ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – The Lancaster family joined Dr. Evan D. Duff, President of North Carolina Wesleyan University, to formalize the creation of The William Ted & Karen Naylor Lancaster Family Endowed Scholarship. This scholarship honors the legacy and contributions of the late William Ted Lancaster and Karen Naylor Lancaster, both proud graduates of NCWU’s Class of 1970.

The scholarship will distribute a minimum of $2,500 annually once the endowment reaches $50,000. Preference will be given to students from Rocky Mount, NC, who demonstrate academic achievement (minimum GPA of 2.5), good personal character, and financial need. Recipients may continue to receive the scholarship in successive years if they meet the criteria.

Karen Naylor Lancaster shared, “When I walked on campus for the first time in 1966, I had no idea the influence Wesleyan would have on me. Not only did I get an excellent education, but I met my life partner. Ted and I met in a history class, we were both history majors, and married in 1970. We moved to Raleigh and had our two children, Jon and Melissa. It was so special to be able to share Wesleyan’s beautiful campus with my family including my two grandchildren. It is an honor to help Rocky Mount students achieve their academic goals through this scholarship.”

Jon Lancaster, representing the family, added, “Knowing the significant role NC Wesleyan played in our parents’ lives, it was important to us to give back to the institution. We hope this endowment will assist future students in fulfilling their educational goals.”

Tammy Robinson, Director of Donor Engagement, stated, “The Lancaster family’s generosity began over five years ago with gifts supporting Wesleyan students through an annual scholarship. It is gratifying to have another endowed scholarship that will leave a legacy for Wesleyan alumni. This gift will continue to impact and make a difference for our students.”