As North Carolina Wesleyan University prepares to welcome a new year, the University is proud to announce a wide range of exciting updates, expanded programs, and student-centered initiatives designed to meet the evolving needs of today’s learners, whether they are recent high school graduates, working professionals, or global scholars. With a renewed commitment to accessibility, innovation, and lifelong learning, Wesleyan is positioning itself as the region’s premier institution for flexible, affordable, and high-impact education.
Empowering Adult Learners Through Expanded APS Offerings
Many working adults don’t realize just how many pathways exist at Wesleyan to elevate their careers, switch industries, or complete a long-term educational goal. Through our Adult Professional Studies (APS) programs, students can choose from 10 flexible degree options, including Nursing (RN to BSN), Business, Education, Leadership, Supply Chain Management, Psychology, Criminal Justice, and more—each designed specifically for busy adults balancing work, family, and life.
Wesleyan also offers career-boosting certificates that can make an immediate difference in earning potential and workplace advancement. With as few as six courses, certificate completers can gain industry-relevant skills without committing to an additional full degree. These certificate credits can also be applied toward formal undergraduate or graduate degree programs, offering students a flexible pathway to continue their education if they choose. Additionally, the learning outcomes from select certificates may qualify students to apply or test for specific professional certifications not administered by North Carolina Wesleyan University.
“Many adults assume they need to start over,” said Katie Farrell, Dean of Adult and Professional Studies. “But at Wesleyan, you can upgrade your skills, gain confidence, and increase your value in the workplace in months, not years.”
Affordability: More Possible Than Ever
Another major misconception is that further education is financially out of reach. Wesleyan is committed to breaking that barrier. With scholarships, financial aid, employer partnerships, and personalized financial counseling, most students discover that earning their next credential is far more affordable than they imagined.
New this year is Wesleyan’s Refer-A-Friend Tiered Scholarship Program strictly for Adult and Graduate programs, offering up to $500 per referral with no limit to the number of referrals:
- Completed Application: $50
- Enrolled Student:
- 1st referral: $100 scholarship
- 2nd referral: $250 scholarship
- 3rd referral and beyond: $500 each in scholarship
This program not only rewards current students but also empowers them to actively support friends, colleagues, and family members looking to advance their careers.
Wesleyan Works: A Seamless Pathway from Community Colleges
Wesleyan continues to strengthen its partnerships across North Carolina with the Wesleyan Works Program, offering guaranteed admission for community college students who complete their associate degree. Participants enjoy Wesleyan benefits from day one, including transfer credit maximization, academic advising, and affordability support – making the transition to a bachelor’s degree smoother and more cost-effective than ever.
Reimagining Student Success for Traditional Students: Introducing the COMPASS Center
In addition to the enhancements for adult and professional students, Wesleyan is elevating the on-campus experience for traditional students by rebranding and relocating the Student Success Center to the Career and Opportunity Mentorship for Personal, Academic, and Student Success (COMPASS) Center.
The COMPASS Center marks a modern, holistic approach to student development. Integrating academic advising, first-year transition programs, leadership training, career readiness, and inclusive learning support, COMPASS equips students not just to succeed in the classroom but to design meaningful, purpose-driven lives.
“Our mission is simple,” Anne Aichele, Program Director, shared. “We want every student to explore, define, and design their academic, personal, and professional journey with confidence.”
Students will gain familiarity with this change when they return in January, but a full launch will take place for the 2026-2027 academic year.
Advancing Global Education: International Services Realigned for Excellence
To strengthen support for Wesleyan’s growing international community, International Student Services will now transition under the leadership of Dr. Oscar Rodriguez. Dr. Rodriguez’s extensive experience with PDSO/DSO operations, along with his bilingual fluency and deep commitment to compliance and cultural care, positions him as an exceptional advocate for global students.
“These enhancements demonstrate our dedication to positioning each department for maximum impact,” said University leadership. “Our priority is always student success – from local adult learners to students joining us from around the world.”
