At North Carolina Wesleyan University, success is more than a benchmark—it is a sustained tradition. Nowhere is that more evident than in the NCWU’s Exercise Science (EXS) program, where student achievement, academic rigor, and professional preparation converge to produce exceptional outcomes year after year.
As the demand for highly trained professionals in health, wellness, and human performance continues to rise, NCWU’s Exercise Science program has positioned itself as a leader—not only within the state of North Carolina but across the nation. Through a combination of rigorous academics, hands-on experiences, and dedicated faculty mentorship, the program continues to transform student aspirations into tangible results.
A Nationally Recognized Program of Distinction
NCWU’s Exercise Science program holds a distinction that places it among an elite group of institutions. It is one of only four programs in North Carolina—and approximately 120 nationwide—to be accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP).
This accreditation signals more than quality—it reflects a deep commitment to preparing students for real-world success in clinical, academic, and professional settings. It ensures that graduates leave NCWU equipped with the knowledge, skills, and competencies required to excel in competitive industries and advanced degree programs.
NCWU’s Exercise Science Outcomes That Speak for Themselves
While accreditation is a critical benchmark, the true measure of a program lies in the success of its students. By that measure, NCWU’s Exercise Science program continues to exceed expectations.
During the 2024–2025 academic year, the program achieved an 80% positive placement rate, indicating that a strong majority of graduates secured employment or entered graduate school soon after completing their degree. Even more impressive is the program’s 100% graduate satisfaction rate, a milestone it has maintained for eight consecutive years—a testament to the quality of both the academic experience and student support.
In addition, NCWU has earned recognition as an Exercise is Medicine® (EIM) Campus, driven by the efforts of the Health and Movement Science Club. This designation reflects the University’s commitment to promoting physical activity as a vital component of health and wellness—not only for students, but for the broader community as well.
A Record-Breaking Year for Academic Achievement
This past academic year marked a historic milestone for the Exercise Science program. The graduating class of 15 students achieved an average GPA of 3.52, the highest since the program first received accreditation.
This achievement is more than a numerical milestone—it represents a culture of academic excellence, discipline, and perseverance. It also reflects the effectiveness of NCWU’s faculty, who are deeply invested in fostering student success through personalized instruction, mentorship, and academic guidance.
Preparing Students for the Next Level
Perhaps the most compelling indicator of the program’s strength is the success of its graduates in gaining admission to advanced degree programs.
Of the 15 graduates in the most recent class, 13 students—87%—have already been accepted into graduate programs across a range of highly competitive disciplines. These include:
- Doctoral programs in Physical Therapy (DPT)
- Doctoral programs in Occupational Therapy (OTD)
- Athletic Training programs
- NCWU’s own Master of Public Health (MPH) and Human Performance and Sports Science (HPSS) programs
This high acceptance rate demonstrates not only academic preparedness but also the confidence that graduate schools place in NCWU graduates.
Visitors can explore detailed alumni outcomes and placements here:
https://ncwu.edu/academics/majors-minors/exercise-science/exs-alumni/
A Transformational Student Experience
Beyond statistics and outcomes, the true strength of the Exercise Science program lies in the experiences it offers students every day.
At NCWU, Exercise Science students benefit from a student-centered approach that blends classroom learning with real-world application. Small class sizes allow for individualized instruction, ensuring that each student receives the attention and support they need to thrive.
Hands-on laboratory work, clinical exposure, and internship opportunities provide practical experience in settings such as rehabilitation clinics, fitness centers, hospitals, and sports performance facilities. These experiences not only enhance learning but also help students build valuable professional networks before graduation.
Student engagement also plays a vital role. Through organizations like the Health and Movement Science Club, students participate in outreach, leadership, and wellness initiatives—helping to create a campus culture centered on health and well-being.
Why Prospective Students Choose NCWU’s Exercise Science
For students considering a future in Exercise Science, NCWU offers a compelling and proven pathway to success. The program provides:
- CAAHEP-accredited curriculum recognized nationwide
- Strong job placement and graduate school acceptance rates
- Hands-on learning experiences and internships
- Personalized instruction and faculty mentorship
- Opportunities for leadership and campus involvement
- Preparation for in-demand careers in healthcare, rehabilitation, and fitness
Whether a student’s goal is to pursue advanced study or enter the workforce immediately, NCWU equips them with the tools, knowledge, and confidence needed to succeed.
