North Carolina Wesleyan University’s own graphic designer, Judie Taylor, recently shared her exciting journey with students at Faith Christian School’s Career Fest. Her story—a mix of creativity, perseverance, and adaptability—offered a window into the world of design and was packed with inspiring takeaways for students just beginning to imagine their own career paths.
From the beginning, Judie was captivated by art. She made her first mark at Northern Nash High School, where she helped create and edit her school’s yearbook. This early role sparked her interest in design, setting her on a path that would eventually lead her across the country—and back again. Judie honed her skills at Nash Community College in their Advertising and Graphic Design Program, where she even designed the school’s beloved NightHawk mascot that endures to this day.
Driven to expand her artistry, Judie continued her education at the prestigious Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) in Georgia. There, she added a minor in Film and Television, diving into creative storytelling and further cultivating her love for design. After graduating, she took her skills to the bustling world of New York City, where she joined Vida Shoes International. In this role, she brought her artistic vision to iconic children’s brands like Stride Rite, Carter’s, and OshKosh B’Gosh. But as the pandemic unfolded, family and the familiarity of North Carolina called her back. Today, Judie is the Graphic Designer for North Carolina Wesleyan University, where her work influences everything from social media graphics to major event marketing.
When asked what she loves most about her career, Judie didn’t hesitate: “I think what I love most is the variety and the impact. One day, I might be working on a magazine or a billboard, and the next, designing materials for a campus event. Each project is unique and lets me be creative while also working with a team. Seeing something I helped create go public and resonate with people is an amazing feeling.”
At the Career Fest, Judie emphasized the importance of learning to take feedback in stride—a skill essential in any artistic career. “Art is subjective, and not everyone will love what you create right away,” she shared. “That doesn’t mean you’ve done something wrong. Feedback from professors, clients, or teammates can be a powerful tool for growth. Embrace it as an opportunity to elevate your work and make it even stronger.”
Judie’s advice and personal journey served as a reminder that careers are often about more than titles and salaries; they’re about growth, resilience, and finding a way to turn passion into impact. And for the students of Faith Christian School, her message was clear: be fearless, stay curious, and don’t shy away from the creative process—feedback and all.
NCWU – A Premier Community College Partner
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) continues to strengthen its reputation as a premier community college partner in the state, offering a seamless and affordable pathway to higher education for community college graduates and employees. With a steadfast commitment to accessible education and comprehensive student support, NCWU has built meaningful partnerships with community colleges that facilitate smooth transitions for students pursuing their bachelor degrees.
Over the past decade, more than 2,000 community college students have successfully completed their bachelor’s degrees at NCWU, reflecting the University’s dedication to fostering educational advancement. NC Wesleyan maintains articulation agreements with 38 of the 58 community colleges in North Carolina, ensuring that students can transfer credits efficiently. Additionally, Wesleyan is part of several key articulation agreements, including the Independent Comprehensive Articulation Agreement (ICAA) and Registered Nurse (RN) to Bachelor of Science in Nurse (BSN). These partnerships reduce the number of credits students are required to take at a four-year institution, streamlining the transfer process and saving both time and money.
Wesleyan’s transfer-friendly policies set it apart from other institutions in the state, as it offers more transfer credits than any other North Carolina school. Students who have previously received college credit from a two-year institution may transfer in up to 75 credit hours and those who have attended a four-year institution up to 90 credit hours. Students can also take advantage of accelerated associate-to-master’s completion programs, allowing them to earn both degrees in just 2.5 years in high-demand fields such as Business, IT Management, and Criminal Justice. These programs are tailored to meet the needs of working adults and are designed to help students gain the skills needed to secure promotions or enter new career paths.
