October 20–26, 2025 is National Estate Planning Awareness Week, a time to reflect on how thoughtful planning today can create a lasting impact tomorrow. At North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU), planned gifts have helped shape the institution’s growth, stability, and student success.
One powerful example is the gift from the Estate of Anita D. Bobbitt, which significantly expanded the John C. and Huldah B. Daughtridge Memorial Scholarship. Originally supporting one student per semester, this scholarship now helps over 10 students each term—prioritizing North Carolina residents with financial need.
Planned gifts like these are more than financial contributions—they are legacies that honor the values of their donors and transform lives for generations. Whether through a bequest in a will, a trust, or a gift from an IRA, these contributions offer flexible, tax-smart ways to support NCWU’s mission.
Why Estate Planning Matters
Despite its importance, 64% of Americans do not have any estate planning documents, and only 34% have a will. The main reason? Procrastination.
Estate planning ensures your wishes are honored—whether for your family, loved ones, or favorite charities. It’s a key part of financial wellness and peace of mind.
5 Simple Steps to Get Started
- Inventory Your Assets – List everything you own and its value. Compile a list of all of your assets and their value. Once you’ve got it all organized you can start thinking about what to do with it.
- Set Your Priorities – Think about what matters most to you. Before you get down to the specifics of planning, consider your priorities and goals. What are you looking to achieve?
- Identify Beneficiaries – Decide who or what organizations you want to support. Make a list of the individuals and organizations that you want to provide for in your estate plan. Note any conditions that might determine the method and circumstances.
- Talk with Family – Discuss your plans with loved ones. If applicable, work closely with your spouse from the beginning. Coordinating plans between spouses often leads to additional savings for your estate. You may also want a meeting to discuss your plans with children or other family members.
- Seek Professional Help – A qualified attorney or advisor can guide you. Even if you only need a simple will, it is advisable to seek the help of a qualified attorney and, as needed, other professional advisors. Professional guidance is most often a worthy investment to ensure a proper plan.
Elevate the Next Generation at NCWU. Leave a Legacy Today.
If you care deeply about NC Wesleyan or are grateful for the education you or a loved one received, consider leaving a legacy through your will. This type of gift, called a bequest, is a meaningful way to support future generations.
Benefits of Planned Giving:
- Simple Process – Often just one sentence in your will.
- Flexible Options – Give a fixed amount, a percentage, or the remainder of your estate.
- No Impact on Current Finances – Your gift is made in the future.
- Purposeful Giving – Support a specific program or area of need.
- Adaptable – You can revise your plans if your situation changes.
Already Have a Will?
- That’s a great start! But there are other important steps to ensure your plans are clear and up to date:
- Do you revisit your will regularly to reflect major life changes like births, marriages, or divorces?
- Have you shared the location of your will, healthcare directives, and other key documents with a rusted person? Are they stored securely and organized?
- Are the beneficiaries listed on your retirement accounts, bank accounts, and insurance policies current?
- Have you considered your digital footprints such as online banking, email, cloud storage, and social media? Does someone you trust have access if needed?
So, don’t forget to:
- Update it after major life events.
- Share its location with someone you trust.
- Review your listed beneficiaries.
- Plan for digital assets like email and online accounts.
Maximize Your IRA’s Impact
If you’re 70½ or older, you may be able to make a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) directly from your IRA to NCWU. This can:
- Count toward your Required Minimum Distribution (RMD).
- Be excluded from your taxable income.
- Reduce future tax burdens for your heirs.
Example: Linda, age 74, asked her IRA administrator to send $2,000 directly to NCWU. It counted toward her RMD and saved her on taxes—without affecting her current finances.
Choose Your Legacy Today
To GET STARTED or learn more about leaving a lasting legacy through a planned gift, visit ncwu.edu/planned-gifts or contact Tammy Robinson at 252.985.5410 or donorrelations@ncwu.edu.
