North Carolina Wesleyan University’s Ethics Bowl team earned second place out of 17 participating institutions at the 15th Annual NCICU Ethics Bowl, marking the strongest finish in the University’s history.
The competition was held at the North Carolina State Legislative Complex and brought together undergraduate teams from North Carolina’s independent colleges and universities to engage in thoughtful, moderated discussions on complex ethical issues.
“We are deeply proud of this team,” said Dr. Joe Lane, Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs at North Carolina Wesleyan University. “They demonstrated great devotion, teamwork, and understanding throughout the competition.”
NCWU advanced through the regular rounds with an undefeated 4–0 record, securing wins against Catawba College, Salem College, Barton College, and Mars Hill University. The team then earned a victory over Wingate University in the semifinal round before falling to Johnson C. Smith University in the final round to claim second place overall. The final decision was closely contested.
“This was the most fun team I’ve ever been on,” said Niana Gunter, senior and team member. “I learned a lot about formulating an argument in conjunction with other people.”
Senior team member Shafiq Jair Nuijts reflected on the experience, adding, “Going into this bowl, I was nervous considering the tremendous amount of work my teammates and I put into this. Seeing the results of our efforts pay off in this manner was an unforgettable experience.”
This year’s finish represents a milestone for NCWU, surpassing the team’s previous best performance of third place at the 2020 Ethics Bowl.
The award was presented by Dr. A. Hope Williams, President of the North Carolina Independent Colleges and Universities (NCICU).
Competition Highlights
Throughout the day, NCWU students addressed a range of contemporary ethical topics, including corporate responsibility, international relations in global sporting events, the ethics of weapons of mass destruction, public education reform, civil-military leadership, and funding public schools during financial crises.
Team Members
Pictured (left to right; students in bold):
- Deon Bailey, Sophomore
- Dr. Jarrod Kelly
- Jolyna Sundbom, Junior
- Dr. Shane Thompson
- Dr. A. Hope Williams, President, NCICU
- Shafiq Nuijts, Senior
- Niana Gunter, Senior
- Dr. Jason Buel
- Maxima Iglesias, Senior
Not pictured: Dunya Salem, Senior, who is a member of the team but was unable to attend the competition.
Participating Institutions
The 2026 Ethics Bowl included teams from:
Barton College, Campbell University, Catawba College, Gardner-Webb University, High Point University, Johnson C. Smith University, Livingstone College, Mars Hill University, Methodist University, Montreat College, Pfeiffer University, Queens University, Salem College, University of Mount Olive, William Peace University, Wingate University, and North Carolina Wesleyan University.
The NCICU Ethics Bowl promotes civil discourse, ethical reasoning, and collaborative problem-solving—skills central to North Carolina Wesleyan University’s commitment to academic excellence and student development.
NCWU Grad Hits Home Run with Internship Mentorship!
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) continues to highlight the power of experiential learning and alumni engagement through a unique internship opportunity connecting a current student-athlete with a Bishop alumna working in professional sports.
NC Wesleyan student Brooklynn Covic, a communications major and member of the Bishops Volleyball team, gained hands-on experience this past summer as a Creative Video Intern with the Greensboro Grasshoppers, the High-A affiliate of the Pittsburgh Pirates. Covic’s internship was guided by Callie Cline, a North Carolina Wesleyan alumna and the Grasshoppers’ Manager of Social Media and Media Services.
Covic’s journey began on campus, where she works as a student assistant with NC Wesleyan Athletics, creating social media content and graphics to promote Bishop athletic programs. That foundational experience helped prepare her for the professional sports environment she now navigates daily.
“I really hope to bring these skills back to our athletic department to continue capturing and celebrating our student-athletes,” Covic said. “This internship has allowed me to grow creatively and professionally while seeing how the skills I’ve learned at NC Wesleyan translate to the real world.”
For Cline, the opportunity to mentor a current Bishop is both personal and purposeful. As a former NC Wesleyan volleyball student-athlete and multimedia intern, she understands the impact early professional experience can have on a student’s career trajectory.
“I wish I would have started sooner and prioritized internships and experience earlier,” Cline said. “Being able to give back and help a current student see what’s possible is incredibly rewarding. NC Wesleyan helped lay the foundation for my career, and it’s exciting to be part of that process for someone else.”
