North Carolina Wesleyan University is celebrating another historic milestone from standout student-athlete Kamiyah Wooten, who has earned the No. 1 seed in the 200-meter dash heading into the NCAA Division III National Championship finals on Saturday, May 23, in Wisconsin.
Wooten’s journey to the top has been fueled by determination, discipline, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
“If it was easy, everyone would be doing it,” said Wooten.
What began as a freshman-year goal to become First Team All-Conference quickly evolved into a decorated collegiate career filled with championships and national recognition. After conversations with her coaches, Wooten set her sights even higher: becoming an NCAA Division III All-American.
Mission accomplished.
Resumé
Now a five-time All-American, Wooten has built one of the most accomplished résumés in program history, earning:
- Six NCAA Division III First Team All-American honors
- Six NCAA Division III Second Team All-American honors
- NCAA Division III Athlete of the Week honors
- Two NCAA USTFCCCA South Region Athlete of the Year awards
- Four USA South Conference Female Athlete of the Year awards
- Two North Carolina Wesleyan University Female Athlete of the Year honors
Currently ranked No. 1 nationally in Division III in the 200m, Wooten credits her success to a combination of hard work, mental strength, and the support system around her.
Her Inspiration
“My inspiration came from a mix of personal goals and the people around me who believed in my potential,” Wooten shared. “I’ve always wanted to push past my limits and prove to myself what I’m capable of. Seeing other elite athletes perform at a high level motivated me to elevate my own performance.”
She emphasized that reaching the top required consistency, trust in her coaches, and attention to every detail of her performance.
“Getting to number one didn’t happen overnight,” she said. “It took consistent training, staying disciplined, and focusing on the small details like my start, transition, and finish. I also had to stay mentally strong and confident, especially during tough races and practices.”
Competing at an elite level in track and field requires more than talent alone, according to Wooten.
“Competing at a high level takes a combination of physical ability, mental toughness, and discipline,” she said. “You have to be committed every day, not just at meets, but in practice, recovery, nutrition, and even rest.”
Her latest All-American honor came after another demanding season that tested both her physical and mental endurance.
“A major role in becoming All-American this season was consistency and staying locked in on my goals,” Wooten said. “It wasn’t easy. There were challenges, tough workouts, and moments where I had to push through fatigue and doubt. But staying disciplined and believing in the process helped me reach that goal.”
Wooten was also recently named NCAA USTFCCCA South Region Athlete of the Year for the second time in her career, an honor she says carries deep meaning.
“It means a lot to me mentally, physically, and emotionally,” she said. “It’s a reminder that all the hard work I’ve put in is paying off. Being recognized as the best in the region builds my confidence and motivates me even more.”
As she prepares to compete on the national stage once again, the entire Wesleyan community will be cheering her on as she races for another championship title.
Rock the Mount at NC Wesleyan University
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) is excited to announce the return of its annual Rock the Mount celebration, an honored tradition that marks the official start of the academic year and warmly welcomes incoming students to campus and the local community. Sponsored this year by First Carolina Bank, the event will take place from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Monday, August 17 – the day before fall classes begin.
Held each fall, Rock the Mount is a vibrant, high-energy event featuring local businesses, nonprofits, churches, and campus partners who line the heart of campus with booths, giveaways, and smiles. It’s a chance to showcase community offerings while connecting with students who are new to the area and eager to get involved.
Maxie T. Coker, Jr, Senior Commercial Banking Officer, and Elizabeth Overton, Team Support Specialist for First Carolina Bank, share, “First Carolina Bank greatly values our relationship with North Carolina Wesleyan University and looks forward to continuing this partnership for many years to come. Rock the Mount is a fantastic event that connects the local community with the university’s students and creates a meaningful shared experience for everyone involved. We’re excited to make 2026 the best year yet!”