A Call to the Community
As Wesleyan continues to grow, innovate, and serve its region, the University invites local professionals, employers, adult learners, and community members to explore how Wesleyan can support their next chapter. Whether you want to advance in your career, change fields, finish a degree, or simply open new doors, there’s a place for you at Wesleyan—and we’re ready to help you begin.
In return, we welcome our community to partner with us in shaping the next generation of talent. Local businesses and organizations can make a powerful impact by offering internships, job-shadowing experiences, course-based project collaborations, mentoring opportunities, guest speaking, and other forms of professional engagement. These partnerships not only strengthen Wesleyan students’ real-world readiness, but also help employers build strong pipelines of skilled, motivated graduates who are eager to contribute to the regional workforce.
Together, we can build a stronger, more connected community—one where education and opportunity thrive side by side.
Whether you want to advance in your career, change fields, finish a degree, or simply open new doors, there’s a place for you at Wesleyan, and we’re ready to help you begin.
Interested in learning more?
Visit our website or contact our admissions team to explore programs, certificates, scholarship opportunities, and upcoming enrollment dates.
Why Wesleyan Still Matters
In a world that is changing faster than ever, one thing remains constant: the importance of education that is personal, purposeful, and practical. For nearly seven decades, North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) has stood as a cornerstone of opportunity in our community, offering students of all backgrounds a chance to learn, grow, and build brighter futures right here at home.
As Wesleyan celebrates its 69th year, we are reminded that being a university isn’t just about classrooms and degrees, it’s about people. It is about helping each student find their place, their passion, and their purpose. At NCWU, we pride ourselves on offering a personalized, holistic experience that meets students where they are, whether that means starting with a short-term certificate, pursuing a professional enhancement program, or committing to a four-year degree. Every student’s journey looks different, and we believe that is something to celebrate.
We are also proud to be leaving a legacy of lifelong learning. From first-generation students to adult learners returning to finish their degrees, Wesleyan continues to be the hometown hub for education, one that grows and evolves with the needs of our community.
Growth and Adaptation
And wow do we continue to grow! With the launch of programs like our Bachelor of Science in Nursing and the School of Health Sciences, Wesleyan is answering the call to prepare the next generation of healthcare professionals. Our commitment to excellence is being recognized. Our recent U.S. News and World Report rankings are the highest they have been in a decade, and initiatives like the Bishop Mentoring Alliance are helping students connect their education to real-world guidance and mentorship.
As times evolve, so do we. Wesleyan is committed to progressing with the ever-changing world, equipping students with the knowledge and tools they need to succeed in today’s workforce. From integrating artificial intelligence (AI) and digital literacy into our curriculum to offering real-world learning experiences through internships and innovation-driven programs, we are preparing our graduates to thrive in a technology-focused and globally connected society.
Accesible and Affordable
What makes Wesleyan truly special, though, is our promise to make education accessible and affordable. We believe quality learning should never be out of reach, and through scholarships, flexible learning options, and dedicated support systems, we are making that belief a reality every day.
So why does Wesleyan still matter? Because we are more than a university, we are your local pathway to success, your partner in growth, and your neighbor in lifetime learning. Whether you are earning your first degree, changing careers, or simply exploring a passion, Wesleyan is here for you, rooted in tradition, ready for the future, and committed to helping you reach your goals.
NCWU Students Receive $40,000 in Scholarships
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) proudly hosted a Scholarship Appreciation Luncheon, bringing together Rotary leadership, Tackle the Tar organizers, and the Wesleyan students whose lives have been directly impacted by their generosity. This year, $40,000 in scholarships was awarded to NCWU students through proceeds from Tackle the Tar — marking another year of transformative community investment in local education.