At the heart of NCWU’s transfer initiative is Wesleyan Works, the University’s signature transfer program. Through this program, NCWU has developed effective agreements with community colleges across the state, guaranteeing admission for graduates holding an Associate of Arts (AA), Associate of Science (AS), or Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree, Associate of Fine Arts (AFA), Associate of Engineering(AE), and Associates in Teacher Preparation (ATP).This ensures that their credits transfer smoothly, allowing them to continue their educational journey with ease. With NCWU’s one-of-a-kind pathway for AAS degrees, students can transfer in a total of 75 semester hours. Benefit – applies for all AAS credits directly towards 120 bachelor’s degree required hours but further reduces remaining credits needed at NCWU by allowing the additional 15 hours.
“North Carolina Wesleyan University is committed to supporting community college graduates and employees through flexible, affordable programs that help students reach their full potential,” said Dr. Evan D. Duff, President of NCWU. “We understand the unique challenges faced by community college students and aim to offer programs that fit their needs and schedules, allowing them to balance work, family, and education.”
NCWU not only supports community college graduates, but also extends special tuition rates to community college employees, making it more affordable for them to further their education and advance their careers. The University’s online and hybrid course options provide the flexibility working professionals need, allowing them to complete coursework at their own pace while balancing other responsibilities.
In addition to affordable tuition, NCWU offers a wide range of support services, including academic advising, financial aid counseling, and career services, to ensure that students receive the guidance and resources needed for a smooth transition and successful completion of their bachelor’s degree. These services are offered on their community college campus with dedicated office hours, avoiding the extra step of them having to come to Wesleyan.
As NC Wesleyan continues to expand its partnership with community colleges, the University remains dedicated to providing personalized educational experiences for students from all backgrounds. With a focus on flexibility, affordability, and student success, NCWU is helping build a brighter future for North Carolina’s community college graduates and employees.
NCWU Receives Multiple Accolades
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) has garnered significant recognition in recent weeks, with a series of impressive rankings that highlight the institution’s commitment to excellence in higher education. As the data continues to pour in, it’s clear that NCWU is delivering on its promise to offer a top-tier, affordable, and supportive educational experience—one that is both student and parent-approved.
The accolades started strong in September with rankings from U.S. News & World Report, where NC Wesleyan was ranked Top 50 in Regional Colleges South out of 131 institutions. The University also placed No. 17 in Best Value Schools, No. 11 in Best Colleges for Veterans, and listed as a Top Performer on Social Mobility. These rankings showcase NCWU’s dedication to providing quality education while ensuring that students from all backgrounds have the opportunity to succeed and thrive.
U.S. News & World Report is widely recognized as a global leader in educational rankings, and NCWU’s continuous recognition reflects the University’s ongoing commitment to delivering best-in-class value. Year after year, Wesleyan maintains its position among the top colleges, demonstrating a steadfast focus on student success and offering a personalized private higher education experience.
The momentum continued with a prestigious ranking from Forbes Advisor, which named NCWU’s Online MBA program the best in the country for the second consecutive year above Johns Hopkins University. Forbes praised the program’s focus on executive leadership, information security, and supply chain management, highlighting its emphasis on organizational change, ethical decision-making, and economic theory. This recognition underscores Wesleyan’s growing strength in graduate education and its determination to expand and improve its programs.
Further accolades came from Intelligent, which ranked NCWU’s Online Master of Criminal Justice among the top 20 programs in the country. Notably, Wesleyan was one of only two universities in North Carolina to receive this distinction. The program’s flexibility, rigor, and focus on preparing students for impactful careers in criminal justice are key components of its success.
Lastly, Niche ranked NC Wesleyan highly in several categories. In North Carolina-specific rankings, the University earned top spots: No. 2 for Diversity of 46, just behind Duke University, No. 5 for Safest Campuses of 40, and No. 14 for Best Colleges for Business of 40. Nationally, Wesleyan was ranked No. 80 out of 1,495 for Most Diverse Colleges in America, reflecting the University’s inclusive and welcoming environment.