What to Expect:
The day begins with a signature Wesleyan tradition: the Bishop Tunnel. Hundreds of new students take part in this spirited rite of passage as they walk through a tunnel of applause, cheers, and encouragement from returning students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community members. At the end of the tunnel, they’re greeted personally by President Dr. Evan D. Duff and his wife, Marcy, then proceed toward a vibrant festival of tents, music, and engagement opportunities.
Vendor spaces are in high demand, with limited spots available. If you wish to have your spot secured for this event, contact Elliott now! Local restaurants, coffee shops, service providers, churches, and nonprofits are encouraged to participate. Whether you’re an automotive shop (freshmen can have cars on campus!), a local café, or a church seeking new connections, this is a unique chance to reach a new audience of potential customers, volunteers, interns, or even future employees.
This year’s entertainment will include DJ 3two1, along with a variety of food trucks offering local flavor, including:
- Three Boys Catering (Alumni Owned)
- Minnie’s Food and Thingz
- Sweet P’s Galaxy Lemonade
- CPS Catering
- Shawarmalicious
- Fairy Tale Concessions
- Carolina Icee
- Taquria La Lupita
Vendor Information:
- NCWU will provide a 6-foot table.
- Vendors should bring a tablecloth.
- Tents (up to 10’x10’) are optional but recommended for shade.
- Giveaways are not required but encouraged to boost engagement.
- Participation is free, but space is limited.
Registration Deadline: Friday, July 31. Early registration is encouraged.
Sign Up Here: Rock the Mount Vendor Link
Join us in making a memorable first impression and welcoming the NCWU Class of 2030 in style! For more information, contact Elliott Smith at esmith@ncwu.edu.
NC Wesleyan to Host NCAA Division III Men’s Tennis Championship Preliminary Rounds This Weekend
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) will serve as host site for the NCAA Division III Men’s Tennis Championship Preliminary Rounds this weekend, welcoming some of the nation’s top programs to Rocky Mount for a high-stakes postseason competition.
The tournament will take place Friday through Sunday, May 8–11, with teams arriving on campus Thursday for practice sessions. The championship format features team competition, with both singles and doubles matches contributing to the overall team score.
NC Wesleyan will be one of six teams competing in the tournament, along with Albright College, Stevens Institute of Technology, Penn State Harrisburg, Emory University, and Johns Hopkins University.
“Being selected to host an NCAA postseason competition reflects positively on NC Wesleyan’s facilities, operations, and overall commitment to providing a high-quality student-athlete experience,” said Madison Morrison, Assistant Athletic Director. “It speaks to the trust the NCAA has in our ability to execute a championship-level event.”
Hosting responsibilities involve extensive planning and campus collaboration. From preparing facilities to coordinating travel and accommodations for teams and officials, the event requires alignment across athletics staff, facilities teams, and multiple campus partners.
“There is extensive coordination involved, including facility preparation, team and officials’ travel and accommodations, scheduling, compliance with NCAA championship protocols, and ensuring a strong game-day environment,” Morrison said. “It is a collaborative effort across athletics, facilities, and campus partners.”
Tennis Head Coach Albie Brice highlighted the tradition NC Wesleyan tennis has built in recent years and the significance of being selected once again as a regional host site.
“The Men’s and Women’s programs have established a tradition of excellence through unwavering dedication and hard work both on and off the court,” Brice said. “This marks the third time the Men’s Team has been chosen as an NCAA Regional Host since 2021, while the Women’s Team has hosted twice since then. In the past six years, NCWU has hosted five NCAA Regionals, showcasing its commitment to nurturing top-tier tennis talent.”
Brice also emphasized the competitive level of the tournament field and the opportunity for the weekend to produce memorable postseason moments.
“We anticipate an exceptional tennis tournament this weekend featuring some of the nation’s finest teams,” Brice said. “This regional is expected to be highly competitive, and the victorious team will undoubtedly receive a prestigious accolade to enhance its program’s illustrious history.”
