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.
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.
NC Wesleyan University Sends Off Class of 2023
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – On Saturday, May 6, North Carolina Wesleyan University held its annual commencement ceremony at the Rocky Mount Event Center. The University celebrated 418 graduates, marking its 83rd graduation.
The event was open to graduates, faculty, the platform party and guests of graduates. There were 34 international students from 17 different countries: Argentina, Australia, China, Ecuador, France, Italy, Liberia, Uganda, Venezuela, Israel, Martinique, Mongolia, Philippines, Republic of Congo, Rwanda, Senegal and Turkmenistan. University Chaplain, Rev. Edwin Ferguson, gave the invocation, followed by a performance of the Star-Spangled Banner by alumna, Ms. Latisha Scott ’06.
President Dr. Evan D. Duff welcomed the crowd to the momentous occasion and congratulated the graduates on their accomplishments noting, “your degree is 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 and individuals who care about others. As we celebrate together, we acknowledge the obligations all of us have to help bring about a better world.”
The commencement address was given by Renee Chou, news anchor and reporter for WRAL-TV. Chou is a three-time, Emmy Award-winning anchor and reporter who joined WRAL in October 2004 as a general assignment reporter. Over the years, she has served as the weekend morning anchor and weekend evening anchor. Chou was promoted to weekday morning anchor in March of 2014.
Chou addressed the graduates stating, “your drive and hard work has set you on a path to success and a lifelong journey of learning. There are graduates here who understand how quickly the years go by, who have decades under their belt…they are proof it’s never too late to set a goal and conquer it. I say to you, you are an inspiration and the definition of what is possible when you put in the work…your investment in higher education will shape you, transform you and set you on a trajectory.”
She went on to offer the Class of 2023 five truths that have helped her on her journey. First: trust that the no’s will lead to a yes. Second: you can do anything, but you can’t do everything. Third: everyone you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about. Fourth: pay attention to who shows up for you unconditionally. And fifth: “just think, you’re not even the best version of yourself yet. It’s comforting to know; the best days of your life are still ahead.”
Chou ended with words of wisdom and hope urging graduates, “don’t let others write your story. YOU are the author, the journalist of your own story. Your story is still being written and the world can’t wait to learn about it. Class of 2023, go shine your light!”
After Mrs. Chou’s inspiring speech, Dr. Katrina Sweet, Associate Professor of Business Administration, was presented with the 2023 Exemplary Teacher Award. This award recognizes excellence in teaching and promotion of student learning, civility and concern for students and colleagues, commitment to value-centered education, service to students beyond the classroom and service to the larger community beyond campus.
De’Asia Clark received the Algernon Sydney Sullivan award, which honors a senior who best exemplifies excellence in character, leadership, service to the community and a commitment to spiritual values. Clark obtained a Bachelor of Science in Accounting and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science.
The President’s Cup, an award that recognizes the attainment of the highest standards of academic performance as demonstrated by the overall grade point average, went to Allison Wichrowski. She graduated Summa Cum Laude in the Honors Program and earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Criminal Justice.
In addition, NC Wesleyan’s ROTC program commissioned two graduates into the United States Army. These students took the oath of office from Major William Burgdorf. The newly commissioned Second Lieutenants include: Second Lieutenant Elijah Meyers and Second Lieutenant Joshua Hughes commissioned into the U.S. Army.
The event was live-streamed and recorded so family and friends who were not able to attend in person could celebrate with their students virtually. The recording can be viewed on youtube and the University’s Facebook page.
Photos from the event can be found on our campus sites photos.ncwc.edu and also Carl Lewis Photography.
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.
NCWU’s First Faculty Member of Color Earns Jefferson-Pilot Award
North Carolina Wesleyan University Professor, Dr. Patricia Brewer, has been awarded with the 2023-2024 Jefferson-Pilot Professorship. This award is the highest and most singular honor that can be bestowed upon a faculty member and is given in recognition of scholarship, teaching and community service.
