A new transfer partnership agreement will create a streamlined path for Forsyth Technical Community College graduates to pursue a bachelor’s degree from North Carolina Wesleyan.
WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. (January 8, 2020) –-During a formal signing event on Wednesday, January 8, North Carolina Wesleyan University announced a new agreement with Forsyth Technical Community College (Forsyth Tech) to facilitate degree completion and student success by improving access to undergraduate educational resources, college facilities and support systems.
“Forsyth Tech is thrilled to collaborate with NC Wesleyan in this agreement,” said President of Forsyth Tech Dr. Janet N. Spriggs. “Having this strategic alliance will offer tremendous benefits to our students and to the community in demonstrating how higher education works together to improve student completion and success.”
In partnership, NC Wesleyan and Forsyth Tech will enhance and expand the educational opportunities for Forsyth Tech’s Associate in Science specifically in Business Administration and Criminal Justice programs. NC Wesleyan will maintain a full-time Coordinator of Transfer Admission at one of the Forsyth Tech campus sites.
“NCWC has a long history of partnering with NC Community Colleges and we are excited to add FT to our list of partners,” said Interim President of NC Wesleyan Dr. Evan D. Duff. “It is collaborations like this that enable students to attain their bachelor’s or master’s degree without having to leave their family or job.”
FT has launched five new co-admission partnerships over the last two years with Bellevue University, North Carolina Agricultural and Technical University, Salem College University of North Carolina – Greensboro and Winston-Salem State University, to improve student access to undergraduate and graduate education. The programs begin enrolling in fall 2019.
North Carolina Wesleyan University, a private institution affiliated with the United Methodist Church, prepares students for professional advancement, life-long learning and responsible participation in their communities. NC Wesleyan University provides a highly personalized education in a dynamic and challenging environment. With students from all over the United States and more than 40 different countries, NC Wesleyan is a small college with a big taste for cultural diversity. Follow NCWC on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and Instagram.
About Forsyth Tech
Forsyth Technical Community College is a catalyst for equitable economic mobility, empowering lives and transforming communities. The college offers associate degrees, diplomas, and certificates in over 200 programs of study, including programs that promote personal and professional development through non-credit courses and seminars, as well as customized training for business and industry. Forsyth Tech serves more than 35,000 students with approximately 1,500 full and part-time faculty and staff. For additional information, visit forsythtech.edu and follow on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and Instagram.
Wesleyan Received Golden LEAF Foundation Grant for Logistics Program
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – The Golden LEAF Foundation awarded NC Wesleyan University with a $100,000 grant to support their new Logistics and Supply Chain Management baccalaureate program that actively started this fall. This award is in addition to a grant awarded by the NC Office of State Budget and Management in August 2018.
NC Wesleyan has offered a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a concentration in Logistics for a number of years. The new degree program, which kicked off this semester, offers a more comprehensive, focused curriculum designed with the needs of the local industry in mind. The program addresses cost efficiency, cutting-edge technologies and sophisticated strategies and practices as it relates to the movement of raw materials and goods in a global economy. Dr. Melanie Townsend was hired before the start of the semester as the full-time visiting professor for the program.
The program, offered on the Rocky Mount campus and online, is in response to the growing advanced manufacturing and distribution sector in the greater Rocky Mount area and eastern North Carolina. It will also address the immediate need for a well-prepared and qualified workforce for local companies such as Pfizer, Cummins-Rocky Mount Engine Plant and Eagle Transport, in addition to new companies such as the CCX Carolina Connector, Triangle Tire, Corning and FFE Transportation Services. Wesleyan’s program prepares students for middle- and senior-level management positions.
The program is targeted toward traditional students who choose to attend Wesleyan following high school, transfer students from community colleges, adult students interested in changing careers and workers who are already employed in the industry. Students can choose from traditional in-person classes, online classes or a hybrid program of both classroom and online.
Articulation agreements were signed at the beginning of August with Nash and Edgecombe Community Colleges that offer students with AAS degrees a seamless transfer to Wesleyan’s Logistics and Supply Chain Management degree program.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in Logistics and Supply Chain Management is projected to grow 7% through 2026 due to the transportation of goods in a global economy. The annual wage for logisticians with a four-year degree is $74,590.
The Golden LEAF Foundation is a nonprofit organization established in 1999 to receive a portion of North Carolina’s funding received from the 1998 Master Settlement Agreement with cigarette manufacturers. For 20 years, Golden LEAF has worked to increase economic opportunity in North Carolina’s rural and tobacco-dependent communities through leadership in grant making, collaboration, innovation, and stewardship as an independent and perpetual foundation.