“North Carolina Wesleyan is proud to welcome NCAA postseason competition to our campus,” said Dr. Evan D. Duff, President of North Carolina Wesleyan University. “Hosting the NCAA Division III Men’s Tennis Championship Preliminary Rounds reflects the excellence of our athletic programs and the dedication of our coaches, staff, and student-athletes. We invite the community to join us in celebrating this exciting opportunity and supporting our Battling Bishops.”
Fans are encouraged to attend matches and help create an energetic environment as NC Wesleyan takes the national stage in NCAA postseason play.
“Attending matches, creating an energetic and respectful environment, and helping us showcase the hospitality NC Wesleyan is known for all go a long way,” Morrison added.
Championship Schedule (All Times Eastern)
Friday, May 8
10:00 a.m. – Stevens vs. Penn State Harrisburg (Match 1)
2:00 p.m. – NC Wesleyan vs. Albright (Match 2)
Saturday, May 9
10:00 a.m. – Emory vs. Winner of Match 1 (Match 3)
2:00 p.m. – Johns Hopkins vs. Winner of Match 2 (Match 4)
Sunday, May 11
12:00 p.m. – Winner of Match 3 vs. Winner of Match 4 (Match 5)
Event Details
Event: NCAA Division III Men’s Tennis Championship Preliminary Rounds (First, Second, Third Rounds)
Location: North Carolina Wesleyan University (Rocky Mount, N.C.)
Dates: May 8–11, 2026
Teams Competing: NC Wesleyan, Albright, Stevens, Penn State Harrisburg, Emory, Johns Hopkins
Format: Team competition including singles and doubles matches
Other Bishops Competing
In addition to hosting the NCAA Men’s Tennis preliminary rounds, NC Wesleyan Women’s Tennis will begin NCAA Tournament play on Thursday, May 7, traveling to Emory University for a first-round matchup against Asbury University at 10:00 a.m. The NC Wesleyan Softball team will also continue postseason competition this weekend, competing in the USA South Conference Championship Series beginning Friday at 1:00 p.m. at Pfeiffer University.
All matches and games will be streamed live through the NC Wesleyan athletics website at ncwsports.com
ARTLAB and NC Wesleyan University Partner to Launch New Embryology and Andrology Education Programs
In recognition of National Infertility Awareness Week (NIAW), ARTLAB and North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) are highlighting a major step forward in reproductive science education with the launch of a new academic credential designed to strengthen the future workforce of fertility laboratory professionals. The partners are proud to announce the first stage in their strategic collaboration: a post-baccalaureate certificate in Applied Reproductive Biology, launching in Summer 2026. The first cohort will start July 6 – Sept 11, 2026.
This 16-credit (10-week) certificate program is now accepting applications from candidates who have completed a B.S. in a laboratory science or who will complete such a degree in May 2026. To inquire or apply for the first cohort, contact Dr. Eva Schenkman at eva@artlabconsulting.com.
Designed to meet the growing workforce demands of assisted reproductive technology (ART) laboratories across the United States, the program combines academic rigor with applied training. ARTLAB, currently the largest IVF training center in the world, brings extensive reproductive laboratory expertise and real-world industry experience to the curriculum.
“As one of the few academically affiliated programs in embryology, this collaboration with North Carolina Wesleyan University brings together training taught by globally recognized leaders with a commitment to standardization in a historically unregulated field,” said Dr. Eva Schenkman, MS, PhD, Founder of ARTLAB. “As fertility rates decline and demand for assisted reproductive technologies increases worldwide, the need for highly skilled embryologists has become increasingly urgent. Together, ARTLAB and NC Wesleyan are setting a new standard for the field.”
“We are excited to launch our first certificate program with ARTLAB. This is one example of our commitment to deliver career-focused programs that reflect our Personal, Practical, Purpose-driven Education promise,” said Dr. Joe Lane, Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs at North Carolina Wesleyan University. “We are especially excited about the opportunities this certificate will provide to our biology students seeking new professional pathways in this highly specialized and rapidly growing field. We also look forward to welcoming new students into the Wesleyan community as they come to Rocky Mount to complete this ten-week professional program.”