NCWU Announces the Establishment of the James and Elizabeth Gray Endowed Scholarship
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) is proud to announce the creation of the James (Jim) and Elizabeth (Beth) Gray Endowed Scholarship, honoring the life and contributions of NCWU’s former President Jim Gray and his wife, Beth. This permanently restricted endowment will provide lasting support for NCWU students and will carry forward the Gray family’s commitment to education.
The scholarship was formally announced during the NCWU football game on Saturday,September 20, where Jim and Beth Gray and their family joined President Dr. Evan D. Duff on the field for a special check-signing ceremony. The moment celebrated not only the Grays’ generosity, but also their ongoing commitment to the Wesleyan community.
When awarded, the scholarship will be communicated to students as the Elizabeth Gray Education Scholarship, recognizing Beth Gray’s dedication to preschool education and her lasting impact on NCWU.
“This scholarship is a meaningful way to celebrate the Gray family’s legacy and their devotion to advancing education,” said Dr. Evan D. Duff, President of NCWU. “Their generosity will directly impact generations of students, helping them pursue their dreams with the same values of excellence and service that the Grays embodied.”
The endowment, funded by Jim and Beth Gray, will be invested in accordance with the University’s endowment guidelines to ensure it is awarded in perpetuity. The scholarship will be distributed annually with preference given to:
- Students majoring in Preschool Education, followed by Education majors.
- Students who demonstrate strong academic achievement and good personal character.
- Recommendations from the University’s Education Department.
The scholarship may be awarded to both freshmen and upper-classmen and can be renewed.
By establishing this fund, Jim and Beth Gray have created a legacy that will continue to support students and the mission of North Carolina Wesleyan University for generations to come.
NCWU Honors Two Trustees with Golden Emeritus Award
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) proudly recognized two esteemed individuals for their exceptional service and unwavering dedication to the institution. During a special ceremony held on Tuesday, July 29 at the Gateway Technology Center, Dr. Daniel Crocker and Mr. Roger Taylor were honored with the Golden Emeritus Award.
This prestigious recognition is reserved for trustees who have shown extraordinary commitment and leadership for many years of service. Dr. Crocker and Mr. Taylor have each dedicated 28 years to NCWU’s Board of Trustees, providing invaluable guidance, serving on numerous committees, and helping shape the future of the university through their leadership. Their leadership, vision, and generosity have helped shape Wesleyan into the institution it is today.
Dr. Crocker began his tenure in 1997 and has served continuously ever since. Over the years, he has held several leadership roles, including Vice Chair of the Board from 2016 to 2018 and Chair of the Board from 2018 to 2023. His strategic insight and steadfast dedication have left a lasting impact on the University’s progress and direction.
Mr. Taylor began serving on the Board in 1996, completing 20 consecutive years, briefly stepping away in accordance with the bylaw policy. He returned after one year and continued serving for another eight consecutive years. Mr. Taylor has been an influential voice on multiple committees, most notably leading the Athletics Committee for many years with great passion and commitment.
Board Chair Paul Bauer led the presentation, offering heartfelt remarks about each recipient’s lasting contributions. Both Dr. Crocker and Mr. Taylor followed with their own words of gratitude and reflection, emphasizing their enduring connection with the University.
President Dr. Evan D. Duff shared, “Dr. Crocker and Mr. Taylor, your legacy here is profound, and it is a great privilege to express our collective gratitude for your enduring service. The Taylor-Crocker Honors Program stands as a beacon of excellence at NC Wesleyan, a reflection of your visionary leadership. Your wisdom, guidance, and unwavering support have shaped not only our university but my own journey as well. You have set an example of service and dedication that will inspire future generations of leaders.”
Dr. Crocker, reflecting on the evening, noted, “I look upon this evening as not a celebration of anything Brenda and I may have done on this campus, but rather as an opportunity to say thank you to all of you for the excellent work you do every day in perpetuating the mission of this school. We thank you for including us in the NCWU family, making us always feel so welcomed.”