This internship reflects NC Wesleyan’s commitment to hands-on learning, career readiness, and fostering meaningful alumni connections. By creating opportunities that extend beyond the classroom, the university continues to prepare students for success in competitive professional fields.
For more information about internship opportunities and experiential learning at North Carolina Wesleyan University, visit ncwu.edu.
Wesleyan Donors Provide “Heaven Sent” Initiative
In the spirit of compassion, generosity, and belief in second chances, North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) is proud to share the profound impact of a new Angel Donor Initiative supporting adult learners through the University’s Adult Professional Studies (APS) Scholarship Fund.
Over the past two weeks, the initiative, sparked by the generosity of NCWU supporters, has helped 13 adult students overcome financial barriers that threatened to derail their education. These timely gifts allowed students to pay current or future balances, register for upcoming courses, and remain on track toward graduation.
Over the past two weeks, the initiative, sparked by the generosity of NCWU supporters, has helped 13 adult students overcome financial barriers that threatened to derail their education. These timely gifts allowed students to pay current or future balances, register for upcoming courses, and remain on track toward graduation.
For many recipients, this support arrived at a critical moment. More than 75% of the students who were assisted had exhausted their federal financial aid eligibility due to life interruptions, prior enrollment attempts, or unforeseen hardships. Others were navigating deeply personal crises, including homelessness, the loss of a parent, recovery from a massive stroke, or job loss tied to a government shutdown.
“These gifts were not just scholarships; they were lifelines,” said Katie Farrell, Dean of Adult and Professional Studies. “They met students where they were and provided exactly what was needed at exactly the right time.”
Turning Deferred Dreams into Degrees
The immediate outcomes of the Angel Donor initiative are powerful and measurable:
- A Healthcare Administration student described the support as “Heaven-sent,” allowing her to complete the final course needed to graduate in May 2026.
- Multiple Educational Studies and Leadership students were able to overcome financial barriers. This funding not only prevented delays but also accelerated degree completion and career trajectories, allowing future educators to enter the classroom sooner, helping address critical workforce gaps in education across the region.
Stability During Life’s Hardest Moments
Some stories speak not only to academic persistence, but to human resilience:
- A Leadership student, also a retired grandmother, unexpectedly assumed custody of three grandchildren and experienced temporary homelessness. She used the funds to secure housing, cover tuition, meet basic needs, and create a modest holiday for her family.
- A Criminal Justice student experiencing homelessness was able to remain enrolled and complete her final credits.
- A police officer finishing a Criminal Justice degree received support during the loss of his father.
- A Leadership student, a recently elected Town Commissioner recovering from a massive stroke, was able to continue his education while focusing on recovery and community service.
While this summary highlights selected stories shared with permission, additional funds continue to be distributed to other deserving students whose privacy is being respectfully protected.
A Season of Hope
The Angel Donor initiative affirms NC Wesleyan’s unwavering commitment to adult learners, students who balance education with work, family, and life’s unexpected challenges. Through strategic, compassionate support, the University is proving that persistence paired with opportunity can change lives.
As the holiday season approaches, these gifts stand as a reminder that generosity can be transformational, not someday, but today.
NC Wesleyan extends its deepest gratitude to the Angel Donors whose belief in students made these life-altering moments possible.
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.”
NCWU Attracts Graduate Student from California Through Forbes Recognition
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) is proud to highlight the inspiring journey of Jill Griffith, a Master of Science in Strategic Leadership (MSSL) student who discovered Wesleyan more than 2,500 miles away in California.
Jill, who works in PepsiCo’s Strategy and Transformation division as a Sales Leader, sought to deepen her leadership skills with a structured and formal graduate program. With support from PepsiCo’s education reimbursement program, she began researching accredited, affordable, and career-aligned master’s degrees. Her search led to a Forbes article highlighting top accredited graduate programs, where NC Wesleyan’s MSSL program stood out.
“The course outline and program requirements were accessible, and the online resources gave me a confidence that the MSSL program matched both my interests and professional needs,” Griffith shared. “What truly made the experience personal was the exceptional support I received from Jennifer Phipps, Admissions and Advising Coordinator, who made the admissions process smooth and welcoming.”