NCWU President Dr. Evan D. Duff added, “This partnership with ARTLAB and Dr. Eva Schenkman represents exactly where higher education needs to go—aligning academic rigor with real-world, high-demand careers that change lives. By launching one of the few academically grounded programs in embryology and andrology, North Carolina Wesleyan is not only expanding opportunity for our students but also helping to build the future workforce of reproductive medicine professionals. We are proud to lead in a space where science, purpose, and human impact intersect in such a profound way.”
Through this partnership, ARTLAB and NCWU will continue to develop both credit-bearing and professional training courses to support professionals entering and advancing within the field.
Students pursuing the post-baccalaureate certificate may be eligible for federal financial aid, student loans, and grant opportunities. Formalizing this program under the auspices of North Carolina Wesleyan University significantly expands access to advanced education in reproductive science.
Additional details regarding admissions requirements, program structure, and enrollment timelines will be available in the coming days.
Learn More >
Dr. Katrina Sweet Awarded Jefferson-Pilot Award
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) is proud to announce that Dr. Katrina Sweet has been selected as the 2025–2026 recipient of the Jefferson-Pilot Professorship, the University’s highest and most distinguished faculty honor. The award recognizes exceptional achievement in scholarship, teaching excellence, and dedicated service to both the campus and the greater community.
Established in 1981 through the generosity of the Jefferson-Pilot Life Insurance Company, the Jefferson-Pilot Professorship is an endowed award granted annually to a tenured faculty member who exemplifies the highest standards of professional excellence. The recipient is nominated by a committee of faculty and appointed by NC Wesleyan President Dr. Evan D. Duff. Honorees are recognized not only for mastery of their discipline and contributions to academic knowledge, but also for their unwavering commitment to student development and meaningful engagement in the life of the University.
Dr. Sweet, a respected educator and leader within the Wesleyan community, has consistently demonstrated the values embodied by this award through her work in the classroom, her scholarship, and her ongoing service initiatives.
“I was honored to be selected as the 2025–2026 Jefferson Pilot Faculty Member,” said Dr. Sweet. “This recognition made me proud to be a Bishop and grateful for the work I am called to do—preparing students to lead, serve, and transform their communities.”
For Dr. Sweet, the recognition is also deeply personal. She reflected on the influence of her family and the foundation they instilled in her long before she stepped into higher education.
“I could not help but think of my grandmother and grandfather,” she shared. “I believe I am a blend of the two of them. My grandmother was a nurturer…full of quiet strength. My grandfather was an entrepreneur and a visionary. Their legacy still lives in me, and receiving this award makes me honor who they were and what they meant to my life. Their love, their resilience, and their example guide the way I teach, lead, and serve my students and community.”
Throughout her time at NC Wesleyan, Dr. Sweet has become known for her ability to create an environment where students are both challenged and supported—an educator who not only teaches content, but also inspires confidence, purpose, and personal growth.
When asked what moments have been most meaningful during her time at Wesleyan, Dr. Sweet pointed directly to the students who have shaped her journey as much as she has shaped theirs.
“If I had to choose what has meant the most, it would be the way my students have poured into my life and believed in me,” she said. “I have had students speak prophetically over my life and see the best in me even in seasons when I struggled to see it myself… I realized that God did not just place me here for my students, but He also placed my students here for me.”
Her approach to teaching is grounded in purpose and service, principles she hopes students carry with them long after graduation.
“I want my students to remember that service is important,” said Dr. Sweet. “Serving and giving beyond oneself is something I try to model both in the classroom and in the community. Service shapes character, builds compassion, and reminds us that leadership is not about position, it is about impact.”
Dr. Sweet teaches Human Resource Management and has played a key role in strengthening student interest in the field. She shared that one of the clearest moments of realizing her impact came when students began shaping their career paths based on what they experienced in her courses.