The University fosters an environment where students from various backgrounds, cultures, and perspectives can come together to learn and grow. With students representing a wide range of socioeconomic, racial, and ethnic backgrounds, NCWU takes pride in creating a campus community that reflects the broader world. This diverse environment not only enhances the learning experience but also prepares students for success in a global society. The University’s dedication to inclusivity ensures that all students feel welcome, supported, and empowered to reach their full potential. By embracing diversity, NCWU encourages collaboration and understanding, which enriches both the academic and social fabric of the institution.
Beyond the accolades, NCWU remains focused on offering affordable education to both traditional students and adult learners. The University awards $24 million in scholarships, grants, and financial aid annually, making higher education accessible and reducing the financial burden for students. In fact, NCWU’s average scholarship package brings the cost of attending Wesleyan in line with that of public universities.
A recent analysis by The New York Times in March 2023 reinforced Wesleyan’s affordability, ranking the University as one of the top ten most affordable colleges in North Carolina and the most affordable private, nonprofit institution in the state.
As NC Wesleyan continues to excel in rankings and recognitions, its mission remains clear: to provide a high-quality, affordable education that prepares students for success both in their careers and in life. Whether you’re a traditional student just out of high school or a working adult balancing a busy schedule, NCWU offers the resources and support to help you achieve your academic and professional goals.
Wesleyan Works Program extended to LCC
North Carolina Wesleyan University is excited to announce a new transfer agreement with Lenoir Community College through the Wesleyan Works program, providing a streamlined pathway for students to continue their education. This collaboration is designed to support LCC graduates who wish to pursue a bachelor’s degree by guaranteeing admission to Wesleyan for those who complete an Associate of Arts (AA), Associate of Science (AS), or Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree. Students who participate in Wesleyan Works will have access to academic advising and financial aid counseling while attending LCC, as well as access to attend events on the NCWU main campus in Rocky Mount.
“Our partnership with Lenoir Community College reflects our commitment to creating seamless pathways for students,” said NCWU President Dr. Evan Duff. “By working together, we are not only enhancing transfer opportunities but also enriching the educational landscape for all learners. This collaboration embodies our shared vision of accessibility, support, and success, ensuring that every student can achieve their academic dreams.”
The Wesleyan Works program highlights Lenoir Community College’s commitment to expanding opportunities for students and strengthening partnerships with institutions of higher education. Through this agreement, LCC and NCWU are ensuring that students have the support they need to achieve their academic and career goals.
“We are thrilled to partner with NC Wesleyan University through Wesleyan Works,” said LCC President Dr. Rusty Hunt. “This program will open new doors for our students, allowing them to continue their education with confidence, knowing they have guaranteed admission to a four-year institution.”
For more information about the Wesleyan Works program and how to enroll, please contact Alex Ranieri, LCC’s Director of Advising at Academic Success, at apranieri16@lenoircc.edu or 252-527-6223, ext. 936.
ACC & NCWU Sign Transfer Agreement
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – Alamance Community College (ACC) and NC Wesleyan University (NCWU) have entered into a multi-tiered transfer agreement that provides students with academic opportunities across multiple programs.
The agreement enhances and expands educational opportunities for Alamance Community College graduates transferring to NCWU after earning an associate degree from one or more of five different programs. The ACC graduates consequently gain access to the benefits of the Wesleyan Works program.
Wesleyan Works is a transfer program designed for community college students who plan to continue their education at NCWU. Wesleyan Works guarantees admission to NCWU for ACC’s graduates earning Associate in Arts, Associate in Science, Associate in Fine Arts, Associate of Engineering and Associate in Applied Science degrees. Students who participate in Wesleyan Works will have access to academic advising and financial aid counseling through NCWU, as well as access to attend events on NCWU’s main campus in Rocky Mount, NC. The target population for this program is adult students who intend to attend NCWU’s evening or online programs.
Students who graduate and transfer under this agreement may select any of NCWU’s traditional programs of study, or may transfer to NCWU’s Adult and Professional Studies programs utilizing the advantages of the Wesleyan Works program.