Mr. Taylor, whose relationship with the University spans more than half a century, shared, “Since 1968, when I arrived on the campus of NCWC, I have witnessed the transformation into a university. The bonding of faculty, staff, students, administration, and the area community has only added value to those who have participated. The trustees have faced many difficulties, but through it all, our university is stronger today than ever before.”
The Golden Trustee Emeritus Award represents the University’s deep gratitude and respect for those who have played a lasting role in its development. Through their vision, service, and love for the Wesleyan community, Dr. Crocker and Mr. Taylor have left an enduring legacy that will benefit generations of students to come.
NCWU Announces New Endowed Scholarship in Public Health
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) is honored to announce the establishment of the Dr. J. Allen Whitaker Scholarship of Public Health, a newly endowed scholarship created through the generosity of George G. Whitaker in memory of his late father, Dr. J. Allen Whitaker.
The scholarship will support students pursuing degrees in Public Health and will be awarded annually beginning one year after the endowment’s initial investment. The fund has already met the $10,000 minimum required for activation, thanks to a generous gift from George G. Whitaker. Additional contributions are welcome from others who wish to honor Dr. Whitaker’s legacy and further support students in this vital field. The scholarship is designed to be a lasting tribute to Dr. Whitaker’s contributions to the field and his enduring impact on community health.
“This scholarship reflects our family’s deep respect for my father’s life’s work and our shared belief in the power of public health to improve lives,” said George G. Whitaker. “We are proud to support students who are passionate about continuing that mission.”
Administered through the University’s permanently restricted endowment and managed by the Board of Trustees, the fund will provide annual awards based on academic merit and character, with preference given to undergraduate and graduate students pursuing a degree in Public Health. Scholarship recipients will be selected by the University’s Financial Aid Office in partnership with the Public Health faculty.
Dr. J. Allen Whitaker began his career as a public health officer, a field that remained his lifelong passion. Although he went on to practice urology for more than 40 years, his heart was always rooted in public health. This scholarship honors his legacy by investing in the next generation of leaders dedicated to advancing public health. North Carolina Wesleyan University is deeply grateful to the Whitaker family for their vision and enduring commitment to both higher education and public service.
NCWU Honors Calvin Davenport, Inc. for Nursing Building Renovation
North Carolina Wesleyan (NCWU) proudly welcomed Richard Davenport, President & Project Manager, and Doug Broughton, Vice President of Operations and Development, of Calvin Davenport, Inc. back to campus this week to express gratitude for their outstanding work in the recent renovation to the University’s Nursing Building.
The visit celebrated not only the successful completion of a complex project but also recognized a long-standing relationship between the Davenport Family and Wesleyan. Richard Davenport’s family has been dedicated supporters of the University for many years, with a scholarship named in honor of his grandparents, Taswell and Fidelia Griffin Endowed Scholarship Fund, continuing to support Wesleyan students.
Throughout the renovation process, the Calvin Davenport, Inc. team collaborated closely with Suzanne Brackett ’87, Senior Vice President of Administration, delivering the project ahead of schedule with unmatched quality and professionalism. One of the most unique challenges faced during the renovation was the removal of the massive vault from the building’s former life as a bank. When asked about this task, Doug Broughton shared, “Removing the vault within 90 days was definitely one of the most unique and rewarding parts of the entire renovation.”
To commemorate this impactful partnership, a plaque has been installed in the building’s lobby, permanently recognizing Calvin Davenport, Inc. for their dedication and craftsmanship in transforming the space into a state-of-the-art facility for nursing education.
“We are deeply grateful for the diligence, care, and partnership with Richard, Doug, and the entire Calvin Davenport, Inc. team brought to this project,” said Suzanne Brackett. “Their work not only created a state-of-the-art learning environment but also honors the Wesleyan tradition of investing in our students’ futures.”
NCWU Celebrates an Open House Ceremony for New Nursing Facility
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) proudly celebrated the upcoming launch of its new Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Program, set to welcome its first cohort in Fall 2025. To mark this milestone, the University hosted a private Open House and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony on Thursday, April 10, 2025, on its Rocky Mount campus.
