The local community is mourning the loss of J. Chris Wilson, a North Carolina landscape artist, educator, cultural advocate and historic preservationist for over 40 years. Wilson, who recently passed away in Wilmington, NC on Saturday, August 5, was known for his paintings that are part of public, corporate, and private collections in the United States, England, Saudi Arabia and Japan.
Photo by Ronald L. Sowers
Wilson received his undergraduate degree in art from Valdosta State University, studied drawing, bronze casting and art history in the University of Georgia Studies Abroad Program in Cortona, Italy, and completed his Master of Fine Arts (MFA) degree in drawing and painting in addition to post-MFA studies at the University of Georgia.
His artistic touch spread to Wesleyan beginning in 1988. When the historic Bellemonte House was originally moved from the back of campus to the front of campus in the fall of 1988, he served as the project coordinator and was highly involved in many aspects of its restoration. Wilson was instrumental in the successful nomination of the Bellemonte House for the National Register of Historic Places in 1989. He also painted the portrait of former NC Wesleyan professor and art collector, Daisy Thorp, that currently hangs in the President’s House in the dining room. In addition, Wilson and two others painted the large mural of chairs that previously hung outside The Dunn Center’s Carlton Boardroom. His tie to Wesleyan extends beyond the artistic work that he bestowed upon the University. He was also close with former NC Wesleyan President, Les Garner, and met his wife, Kathy, at the President’s house on campus.
Kathy served Wesleyan as a member of the Business faculty from August 1990 until her retirement with faculty emerita status in January 2017. A longtime friend and avid supporter of Wesleyan, Chris made many contributions to the University over the last several decades.
“Those who were fortunate enough to know Chris are deeply saddened by the news of his passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with Kathy and their children during this difficult time,” stated President Dr. Evan D. Duff. “There are a number of areas on campus he left a lasting legacy on. I’m glad to know these will live on for generations to come. I am honored to get to display a piece of his art in my home.”
Many of his North Carolina “Murphy to Manteo” landscape paintings have been on long-term exhibition in the House of Representatives Chamber in the North Carolina Legislative Building and The North Carolina Museum of History in Raleigh. His art work has been shown in galleries and museums throughout the Southeast including The Albany Museum of Art, The Burroughs-Chapin Museum of Art, The Spartanburg Museum of Art, The Fayetteville Museum of Art, The Greenville Museum of Art and in exhibitions at Blue Spiral Gallery and The Green Hill Center for North Carolina Art.
Wilson was a faculty member at Barton College from 1974-2012. He was awarded professor emeritus status in 2012 and from then until 2015, he was Barton’s first artist-in-residence. He is survived by his wife, Kathy, and children, Matthew and Singleton.
The Dunn Center Announces Season Opener, Celebrates 27th Season
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – The Dunn Center at North Carolina Wesleyan University will kick off its 27th season of performing arts series with the very funny and extremely talented 3 Redneck Tenors. The 2023-24 season will include five shows from a variety of genres with season tickets on sale now for $150. As a season ticket holder, you get a reserved seat at all five shows. Individual show tickets are also available with prices ranging from $20-$55.
The “infamous” 3 Redneck Tenors have seen it all and sing it all, making us laugh till we double over. They remind us that in life, it is not the destination, it’s the journey. Get ready for a sidesplitting ride as we go on an excursion only the 3 Redneck Tenors could have had, delighting audiences with their vocal prowess and a smorgasbord of songs and music ranging from gospel, to country, to Broadway, pop and classical. You’re going to love them and so will anyone with a sense of humor and an appreciation for incredible voices.
“The Dunn Center is a true gem in eastern North Carolina and I’m proud of the exceptional lineup that we have to offer this season,” stated Sheila Martin, Executive Director of The Dunn Center. “For those who have attended a show here in the past, we look forward to having you back for another exciting performance. For those who have never been to our venue, I encourage you to come check us out and witness all that we have to offer.”