Wesleyan Reports Increase in Returning Students
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – North Carolina Wesleyan University welcomed 373 new and 734 returning students to campus kicking off the 2019-2020 academic year. The College is pleased to report that retention rates are trending higher than last year by approximately 4% and the College’s residence halls are at 94% capacity. Recruitment efforts for this class emphasized local recruitment, a diverse representation, and building upon the College’s academic programs.
Local Focus
There has been a concerted effort to recruit local students from area high school and transfer partners. Seventy-one percent of the Class of 2023 comes from North Carolina, which is an increase of 5% over the previous year. Wesleyan admitted 112 students from Nash, Edgecombe, Wilson, Halifax and Franklin counties accounting for nearly 30% of the incoming 2019 student body. According to Paige Price Wells, Assistant Director of Recruiting for Admissions, “It is important that we continue to serve and provide for the educational needs of our community, whether a student is pursuing an undergraduate or graduate education.”
A Diverse Representation
While Wesleyan places a focus on serving local high school graduates, the incoming class also consists of students from 203 schools, 10 states and 20 different countries around the world. Thirty-three new international students now attend North Carolina Wesleyan University spanning the globe from Argentina to Japan.
NC Wesleyan’s Director of International Recruitment, Alex Rodriguez, states “Wesleyan hopes to sustain the recruitment success of international students. The College assists international students through scholarships, academic support and cultural activities. Each of these services are tailored to the individualized needs of our international students. Wesleyan provides students with a warm welcome as they arrive to their new home away from home and join our Bishop family.”
Academic Gains
This past May, Wesleyan graduated the first cohort of its new Master’s in Criminal Justice program. The College hopes to continue building upon those academic gains, with the addition of its second graduate degree in the near future. The Master of Business Administration (MBA) is currently pending approval by NC Wesleyan’s accreditor, the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACSCOC), with classes anticipated to start in January 2020.
Wesleyan Works, the Fast Track to a Bachelor’s Degree
For North Carolina Community College Graduates
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWC) is pleased to announce a guaranteed transfer pathway for North Carolina community college graduates—Wesleyan Works.
Designed for students who attend community college and want to earn their bachelor’s degree, Wesleyan Works is a set of simple guidelines to make their aspiration a seamless transition. The program is open to students who want to attend NCWC’s evening/online adult studies program once they have finished their two-year degree.
Community college graduates who earn an Associate of Arts (AA), Associate of Science (AS) or Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degrees are guaranteed automatic acceptance to North Carolina Wesleyan University through the Wesleyan Works program. Other highlights include students are able to apply to NCWC while being enrolled in their local community college, there are no application fees and students are provided with an NCWC Wesleyan Works student identification card, which will grant them access to events at the main Rocky Mount campus. Most importantly, participants will have access to joint academic advising and financial aid counseling to maximize their time and savings while attending both their local community college and NC Wesleyan University.
Students participating in Wesleyan Works must maintain a 2.0 GPA, complete our free application, obtain their AA/AS/AAS degree with a participating community college and submit all official college transcripts.
A full list of program details and participating community colleges can be found at ncwu.edu/wesleyanworks. NC Wesleyan University offers flexible program formats with majors in today’s growing industries and locations throughout Eastern North Carolina to make learning more accessible than ever.
In addition to our traditional campus in Rocky Mount with over 30 majors for traditional students, NCWC offers baccalaureate degree options for adult learners at sites in Goldsboro, Raleigh-Durham, and Rocky Mount, and at Brunswick Community College in Brunswick County; Craven Community College in New Bern; Pitt Community College in Greenville; The College of the Albemarle in Manteo; Beaufort County Community College in Washington; Wake Tech Community College in Raleigh and Cape Fear Community College in Wilmington.
North Carolina Wesleyan University is a private, coeducational, liberal arts institution affiliated with The United Methodist Church. Current enrollment is approximately 1,800 traditional and adult students. The College offers bachelor’s degrees and pre-professional programs such as law, medicine, pharmacy, optometry and more.
Wesleyan Hires Professor for New Logistics Program
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA— North Carolina Wesleyan University announces the hiring of Dr. Melanie Townsend as a full-time visiting professor for its new Bachelor of Science in Logistics and Supply Chain Management program. In June, Wesleyan acknowledged plans for the new major to start in fall 2019. The degree will be offered on its main campus in Rocky Mount and online.
Dr. Townsend holds a B.S. in Management and Organizational Development, a M.S. in Operations Management and a Ph.D. in Human Services & Non-Profit Management. She brings to Wesleyan a wealth of logistics experience, working with FedEx, Randstad, Dupre’ Logistics and KM Logistics. She also has experience with Six Sigma Project Management, grant writing and fundraising.