The event welcomed generous donors, University leadership, and community partners for an exclusive preview of the state-of-the-art nursing facilities. This was only possible with generous partnerships such as: Golden LEAF Foundation, UNC Nash Hospital, Cannon Foundation, The Eddie & Jo Allison Smith Family Foundation, Daniel and Brenda Crocker, Paul and Leslie Bauer, Lonnie and Carol Poole Family Foundation, Southern Bank Foundation, State of North Carolina Treasury, Rocky Mount Community Foundation, Gerald and Melia Cox, and Guardian Corporation. Attendees had the opportunity to tour newly designed classrooms, faculty offices, simulation labs, study areas, and break rooms—all tailored to support the next generation of nursing professionals.
Special remarks were shared by NCWU President Dr. Evan D. Duff, who noted, “Five years ago we started making plans to launch a BSN Program and we were able to bring those plans to fruition with important hires, and the support of our community and dedicated donors.” underscoring the impact and importance of this new program to the region. He shared how the facility began as bank facility, was then donated to Wesleyan, and has since then been utilized for other purposes. It was decided that it would become Wesleyan’s mission to “focus all energy on converting this building to a state-of-the- art Nursing Education Facility”.
The ceremony concluded with an official ribbon cutting, symbolizing the beginning of an exciting new chapter in NCWU’s commitment to advancing healthcare education and serving the needs of eastern North Carolina.
A second Open House will be held on Wednesday, April 16, for faculty, staff, and other invited guests to view the facilities and learn more about the BSN program.
For more information about the Bachelor of Science in Nursing at NCWU, please visit https://ncwu.edu/academics/majors-minors/nursing/.
NCWU Generates Over $209 Million in Economic Impact
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) continues to be a vital economic driver in Central and Eastern North Carolina, contributing $209.3 million to the regional economy in fiscal year 2022-23, according to a recent economic impact study performed by Lightcast.
The report highlights NCWU’s role in job creation, business development, and workforce readiness, supporting 2,316 jobs across Edgecombe, Franklin, Halifax, Johnston, Nash, Pitt, and Wilson counties. The university employs 244 faculty and staff, with payroll expenditures of $16.3 million circulating throughout the local economy. Additionally, NCWU serves as both an employer and buyer of goods for its day-to-day and construction operations.
NCWU’s commitment to innovation and entrepreneurship is evident in its spin-off companies, which include MBM Corporation, FullSTEAM, Taylor Financials and Stroud Company CPA, generating $18.1 million in regional income. These companies, founded and nurtured by university programs, faculty, and alumni, have strong ties to NCWU and continue to create economic opportunities in the region.
Out-of-region visitors attracted to North Carolina activities at Wesleyan brought new dollars to the economy through their spending at restaurants, gas stations, and other regional businesses. Visitor spending from university events contributed an additional $413,000, while student spending added $4.9 million. Around 47% of students attending Wesleyan originated from outside the region. In addition, some retained students would have left the Central and Eastern NC for other educational opportunities if not for NCWU. These relocated and retained students spent money on groceries, rent payments, and other living expenses at regional businesses.
NCWU’s alumni play a significant role in the regional economy. Former students currently in the workforce generate $156.8 million in added income, supporting approximately 1,640 jobs. Whether the impact is evident once in a lifetime or a million times a day, it is a lasting impact.
Students experience a strong return on investment, gaining an estimated $4.90 in higher future earnings for every dollar invested in their education. In return for their investment, students will receive a stream of higher future earnings that will continue to grow throughout their working lives. For example, the average NCWU bachelor’s degree graduate from FY 2022-23 will see annual earnings that are $29,900 higher than a person with a high school diploma or equivalent working in North Carolina.
The university’s presence also provides substantial benefits to North Carolina taxpayers, generating $48.5 million in increased tax revenues and reducing demand for government-funded services. Over the course of students’ careers, NCWU’s contributions to the state economy are projected to reach $461.1 million, yielding a social return of $38.4 million in social savings.