Also joining the lineup for the first time on October 13 is Rockland Road, six musicians representing four generations of musical heritage—all vocalists who among them play 23 different instruments. The Breakfast Club®, with real 1980s clothes, real vocals and real musical talent, will come to The Dunn Center on November 10.
Starting the 2024 year off on January 26 will be one of the most gifted singers ever to grace country music, Tony Jackson, who has been touted as a strong emotionally-charged and engaging voice that captured the hearts of millions, seemingly overnight. Finally, The Dunn Center will wrap up their season with Close to You: The Music of the Carpenters on February 9. Singer and playwright, Lisa Rock, has compiled a moving tribute to the music and life of Karen Carpenter and brings it to the stage with her six-piece backing band.
For more information on these season shows, as well as other cultural events and art shows, please visit dunncenter.com. All season shows are on Friday evenings beginning at 7:30 p.m.
About North Carolina Wesleyan University
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) is a small, private Methodist-affiliated institution with a liberal arts-based core curriculum that prepares students for professional advancement, life-long learning and responsible participation in their communities. NCWU offers liberal arts, professional and graduate degree programs for traditional, transfer and working-adult students. The skills cultivated by faculty and built into the curriculum include critical thinking and reflection, communication, collaboration, and information technology. North Carolina Wesleyan University delivers education that is personal, practical and purpose-driven. Personal…through mentoring and the connections that are provided. Practical…by helping students develop lifelong skills. Purpose-driven…by helping them fulfill their purpose in life. With students from all over the United States and more than 40 different countries, the University has immense cultural diversity. To learn more, visit ncwu.edu and follow on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, TikTok, Instagram and YouTube.
Global Corporation Funds Sustainability Project at NCWU
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – North Carolina Wesleyan University has once again received Tree Campus USA® recognition by the Arbor Day Foundation for its commitment to effective urban forest management. To celebrate this achievement, Easyflyers® collaborated with the University to enhance its campus by creating more green space through the planting of additional trees, installing a gravel walkway and adding a natural teak wood bench.
Easyflyers®, a global logistics company that offers comprehensive shipping solutions, has been a sponsor with Wesleyan over the last several years at their annual Wesleyan Cup Golf Outing. This donation to NCWU helps contribute to a more sustainable earth, while providing the campus community and visitors with a natural, outdoor sitting and meditation area. The newly-renovated space sits directly adjacent to the President’s House and contains two Mountain Gordlinia trees, a rare hybrid tree developed by NC State University, and five October Glory Maple trees arranged in a semi-circle.
Earlier this year, John Nelson, VP of North American Sales for Easyflyers®, attended the Wesleyan Cup Golf Outing and had the chance to ride through NC Wesleyan’s beautiful campus and thought to become more involved. “At Easyflyers®, we’re always looking for a way to give back and reduce our carbon footprint,” stated Nichol Ally, Managing Director for Easyflyers®. “We were looking for a great opportunity for an Arbor Day project and after speaking with John, thought what better way than to help create this green space on campus to help the environment and NCWU.”
The Tree Campus USA® program honors colleges and universities for effective campus forest management and for engaging staff and students in conservation goals. North Carolina Wesleyan University achieved the title by meeting Tree Campus USA’s five standards, which include maintaining a tree advisory committee, a campus tree-care plan, dedicated annual expenditures for its campus tree program, an Arbor Day observance and a student service-learning project. To assist with this mission, Easyflyers® is involved in social responsibility projects, supporting numerous schools and charitable organizations that improve the quality of life for individuals and improve the standards of education, environmental care and fairness in the community.