Leadership and Vision
At the heart of the program’s continued success is a dedicated faculty committed to student growth and achievement. Among them is Dr. Meir Magal, whose leadership and vision have helped guide the program to new heights.
“We are incredibly proud of our students and their accomplishments. These outcomes reflect their hard work, dedication, and passion, as well as the supportive environment we strive to create. Our mission is to prepare students for meaningful careers and to make a lasting impact in the field of health and human performance.”
— Dr. Meir Magal
This commitment to excellence is evident in every aspect of the program including curriculum design to student mentorship and career preparation.
Building on Momentum
The continued growth and success of the Exercise Science program would not be possible without the collective efforts of faculty, students, alumni, and supporters. Each milestone reflects a shared commitment to excellence and a belief in the transformative power of education.
Take the Next Step Toward Your Future
The journey toward a rewarding career in health and human performance begins here.
Apply to NCWU’s Exercise Science Program
Start building your future with a program designed for success.
Visit Campus
See firsthand how NCWU students learn, grow, and thrive.
Connect with Our Faculty
Discover how the EXS program can help you achieve your goals.
Learn more and get started today:
https://ncwu.edu/academics/majors-minors/exercise-science/
Rock the Mount at NC Wesleyan University
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) is excited to announce the return of its annual Rock the Mount celebration, an honored tradition that marks the official start of the academic year and warmly welcomes incoming students to campus and the local community. Sponsored this year by First Carolina Bank, the event will take place from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Monday, August 17 – the day before fall classes begin.
Held each fall, Rock the Mount is a vibrant, high-energy event featuring local businesses, nonprofits, churches, and campus partners who line the heart of campus with booths, giveaways, and smiles. It’s a chance to showcase community offerings while connecting with students who are new to the area and eager to get involved.
Maxie T. Coker, Jr, Senior Commercial Banking Officer, and Elizabeth Overton, Team Support Specialist for First Carolina Bank, share, “First Carolina Bank greatly values our relationship with North Carolina Wesleyan University and looks forward to continuing this partnership for many years to come. Rock the Mount is a fantastic event that connects the local community with the university’s students and creates a meaningful shared experience for everyone involved. We’re excited to make 2026 the best year yet!”
What to Expect:
The day begins with a signature Wesleyan tradition: the Bishop Tunnel. Hundreds of new students take part in this spirited rite of passage as they walk through a tunnel of applause, cheers, and encouragement from returning students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community members. At the end of the tunnel, they’re greeted personally by President Dr. Evan D. Duff and his wife, Marcy, then proceed toward a vibrant festival of tents, music, and engagement opportunities.
Vendor spaces are in high demand, with limited spots available. If you wish to have your spot secured for this event, contact Elliott now! Local restaurants, coffee shops, service providers, churches, and nonprofits are encouraged to participate. Whether you’re an automotive shop (freshmen can have cars on campus!), a local café, or a church seeking new connections, this is a unique chance to reach a new audience of potential customers, volunteers, interns, or even future employees.
This year’s entertainment will include DJ 3two1, along with a variety of food trucks offering local flavor, including:
- Three Boys Catering (Alumni Owned)
- Minnie’s Food and Thingz
- Sweet P’s Galaxy Lemonade
- CPS Catering
- Shawarmalicious
- Fairy Tale Concessions
- Carolina Icee
- Taquria La Lupita
Vendor Information:
- NCWU will provide a 6-foot table.
- Vendors should bring a tablecloth.
- Tents (up to 10’x10’) are optional but recommended for shade.
- Giveaways are not required but encouraged to boost engagement.
- Participation is free, but space is limited.
Registration Deadline: Friday, July 31. Early registration is encouraged.
Sign Up Here: Rock the Mount Vendor Link
Join us in making a memorable first impression and welcoming the NCWU Class of 2030 in style! For more information, contact Elliott Smith at esmith@ncwu.edu.