Dr. Evan Duff, Interim President stated, “The Bachelor of Science in Logistics and Supply Chain Management degree will meet the needs of many organizations who rely on skilled professionals to serve their logistical needs. Dispatchers, warehouse managers, inventory specialists, supply chain analysts, operation managers and transportation supervisors are just a few of the careers that require this degree. Every industry requires logistics professionals and our program will prepare individuals for these jobs. Our degree program is also aligned with Edgecombe and Nash Community Colleges’ related programs so that their graduates can easily apply their associate degree to our bachelor’s degree.”
In her spare time, Townsend volunteers with the Junior League of Raleigh and travels as much as possible. Her husband, Daniel, works as the Machining Director for the Cummins Rocky Mount Engine Plant.
To learn more about the new Bachelor of Science in Logistics and Supply Chain Management programs, contact the Office of Admissions at 252.985.5200.
Wesleyan Anticipates RN-to-BSN Program in Near Future
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – In an effort to increase academic opportunities, North Carolina Wesleyan University has announced the anticipation of an RN-to-BSN program for licensed nurses.
With the College’s growth in its biology, biomedical and exercise science programs, it is a natural fit for Wesleyan to explore adding this to their curriculum. This program will be for licensed nurses who have an Associate’s Degree in Nursing and desire to obtain a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. The Institute of Medicine strongly recommends hospitals to employ nurses with a bachelor’s degree (BSN), stating 80% of nurses should have this credential. With a strong focus on increased education in this field, Wesleyan believes this program will offer a great benefit to the community and the surrounding hospitals.
“An RN-to-BSN program at Wesleyan will not only strengthen the collaboration between the three main colleges in the Twin Counties and the hospital, but it will enhance opportunities for registered nurses to further their education with a college in their community,” stated Dr. Evan D. Duff, Interim President of North Carolina Wesleyan University.
After conversations with Nash UNC Health Care and area community colleges, Nash Community College and Edgecombe Community College, Wesleyan’s Board of Trustees in April unanimously voted to move forward with a feasibility study that included donor and grant solicitation to fund startup costs required for a nursing program. Wesleyan has received a $150,000 grant over a three-year period from Nash UNC Health Care to support the development of the program.
“We are excited to enhance the growing network of continuing education available for the nursing profession in our community,” said Lee Isley, president and Chief Executive Officer of Nash UNC Health Care. “Our partnerships with all three local colleges help to ensure we are developing a pipeline of local talent who are well prepared to work in our local institutions and to continue to advance and improve the health care landscape in our community.”
A search is currently underway for the newly created position of Director of the RN-to-BSN Program. The person in this role will be responsible for curriculum development, oversight of day-to-day functions within the program and charged with attaining accreditation from both our regional accreditor, Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACSCOC) and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) accreditation. Once a Director has been hired for the new program, he or she will work with key stakeholders to develop the curriculum and apply for approval to offer the program with SACSCOC. Wesleyan hopes to begin classes in fall 2020, pending application submission and approval from the SACSCOC.
Twin County Higher Education Unites for Student Success
NCWC, NCC & ECC Sign Statement of Collaboration
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – As the local colleges are ramping up for a new academic year, they are also working to foster a culture of collaboration between themselves. On August 1, the presidents of North Carolina Wesleyan University, Nash Community College and Edgecombe Community College met to sign a Statement of Collaboration.
“It’s important that local higher education institutions work together. What better way to collaborate than to have a Statement of Collaboration that shows Wesleyan as well as Nash and Edgecombe Community Colleges are working together on joint program development and grant opportunities. Let’s show the community we are not competitors, we work as a team,” stated Dr. Evan D. Duff, Interim President of North Carolina Wesleyan University.
This agreement strengthens the need for collaborative discussions regarding trade-specific training and educational opportunities for the region. Each institution certifies that they will work in sync with one another to contribute to industry demands. This alliance will lead to cross-professional development opportunities for faculty and staff, while also serving the needs of students, organizations and members of these communities.
“As we collaborate and look for partnerships we welcome these opportunities… together we can make this a better region,” commented Nash Community College President Dr. Bill Carver.
The Twin Counties is an ideal place for families to live, work and learn. This partnership benefits the community and our students as each institution unites to seek out new educational offerings and programs.
Dr. Gregory K. McLeod, President of Edgecombe Community College, closed with, “I believe the residents of the Twin Counties and surrounding areas deserve our best, and our best can only be realized through our collaboration and teamwork. For them and for us, we can’t afford not to work together… Together We Can. Together We Will.”
Wesleyan Provost Appointed Interim President
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – Dr. Evan D. Duff, Provost of North Carolina Wesleyan University, has accepted a two-year contract as Interim President of the College. Duff was appointed as Acting President by Board of Trustees on Friday, June 14.
“I am dedicated to Wesleyan and to continuing to move the College in a positive direction, where the mission of the College is fulfilled and a liberal arts education makes a difference in the lives of the students it serves,” stated Duff.