“I absolutely enjoy teaching Human Resource Management because HR is truly the glue that holds an organization together,” she said. “I first realized the impact of my teaching when students who enrolled in my HR courses began sharing that they wanted to minor in HR and pursue careers in the field after graduation. Over time, I noticed a trend—students were entering the HR profession and then reaching back out to share their experiences, seek guidance, and continue the mentorship we built in the classroom.”
That continued connection with alumni is a reflection of Dr. Sweet’s commitment to long-term student success, and her belief that the Wesleyan experience extends far beyond the classroom.
“I get to blend my work as a practitioner with my role as an educator,” she said. “The field is evolving quickly, and bringing real world experience into the classroom helps students see how business concepts come alive in practice.”
As part of the Jefferson-Pilot Professorship, Dr. Sweet will deliver a public lecture on Thursday, April 9, focused on nonprofit sustainability and community engagement. The lecture will highlight her work in building community partnerships, developing long-term organizational impact, and connecting students to hands-on learning experiences rooted in NC Wesleyan’s three pillars: Personal, Practical, and Purpose-Driven.
Those interested in attending are encouraged to contact the University to confirm attendance and event details.
“Attendees can expect an engaging and insightful lecture focused on nonprofit sustainability and community engagement,” Dr. Sweet said. “I will share the work I have done in the community, the partnerships I have built, and the practical strategies that support long term organizational impact. I will also highlight how my students have been connected to this work and how these experiences have shaped their learning through our three pillars: Personal, Practical, and Purpose Driven.”
Dr. Sweet emphasized that the topic is especially relevant today, as students and communities alike seek meaningful solutions to real-world challenges.
“This topic matters to me because nonprofit sustainability and community engagement are at the heart of who I am as an educator, practitioner, and servant leader,” she said. “I believe deeply in the power of organizations that exist to uplift people, strengthen communities, and create long term impact. My work in this space allows me to live out my values while also giving my students real opportunities to learn, serve, and grow.”
Dr. Sweet’s selection as the 2025–2026 Jefferson-Pilot Professor reflects her exceptional contributions to the University and the lasting impact she continues to make on students, colleagues, and the broader community. Her work exemplifies the mission of North Carolina Wesleyan University—preparing students for lives of leadership, service, and purpose.
Disc Golf Championship Brings Regional Players to NC Wesleyan
North Carolina Wesleyan University will welcome competitors from across the region as it hosts a round of the Spike Hyzer’s North Carolina Disc Golf Championship XV, a premier tournament in the sport of disc golf. The event will take place Friday through Sunday, March 20–22, 2026, with NC Wesleyan serving as one of the featured courses during the competition weekend.
The tournament is an A-Tier sanctioned event by the Professional Disc Golf Association (PDGA) and is presented by Discraft with support from Grip EQ. The championship is expected to draw players from across the United States and the Mid-Atlantic region.
The NC Wesleyan round will take place Saturday morning at 10:00 a.m., when amateur division players compete on the university’s scenic course located along a two-mile loop on campus. The round will feature a shotgun start, meaning players will begin simultaneously from multiple holes throughout the course.
Overall, the tournament features both professional and amateur divisions competing across three days at multiple courses in the area, including Sunset Park and Farmington Park. Professional competitors, currently totaling more than 50 registered players, will compete across three rounds over three days. The amateur field, which includes players from across North Carolina as well as Virginia, West Virginia, and Washington, D.C., will compete in multiple rounds throughout the weekend, including the Saturday morning competition at NC Wesleyan.
Notable competitors include professional players Chandler Kramer, Colten Montgomery, Barry Schultz, and Brian Schweberger, among others.
The tournament is organized by Chuck Connelly, tournament director of Spike Hyzer Disc Golf.
“I am looking forward to partnering with Chuck to present our course on the stage of one of his tournaments,” said Marcus Rich of North Carolina Wesleyan University. “This is the first year we have had the opportunity to present NC Wesleyan’s course in one of his tournaments, and this goes much further than just a round of disc golf. With this tournament, it expands our reach as more players set foot on campus and witness all that North Carolina Wesleyan University has to offer. We have a great course on a beautiful campus, and sharing this gem with the local community and beyond is a true honor.”