A Legacy of Friendship: New NCWU Endowed Scholarship
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) is proud to announce the establishment of the Martin A. Sarra Endowed Scholarship Fund in Honor of Rachel T. Dix, a permanently restricted endowment created by alumnus Daulton West, Jr. ’72 (listed in official paperwork as Henry D. West, Jr.). The scholarship honors the life and legacy of Martin “Marty” Sarra ’68, while also recognizing the lasting impact of beloved campus figure Rachel T. Dix, longtime namesake of the University bookstore.
This new endowed scholarship reflects what NC Wesleyan is built upon: relationships, tradition, and the deep bonds that form within the Bishop community and last long after graduation.
The scholarship will support junior or senior students of any major, with preference given to students employed in the Rachel T. Dix Bookstore, who demonstrate academic achievement or financial need, and who exhibit strong personal character. Students may be domestic or international. Once the endowment reaches the University’s required minimum funding level, the scholarship will be awarded annually and is renewable in accordance with University guidelines.
“This scholarship is about more than financial support,” said West. “It’s about honoring people who made our lives better and remembering the moments that made Wesleyan feel like home.”
A Homecoming Tradition “Like No Other”
The scholarship’s origin is rooted in a cherished NC Wesleyan Homecoming tradition shared by West and his close friends beginning in the early 1990s. Each year, West reunited with Marty Sarra and Brian Richardson for a weekend filled with Homecoming activities, camaraderie, and the University’s alumni golf tournament. A few years later, Phillip Boone ’70 joined the group, completing the foursome that would continue their tradition for nearly three decades.
One of their most meaningful stops each year wasn’t on the golf course — it was inside the Rachel T. Dix Bookstore.
On Saturday mornings during Homecoming, the friends made it a point to visit the bookstore, pick up new Wesleyan gear, and spend time catching up with “Miss Rachel.” For them, it became one of the most special parts of the weekend.
“Our visits with Rachel were always memorable,” West shared. “We looked forward to seeing Rachel every year, and she looked forward to seeing us too, always welcoming us with open arms, and a big smile on her face.”
Honoring Marty’s Commitment and Character
Marty Sarra’s dedication to this annual tradition was unmatched. In later years, he famously made the long drive from Canada each year to return to Rocky Mount and play in what many know today as the Wesleyan Cup Golf Tournament, simply because the weekend—and the friendships tied to it—meant that much to him.
West said Marty’s presence brought something special to everyone around him.
“Marty was a dear friend for life,” West said. “All our lives were better because he came our way.”
A Scholarship Rooted in Service and Memory
By centering the scholarship around students who work in the bookstore, West hopes to honor Rachel Dix’s spirit of kindness and connection, while also supporting today’s students who balance employment with academic responsibility.
The Martin A. Sarra Endowed Scholarship Fund in Honor of Rachel T. Dix will be invested as part of NCWU’s permanently restricted endowment and awarded in perpetuity. In accordance with University policy, the scholarship will be awarded once the fund meets the required minimum endowment level. Annual scholarship amounts will follow NC Wesleyan’s endowment payout guidelines.
A Call to Celebrate Bishop Friendships
NC Wesleyan hopes this scholarship will inspire alumni and friends to reflect on the people who shaped their college experience—and to consider honoring those memories through giving.
This new scholarship serves as a reminder that the Wesleyan experience does not end at graduation. It continues through friendships, traditions, and the people who make the campus feel like home.
Those interested in contributing to the scholarship fund, or establishing an endowed scholarship of their own, are encouraged to contact the NC Wesleyan Office of Advancement.
To learn more about giving opportunities at NCWU, visit ncwu.edu/give.
NC Wesleyan Esports Levels Up with Brightspeed’s Support
North Carolina Wesleyan University’s esports program continues to grow and create new opportunities for students as Brightspeed expands its commitment to strengthening STEM education and esports initiatives across North Carolina through a major statewide investment.
Brightspeed recently announced a $580,000 investment in STEM and esports programs designed to enhance digital learning, support competitive gaming opportunities, and build stronger technology ecosystems throughout the region. The funding supports a wide range of initiatives, including tournament sponsorships, technology lab development, and direct support for school and university esports programs. NC Wesleyan received $15,000.
As part of this statewide effort, North Carolina Wesleyan University esports received funding support for scholarships, equipment upgrades, and travel opportunities, further strengthening the University’s competitive gaming presence and expanding student access to high-quality esports experiences.