Dr. Duff earned his bachelor’s degree in business administration from Mount Olive College, a master’s in administration from Central Michigan University and a doctorate in organizational leadership from Nova Southeastern University. He has served in multiple leadership roles at the College since 2011, most recently as Provost.
During his time at Wesleyan, Duff held positions as Senior Vice President of Academic Affairs, Vice President of Adult & Professional Studies, adjunct professor and Provost. In these roles, he was responsible for leading efforts to approve new majors, co-writing the College’s first graduate application to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools- Commission on Colleges (SACS-COC) and creating seven new off-site instructional locations. He was also responsible for facilitating the development of partnerships with 20 two-year and four-year colleges, which led to articulation agreements or memorandums of understanding between those colleges and NC Wesleyan.
Prior to joining Wesleyan, Dr. Duff was the Dean of Extended Education at Mount Olive College (now University of Mount Olive) and Director of their Washington, NC campus. Throughout his career, he has authored or co-authored a great number of academic publications and presentations. He has been honored with a variety of awards for service to the College and the community.
He and his family are active at Hope Community Church in Cary, NC. Previously, they were active members of Covenant UMC in Greenville, where he served on the Pastoral Personnel Committee. Dr. Duff and his wife of 21 years, Marcy, have three sons and a daughter – Tyson, Landon, Peyton and Chloe. Their family has a love for animals and have adopted into their home four dogs and two cats, all of which are rescues.
Wesleyan Taking Care of Business with New MBA Program
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – After much anticipation, North Carolina Wesleyan University has officially submitted documentation to its regional accreditor to offer a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree. Pending approval from the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACSCOC), the College will offer its first class on January 6, 2020.
If approved, this will be the second graduate-level program launched by Wesleyan in less than two years. The first graduate program, Master of Science in Criminal Justice, was offered in spring of 2018. The MBA program will be 100% online and consist of 33 credit hours to accommodate those seeking work or who are already working. The one-year program will consist of five eight-week sessions, two classes per session, and will end with a final capstone class. Like other academic programs offered by the college including their Adult Studies programs, the degree offers rolling admission, meaning those attending can start the program throughout the year at the beginning of any new eight-week session.
“Our faculty have worked extremely hard to develop our MBA curriculum that will provide students with the skills required to excel in their careers. Future plans may include concentrations in areas like healthcare administration, business analytics and logistics. Our faculty will analyze market and industry research to determine how this curriculum may evolve,” stated Wesleyan Interim President Dr. Evan D. Duff. This program is the only MBA offered locally to the Twin County region and will serve as a great asset to our community and those interested in advancing their career. NC Wesleyan will begin accepting applications into the program beginning August 1, 2019. Those who are interested in learning more about the MBA program can contact Dani Somers, Director of Graduate Admissions, at DSomers@ncwu.edu.
Wesleyan Broadens Logistics Program
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA— North Carolina Wesleyan University announces the expansion of its Logistics and Supply Chain Management concentration into an official major. Starting this fall, Wesleyan will offer a Bachelor of Science in Logistics and Supply Chain Management on its main campus in Rocky Mount and online. According to universities.com, the program will be one of two baccalaureate level institutions in the state to offer the degree, with Wesleyan being the only private college in the state providing the declared major.
In August 2018, the NC House Appropriations Committee awarded the College a grant to assist with the program expansion. John Check, Senior Advisor to the President together with Board Member Jeff Collins and Lt. Governor Dan Forest were instrumental in helping secure the grant. These funds enable Wesleyan to hire an admissions representative, a full-time faculty member, issue new classroom software and complete additional classroom enhancements.
Alumna, Cheryl Barnhill joined Wesleyan’s team this past September as an Aspire Recruiter for the program and Dr. Zhaoqiong “Julie” Qin will come aboard in August 2019 as a full-time Assistant Professor of Logistics. Qin holds a Ph.D. in Transportation Management from Jersey Institute of Technology, a Master’s of Science in Logistics and Operations and Bachelors of Material Engineering from Southwest Jiaotong University of China.
With CSX and Triangle Tire both expected to break ground this quarter, Wesleyan’s new program comes at the ideal time for potential partnerships with the two. The Bachelor of Science in Logistics and Supply Chain Management program allows residences of the community and surrounding areas access to a quality education with opportunities for employment right here in their hometown.
Dr. Evan Duff, Wesleyan Interim President stated, “The Bachelor of Science in Logistic and Supply Chain Management degree builds upon NCC and ECC’s programs and provides students with coursework at the senior institution level, opening the door for middle and senior level management positions. In most cases, students from NCC and ECC can transfer in up to 60 hours from their AAS degree.” N.C. Wesleyan is leading the way with their commitment to providing students with the best quality programs in the state. To learn more about the new Bachelor of Science in Logistics and Supply Chain Management programs contact the Office of Admissions at 252.985.5200.