While on a business trip to Winston-Salem, Jill made the three-hour drive to Rocky Mount to see NC Wesleyan’s main campus in person. She met with faculty, including University President and MSSL professor Dr. Evan Duff, and was welcomed by several staff members with personalized hospitality from parking instructions and workspace accommodations to a guided campus tour.
“I had seen photos of the campus online, but visiting in person was such a pleasant surprise,” said Griffith. “The historic buildings were beautifully maintained, and the welcoming atmosphere was evident from banners promoting patience, accountability, and respect, to spaces like volleyball courts and hammocks. I simply felt like this was my school.”
Since beginning the program, Jill has completed eight courses and already sees a direct impact on her work with PepsiCo. The MSSL program has provided her with new tools to communicate strategy, improve execution, and inspire collaborative problem-solving.
“With my experience at PepsiCo, the program gave me a framework to better understand the building blocks of strategy and its evolving role in driving success,” she explained. “Some of the most exciting insights came from case studies and real-world examples that gave me the language to move ideas forward with greater impact.”
Griffith also values the broader ripple effect of online learning: “Whether it’s your partner, kids, friends, or colleagues, the excitement from learning often sparks meaningful conversations beyond the classroom. When you are authentic about your experience, it can bring value beyond what you expected.”
Her journey underscores N.C. Wesleyan’s national reach, offering high-quality, affordable programs that resonate with professionals across the country. Jill looks forward to completing her degree in the coming year and hopes to serve as a mentor for Wesleyan’s undergraduate students, continuing PepsiCo’s tradition of impactful mentorship.
“Jill’s story is a powerful example of how N.C. Wesleyan’s mission to prepare students for leadership extends beyond state lines,” says President Dr. Duff. “Her dedication reflects the type of scholar-practitioner we strive to develop, leaders who apply classroom knowledge directly to their professions and communities.”
Through the support of PepsiCo and the accessible, personalized experience offered at NCWU, Jill has reignited her passion for learning, proving that growth thrives when opportunity meets curiosity.
NCWU Graduate to Ph.D. at Texas A&M University
Andy Rizzo, a standout graduate of North Carolina Wesleyan University’s Class of 2025, has dual-earned Bachelor of Science degrees in Biology and Environmental Science. Hailing from Buenos Aires, Argentina, Andy chose NCWU for its small, welcoming campus and strong support for international students.
“I felt it would make my transition as an international student easier,” Andy said. “But what made me stay was the community – the friends, faculty, and staff who made my college journey truly amazing.”
Andy’s time at Wesleyan was marked by involvement and leadership. She served as RA and Head RA, led both the Student Entertainment & Activities Team (S.E.A.T.) and the International Bishop Association, and was active in multiple honor societies and student organizations. Her dedication was recognized with several awards, including the Algernon Sydney Sullivan Award, Environmental Science Award, Internship Award for her work at Pfizer, and being crowned Homecoming Princess in 2023 and Homecoming Queen in 2024.
One of her biggest academic influences was Dr. Daniel Elias, under whom Andy conducted research on environmental pollutants. Dr. Elias reflected, “Watching Andy grow as a researcher has been one of the most rewarding parts of my work. Through her leadership on projects studying PFAS, salinity, microplastics, and predatory cues in Physa acuta, her presentations at multiple conferences, and her mentorship through the NSF GeoPath program, Andy showed true academic growth, resilience, and responsibility. Beyond the lab, she also helped lead outreach efforts, native planting projects, and citizen science initiatives. I could not be prouder of her journey and everything still ahead.”
Now, Andy is heading to Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi to pursue her Ph.D. in Marine Biology, backed by a teaching assistantship with Dr. Seemann. She’ll be researching the effects of environmental pollutants on fish – continuing the meaningful work she started at Wesleyan.
“I’m very grateful for my journey at Wesleyan,” she said. “None of my accomplishments would have been possible without the support of my parents, my friends from home and at Wesleyan, Mrs. Dawn Turner, and Dr. Daniel Elias.”
Employees Turn Tuition Perk into Diplomas
Director of Campus Safety, Controller, Sports Information Director, and Accounts Payable Specialist give the inside scoop on graduating with a discount.