The Jefferson-Pilot Professorship is an endowed award that was established in 1981 through the generosity of the Jefferson-Pilot Life Insurance Company. The honoree is nominated by a committee of faculty and appointed by NC Wesleyan President, Dr. Evan D. Duff. To be eligible for consideration, the faculty member must have tenure and have clearly distinguished themselves with high standards of excellence. As teachers, they demonstrate a whole-hearted dedication and rigorous professionalism in forwarding their students’ learning and personal development for life and work. As scholars, they have to possess a mastery of their discipline, contribute to new understanding and knowledge, and demonstrate a lively commitment to life-long learning for themselves, as well as their students. Additionally, as a member of the Wesleyan community, they give generously to the aims and programs of the University, both with their time and means.
“I’ve always found Dr. Brewer to be a strong advocate for exceptional learners,” stated Dr. Evan D. Duff. “She’s worked tirelessly in the classroom and the community to make a difference in the lives of others.”
Dr. Brewer, now in her nineteenth year at Wesleyan, delivered her Jefferson-Pilot Professorship Lecture, entitled: “Transformative Teaching: The Who, What, Why and How Service-Learning Pedagogy Impacts Culturally Diverse Populations” on Thursday, April 20. Her lecture explored experiential learning that most impacts students’ success.
Dr. Brewer is an associate professor of education and coordinator of the special education program. She earned a B.S. in elementary education and an M.A. in special education, both from NC Central University; an M.Ed. (educational leadership) at East Carolina University; and a Ph.D. (special education administration) from Southern Illinois University. She founded the Students Helping Students Afterschool Program Initiative with the Association for the Learning Disabled and Handicapped (ALDH) in February 2015. The initiative was in response to an outcry for additional, intensive services for special needs children in Nash/Rocky Mount schools, grades K-12. All NCWU pre-service students contribute through the required course Special Education 300: Introduction to Exceptional Children. They work once a week for two hours at Wesleyan over a 10-week period. The program allows NC Wesleyan’s education students to put theory into practice in real-life experiences, such as identifying and evaluating student needs, analyzing and interpreting data for instruction, providing research-based learning strategies, and collaborating with parents.
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.
NC Wesleyan Announces New Master’s in Strategic Leadership
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – North Carolina Wesleyan University’s faculty approved a new graduate program in strategic leadership. The Master of Science in Strategic Leadership (MSSL) is a 30-hour graduate degree comprised of 10 courses. This fully online program is unique in that students have a choice of an accelerated option, taking two courses per term, to complete their degree in less than 12 months. The University has been actively growing its graduate degree programs, with this being its fourth masters in five years.
The mission of the MSSL program is to equip graduate students with the essential skills needed to prepare them for current or future leadership roles in a broad range of organizations. This program provides the knowledge students need to lead dynamic organizations to solve complex problems. Students will also gain the knowledge and skills necessary for team building and process efficiency.
“I’m excited that we are now launching our fourth master’s program at NCWU. Building off of the success of our MBA program, the varied curriculum will have a broad appeal to a variety of our undergraduate students, not just business majors,” stated Dr. Katrina Sweet, Associate Professor of Business Administration. “According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (2018), there are a projected 807,000 new management jobs being added to the U.S. economy between now and 2026. NC Wesleyan is providing a purpose-driven approach to educating qualified graduates to fill these roles in the workforce.”
The MSSL program will require students to complete a research project that integrates the technical and scientific knowledge they have gained throughout the program. Additionally, the program will focus on leadership concepts with additional emphasis on strategic thinking and organizational strategy. Students can apply this skillset to a range of career fields including: senior positions in for-profit and nonprofit organizations, public administration, human resources, consulting, and federal or state agencies to name a few.
The University anticipates the first cohort of students in the new Master of Science in Strategic Leadership (MSSL) program to start in fall 2023. Those who are interested in learning more can visit ncwu.edu/mssl or contact the Office of Adult Studies, at adultstudies@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 and Instagram.
NCWU Recognized by Exercise is Medicine® for Creating Culture of Wellness on Campus
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – North Carolina Wesleyan University is one of only 149 universities and colleges around the world to be honored by Exercise is Medicine® for its efforts to create a culture of wellness on campus. Through personal training offered to faculty and staff, Wesleyan Wellness initiatives, Lunch and Learn Series on Health and physical activity events conducted by their Health and Movement Science Club, NCWU earned silver level designation from the Exercise is Medicine® On Campus (EIM-OC) program.