Once accepted to NC Wesleyan University, graduates of Alamance Community College’s AAS programs will be permitted to take up to an additional 15 hours of general education coursework while still at ACC, for a total of no more than 75 credit hours in transfer.
Bachelor degree opportunities for ACC transfer students include Criminal Justice, Logistics and Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Organizational Leadership, Accounting, and Healthcare Administration.
Furthermore, the Wesleyan Works agreement offers reduced tuition for ACC faculty and staff seeking online educational pathways. ACC employees would receive reductions of $350 per credit hour for undergraduate programs and $400 per credit hour for graduate programs.
“We are looking forward to serving the graduates and employees of Alamance Community College as they continue their higher education journey at the undergraduate and graduate levels,” said NC Wesleyan President Dr. Evan Duff. “Our programs are specifically designed for those who want to work part-time or full-time and complete their degree online. We also have robust traditional programs for students who graduate from Alamance and want to continue that on-campus experience. This partnership will provide multiple affordable pathways for ACC graduates and employees.”
“Together with NC Wesleyan, we are creating a stronger foundation for our students’ future success,” said Dr. Lisa Johnson, ACC Vice President of Instruction. “Supporting them through multiple pathways and program options ensures they will be well-equipped to meet the challenges of an ever-changing workforce.”
NCWU Welcomes Class of 2028
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – North Carolina Wesleyan University held its 68th annual New Student Convocation on Aug. 20 in Minges Auditorium at The Dunn Center to welcome the Class of 2028. President Dr. Evan D. Duff gave a warm welcome to over 300 new students who are embarking on their college experience, congratulating them on taking the next step in their educational journey.
Keynote Speaker Kevin Snyder
This year’s guest speaker was Kevin Snyder, owner of Southern Swag. Snyder graduated from NCWU in 2000 with a degree in Environmental Science and was a member of the Battling Bishop Men’s Soccer team. His professors and coaches planted the seeds for personal responsibility, and a “trust but verify” mentality which quickly translated to his professional career in Quality Assurance. He has worked on several of the world’s largest energy and utility projects, including the newly constructed nuclear power plants in China, Georgia and South Carolina, and the country’s largest offshore wind project off the coast of Massachusetts.
In early 2024, Kevin and his wife Jenny started a small business, Southern Swag. Southern Swag is a promotional products company that aims to provide cost effective solutions for business looking to increase their brand awareness.
Throughout his career, Kevin has recognized opportunities to give back, including leading and organizing an annual Golf Tournament fundraiser for Make A Wish of Central and Western Carolina for several years. Kevin has most recently taken his leadership passion to the soccer field as a volunteer goalkeeper coach for the Neuse River Futbol Alliance. He has organized multiple Community Days in conjunction with NCWU in an effort to connect youth soccer with our university athletics program.
Kevin’s desire to link the community to the campus extends beyond the soccer field. He has also worked to obtain sponsorships and foster connections from local businesses to help with improvements of Wesleyan’s Disc Golf Course and the Bishops Disc Golf Club. Kevin has previously served as an Alumni Class Champion and was recently appointed to the Alumni Board, as well as the President’s Advisory Community Council.
Above all, Kevin views his greatest accomplishment as his 18-year marriage with his wife, Jenny, and his children, Payne and Abby. The Snyder family can regularly be found on campus at sporting events, alumni events or volunteering efforts towards the betterment of the NCWU campus and community.
Rock the Mount Event
Afterwards, students exited The Dunn Center greeted by a cheering crowd of returning students, faculty, staff and friends of NC Wesleyan forming a time-honored tradition— the Bishop Tunnel. As they continued through the tunnel to enter the annual Rock the Mount event, they were each welcomed by President Duff and his wife, Marcy. Rock the Mount is a tradition at NCWU of welcoming new students to campus and to the community. Each year, it takes place the day before the University’s first day of classes, serving as the official kick-off event for the new academic year. Organizations come out to support and celebrate the start of a new school year with food, music and advertising. This year, almost 110 community organizations lined the center of campus to celebrate Wesleyan’s Class of 2028. Local food trucks will be on-site to provide a variety of food options for everyone such as: 3 Boys Catering, Minnies Food and Thingz, Sweet P’s Galaxy Lemonade, Shawarmalicious, and Carolina Shaved Ice. Live entertainment will be provided by Relay Relay; Story Charlamagne, and DJ 3two1!