Fourteen students were recognized as scholarship recipients: Caleb Allen, Emory Bunn, Aliyah Cooper, Victoria Dickens, Jaycie Hadnott, Aafrah Hasan, Shawanna Hyman, Natalie Messer, Tarnisha Ricks, Shala Wade, Sharon Whitaker, Danitha Williams, Aidan Willis, and Chemar Zeigler.
The luncheon opened with a welcome from Ashton Bunn ’26, followed by a blessing from Mark Hinson, Vice President of Advancement. Students and staff then shared reflections on the impact of Tackle the Tar, underscoring how financial support has eased the burden of higher education and strengthened their commitment to achieving personal and professional goals.
Robbie Davis, Rotary President and longtime champion of Tackle the Tar, delivered heartfelt remarks about the importance of keeping talent in the region.
“We need our young people to stay in Nash County, further their education, and give back to the community,” Davis shared. “Find the things you enjoy doing. Rotary develops leaders — consider joining us. Our club is very proud of each of you and what you are accomplishing.”
In closing, NCWU President Dr. Evan D. Duff expressed gratitude for the partnership and the opportunities it creates.
“I am grateful that both traditional and adult students can benefit from these scholarships,” Duff said. “Our recipients are already making meaningful contributions, and I know they will continue to do so. The Rotary’s support is helping shape the next generation of leaders.”
Through Tackle the Tar and the unwavering support of the Rocky Mount Rotary Club, students at North Carolina Wesleyan University continue to gain access to life-changing educational opportunities — strengthening both their futures and the future of the region.
Rocky Mount Rotary Club Continues to Invest in Wesleyan Students’ Success
Since 2016, the Rocky Mount Rotary Club has been a steadfast partner in advancing educational opportunities for students at North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU). Through its ongoing commitment to service and community impact, the Rotary Club has provided annual scholarship support to deserving Wesleyan students, funds that have made a measurable difference in helping them achieve their academic and professional goals.
This year, 15 students were awarded scholarships ranging from $2,000 to $3,000, continuing the Rotary Club’s legacy of empowering local students and easing the financial burden of higher education.
During a recent check presentation, NCWU President Dr. Evan D. Duff joined Rotary representatives and scholarship recipients to celebrate this ongoing partnership. Representing the 2025 Rotary Scholars were Ashton Bunn, an Adult Degree Program senior from Nashville, and Caleb Allen, a traditional student and junior from Pinetops.
Caleb shared how vital local scholarships have been in making his college education possible, noting his aspirations to pursue a career in the computer field and his desire to one day “pay it forward.” Ashton, who plans to become a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), spoke about how Rotary’s values have inspired her. “Their commitment to service, integrity, and goodwill is something I hope to carry with me throughout my career,” she said.
Dr. Evan D. Duff commended the Rotary Club’s unwavering dedication to supporting Wesleyan students, stating, “The Rocky Mount Rotary Club exemplifies what community partnership truly means. Their investment in our students not only changes lives today but helps build a stronger workforce and community for tomorrow.”
Beyond financial contributions, the Rotary Club’s involvement with Wesleyan extends to volunteerism and community engagement. Faculty and staff from NCWU have also stepped up in support—participating in Rotary-led initiatives such as Tackle the Tar, serving as volunteers, runners, and advocates for student opportunity.
Together, these efforts highlight a shared mission between North Carolina Wesleyan University and the Rocky Mount Rotary Club: empowering local students to reach their full potential while strengthening the community they call home.
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 Receives Highest U.S. News & World Report Ranking in Over a Decade
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) is celebrating one of its strongest showings in more than a decade, climbing 12 spots in the 2026 U.S. News & World Report Best College Rankings. Released Tuesday, September 23, the report evaluated over 1,700 institutions nationwide on 17 measures of academic quality.
NCWU proudly ranked No. 33 in Regional Colleges South, the University’s highest position in more than ten years, and earned recognition as No. 14 in Best Value Schools. In addition, NCWU was ranked No. 9 Best Colleges for Veterans and recognized in the Social Mobility category for enrolling and graduating large numbers of first-generation and Pell Grant students.