“Esports is about far more than gaming,” said Chantoni Grant, Director of Esports at NCWU. “It provides students with opportunities to develop leadership, teamwork, strategy, communication, and technical skills that align with today’s workforce. This investment helps ensure our students have the resources to compete and succeed at a higher level.”
Student Spotlight: Doors Open for NC Wesleyan Competitors
For students like Lamont Taylor, an NC Wesleyan esports competitor from Princeton, North Carolina, the program has provided opportunities far beyond the screen. Taylor said the program has opened doors both in competition and in career development.
“This program has changed what I thought was possible for me,” Taylor said. “We’ve been able to compete at a higher level and represent our university on bigger stages. It’s not just about gaming. It’s about learning technology, teamwork and skills that will help us in our future careers.”
Taylor’s experience reflects the growing role esports plays in higher education, helping students gain hands-on experience in communication, collaboration, problem-solving, and technical skill development all while building confidence and representing their institution.
Esports Growth Meets Workforce Development
Brightspeed’s investment reflects a growing recognition of esports as an academic and career-building platform, particularly when paired with STEM education. Across the state, funding is supporting initiatives such as:
- Sponsorship of major esports competitions including the Coca-Cola All Stars Golden Ticket Contest, Formula STEM Esports Cup, and Players League Madden NFL Tournament
- Technology lab support for high schools across North Carolina
- Community-based tournament series and youth esports development opportunities
At North Carolina Wesleyan University, this support strengthens the Bishop Gaming Association and provides students with expanded competitive and professional development opportunities.
Esports participation at NC Wesleyan offers students the chance to build skills in areas such as broadcasting, content creation, event production, analytics, digital marketing, and information technology — all while representing the University through competitive play.
Get Involved with NC Wesleyan Esports
North Carolina Wesleyan University encourages students, alumni, and community partners to support the University’s growing esports efforts.
Those interested in learning more about the esports program, partnership opportunities, or student involvement can visit ncwu.edu or follow NC Wesleyan on social media for updates, team highlights, and upcoming competitions.
EasyFlyers Establishes Annual Scholarship at North Carolina Wesleyan University
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) is pleased to announce the creation of the EasyFlyers Annual Scholarship, established through the generosity of EasyFlyers, a global company recognized for its work in transportation and logistics solutions. The scholarship will be awarded each year to a Wesleyan student majoring in Supply Chain Management and Logistics.
As a leader in the movement of goods, materials, and critical shipments, EasyFlyers Logistics understands firsthand the growing demand for professionals who are well‑educated in supply chain systems, distribution strategies, and logistics technology. By supporting students in this field, the company is helping prepare future industry leaders who will drive efficiency, innovation, and reliability across global transportation networks.
“Supporting students pursuing supply chain management is a natural extension of what we do,” Nichol Ally, President of EasyFlyers USA shared. “Today’s logistics environment requires talent with strong analytical skills, practical problem‑solving abilities, and a commitment to continuous improvement. We believe Wesleyan students will help shape the future of our industry.”
At North Carolina Wesleyan University, scholarships are typically created with the long‑term goal of growing the fund through additional contributions, ensuring that students can rely on ongoing support throughout their academic journey. The EasyFlyers Annual Scholarship will follow this model. Recipients will be selected each fall in the academic year, however contributions to the scholarship fund are welcomed year‑round in order to expand the award’s impact.
Vice President of Institutional Advancement, Mark Hinson, noted, “Scholarships like this do more than reduce financial barriers – they open doors for students to enter high‑demand career fields that power our regional and national economy. We are grateful to EasyFlyers for investing in our students and their futures.”
EasyFlyers Annual Scholarship
The University looks forward to celebrating future scholarship recipients and strengthening its partnership with EasyFlyers in the years ahead. If you would like to contribute to the EasyFlyers Annual Scholarship, visit our dedicated scholarship funding website or you can also give at ncwu.edu/donate and follow link to our GiveCampus Donation website, type “EasyFlyers” in the designation field to select the scholarship fund.