At North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU), employees aren’t just shaping student success—they’re living it. Through the University’s generous tuition discount program, eligible employees, their spouses, and their dependent children can pursue undergraduate degrees tuition-free. This 100% tuition discount opens doors for families to grow academically together, while also inspiring a culture of lifelong learning across campus. For those looking to advance even further, discounts are also available for graduate coursework, making it easier than ever for staff and faculty to sharpen their skills, earn advanced credentials, or pivot into new fields. At NC Wesleyan, education is not just a benefit—it’s a shared journey.
We interviewed just a few who have taken advantage of this benefit and the results are telling.
Meet Wayne Sears, Director of Campus Safety. Mr. Sears has worked at Wesleyan for nine years and in May 2023 received a Master of Science in Criminal Justice, due to his desire of “wanting the option to teach in the field of Criminal Justice and wanting to understand what the educational environment is like for our NCWU student family”.
What advice do you have for people considering Wesleyan graduate school while working?
Don’t put off post-graduate work. A Master’s Degree now separates educational accomplishment and knowledge in the workforce. Wesleyan’s Criminal Justice Program is a structured progressive program from beginning to end.
How would you describe your relationships with your professors?
Great! I could text, email, or call them often on their cell phones. Which I did, and they always responded. I am friends with several of them to this day.
Was there a moment you felt especially proud of your accomplishment?
Having been in the Criminal Justice field since I was twenty years old gave me a complex that I had to do exceptionally well. That was a personal challenge to me. I was awarded the Outstanding MSCJ Student award backed with a perfect 4.0 GPA and that was extremely satisfying!
Describe your graduate school journey in 3 words.
Well. Worth It.
Teikisha Anderson, Controller and employee of over eleven years, is currently obtaining a Master of Strategic Leadership Degree and plans to graduate in May 2025. Her motivation was enhanced once receiving a promotion into a leadership position on campus and feels that this degree will equip her with the essential skills necessary to become an innovative and effective leader.
What advice do you have for people considering Wesleyan graduate school while working?
Do it! The Graduate Programs are designed and structured to meet the needs of the average working adult. With effective time management and dedication, they can successfully balance home, work, and academic responsibilities. While some temporary sacrifices may be necessary, the overall achievements and benefits will be worth it.
How would you describe your relationships with your professors?
Working at NC Wesleyan has allowed me to connect with some of my professors on a professional level. However, as a staff member, I do not receive any preferential treatment regarding my classes or expectations. While I am familiar with some professors, many of them are adjuncts whom I have never met personally. Regardless, my experiences with my professors have been overwhelmingly positive. They communicate effectively and respond to my questions and concerns. Even in taking all online classes, the smaller class sizes allow professors to address any issues, confusion, or concerns promptly, which I can truly appreciate.
Was there a moment you felt especially proud of your accomplishment?
My proudest moment will be walking across that stage wearing that hooded regalia but that has yet to come; however, for now, I am proud of myself for pushing forward every day and maintaining a 4.0 GPA. As a self-proclaimed perfectionist, I am slightly obsessed with and committed to doing my absolute best in all that I do. I am committed to this academic journey and that in itself is my proudest accomplishment.
Describe your graduate school journey in 3 words.
God’s Got Me!
Entering his sixth year at Wesleyan, Bayden Collins is Wesleyan’s Sports Information Director. He received his Master of Business Administration Degree in December 2024. Collins was self-motivated to obtain a Master’s Degree from a very early age and feels that it will greatly help him in his career of administration in collegiate athletics.
What advice do you have for people considering Wesleyan graduate school while working?
I would highly recommend the Graduate Program while working at NCWU because there is no better place that you can obtain a degree in one year online while working at the same time. I am extremely blessed to say I earned my MBA at the age of 22 and Wesleyan afforded me that opportunity.
How would you describe your relationships with your professors?
While I was online, I still felt a very close relationship with my professors. Whenever I needed something, I could call or email them at any time if I ever needed anything. Also, each professor would do a beginning-of-the-week video/lecture where you felt like you were in the classroom which led to an awesome learning experience!
Was there a moment you felt especially proud of your accomplishment?
I was especially proud at the hooding ceremony when I saw Coach Denton, Mr. Mike Armbruster, and Coach Thompson outside the Dunn Center waiting to congratulate me. It meant a lot, and I am glad to work with such great people!