Spectators and members of the community are welcome to attend and experience the action as players navigate the university’s course.
More information about the tournament, including registration and schedules, can be found online.
Meet NCWU’s 2026 Commencement Speaker: Jessica Harrison ’10
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) will proudly celebrate its 62nd Spring Commencement Ceremony on Saturday, May 2, 2026, honoring the academic achievements of more than 330 graduates as they complete their Wesleyan journeys and prepare for lives of leadership, service, and purpose.
The ceremony will bring together graduates, families, faculty, staff, alumni, and community members for one of the University’s most meaningful traditions. Commencement serves as both a celebration of student accomplishment and a reflection of NCWU’s commitment to personalized education, mentorship, and community engagement.
“This moment represents years of perseverance, growth, and hard work by our students,” said Dr. Evan D. Duff, President of North Carolina Wesleyan University. “Commencement is not only a milestone for our graduates, but also a celebration for the families, faculty, and mentors who supported them along the way. We are incredibly proud of the Class of 2026 and excited to see the impact they will make in their communities and professions.”
Meet the Speaker
This year’s keynote address will be delivered by Jessica Daniels Harrison ‘10, a dedicated public servant, civic leader, and proud NCWU alumna. Harrison currently serves as Mayor of the Town of Zebulon, North Carolina, making history as the first woman elected to the role. She was initially appointed to the Town’s Board of Commissioners in February 2022 and later elected by the community in November 2023 as commissioner before being elected mayor in November 2025.
As mayor, Harrison is recognized for her strategic leadership, commitment to inclusive governance, and advocacy for initiatives that strengthen families, promote economic development, and engage youth. Her leadership extends beyond local government through her service as Regional Director for the National Black Caucus of Local Elected Officials and Assistant Secretary for the North Carolina Black Elected Municipal Officials. In 2024, she was honored with the 40 Under Impact Award by the National League of Cities.
Harrison is also the Founder and CEO of She Is ME, LLC, an organization focused on empowering women to recognize their potential, overcome stereotypes, and actively engage in their communities. Alongside her husband, she owns and operates The Harrison Institution, Inc., a nonprofit leadership development firm. Together, they also serve as Care Pastors at Life Worship Center in Raleigh.
A graduate of North Carolina Wesleyan University, Harrison earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology before completing a Master of Education in Educational Leadership at Concordia University. She is a proud member of Zeta Phi Beta, Inc., and considers her greatest roles to be wife to Tory and mother to TJ, Tyler, and Jordyn. Guided by her faith and the scripture Matthew 7:12, Harrison approaches leadership with integrity, compassion, and commitment to building strong, resilient communities.
The 2026 Spring Commencement Ceremony promises to be a meaningful celebration of achievement, reflection, and new beginnings, honoring the Class of 2026 as they step forward to shape the future.
From Santa Rosa to Rocky Mount: Celebrating 75 Years of Peanuts at NCWU’s Charles Schulz Exhibit
As the world celebrates the 75th anniversary of Peanuts on Oct. 2, 2025, the timeless comic strip that gave us Snoopy, Charlie Brown, and a cast of characters who captured the human spirit with humor and heart, North Carolina Wesleyan University is bringing the celebration home with a powerful tribute to the man behind the magic: Charles M. Schulz.
In a recent USA Today and People Magazine article, Jeannie Schulz, widow of Charles Schulz, reflected on the enduring legacy of Peanuts and its surprising resonance with Gen Z. From tattooed 20-somethings to wide-eyed toddlers, fans continue to flock to the Schulz Museum in Santa Rosa, California, drawn by the emotional depth and relatability of Schulz’s work. [As Peanuts…USA TODAY] [As the beloved comic strip turns 70…People Magazine]
Now, that same spirit is coming to Rocky Mount.