These distinctions build on recent accolades, including being named a 2025–2026 Military Friendly® Gold Top 10 School with an impressive #2 national ranking among private institutions not offering doctorate degrees, and earning the designation of #1 Military Spouse Friendly® School.
“U.S. News’ Best Colleges remains a reliable resource for prospective students and their families as they navigate the college selection process,” said LaMont Jones, Ed.D., managing editor for Education at U.S. News. “With over half of the ranking factors dedicated to student outcomes, the rankings and editorial content provide vital data, college advice and informed reporting to every student pursuing higher education.”
“Our dedication to students and the community is reflected in our consistency of being recognized by U.S. News & World Report year after year. The personal, practical, and purpose-driven education that we provide our students is something that I’m proud of; in addition, our faculty and staff do an exceptional job of ensuring a quality experience for these future leaders,” shared NCWU President Dr. Evan D. Duff.
For another consecutive year, NC Wesleyan has held a spot in the top 50 Best Regional Colleges (South), reaffirming its position as the hometown university of choice for students seeking high-quality, affordable education.
To view the full list of 2026 U.S. News & World Report rankings, visit: usnews.com/best-colleges/rankings/regional-universities-south.
About U.S. News & World Report
U.S. News & World Report is the global leader in quality rankings that empower consumers, business leaders and policy officials to make better, more informed decisions about important issues affecting their lives and communities. A multifaceted digital media company with Education, Health, Money, Travel, Cars, Real Estate, News and 360 Reviews platforms, U.S. News provides rankings, independent reporting, data journalism, consumer advice and U.S. News Live events. More than 40 million people visit USNews.com each month for research and guidance. Founded in 1933, U.S. News is headquartered in Washington, D.C.
WESmagazine Edition Released
WESmagazine includes articles featuring areas of academics, student life, athletics and advancement. You’ll get a glance at the growing campus and thriving community. WESmagazine is published twice per year by the Office of Marketing & Communication along with The Advancement Office at North Carolina Wesleyan University.
See what some of our Alumni are up in Alumni Class Notes and enjoy many featured articles such as:
- The Pulse of Progress: Expanding Nursing at NCWU
- Wesleyan Launches “The Deep End” Podcast
- Beyond the Classroom: A Decade of Difference
- Faculty & Staff Spotlight – Dr. Gail Marsal
- Hartness Student Center Upgrades
- Club Highlight – The Bishop Billiards Club
- NCWU Student Spotlight – Andy Rizzo
- Student Life
- Legacy of Leadership, John Brackett, Beyond the Spotlight Legacy Achievement Award
- Bishop Coach Spotlight – Albie Brice
- Spirit on the Rise: Cheer & Dance finish 2nd place at the 2025 NCA College Nationals
- Empowering Communities, Fueling Futures: Economic Impact Study
- A Heart That Never Retired: Rachel T. Dix.
- The Voice of Wesleyan: Latisha Scott ’06
- Inaugural Battling Bishops Brunch
- Alumni Champion Spotlight – Felicia Pierce-Daniel
Learn more about publication and give us your feedback >
Wesleyan Emerging as a Destination Disc Golf with Upcoming Weekend Tournament
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) will once again highlight its role as a regional destination for disc golf this weekend as it welcomes players from across the community and beyond for a series of tournaments on campus. The University’s course, which has drawn growing praise from amateur and professional players alike, will host three events in just two days, underscoring Wesleyan’s expanding reputation as a hub for the sport.