About North Carolina Wesleyan University
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) is a small, private Methodist-affiliated institution with a liberal arts-based core curriculum that prepares students for professional advancement, life-long learning and responsible participation in their communities. NCWU offers liberal arts, professional and graduate degree programs for traditional, transfer and working-adult students. The skills cultivated by faculty and built into the curriculum include critical thinking and reflection, communication, collaboration, and information technology. North Carolina Wesleyan University delivers education that is personal, practical and purpose-driven. Personal…through mentoring and the connections that are provided. Practical…by helping students develop lifelong skills. Purpose-driven…by helping them fulfill their purpose in life. With students from all over the United States and more than 40 different countries, the University has immense cultural diversity. To learn more, visit ncwu.edu and follow on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, TikTok, Instagram and YouTube.
Come Rock the Mount at NC Wesleyan University
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – Rock the Mount is an annual tradition held each fall at North Carolina Wesleyan University to celebrate and welcome new students to campus, as well as to the local community. Each year, Rock the Mount is held the day before students’ first day of classes, serving as the official kick-off event for the new academic year. This semester, the event is sponsored by Southern Bank and will be held from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, August 15. Business owners, churches and other nonprofits are invited to come promote their organization and gain exposure with NCWU students.
That day, hundreds of students take their rite of passage through a time-honored tradition—the Bishop Tunnel—formed by a cheering crowd of returning students, faculty, staff, alumni and community members. As they pass through the tunnel, they are met with a warm welcome by President, Dr. Evan D. Duff and wife, Marcy. They then proceed down the Southern Bank Green, located in the center of campus, where businesses and organizations are eagerly awaiting an opportunity to help the Bishop family welcome these new students to Wesleyan, Rocky Mount and the surrounding community. Businesses and organizations are set up with tents and booth displays that decorate the street and Southern Bank Green, creating a runway for students to stop and browse their products and services.
Last year, Rock the Mount brought nearly 80 vendors to campus; this year, NC Wesleyan aims to have even more businesses and organizations on campus to make the event even more of a success. Are you the owner of a restaurant or coffee shop? Students love to eat and run on coffee! Do you have an automotive shop? Unlike many colleges and universities, NCWU allows students to bring their cars their freshman year, so they too will need oil changes and tire rotations. Are you part of a local church? Use this opportunity to connect with students looking for a local, faith-based family to join. By celebrating the start of another exciting school year with Wesleyan, you form a bond with new students who could potentially become customers, interns and even future employees. Come make a great first impression as NCWU welcomes the Class of 2027.
Local food trucks will be on-site to provide a variety of food options for everyone and live entertainment will be provided by Meredith Davis Johnson, the band “Blind Joy” and DJ 3two1. Those interested in participating should bring a six-foot tablecloth—NCWU will provide the table. A tent is not required, but it’s August in North Carolina so you may appreciate the shade— just keep it 10’x10’ or less. Also, giveaways are completely optional, but they are a great way to stand out from the rest and maybe even become the crowd favorite!
Participation is free, but display spaces are limited. The registration deadline is Monday, July 31; however, businesses and organizations are encouraged to sign-up as soon as possible at bit.ly/RockTheMount23. For more information, contact Elliott Smith at esmith@ncwu.edu.
About North Carolina Wesleyan University
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) is a small, private Methodist-affiliated institution with a liberal arts-based core curriculum that prepares students for professional advancement, life-long learning and responsible participation in their communities. NCWU offers liberal arts, professional and graduate degree programs for traditional, transfer and working-adult students. The skills cultivated by faculty and built into the curriculum include critical thinking and reflection, communication, collaboration, and information technology. North Carolina Wesleyan University delivers education that is personal, practical and purpose-driven. Personal…through mentoring and the connections that are provided. Practical…by helping students develop lifelong skills. Purpose-driven…by helping them fulfill their purpose in life. With students from all over the United States and more than 40 different countries, the University has immense cultural diversity. To learn more, visit ncwu.edu and follow on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, TikTok, Instagram and YouTube.