“The Life and Art of Charles M. Schulz”, a traveling exhibition hosted at the Mims and Gravely Galleries from November 14, 2025 to January 29, 2026, offers a rare glimpse into Schulz’s personal journey—from his Minnesota roots to his artistic legacy in California. Featuring original Peanuts comic strips, personal quotes, and photographs, the exhibit explores Schulz’s unique ability to turn everyday moments into profound reflections on friendship, vulnerability, and resilience. [The Life &…University]
This exhibit is more than nostalgia—it’s a platform for discussion. As USA Today notes, Peanuts remains “refreshing” in a media landscape often dominated by fleeting trends. Schulz’s minimalist style and emotional honesty continue to inspire artists, writers, and thinkers across generations. [As Peanuts…USA TODAY]
Join the Conversation:
- What makes Peanuts timeless?
- How did Schulz’s storytelling shape American culture?
- Why does Snoopy still speak to us—without saying a word?
Experience the legacy yourself!
Visit ncwu.edu to purchase tickets for just $5 (children under five are free).
Perfect for families, fans, and holiday gift-giving.
Location: Mims & Gravely Galleries, The Dunn Center, NCWU
Dates: November 14, 2025 – January 29, 2026
Hours: 10am–1pm or 2pm–5pm daily
Peanuts75 #Snoopy #CharlesSchulz #ArtExhibit #RockyMountEvents #NCWesleyan #ComicArt #FamilyFriendly #GoodGrief
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.
Come Rock the Mount at NC Wesleyan University
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) is excited to announce the return of its annual Rock the Mount celebration, an honored tradition that marks the official start of the academic year and warmly welcomes incoming students to campus and the local community. Sponsored this year by Southern Bank, the event will take place from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, August 19—the day before fall classes begin.
Held each fall, Rock the Mount is a vibrant, high-energy event featuring local businesses, nonprofits, churches, and campus partners who line the Southern Bank Green with booths, giveaways, and smiles. It’s a chance to showcase community offerings while connecting with students who are new to the area and eager to get involved.
“Southern Bank is thrilled to support NC Wesleyan University and Rock the Mount,” says Kim Sutton, Senior Vice President of Southern Bank. “As your partner in financial wellness education, we’re proud to invest in your success and celebrate your history of positive community outreach in our area. We’re banking on YOU, Battling Bishops!”
The day begins with a signature Wesleyan tradition: the Bishop Tunnel. Hundreds of new students take part in this spirited rite of passage as they walk through a tunnel of applause, cheers, and encouragement from returning students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community members. At the end of the tunnel, they’re greeted personally by President Dr. Evan D. Duff and his wife, Marcy, then proceed toward a vibrant festival of tents, music, and engagement opportunities.
Last year’s Rock the Mount welcomed nearly 80 vendors, and NCWU aims to exceed that number this year. Local restaurants, coffee shops, service providers, churches, and nonprofits are encouraged to participate. Whether you’re an automotive shop (freshmen can have cars on campus!), a local café, or a church seeking new connections, this is a unique chance to reach a new audience of potential customers, volunteers, interns, or even future employees.
This year’s entertainment will include DJ 3two1, along with a variety of food trucks offering local flavor, including:
- 3 Boys Catering
- Taquria La Lupita
- Minnie’s Food and Things
- Sweet P’s Galaxy Lemonade
- Swarmalicous
Vendor Information:
- NCWU will provide a 6-foot table.
- Vendors should bring a tablecloth.
- Tents (up to 10’x10’) are optional but recommended for shade.
- Giveaways are not required but encouraged to boost engagement.
- Participation is free, but space is limited.
Registration Deadline: Wednesday, July 31. Early registration is encouraged.
Sign Up Here: Rock the Mount Vendor Link
Join us in making a memorable first impression and welcoming the NCWU Class of 2029 in style! For more information, contact Elliott Smith at esmith@ncwu.edu.