ARTLAB and NC Wesleyan University Partner to Launch New Embryology and Andrology Education Programs
In recognition of National Infertility Awareness Week (NIAW), ARTLAB and North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) are highlighting a major step forward in reproductive science education with the launch of a new academic credential designed to strengthen the future workforce of fertility laboratory professionals. The partners are proud to announce the first stage in their strategic collaboration: a post-baccalaureate certificate in Applied Reproductive Biology, launching in Summer 2026. The first cohort will start July 6 – Sept 11, 2026.
This 16-credit (10-week) certificate program is now accepting applications from candidates who have completed a B.S. in a laboratory science or who will complete such a degree in May 2026. To inquire or apply for the first cohort, contact Dr. Eva Schenkman at eva@artlabconsulting.com.
Designed to meet the growing workforce demands of assisted reproductive technology (ART) laboratories across the United States, the program combines academic rigor with applied training. ARTLAB, currently the largest IVF training center in the world, brings extensive reproductive laboratory expertise and real-world industry experience to the curriculum.
“As one of the few academically affiliated programs in embryology, this collaboration with North Carolina Wesleyan University brings together training taught by globally recognized leaders with a commitment to standardization in a historically unregulated field,” said Dr. Eva Schenkman, MS, PhD, Founder of ARTLAB. “As fertility rates decline and demand for assisted reproductive technologies increases worldwide, the need for highly skilled embryologists has become increasingly urgent. Together, ARTLAB and NC Wesleyan are setting a new standard for the field.”
“We are excited to launch our first certificate program with ARTLAB. This is one example of our commitment to deliver career-focused programs that reflect our Personal, Practical, Purpose-driven Education promise,” said Dr. Joe Lane, Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs at North Carolina Wesleyan University. “We are especially excited about the opportunities this certificate will provide to our biology students seeking new professional pathways in this highly specialized and rapidly growing field. We also look forward to welcoming new students into the Wesleyan community as they come to Rocky Mount to complete this ten-week professional program.”
NCWU President Dr. Evan D. Duff added, “This partnership with ARTLAB and Dr. Eva Schenkman represents exactly where higher education needs to go—aligning academic rigor with real-world, high-demand careers that change lives. By launching one of the few academically grounded programs in embryology and andrology, North Carolina Wesleyan is not only expanding opportunity for our students but also helping to build the future workforce of reproductive medicine professionals. We are proud to lead in a space where science, purpose, and human impact intersect in such a profound way.”
Through this partnership, ARTLAB and NCWU will continue to develop both credit-bearing and professional training courses to support professionals entering and advancing within the field.
Students pursuing the post-baccalaureate certificate may be eligible for federal financial aid, student loans, and grant opportunities. Formalizing this program under the auspices of North Carolina Wesleyan University significantly expands access to advanced education in reproductive science.
Additional details regarding admissions requirements, program structure, and enrollment timelines will be available in the coming days.
Learn More >
NCWU Recognized for Wellness by ACSM’s EIM® Program
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) is one of only 200 universities and colleges around the world to be honored by Exercise is Medicine® (EIM) for its efforts to create a culture of wellness on its campus. Faculty/Staff Personal Training, Wesleyan Wellness initiatives, the Walk with the President, the Health and Movement Science Club Pickleball Tournament, the Lunch and Learn Series for Health, and other physical activity events conducted by the NCWU Health and Movement Science Club helped NCWU earn a Silver-level designation from the Exercise is Medicine® On Campus (EIM-OC) program. Exercise is Medicine is a community-impact initiative of the American College of Sports Medicine.
“This is truly a team effort! The success of our Exercise Science program at NCWU is built on the strong and sustained support of the administration, particularly Dr. Duff; the leadership and engagement of the Health and Movement Science Club under Presidents Ava Lowry and Sam Colesano; the Lunch and Learn lecture series launched by Dr. Shannon Crowley; and the faculty and staff personal training program and Wesleyan Wellness program led by Kimla Brandt,” said Dr. Meir Magal, Program Director and Inaugural Souza Professor of Exercise Science and advisor to the Exercise is Medicine on Campus program.”
All Gold, Silver and Bronze universities and colleges will be officially recognized on May 29 at the EIM recognition ceremony at ACSM’s Annual Meeting in Salt Lake City, Utah.
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.
This initiative demonstrates our shared commitment to the health of our university community. We believe that an active lifestyle is vital to our students’ success and overall well-being and together, students, faculty, and staff we foster a culture that prioritizes health, fitness and wellness.