NCWU Recognized for Exemplary Transfer Pathways
North Carolina Wesleyan University has been named to Phi Theta Kappa’s 2023 Transfer Honor Roll, which recognizes excellence in the development and support of dynamic and innovative pathways for community college transfer students. This year, Phi Theta Kappa has named 208 colleges and universities to its 2023 Transfer Honor Roll. NC Wesleyan was selected as being among the most transfer-friendly colleges in the nation, which was determined by its Transfer Profile in PTK Connect. The profile includes information about NC Wesleyan’s admissions practices, cost of attendance, campus life, recruitment practices and student reviews. The result is a Transfer-Friendly Rating that allows prospective community college transfer students to find the university that best meets their unique needs. Learn more on Phi Theta Kappa’s website.
NCWU Becomes an Affiliate of Bee Campus USA
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – North Carolina Wesleyan University has become an affiliate of the Bee Campus USA program, designed to marshal the strengths of educational campuses for the benefit of pollinators. NCWU joins many other cities and campuses across the country united in improving their landscapes for pollinators.
“Here at Wesleyan, we strive to incorporate biodiversity throughout our campus and recognize the vital importance of bees to our environment, food supply and health,” stated President Dr. Evan D. Duff. “As we join 170 Bee Campus USA universities throughout the country, we’re proud to be 1 of only 8 universities in the entire state of North Carolina to receive this designation.”
According to Dr. Carl Lewis, NCWU’s Bee Campus USA Program Coordinator and Assistant Professor of Criminal Justice, NCWU has created and maintained a pollinator garden for the past several years which contains three active bee hives. The concept of having bee hives on campus was the result of the work of alumna, Carolynn Davern ’18. Caitlin BrabbleRose ‘18, along with several other founding members, helped create The B Club during their time at Wesleyan. This student organization, led by Dr. Ayra Sundbom, allows students to perform research while learning about animals and biodiversity. The “B” in B Club stands for more than just bees— Bees, Bats, Birds, Butterflies and Beasts.
NC Wesleyan takes pride in its commitment to minimizing hazards to pollinators by using nearly no neonicotinoids or other potentially dangerous pesticides. To raise awareness about the plight of pollinators, the University plans to publish a webpage to disseminate information to the campus and external communities including NCWU’s Integrated Pest Management Plan, a list of native plants incorporated into the campus landscape including their bloom time and habitat needs, links to student and faculty research into pollinator issues, and information about upcoming events.
Bee City USA and Bee Campus USA are initiatives of the Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation, a nonprofit organization based in Portland, Oregon, with offices across the country. Bee City USA’s mission is to galvanize communities and campuses to sustain pollinators by providing them with healthy habitat, rich in a variety of native plants, and free of pesticides. Pollinators like bumble bees, sweat bees, mason bees, honey bees, butterflies, moths, beetles, flies, hummingbirds, and many others are responsible for the reproduction of almost ninety percent of the world’s flowering plant species and one in every three bites of food we consume.
“The program aspires to make people more PC—pollinator conscious, that is,” said Scott Hoffman Black, Xerces’ executive director. “If lots of individuals and communities begin planting native, pesticide-free flowering trees, shrubs and perennials, it will help to sustain many, many species of pollinators.”
According to Bee Campus USA coordinator Laura Rost, “How each city or campus completes the steps to conserve pollinators is up to them. Affiliates play to their own strengths, designing pesticide reduction plans, improving habitat, and holding events ranging from garden tours to native plant giveaways to bee trivia nights. Each campus must renew their affiliation each year and report on accomplishments from the previous year. Other institutions of higher education are invited to explore completing the application process outlined at beecityusa.org.”
To learn more about North Carolina Wesleyan University’s Bee Campus USA program, contact Dr. Carl Lewis at clewis@ncwu.edu.
For more information about Bee Campus USA, visit beecityusa.org.
For more information about the Xerces Society, visit xerces.org.
For information about four simple ways to help pollinators, visit xerces.org/bringbackthepollinators/.