What began as a single, one-round Disc Golf event has grown into a weekend attraction featuring:
- Friday, Sept. 12 at 5:00 p.m. – Dangerous Doubles 2 presented by Latitude 64. National disc golf representative Tyler Searle will return with his Latitude 64 mobile store, parked along U.S. 301 at hole 16. Event Info
- Saturday, Sept. 13 at 9:00 a.m. – Climo Challenge. A three-disc challenge featuring a shotgun start with 34 players, including several NCWU students, competing across the course. Event Info
- Saturday, Sept. 13 at 12:00 p.m. – Throw What You Know Challenge. The weekend’s main PDGA tournament, featuring nearly 40 players, also in shotgun format. Event Info
The growth of Wesleyan’s Disc Golf reflects both community enthusiasm and the University’s commitment to offering versatile event space. With four sanctioned tournaments already held this year, and two more planned by December, including one during Homecoming. The Wesleyan course continues to attract players from across North Carolina and beyond, including Georgia, South Carolina, Virginia, West Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Tennessee.
“This weekend has snowballed into a Rocky Mount disc golf attraction,” said tournament organizer Marcus Rich. “The course and the campus together have become a draw not only for local players, but also for visitors traveling from out of state. Events like these bring people to Wesleyan who one day may become part of our campus community.”
As disc golf continues to grow nationwide, Wesleyan has positioned itself as a premier destination in eastern North Carolina, serving both students and the wider community. The University’s course offers a unique blend of competitive play and collegiate spirit, making it a valuable resource for tournaments, community recreation, and campus life.
First in the Family: Wesleyan Students Breaking Barriers
When Matthew Tiller walked across the stage at North Carolina Wesleyan University’s commencement in May 2025, he carried more than his own dreams. As a first-generation college student, he carried the hopes of his entire family.
“Being the first in my family to attend college means breaking a barrier and opening a door that was never there before, “Tiller shared. “It feels like I’ve paved a new way for my family, not just for myself.”
Tiler, who double-majored in English and Psychology, admitted that the journey was not easy. His family, though proud, did not know how to help navigate applications, deadlines, or financial aid. “Honestly, they didn’t really know how to support me, so college became a learning environment for both me and my family,” he said.
He isn’t alone. For fellow first-generation student Tamiya Rooks, a Biomedical Science major with a focus in Pre-Veterinary Medicine, the experience has also been about perseverance. “For me, being a first-generation college student means that I have managed to beat the odds,” Rooks said. “To my parents, it means that they did an amazing job with raising their children and get to see her grow more. Making them immensely proud.”
At Wesleyan, Tiller found mentors who guided him through. Professors in the English program offered academic and personal support, while supervisors in the Financial Aid office helped him grow into a leader. “Working there was more than a paycheck, it was mentorship,” he said. ‘I know I would not be the leader I am without their guidance.”
Rooks echoed that feeling of support. “Being the first in my family to go to college, I wanted a community that believed in my potential and would give me the resources to succeed, and Wesleyan offered that,” she said.
Faculty and staff play a vital role in this culture. Paige Wells, Director of the Campus Experience, knows the challenges first-generation students face because she lived them herself. “As someone who was a first-generation college student, I fully believe my personal experiences have uniquely equipped me to support students from similar backgrounds with greater empathy and intentionality,” she said. “To me, this work is more than just a job—it’s a personal mission.” Wells also notes that misconceptions about the financial side of college often discourage families. “It’s not because they don’t care—it’s simply a lack of information and familiarity with the process. That’s why it’s so important to create welcoming spaces where students and families feel safe asking questions and getting honest guidance.”
That sense of belonging doesn’t end with graduation. Wesley Mercer, now a Helpdesk Technician at NCWU, once stood where today’s first-generation students do. “I feel like a lot of people are overwhelmed or scared of the idea of going to college. When I first started as a student, the staff and faculty were much more helpful than I originally thought,” he reflected.
Today, Mercer is proud to be part of the institution that helped him succeed. “I am excited that I get to be a ‘piece of the pie’ that is Wesleyan. It is amazing to be on the other side of the institution that meant so much to me as a student. It is almost surreal to see things from the other side.”