View the Photo Galleries for Student Convocation and Rock the Mount event!
Campus Photo Gallery >
Carl Lewis Photo Gallery >
Lancaster Family Establishes Endowed Scholarship
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – The Lancaster family joined Dr. Evan D. Duff, President of North Carolina Wesleyan University, to formalize the creation of The William Ted & Karen Naylor Lancaster Family Endowed Scholarship. This scholarship honors the legacy and contributions of the late William Ted Lancaster and Karen Naylor Lancaster, both proud graduates of NCWU’s Class of 1970.
The scholarship will distribute a minimum of $2,500 annually once the endowment reaches $50,000. Preference will be given to students from Rocky Mount, NC, who demonstrate academic achievement (minimum GPA of 2.5), good personal character, and financial need. Recipients may continue to receive the scholarship in successive years if they meet the criteria.
Karen Naylor Lancaster shared, “When I walked on campus for the first time in 1966, I had no idea the influence Wesleyan would have on me. Not only did I get an excellent education, but I met my life partner. Ted and I met in a history class, we were both history majors, and married in 1970. We moved to Raleigh and had our two children, Jon and Melissa. It was so special to be able to share Wesleyan’s beautiful campus with my family including my two grandchildren. It is an honor to help Rocky Mount students achieve their academic goals through this scholarship.”
Jon Lancaster, representing the family, added, “Knowing the significant role NC Wesleyan played in our parents’ lives, it was important to us to give back to the institution. We hope this endowment will assist future students in fulfilling their educational goals.”
Tammy Robinson, Director of Donor Engagement, stated, “The Lancaster family’s generosity began over five years ago with gifts supporting Wesleyan students through an annual scholarship. It is gratifying to have another endowed scholarship that will leave a legacy for Wesleyan alumni. This gift will continue to impact and make a difference for our students.”
NCWU Students participate in NCDHHS Internship
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – North Carolina Wesleyan University students, Nayonna Bland and Makaela Stokes, have accepted an internship with the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) as part of the department’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and Minority Serving Institutions (MSIs) Internship Program. This paid summer internship is a component of the department’s workforce development initiative to build a strong and inclusive workforce by increasing the number of human services professionals to provide for the growing number of residents in North Carolina.
“We are looking toward the future in NCDHHS by building a strong and inclusive workforce that supports all North Carolinians,” said NCDHHS Secretary Kody H. Kinsley. “We genuinely applaud each of these young professionals for their assistance in helping NCDHHS protect the health, safety and well-being of the people in our communities now and into the future.”
Stokes and Bland will be working on a project with NCDHHS’ Division of Health Benefits. The internship will last 10 weeks and will include work in the assigned project area, seminars, presentation practice and an immersion event at the end of the internship experience.
“NCDHHS is now in its 6th Cohort of HBCU/MSI Change Champion Interns, connecting with over 150 students since 2022. We are creating a strong and inclusive workforce by building a pipeline to the public health and human services professions for this generation,” said Angela Bryant, NCDHHS’ Assistant Secretary for the Health Equity Portfolio. “NCDHHS is excited that Makaela and Nayonna have chosen to join 41 other graduate and undergraduate interns to help build the workforce needed to improve the health, safety and well-being of all North Carolinians.”
NC Wesleyan believes that student engagement is vital to rewarding social lives, strengthening leadership skills, and the desire to make a difference on campus and the community. We encourage students to get involved and make most of their collegiate experience. We are so proud of these Bishops for taking advantage of this opportunity and taking a step further to make most of their journey. Both of these students will be able to apply the skills learned during their internship with DHHS towards their respective careers in the social sector.