Describe your graduate school journey in 3 words.
Rewarding, Challenging, Enlightening
DeOnna Wilson worked at Wesleyan in the Business Office for four years before she accepted her current role as an Accounts Payable Specialist. She completed her Master of Business Administration in 2023 with the support of her family and “work family”. Wilson learned that it was essential to never be afraid of asking questions, as “seeking help can lead to growth and understanding”.
What advice do you have for people considering Wesleyan graduate school while working?
For those pursuing Graduate School while working, mastering time management and establishing a realistic schedule is essential. Prioritize your tasks and confidently seek clarification from professors whenever necessary—they are there to support you. Don’t forget to include breaks in your schedule; maintaining a healthy balance between work and study is crucial for your success.
How would you describe your relationships with your professors?
I had varied relationships with my professors during my studies. With the professors I connected with, I fI had varied relationships with my professors during my studies. I found myself emailing some professors almost every other day to clarify assignments or projects. They were incredibly supportive and always willing to go the extra mile to assist me. Whenever they were on campus, they would take the time to meet with me, walking me through my mistakes and helping me understand the material better. I appreciated their pride in my efforts to learn, and their quick responses to my emails made it even easier to seek help. It truly made a difference in my learning experience.
Was there a moment you felt especially proud of your accomplishment?
The moment I felt a wave of pride for my accomplishment was when I walked across that stage to receive my diploma. Seeing all my family and work family there, beaming with smiles as I crossed that stage, made the achievement even more special. I completed my Master’s Degree despite the doubts I faced at the beginning and the many nights filled with tears questioning whether I could pull it off. In the end, it was all worth it, as I not only passed all my classes but also got to celebrate this significant milestone with my loved ones.
Describe your graduate school journey in 3 words.
Determined. Nervous. Time Management.
Wesleyan Nurses Success
NC Wesleyan University’s RN-to-BSN online program offers more than just an opportunity for professional growth—it fosters the potential for life-changing experiences. For mother-daughter duo Sonya Wester and Kaley Bailey, graduating together this past August wasn’t just an educational milestone, but a deeply heartwarming chapter in their lives. Their journey through Wesleyan’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program is a testament to the beauty of shared goals, mutual support, and the power of family bonds.
The RN-to-BSN program at NC Wesleyan University is designed for working professionals, offering flexibility through 100% online coursework. With accelerated 8-week terms, students can tailor their learning pace, choosing to study full or part-time. The convenience of multiple start dates allows learners to begin their education journey when it best fits their schedule. This flexibility, combined with the ability to complete the program in as little as 12 months, made it an ideal fit for Sonya and Kaley.
Sonya, a dedicated nurse with years of experience, humbly shared that nursing was not a career she chose, but rather a calling that chose her. Her passion for helping others, learning, and serving was deeply embedded in her work, and she constantly sought opportunities to grow. For her daughter Kaley, Sonya’s dedication and compassion became an inspiration. Kaley decided to follow in her mother’s footsteps, pursuing the same path with determination and pride.
The flexibility of Wesleyan’s online nursing program provided the perfect balance for both women, who had to juggle personal and professional responsibilities while advancing their education. They were attracted to the program not only for its convenience but also for the incentives offered. Sonya explained, “Wesleyan provided an incentive to enroll that was very rewarding. I had good feedback from previous students, and a former employer, who was part of the community leaders at Wesleyan, encouraged me to take the leap.”
What made this experience truly unique for Sonya and Kaley was the opportunity to achieve such a significant milestone together. Kaley expressed her joy in a touching sentiment: “Not many people get to say they graduated college with their mom, but I do, and I could not be more honored and proud. Her hard work and dedication to giving it her all was such an inspiration to me throughout this whole journey and is what kept me going. I am excited to see where this journey takes us next.”
For Sonya, the experience brought her even closer to her daughter: “We have always been close, but sharing the struggles, the joys, and the accomplishments has made us even closer and stronger. It was very exciting to walk alongside her, watching her knowledge, leadership abilities, and experience grow. It has been an honor and a privilege to witness this.”