About North Carolina Wesleyan University
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) is a small, private Methodist-affiliated institution with a liberal arts-based core curriculum that prepares students for professional advancement, life-long learning and responsible participation in their communities. NCWU offers liberal arts, professional and graduate degree programs for traditional, transfer and working-adult students. The skills cultivated by faculty and built into the curriculum include critical thinking and reflection, communication, collaboration, and information technology. North Carolina Wesleyan University delivers education that is personal, practical and purpose-driven. Personal…through mentoring and the connections that are provided. Practical…by helping students develop lifelong skills. Purpose-driven…by helping them fulfill their purpose in life. With students from all over the United States and more than 40 different countries, the University has immense cultural diversity. To learn more, visit ncwu.edu and follow on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, TikTok, Instagram and YouTube.
The Dunn Center Selects Local Artist as New Art Curator
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – Sheila Martin, Executive Director of The Dunn Center, announces the appointment of Jan Sullivan-Volz as the new Art Curator for The Mims and Gravely Galleries. Jan replaces Greg Purcell who served as part-time Art Curator and Lighting Designer for the past three years.
“Greg accepted a position in Greenville, NC to be closer to his new home. He was an invaluable part of our team and we wish him all the best in his new endeavor. As we begin a new journey, we are excited to welcome Jan to The Dunn Center staff. She brings a wealth of experience to our group and is an active part of the art community locally and state-wide,” stated Sheila Martin, Executive Director of The Dunn Center.
Jan holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond, Virginia, and has taught art at schools in Roanoke Rapids and Weldon, North Carolina. She has also served as an Adjunct Professor in the Art Department at North Carolina Wesleyan University.
Jan, and The Dunn Center’s entire staff, will be working diligently in the coming months to continue preparation for the opening of Bob Ross “Fantastic Little Paintings” showing November 2, 2023 through January 4, 2024. The newly-renovated Mims and Gravely Galleries will also feature six other exciting exhibits this year. To view the schedule, please visit ncwu.edu/artgalleries.
About The Dunn Center
The Dunn Center is a premier venue for concerts, shows and conferences in eastern NC. Located on the campus of NC Wesleyan University, in the heart of Rocky Mount, The Dunn Center is proud to host the Wesleyan Season Series of cultural events and concerts. In addition to these world-class performances, The Dunn Center features a variety of campus and community events, including Wesleyan Players productions, concerts of the Tar River Swing Band and Orchestra and other various performances by nationally known artists. The Mims and Gravely Galleries, located within The Dunn Center, hosts a variety of exhibits, including paintings, drawings, and sculpture. The galleries are open weekdays from 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., as well as during performances. To learn more, visit dunncenter.com and follow on Facebook.
Alumnus to Serve as New NCWU Board Chair
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – Dr. Dan Crocker, a retired local physician and Chairman of NC Wesleyan’s Board of Trustees, has announced his plan to hand over the reins to Vice Chairman, Paul Bauer, after serving in the capacity since 2018. Mr. Bauer will begin his tenure as Board Chair on June 1 with Dr. Crocker remaining an active board member.
Mr. Bauer is no stranger to Wesleyan, as his father Dr. Raymond “Moe” Bauer, served NC Wesleyan for over 33 years in a variety of roles such as Head Baseball Coach, Director of Athletics and professor of both education and physical education. You may also recognize the name from NCWU’s baseball facility, Bauer Field, dedicated in memory of his father in 2005.
“I’m honored to have this opportunity to help lead the University in the coming years. Dr. Crocker has always led by example and paved the way for a successful transition,” stated Bauer. “With the history that Wesleyan holds for me and my family, I’m excited to see my alma mater continue to flourish over the coming years.”
Bauer is a 1986 graduate of NC Wesleyan who majored in History and Political Science. He is a Senior Client Executive with JHA Risk Management in Rocky Mount. In this role, he develops customer relationships and specializes in commercial and personal property and casualty insurance sales.