Maryhelen Willhite Endowed Scholarship Established
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – Bishops are often asked, “What makes Wesleyan different?” or “Why Wesleyan?” The answer is simple. It is the people, the community. This is proven once again by another generous donor, Maryhelen Willhite Jones.
Maryhelen is the daughter of the late Dr. W. Lyle Willhite who was a professor at NC Wesleyan from 1976 to 1984. Her dedication and commitment to Wesleyan runs deep and in 1996, she was able to assist one of Dr. Willhite’s former students, Rick Bradham III, ’81, in establishing The Dr. W.L. Willhite Endowed Scholarship.
Because of her late father’s influence, Maryhelen made her first contribution in the spring of 2024 to establish The Maryhelen Willhite Jones Endowed Scholarship, her own Second Generation Legacy Scholarship. This award will be given to undergraduate students majoring in Marketing who have excelled in academic and extracurricular accomplishments at NCWU.
Dr. Willhite instilled in Maryhelen to be bold and give with purpose and passion. Now she has been able to “bring that ‘can do’ boldness to NCWU through another endowed scholarship with the Willhite name.”
Maryhelen says “I believe in not only paying things forward, but also paying them inward.”
Although her background is in the Arts, International Relations, and Information/ Library Sciences, she has a passion for all things Marketing: brands, products, companies, non-profits, social causes, innovations, and ideas. Maryhelen states, “If I had to do it over again, I would go into the field of Marketing. What I can do instead is to help support those who decide to do just that.”
Maryhelen knows that Wesleyan’s undergraduate marketing degree involves research skills, critical thinking, demographics, collaboration, creativity, communication, persuasion, information, observation, social, economic, and cultural considerations, and yes, sometimes playfulness!
“My ultimate focus is on the students, who no matter what their career fields end up to be, are ethically grounded and have a strong moral self-compass,” says Maryhelen Willhite Jones.
“The Dr. W. L. Willhite Endowed Scholarship has been financially supporting Wesleyan students for over 27 years. To have a scholarship established by his daughter, Maryhelen, that will impact lives in the same way is a grand gesture. We are grateful for the ongoing support from the Willhite family, which will continue to make a difference for future Wesleyan alumni. The relationship developed has been meaningful and of great significance.”
Local Company Awards Nursing Scholarships to NCWU
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – SE&M Constructors, Inc., a Rocky Mount based, family-owned company for over 100 years, recently established the SE&M Constructors, Inc. Annual Nursing Scholarships at North Carolina Wesleyan University. “There is such a high demand for quality nursing in this region and NC Wesleyan is doing a great job of trying to fill that need. As a local company, we care about the communities we serve, so helping Wesleyan students further their education and careers in nursing seems like a tremendous benefit to all of us,” states Harry Bynum, Chairman of SE&M Constructors, Inc. and member of NC Wesleyan’s Board of Trustees.
The SE&M Constructors, Inc. Annual Scholarship will be awarded to NCWU nursing students enrolled to receive their Bachelors of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree. The number of recipients may vary annually depending on the number of nursing students applying for the scholarship. NCWU’s BSN degree prepares experienced registered nurses for advanced leadership, management, clinical, research and nurse educator positions. Dr. Evan D. Duff, President of NCWU, states “This is another example of how our community benefits from organizations who believe in the mission of North Carolina Wesleyan University. These funds will directly impact nursing students who will further their education to meet the needs of our local hospital and medical practices. It directly impacts the public health of Nash and Edgecombe counties.”
The scholarships will be awarded with a minimum of $2,000 and a maximum of $2,500. Applications for the scholarship will be administered through the Financial Aid Office. Students interested in applying for this scholarship may contact the NCWU Financial Aid Office by emailing FinancialAid@ncwu.edu.