“We are thrilled to recognize these campuses’ commitment to make movement a part of daily campus culture and give students the tools to cultivate physical activity habits that will benefit them throughout their lives,” said Robyn Stuhr, Vice President of Exercise is Medicine. “These campus programs are nurturing future leaders who will advance a key tenet of Exercise is Medicine: making physical activity assessment and promotion a standard in health care.”
“We are excited to have received the EIM-OC Silver distinction for the fourth year in a row! This was made possible by the collaborative efforts of our students, faculty, staff and administration, who continue to promote the importance of physical activity and health on campus,” said Dr. Shannon Crowley, Associate Professor of Exercise Science and Exercise is Medicine on Campus® Program Advisor.
Of the 149 campuses recognized this year, 73 received gold, 55 silver and 21 bronze. All gold, silver and bronze universities and colleges will be officially recognized on June 1 as part of the 2023 Exercise is Medicine World Congress, held in conjunction with the American College of Sports Medicine’s Annual Meeting.
EIM-OC calls upon universities and colleges to promote physical activity as a vital sign of health and encourages faculty, staff and students to work together to improve the health and well-being of the campus community.
EIM-OC launched its recognition program in 2014 to honor campuses for their efforts to create a culture of wellness. Schools earn gold, silver or bronze status based on their activities. Gold level campuses have created a referral system where campus health care providers assess student physical activity and refer students as necessary to a certified fitness professional as part of medical treatment. Silver campuses engage students, faculty and staff in education initiatives and make movement part of the daily campus culture while bronze level campuses promote and generate awareness of the health benefits of physical activity.
View a complete list of recognized schools and learn more about the EIM-OC program at exerciseismedicine.org/eim-on-campus.
About Exercise Is Medicine®
The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) co-launched Exercise is Medicine® (EIM) in 2007 with the American Medical Association. ACSM continues to manage the global health initiative, which seeks to make physical activity assessment and promotion a standard in clinical care, connecting health care with evidence-based physical activity resources for people everywhere of all abilities. EIM is committed to the belief that physical activity promotes optimal health, is integral in the prevention and treatment of many medical conditions and should be regularly assessed and included as part of health care. Visit www.ExerciseisMedicine.org for additional information.
About the American College of Sports Medicine
The American College of Sports Medicine is the largest sports medicine and exercise science organization in the world. More than 50,000 international, national and regional members and certified professionals are dedicated to advancing and integrating scientific research to provide educational and practical applications of exercise science and sports medicine. More details at acsm.org.
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.
NCWU Students Take Action on Mental Health
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – Four international students at North Carolina Wesleyan University have teamed up to develop a course and textbook that promotes mental well-being among their peers. The Wesleyan Mindset— Inner Journey Journal is the brainchild of former student-athletes Gregor Baum (Germany) and Harjot “Hardy” Singh (New Zealand), with help from sisters Candela Conde Latini and Delfina Conde Latini (Argentina) on design and layout. Both Gregor and Harjot independently took the initiative to create this resource, not as a required class project, completing it in a few short months during the fall 2022 semester.
The two left their home countries to attend NC Wesleyan to grow, learn and succeed. They quickly formed a strong bond over their shared experiences as student-athletes who endured severe injuries which altered their journeys. Gregor was injured during his first week of practice on the Battling Bishops tennis team and Hardy just after his first week of starting at his dream high school. Both faced very tough periods of being hurt, far from home and unprecedented challenges. Each thought their dreams and identities had been crushed. Through perseverance and learning, they both found new passions in leadership, public speaking and service towards others— skillsets they want to share with others in similar situations.
“I was so excited to complete this project that I couldn’t sleep. Hardy and I spent so many late nights in the library to make this journal a reality,” stated Gregor. “I hope that other students will greatly benefit from taking this inward journey. I’m a firm believer in the American dream. If you work hard, align yourself with the right people and remain optimistic, doors will open for you.”
Every Tuesday night from March 14 until April 18, Gregor and Candela will coach NCWU students through the Wesleyan Mindset— Inner Journey Journal, having them explore areas of self-reflection, energy sources, gratitude, adversity and success. With the goal of leaving their University in a better place than they found it, Gregor and Hardy developed the journal they wish they had when transitioning to college. The tools and strategies it presents helps students find the inner hero among themselves.