Their story is one of love, resilience, and shared purpose. Together, Sonya and Kaley have not only earned their degrees but have also deepened their bond as mother and daughter. Their journey at NC Wesleyan University is a reminder that education is not just about individual growth but can also strengthen the ties that bind us to those we love.
Khalil Robertson’s Leadership and Journey at NCWU
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – A true man of many talents, Khalil Robertson is a senior graduating from North Carolina Wesleyan University. Although he has a bright future ahead, he will be leaving NCWU with a touching and lasting impact. Robertson has been active on campus, supporting multiple student ministries, a leader for the Male Minority initiative developed on campus with NCICU, and has accepted a full-ride scholarship to Duke Divinity School where he will obtain a Master of Arts in Christian Practice (MACP).
Robertson is a prime representation of the personal, practical, and purpose-driven education that students receive at Wesleyan. He started attending NCWU in 2020, the first academic year held during COVID-19. This did not intimidate him from getting involved and engaged in the campus community as he tuned into Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) via zoom. During the spring semester, he began teaching Bible studies and attending Refuge Campus Ministry. He was instantly involved with campus ministries every Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday. Robertson was Assistant Chaplain to Reverend Barry Drum in 2020 where he had the opportunity to conduct a baptismal service. Upon Reverend Ferguson’s hire, the two formed an immediate bond and Robertson shares, “If it wasn’t for him I can say I wouldn’t be as confident in myself and ministry without him”. The preaching led to counseling and taking part in the worship teams. Robertson expresses “As a graduating senior, I have really enjoyed the community that I’ve been a part of in all the ministries, it’s really been a life changing experience for me, and I thank God for the relationships built with the Moore family, Word Tabernacle Church, Presence Church, Connect YTI, and so many others.” Rev. Ferguson responds, “I am proud of Khalil and excited for his future. He will make a positive, lasting impact wherever he goes and I am grateful that God allowed our paths to cross.”
As a member of Wesleyan’s Black Student Association, Robertson shares, “I got into a community that felt like my family away from home.” He took this further his sophomore year by creating an organization for black male students. Sprouting from the Male Minority Initiative with NCICU, Robertson established a vision, a board of gentlemen, and an organization called Black Men Winning, with the assistance of Tim Carmichael, Giavonne Minns, Yutaka Bell, Jonah Purnell, Jaydon Denmark, Tim Willis, and leader Rev. Russell Rouse, initial advisor. 25-30 men were inducted during their first ceremony in 2022. In the second year, Dr. Spragley assumed the role of advisor where he and Robertson expanded this group beyond campus and into the Rocky Mount Community. Robertson said he was inspired by Rouse and Spragley to “take a holistic approach in developing and empowering the members in a spiritual aspect by having Bible study, traveling to other churches, counseling members individually, and ultimately helping students find outside grants to help fund their education.” Dr. Spragley worked with NCICU, making it possible for members to achieve an additional scholarship as being part of the organization. This extended to etiquette workshops, mental health workshops, hosting inspirational guest speakers, taking part in city-wide panels, retreats, community service projects with Ripple Effects and St. John AME Zion Church, study hall sessions, registration workshops to ensure being on the right track for graduation, and hosting events such as: Ebony Speaker Ball, 7V7 Football Tournaments, Game Night Tournaments, Love Day, etc.! Through all of that, Robertson believes “being intentional is the number one value that I believe carries the organization to new levels. It’s what brings guys closer, makes members stronger, and inspires others to be part of what we’ve built.” Their motto is “A successful black man is one who can build a firm foundation with the bricks thrown at him.” He plans to remain involved in the ministry, but leaves the leadership to its current members and Dr. Spragley who states, “Mr. Robertson has proven himself to be a leader in the truest sense. His dedication to providing resources and opportunities to young men of color is an admirable skill set.”
Robertson’s future endeavors will be in the Master of Arts in Christian Practice Hybrid program at Duke Divinity where he looks to work as a high school social studies teacher for Wake County Schools, still actively preaching and pursuing to pastor in the CME Church. He concludes by sharing “I’m truly grateful for the support of my professors, the students, staff and faculty from the Wesleyan community, the many churches regardless of denomination, and my family for everything they’ve done for me the last four years; but most of all, I thank God for what he’s already done, what He’s doing right now, and for what He’s about to do!”