For Mercer, the highlight of his journey remains graduation. “Knowing that I finally did it is still my proudest moment,” he said. “Even as a staff member, I always really enjoy getting to go to graduation and seeing students get their diplomas.”
Both Tiller and Rooks admit the challenges were real. For Tiller, it meant forging ahead without a roadmap. For Rooks, it meant leaving home and stepping into the unknown. “Applying to college was the easy part really, but preparing for it was the most difficult,” she reflected. “It’s never easy to leave your home and family to go to a new place, even if it is for your benefit.”
Despite the obstacles, each points to proud milestones. Tiller cites leadership awards and internships. Rooks highlights completing her first year and joining the lacrosse team, something she had dreamed of for years. “I’ve made so many new friends who are really like family to me now, and that means so much,” she said.
Nearly 45% of Wesleyan’s student population are first-generation college students. Many faculty and staff were once first-generation themselves, making them uniquely able to mentor students like Tiller and Rooks. Wells notes that one of the biggest barriers is simply understanding the process. “One of the biggest misconceptions about college is the financial aspect, especially from the perspective of families who haven’t navigated the process before,” she said. “Many families don’t fully understand the true cost of attendance or know what questions to ask when comparing schools, which can unintentionally limit the options they consider. It’s not because they don’t care, it’s simply a lack of information and familiarity with the process. For any student, especially a first-generation student, the process can be overwhelming, and that’s why it’s so important to create welcoming spaces where students and their families feel comfortable and safe asking questions and getting honest, clear guidance.”
Looking ahead, Rooks hopes to become a veterinarian, serving her community by protecting and healing animals. “I want to show my family that dreams can be reached with dedication, and I hope to make them proud by turning my passion into a way to help others,” she said.
Supporting first-generation students is not just part of Wesleyan’s mission. It is woven into the fabric of who the university is. With nearly half its students blazing new trails, every diploma represents resilience, mentorship, and opportunity.
As Tiller puts it: “Take that leap! Do it! Be brave! The challenges are worth it, and you will always come out on top.”
Omnium Issue 8 Out Now!
Check out the new issue of Omnium: The Undergraduate Research Journal at NCWU, released in August 2025. Omnium collects written work by promising undergraduate scholars.
This year’s issue has a strong focus on revisiting older ways of “doing society”—from questioning the impact of social media and internet pornography on mental health and social relationships to exploring daring new trends in animal conservation and to formulating guidelines for responsible business leaders. During a year of declining trust in corporate leaders, especially those in the technology sector, this issue of Omnium features six essays focusing on ethical business practices, including a special section of articles created by NCWU graduate students in the business and leadership master’s programs. We hope that readers will be as excited about these new essays as their reviewers and editor are.
Omnium would not exist without the many expert teachers and scholars at NCWU who donate their time to this project. A very warm thank-you to the faculty judges for reading this year’s submissions in record time: Drs. Maria Gil, Meredith Gringle, Jarrod Kelly, Margaret Love, Chad Ross, Rachel Roy, Mark Sursavage, Lee Templeton, Shane Thompson, and Emily Weber.
We invite our readers to enjoy and learn from the new essays collected here, and also encourage teachers in any discipline to use them as models in their own courses. Please use attribution when you do so.
OUR MISSION. Omnium, housed in the English Department at NCWU, provides our undergraduate students with the opportunity to explore the major genres of academic writing, join in scholarly conversations, share their ideas, perform original research, and see their work published in a professional venue. Omnium also serves as a teaching resource for NCWU faculty—and faculty at other institutions—as the essays and research articles published here reflect the skill and knowledge of real students at various stages of their academic careers, from first-year composition essays to projects created in senior seminars and honors theses. The materials lend themselves well to in-class discussion, analysis, and emulation, and we hope that students will be energized when they realize that there is no single arcane secret to writing well. All it takes is practice, motivation, and direction.
For questions about Omnium, please contact the editor, Dr. Doreen Thierauf.