“The Wesleyan Mindset journal provides introspection from a student’s point of view for establishing a successful mindset to combat the struggles that many students encounter on their life’s journey,” stated President Dr. Evan D. Duff.
This project demonstrates the benefit of a small, close-knit university. These students came up with a practical way to serve their fellow Bishops and pitched it to the President. Now, they have an opportunity to implement this as a pilot course and potentially turn it into a one-credit hour class in the future. The pilot course will be offered as part of the University’s Practical Skills Academy (PSA), which offers life and professional skills to students in areas not typically covered in traditional coursework.
“I was excited when Gregor and Harjot reached out to me about their Mindset Journal. We talked about what motivated them to write this journal and it was clear that we share the same goal, which is to help students transition to college life,” stated Taylor Stone, Director of Student Success. “We agreed to pilot the journal in the spring sessions of COL 103: Wesleyan Transition. At the start of the course, students were given the journal and Gregor visited the class sessions to introduce himself and share the vision. Students are working through the journals now at their own pace and the COL 103 instructors offer students opportunities to share their growth in class discussions and writings. We look forward to hearing how the Mindset Journal impacted these students and hopefully using the journals in future COL 103 sessions.”
Gregor and Hardy took the practical skills that they learned at NCWU and their passion for helping others to develop GH Inner Performance, LLC in January 2023. The mission of their company is to help others find the hero in themselves.
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.
A Day for Wesleyan Makes a Lifelong Impact
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – On March 28, the community and NC Wesleyan alumni will have an opportunity to show their Bishop Pride and support the University during its annual day of giving, A Day for Wesleyan. This is a day when all NC Wesleyan University supporters—particularly alumni—celebrate the University through donations to support Wesleyan and its students. Together, we can help advance the educational experiences for all students, invest in new technologies for learning, allow students to grow into their passions and help build Wesleyan’s future.
With multiple ways to show your support, your gift can best impact Wesleyan students through the Emerging Needs Fund, Athletics and General Scholarships. Gifts to the Emerging Needs Fund help position NC Wesleyan University to seize unexpected opportunities, respond to new trends and resolve critical issues. This fund also boosts student and faculty-led initiatives not yet imagined or tried. If you’re into sports, give to one or more of NCWU’s 14 athletic teams and direct your contribution to their success. The General Scholarship Fund is also a vital part of the University’s recruitment offerings, attracting the brightest students from all walks of life.
“We hope that our alumni and the community will join us in showing their Bishop Pride on Tuesday, March 28. When alumni and friends of the University unite to share their passion for Wesleyan, amazing things can happen,” said Mark Hinson, Sr. Executive for Philanthropic Engagement. “All gifts, regardless of size, make an impact! Help Wesleyan continue impacting this region while also providing our students with a personal, practical and purpose-driven education.”
Celebrate NC Wesleyan University on March 28 by wearing blue and gold or Wesleyan gear, posting Wesleyan memories on social media using #GiveOnDFW, spreading the news with others to follow Wesleyan or making an online gift. Donors can learn more and participate in A Day for Wesleyan by visiting the secure giving website, dayforwesleyan.com, or by calling 252.985.5581. All gifts are tax-deductible.
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.
Black History Month Special Event Honors African American Servicemen and Women with Award-Winning Documentary
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU), Mayor Roberson and the City of Rocky Mount have partnered to present the Wesleyan student body and surrounding communities with a special Black History Month event honoring the sacrifices and accomplishments of African American servicemen and women.
“It’s an honor to showcase the stories of the African American men and women who have sacrificed so much for our country over the years,” said Rocky Mount Mayor Sandy Roberson. “Thank you, NCWU, for being the host of this important event.”
The event will include a one-hour viewing of the award-winning documentary series, ‘For the Love of Liberty: The Story of America’s Black Patriots.’ This documentary series honors heroic men and women who, despite enormous injustice, fought so valiantly for freedoms they themselves did not enjoy. General Gordon-Bray will then hold a discussion and Q&A to examine the award-winning documentary series.