“I’m thankful for the leadership and generosity that Dr. Crocker has provided to the University and our Board of Trustees. During his tenure, NC Wesleyan has experienced numerous enhancements and growth,” stated Dr. Evan D. Duff. “I look forward to continuing to work with him as an active member of the Board and maintaining this momentum with the appointment of Mr. Bauer.”
Dr. Crocker has served on the Board of Trustees since 1997 and was Vice Chairman from 2016 until 2018. He and his wife, Brenda, have been avid supporters of NC Wesleyan throughout the years creating multiple scholarships, mentoring students and beautifying campus with Brenda’s gardening talents. In appreciation for their selfless contributions, the board has established an endowed scholarship fund in their name. With Dr. Crocker’s passion for higher education and nursing, the scholarship will go to benefit NCWU nursing students.
“Witnessing the success of North Carolina Wesleyan University is a passion of mine and I have full confidence that Paul will continue to lead this University to new heights,” stated Dr. Crocker. “I’m proud of the accomplishments that we’ve been a part of and I look forward to continuing to work with this talented group of board members.”
Bauer has served on the Board of Trustees since 2014 and as Vice Chair since 2018. As Board Chair, he will lead 20 others from a variety of backgrounds and industries who serve on the North Carolina Wesleyan University Board of Trustees.
About North Carolina Wesleyan University North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) is a small, private Methodist-affiliated institution with a liberal arts-based core curriculum that prepares students for professional advancement, life-long learning and responsible participation in their communities. NCWU offers liberal arts, professional and graduate degree programs for traditional, transfer and working-adult students. The skills cultivated by faculty and built into the curriculum include critical thinking and reflection, communication, collaboration, and information technology. North Carolina Wesleyan University delivers education that is personal, practical and purpose-driven. Personal…through mentoring and the connections that are provided. Practical…by helping students develop lifelong skills. Purpose-driven…by helping them fulfill their purpose in life. With students from all over the United States and more than 40 different countries, the University has immense cultural diversity. To learn more, visit ncwu.edu and follow on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, TikTok, Instagram and YouTube.
First Carolina Bank Champions NCWU Sports Stadium Campaign
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – First Carolina Bank supports North Carolina Wesleyan University’s Sports Stadium Campaign with an additional $25,000. Chief Banking Officer, Maxie Coker, presented the check on campus last Thursday, May 4. The funds will be used, in part, to go towards construction of the stadium’s press box.
Last year, NC Wesleyan’s Board of Trustees voted to name the future stadium press box in honor of Marion Barnes’ family. Barnes’ father, Guy Barnes, was one of the original founders of NC Wesleyan. The Marion Barnes Family Press Box will kick off Phase II of NC Wesleyan’s Sports Stadium Campaign. Marion Barnes is a former longtime trustee of the University and owner of Frontier Trailer Associates, Inc. in Rocky Mount, directly adjacent to the new stadium.
First Carolina Bank gave an initial $25,000 in 2021 in support of the stadium initiative. A banking partner with NC Wesleyan over the years, First Carolina Bank continues to be a strong supporter of Wesleyan and the Sports Stadium Campaign.
“We are appreciative and proud to partner with First Carolina Bank. Their unwavering support of NC Wesleyan, and specifically the stadium project, will pay dividends for Wesleyan students and community members for years to come. Strong, consistent advocates like First Carolina Bank are why this project continues to move forward and I cannot thank them enough,” stated Aaron Denton, Vice President of Athletics.
The Sports Stadium Campaign is completely donor-funded and consists of four project phases, as funding allows. Additional phases will include permanent seating and a new Sports and Entertainment Facility that will include classrooms, laboratories, offices, meeting rooms, as well as other sports and entertainment venue related amenities.
Those interested in helping with Phase II of the campaign can contact Aaron Denton, VP of Athletics, at adenton@ncwu.edu.