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 www.acsm.org.
OnlineMasters.com Ranks North Carolina Wesleyan University Among Best in the U.S.
OnlineMasters.com, a trusted resource for accredited online graduate education, has recognized North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) in its annual rankings, naming the University among the Best Online Master’s in Criminal Justice Programs for 2026.
This distinction reflects NCWU’s commitment to delivering high-quality, career-focused graduate education, particularly for adult learners balancing work, family, and personal responsibilities while pursuing advanced degrees.
Unlike traditional ranking systems, OnlineMasters.com uses a data-driven methodology designed to provide prospective graduate students with practical insights into academic quality, affordability, graduation outcomes, and student support. Institutions are evaluated using a proprietary scoring model that incorporates national data sources such as the U.S. Department of Education, College Scorecard, NCES College Navigator, the Bureau of Labor Statistics, College Board, and institutional disclosures, as well as benchmarking indicators from organizations including U.S. News & World Report.
NCWU’s Criminal Justice program stands out for its accessibility, flexibility, and emphasis on real-world preparation. The program is designed with the adult learner in mind, providing a supportive, engaging online environment that allows students to advance professionally while continuing to meet the demands of everyday life.
“At North Carolina Wesleyan, we understand that many of our graduate students are working professionals already serving in their communities,” said Katie Farrell, Dean of Adult & Professional Studies. “Our online programs are built to meet students where they are, providing flexibility, individualized support, and coursework that directly connects to career advancement in the criminal justice field.”
NCWU’s Master of Criminal Justice program equips students with advanced knowledge in criminal justice leadership, policy, ethics, and contemporary challenges in law enforcement and public safety. Graduates leave the program prepared to pursue higher-level roles in corrections, law enforcement administration, investigative services, homeland security, and other related fields.
“Our goal is to ensure students are not only earning a degree, but also gaining the confidence and expertise needed to take the next step in their careers,” said Dr. Gail Marsal, Associate Professor of Criminal Justice and Program Coordinator. “This program supports students as they transition into leadership roles and expand their impact within the criminal justice system.”
OnlineMasters.com’s rankings are focused exclusively on accredited, nonprofit institutions offering online and hybrid master’s programs. Each school is assigned an Online Master’s Score ranging from 0 to 100, measuring overall performance across the criteria most predictive of graduate student success.
NCWU’s recognition in the 2026 rankings reinforces the University’s growing reputation for providing adult learners with innovative graduate opportunities that lead to meaningful career outcomes.
To view the complete ranking, visit:
https://www.onlinemasters.com/best-degree-programs/criminal-justice/
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.
NCWU offers a best-in-class value and a personally tailored private higher education experience. We invest in each and every student we accept by providing individualized awards, scholarships and grants. Wesleyan is YOUR hometown University that is Personal. Practical, and Purpose-Driven. With students from all over the United States and more than 40 different countries, the University has immense cultural diversity. In addition to its educational mission, NCWU serves as a vital economic engine for the region, contributing over $209 million to the local economy.
To learn more, visit ncwu.edu and follow on Facebook, LinkedIn, TikTok and Instagram.
About ONLINEMASTERS.COM
OnlineMasters.com is an independent higher education research platform dedicated to helping students identify high-quality online master’s programs. Led by a team of data analysts and higher education researchers, the organization operates separately from editorial and marketing functions to preserve objectivity and methodological integrity.
Using verified federal education data, aggregated third-party rankings including U.S. News & World Report, and labor market research from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, OnlineMasters.com produces transparent, research-driven rankings that evaluate academic quality, affordability, return on investment, and student support. Its mission is to provide clear, unbiased insights that empower prospective graduate students to make confident, informed decisions about advanced education.
To learn more, visit https://www.onlinemasters.com.
NCWU Alumnus Releases New Single
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) is proud to announce that alumnus Jackson Nethercutt ’23 has released his latest single, “These Illustrations,” which debuted March 28. The song is now available on Apple Music, Spotify, YouTube, and iTunes.