What: Viewing of the award-winning documentary ‘For the Love of Liberty: The Story of America’s Black Patriots’ followed by discussion and Q&A with General Gordon-Bray
When: Monday, February 27, 2023
7:00 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Where: NCWU
Powers Recital Hall at The Dunn Center
3400 N. Wesleyan Blvd., Rocky Mount, N.C.
Why: Black History Month Special Event
“North Carolina Wesleyan is excited to partner with Mayor Roberson, the City of Rocky Mount and General Gordon-Bray in honoring the black servicemen and women who have made an incalculable contribution to our nation,” said Dr. Joe Lane, Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs at NCWU. “Celebrating Black History Month is ultimately an exercise in understanding how American history has been shaped and enriched by the contributions of black Americans, and this is an exciting opportunity for our campus to interact with the larger community in discussion about these contributions.”
Brigadier General Arnold Gordon-Bray has completed over three decades of service in the United States Army. He holds a Master of Arts in National Security & Strategic Studies from the U.S. Naval War College, a Master of Science in International Strategic Studies from the Air War College and a Bachelor of Science in Art from the University of Central Missouri. He is currently an independent consultant and owner of ANGB Consulting, LLC.
NC Wesleyan and Capitol Broadcasting Company Team up
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) has established a new partnership with Capitol Broadcasting Company (CBC) for students to gain practical, hands-on experience through job shadowing and internship opportunities. CBC is the parent company of the Durham Bulls, the Coastal Plain League and the Holly Springs Salamanders, among other companies. As part of this exclusive agreement, CBC will provide opportunities for NCWU Sports Administration majors to learn the business of sports firsthand.
This partnership will expand career development opportunities for NCWU students through learning about event venue management, ticket and sponsorship sales, enhancing the customer experience and the business aspects of running a successful sports venue. As part of NC Wesleyan’s Practical Skills Academy, a CBC baseball professional will offer their expertise as part of a scheduled class or discussion panel event.
“This exciting opportunity will expose our Sports Administration students to the real-world aspects of sports facilities, programs and businesses. The skills that they develop through job shadowing and internships will prepare them to be competitive candidates in their professional careers,” stated Dr. Robin Pietryk, Assistant Professor and Program Coordinator of Sports Administration.
“We are thrilled to partner with NC Wesleyan University, a sports-minded academic institution that shares our commitment to developing young talent and promoting excellence both on and off the field,” said Chip Allen, Commissioner of the Coastal Plain league. “This collaboration represents a unique opportunity for the Coastal Plain League to expand its reach and impact, while providing student-athletes with a pathway to success in sports and beyond.”
North Carolina Wesleyan University will also provide CBC employees with professional development opportunities and reduced tuition for employees who want to further their education, whether it’s undergraduate or graduate work, or through a certificate program at NCWU. CBC employees will also receive at least one professional development opportunity per year at no cost.
“This partnership demonstrates our continued commitment to providing our students with a practical and purpose-driven education,” said Dr. Joe Lane, Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs. “By working alongside employees at high-profile companies, these students are developing valuable contacts for their lives after Wesleyan.”
Future internship and job shadowing opportunities will be offered to students in Sports Administration, Marketing, Accounting and other related fields.
About Capitol Broadcasting Company (CBC)
CBC is a bold, future-thinking company, transforming media, entertainment & communities. Locally-owned and community-focused, CBC emphasizes excellence, integrity and teamwork in everything it does. CBC owns and/or operates WRAL-TV, WRAZ-TV, WRAL-FM, WRAL-HD2, WNGT-CD, WCMC-FM, WCMC-HD1, WDNC-AM, WCMC-HD2, WCMC-HD3, WCLY-AM, WCMC-HD4, Microspace, WRAL Digital and Wolfpack Sports Properties (a joint venture with Learfield) in Raleigh, NC; WILM-TV, WILT-LD and Sunrise Broadcasting in Wilmington, NC; The Durham Bulls Baseball Club, Bull City Hospitality in Durham; the Coastal Plain League and The Holly Springs Salamanders in Holly Springs, NC; the American Underground startup hub in Durham, NC; and real estate interests including the American Tobacco Historic District in Durham, NC, and Rocky Mount Mills in Rocky Mount, NC. To learn more, visit capitolbroadcasting.com
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.