Beyond economic contributions, the education provided by NCWU leads to significant social savings in areas such as healthcare, the justice system, and income assistance. A more educated workforce results in lower healthcare costs, reduced crime rates, and decreased reliance on government supported programs, yielding an estimated $38.4 million in social savings.
Overall, the social benefits of NCWU amount to a present value of $499.5 million, encompassing $294.3 million in added student income, $135.5 million in additional business income, $31.5 million from university activities, and $38.4 million in social savings.
NCWU President Dr. Evan D. Duff emphasized the university’s impact, stating “This study reaffirms NCWU’s role as a catalyst for regional economic growth, workforce development, and social mobility. We are proud to contribute to the prosperity of North Carolina and remain committed to providing high-quality education that fuels individual and community success.”
Wesleyan continues to create value by equipping students with the skills necessary for career success and economic mobility. The university’s influence extends beyond its classrooms, shaping the lives of its students and strengthening the broader regional economy. It offers a best-in-class value and a personally tailored private higher education experience. Wesleyan invests in each and every student by providing individualized experiences that are Personal, Practical, and Purpose-Driven.
To read more about this report, click here!
A Day for Wesleyan Giving Campaign- March 25th
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – On March 25, 2025, friends and alumni of NC Wesleyan will have an opportunity to show their Bishop Pride and support the University during its six annual, 24-hour day of giving campaign, A Day for Wesleyan
WHAT IS A DAY FOR WESLEYAN?
This is a day when all NC Wesleyan University supporters, particularly alumni, celebrate the University through donations to support its vision and its students. In a short period of time, donors to the campaign can help advance the educational experiences for all students, help invest in new technologies for learning, create more scholarship opportunities, allow students to grow into their purpose, and help build Wesleyan’s future in the region.
“The A Day for Wesleyan campaign this year is focusing on the emerging needs for the University. Supporting the Annual Fund, also known as the Wesleyan Fund, gives the university the flexibility to grant more scholarships and financial aid to students in need, create more internships within our business community, invest in relevant technologies for the library and classrooms, and provide more co-curricular activities for all students,” said Mark Hinson, Sr. Executive for Philanthropic Engagement. “All gifts during A Day for Wesleyan Giving Day, regardless of size, add up to make a huge impact!”
When asked about the importance of A Day for Wesleyan , NC Wesleyan President, Dr. Evan Duff, stated; “We hope that our alumni and the community will join us in showing their Bishop Pride and support this campaign on Tuesday, March 25. When alumni and friends of the University unite to share their passion for Wesleyan, amazing things can happen for this entire community.”
Help Wesleyan continue impacting this community while also providing its students with a personal, practical and purpose-driven education. Donors can learn more and participate in A Day for Wesleyan by visiting the secure giving website, A Day for Wesleyan , or by calling 252.985.5581.
Wesleyan Hosts GLF Scholarship Luncheon
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) proudly hosted the Annual Golden LEAF Foundation Luncheon on March 13 at The Dunn Center, celebrating the strong partnership between the two institutions. The event honored both past scholarship graduates and new recipients, highlighting the impact of the Golden LEAF Foundation (GLF) on student success.
The luncheon opened with a warm welcome from Mark Hinson, NCWU’s Vice President of Advancement, who expressed gratitude for the Foundation’s continued support. He emphasized the significant role GLF plays in providing educational opportunities for NCWU students and strengthening the university’s mission.
Golden LEAF Alumni Speaker and NCWU graduate, Nadia Simmons, reflected on her time at Wesleyan, sharing how her experience was profoundly shaped by the scholarship. During her time as a student, she interned with GLF—an opportunity that led to her current role post-graduation. She credited the Foundation not only for her academic success but also for the meaningful relationships and shared values it fostered among students from small towns who aspire to make a big impact.
Leah Hill, NCWU’s Director of Financial Aid, recognized and introduced the scholarship recipients, personally thanking GLF members for their generosity. As a token of appreciation, the university presented gifts to the Foundation’s representatives. Five scholarship recipients were in attendance to celebrate this milestone: Benjamin Sellers, Finnegan Allen, Joseph Cooper, Nyasia Jones, and Alexis Whitfield.