Following his graduation from Wesleyan in 2023, Nethercutt moved to Salt Lake City for a yearlong internship at the University of Utah. After completing the experience, he returned to North Carolina and began a new chapter as an elementary school music teacher near Wilmington in 2024. While the transition brought exciting opportunities, it also came with significant personal and professional adjustments.
“These Illustrations tells the story of how a relationship formed and blossomed from a friendship to a romance,” said Nethercutt. “It became an irreplicable interconnectedness created by shared hardship.”
Nethercutt shared that the first half of the song reflects his internal conflict about allowing love into his life during a time when he already felt emotionally overwhelmed. As the song progresses, it shifts toward the peace and warmth he found through the relationship, ultimately capturing the exhilaration of falling in love while navigating a difficult season of life.
In addition to its personal meaning, Nethercutt noted that the song was also his most challenging production project to date. With its extended length and complex structure, including key and time signature changes, the recording process required significant time and attention to detail. Nethercutt wrote, performed, recorded, and produced the track entirely on his own from his apartment studio.
“I did a lot of experimenting with things like unique vocal harmonies, layering eight different acoustic guitar parts in the chorus, and having two bass lines going back and forth at each other in the hook,” he explained.
Nethercutt credits his experience in NCWU’s Music Production (MUP) program for preparing him to independently produce music at a professional level. He also expressed gratitude to Tony Sawyer, Assistant Professor of Music Production and Director of 301 North Records, who helped him develop key recording and mixing skills, as well as songwriting abilities through courses such as Music Theory and History of Popular Music.
“I gained a lot of skill and experience in the MUP program at Wesleyan that allows me to be able to do it all myself instead of having to pay someone else to do it for me,” said Nethercutt.
“These Illustrations” is Nethercutt’s second release under his stage name Kneethercute, a nickname stemming from a mispronunciation of his last name that has followed him since high school. He has also released music collaboratively under the name Camp Runaway.
Looking ahead, Nethercutt is currently working on his next musical project, expected later this summer, as well as a new YouTube channel titled “A Human Adventure,” which will document his life and music in an authentic and personal way.
Fans can follow Nethercutt on social media @kneethercute to stay updated on future releases.
NCWU congratulates Jackson Nethercutt on this exciting new release and proudly celebrates the continued achievements of its alumni in the music and production industries.
NCWU Hosts Regional Science Olympiad
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) proudly hosted a Regional Science Olympiad competition on campus this past Saturday, welcoming more than 300 middle and high school students for a day of hands-on, competitive STEM events.
A total of 27 teams from 15 schools participated in the event, showcasing their knowledge and skills across a variety of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics disciplines. The competition featured two divisions: Division B (Middle School) with 6 schools and 11 teams, and Division C (High School) with 9 schools and 16 teams.
The event was coordinated by Brittany Al Attabi, NCWU Visiting Instructor of Biology and Chemistry, whose leadership helped bring together a dynamic and engaging experience for all participants.
“The Science Olympiad participants are passionate about the STEM disciplines and are fierce competitors,” said Al Attabi. “Their hard work throughout the school year was evident in their participation. We loved having such a large number of science-minded students on campus and hope to continue to bring this event back in the future.”
Students competed in a wide range of events, from hands-on engineering challenges to knowledge-based scientific exams, fostering both collaboration and innovation.
Dr. Joseph H. Lane, Jr., Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs, emphasized the significance of the event. “Professor Al Attabi really should be commended for bringing such an extraordinary group of young people to our campus and providing them with this opportunity to practice science in a fun but competitive environment,” said Lane. “The enthusiasm and ingenuity of these students is an inspiration, and we hope that they will take what they have learned in practicing for and competing in this event forward into future scientific discoveries.”
Competition Results:
Division B – Middle School
Junior Varsity:
1st Place – Alston Ridge Middle School JV1
2nd Place – Alston Ridge Middle School JV2
Varsity:
1st Place – Alston Ridge Middle School
2nd Place – Woods Charter School
Division C – High School
Junior Varsity:
1st Place – Apex Friendship High School JV1
2nd Place – The Epiphany School of Global Studies JV1
Varsity:
1st Place – Needham B. Broughton High School
2nd Place – Woods Charter School
NCWU looks forward to continuing to host events like the Science Olympiad that inspire the next generation of scientists, researchers, and innovators while strengthening connections with schools and communities across the region.