About North Carolina Wesleyan University
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) is a small, private Methodist-affiliated institution with a liberal arts-based core curriculum that prepares students for professional advancement, life-long learning and responsible participation in their communities. NCWU offers liberal arts, professional and graduate degree programs for traditional, transfer and working-adult students. The skills cultivated by faculty and built into the curriculum include critical thinking and reflection, communication, collaboration, and information technology. North Carolina Wesleyan University delivers education that is personal, practical and purpose-driven. Personal…through mentoring and the connections that are provided. Practical…by helping students develop lifelong skills. Purpose-driven…by helping them fulfill their purpose in life. With students from all over the United States and more than 40 different countries, the University has immense cultural diversity. To learn more, visit ncwu.edu and follow on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, TikTok, Instagram and YouTube.
NCWU Building a Strong Incoming Class
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – North Carolina Wesleyan University has always been a leader in providing quality education to thousands of deserving students and this coming fall will be no exception. A local student, Natalie Messer, and a legacy, Brayden Blue, are two academically gifted students who will join the incoming Class of 2027 this fall as they embark on their educational journey at NCWU.
Natalie Messer, from Rocky Mount, has accepted the President and Founder’s Scholarships. She plans to major in Biomedical Science: Pre-Veterinary, with intentions to pursue her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine. A senior at Southern Nash High School, Natalie has a 4.22 weighted GPA and is actively involved in various organizations, including Future Farmers of America (FFA) and Winter Guard.
When describing her impression of North Carolina Wesleyan, Natalie stated, “…after my first visit to campus, I was known personally, which made me feel right at home. I fell in love with the beautiful campus which is small, but grand at the same time.”
Natalie attributes the community feel of NCWU to making the impact on her college decision. “Their smaller class sizes with more one-on-one instructional time will help me grow as a person, continue to strengthen my foundation and guide me to my childhood dream of becoming a veterinarian.” She will receive $104,000 worth of University awards over the next four years from North Carolina Wesleyan University.
Coming from Kannapolis, Brayden Blue will be a second-generation Wesleyan student joining the University in the fall. With both parents being alumni of NCWU, Brayden’s father, Bradley Blue, was inducted into the North Carolina Wesleyan University Athletics Hall of Fame in 2017. Brayden, graduating from Concord High School, is a talented basketball player and an accomplished student. Choosing to further his academic and athletic career at NCWU, he will follow his father’s footsteps as a member of the men’s basketball team.
When discussing his excitement about becoming a future Bishop, Brayden replied that he looked forward to “continuing to work on my basketball career while obtaining my degree.” Brayden is already accustomed to the family atmosphere that Wesleyan offers stating, “Coach Thompson is like family and he has followed my basketball career over the years through my parents.”
As students, Brayden’s dad played basketball for Coach John Thompson, while his mom worked as the student manager for the basketball team. Brayden explained his experience when visiting NCWU, “When I came for my first visit, the guys on the team made me feel like I was already part of the family.” Brayden is excited for the many opportunities that NCWU has to offer noting that he is “looking forward to making NCWU my home and seeing what the future holds.” He will receive $60,000 worth of University awards over the next four years.
Natalie and Brayden are only two examples of academically inclined students who have found their personal connection at North Carolina Wesleyan University and plan to join this fall. NCWU looks forward to welcoming such outstanding students into the Battling Bishop family!
About North Carolina Wesleyan University
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) is a small, private Methodist-affiliated institution with a liberal arts-based core curriculum that prepares students for professional advancement, life-long learning and responsible participation in their communities. NCWU offers liberal arts, professional and graduate degree programs for traditional, transfer and working-adult students. The skills cultivated by faculty and built into the curriculum include critical thinking and reflection, communication, collaboration, and information technology. North Carolina Wesleyan University delivers education that is personal, practical and purpose-driven. Personal…through mentoring and the connections that are provided. Practical…by helping students develop lifelong skills. Purpose-driven…by helping them fulfill their purpose in life. With students from all over the United States and more than 40 different countries, the University has immense cultural diversity. To learn more, visit ncwu.edu and follow on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, TikTok and Instagram and YouTube.