The event concluded with remarks from Arlena Dongilli, GLF Scholarship Program Manager, and NCWU President Dr. Evan D. Duff, who reaffirmed the university’s gratitude for this life-changing partnership.
Through this ongoing collaboration, NCWU and the Golden LEAF Foundation continue to empower students, foster academic achievement, and invest in the future of North Carolina’s workforce.
Bishops Bond with Donors
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) welcomed their generous donors for a time to fellowship, dine and meet face-to-face the students whose lives they are making a difference in. The Battling Bishop Brunch Scholarship Appreciation event was held on Thursday, February 27in the Dunn Center on campus.
In attendance were several sponsors, including Gold Sponsor North Carolina Conference of The United Methodist Church. The brunch began with a warm welcome from Seth Badders, NCWU Junior majoring in Biology. With a passion for serving others, Seth is involved in multiple clubs and organizations including Student Government Association (SGA), Disc Golf Club, Psychology Club, Nu Gamma Phi, and is also a Resident Assistant (RA). Eddie McKoy III ’85, Former NCWU Basketball Player and Don Scalf Scholarship Recipient, introduced the Key Note Guest Speaker.
Jeff Hood ’84, NCWU Sports Hall of Fame Inductee and CEO for Hoodies House of Hope for Youth Charitable Organization, was the guest speaker. Hood has been involved with several youth related causes for more than 35 years. A native of Queens, NY and a graduate of North Carolina Wesleyan College where he received a BA Degree. In September 2007, Jeff was inducted into the N.C. Wesleyan Sports Hall of Fame after having completed a stellar basketball career. In 2018, Jeff was recognized by the NBA’s Charlotte Hornets as their Tissot Gift of Time Community Service Person of the Year. He was also Honored and Recognized as a “Made Man” of Charlotte, NC. In 2019 NOBLE recognized Jeff as their Civil Rights Justice by Action for Youth of the Year Award. Jeff is married to Gloria Sledge Hood and together have a wonderful daughter named Maya.
In his speech, Hood shares his journey of overcoming financial challenges to attend college, emphasizing the importance of scholarships, grants, and work-study programs. He recounts memorable experiences, such as guarding diplomas the night before graduation, highlighting the lengths he went to achieve his goals. He urged scholarship recipients to appreciate the support they receive and to be grateful to donors. He underscored the role of faith in his life, drawing parallels to the biblical story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. Reflecting on his upbringing in a tough neighborhood, he discussed his determination to succeed and his initial struggles with racism, unfamiliar environments, and the pressure of being the first in his family to attend college. Despite these challenges, he found support and mentorship from Coach McCarthy and others, which helped him persevere. Hood emphasized the importance of resilience, the impact of receiving love and care from people different from himself, and the significance of giving back to support the next generation. He shared his commitment to youth programs and mentoring, encouraging young people to keep their faith and reminding donors of the impact of their contributions.
Vice President of Advancement, Mark Hinson, expressed his gratitude by saying, “To our scholarship recipients, know that those who invest in your education believe in your potential. Honor this opportunity with dedication and, when the time comes, we encourage you to pay it forward to help others.”
Acknowledgement of the Scholarship Donors and Recipients was conducted by NC Wesleyan Senior, Lovely Thornton. She is majoring in Elementary Education with a minor in Psychology. Preceding the presentation was a beautiful singing of the Alma Mater by Latisha Scott ’06 who is currently working on her debut album. Senior Matthew Tiller, who is double majoring in English and Psychology, presented ways to give. Tiller is actively involved in leadership and service on campus through his membership of Omicron Delta Kappa, Student Government Association (SGA), and the University Honor Board.
The brunch was concluded by NCWU President, Dr. Evan D. Duff, reinforcing the university’s commitment to student success and the power of philanthropy in shaping their futures.
