education at Mount Olive College (now University of Mount Olive) and Director of their Washington, NC campus. Throughout his career, he has authored or co-authored a great number of academic publications and presentations. He has been honored with a variety of awards for service to the College and the community.
He and his family are active at Hope Community Church in Cary, NC. Previously, they were active members of Covenant UMC in Greenville, where he served on the Pastoral Personnel Committee. Dr. Duff and his wife of 21 years, Marcy, have three sons and a daughter – Tyson, Landon, Peyton and Chloe. Their family has a love for animals and have adopted into their home four dogs and two cats, all of which are rescues.
NC Wesleyan Invites Businesses to Rock the Mount
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – Local businesses, churches and organizations can register today to meet NC Wesleyan University’s incoming Class of 2023 at the College’s eighth annual Rock the Mount event. This year’s event will be held on Tuesday, August 27 from 11:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Rock the Mount is an annual tradition for NC Wesleyan to welcome new students to campus and to the community. It takes place the day before the College’s first day of classes, serving as the official kick-off event for the new academic year. Local businesses and organizations are given the opportunity to come and celebrate the start of a new school year with food, music and free advertising.
Each year, hundreds of students flow through a Bishop Tunnel, formed by cheering returning students, faculty, staff, alumni and community members. The tunnel leads them to the Southern Bank Green, located in the center of campus, where businesses and organizations are setup with booths displaying their products and services. Last year’s Rock the Mount event brought 75 vendors to campus, including companies such as BB&T, Bojangles’ and Sheetz.
NC Wesleyan aims to have even more vendors this year. “This event was established in order to help build relationships between the College and the greater Rocky Mount area,” stated Tammy Robinson, Director of Donor Relations & Stewardship at Wesleyan. “Students are able to discover many of the area businesses and places to worship, as well as have the chance to discover volunteer and part-time job opportunities.”
The event is free to vendors and the College provides a six-foot folding table, two chairs and complimentary lunch. Exhibitors are required to bring table covers, while power cords and small tents (no larger than 10’ x 10’) are encouraged. Vendors can begin setting up the day of the event on the Southern Bank Green at 9:30 a.m. and are asked to have setup completed by 10:30 a.m.
Display spaces are limited, so businesses and organizations are encouraged to sign up now. All who would like to participate must register online by Friday, August 2 at rockthemount2019.eventbrite.com. For additional questions, contact Tammy Robinson at trobinson@ncwu.edu or at 252.985.5581.
