ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – North Carolina Wesleyan University will celebrate its 64th year with its annual Founders’ Day on Thursday, October 22. Due to COVID-19, the health and safety of students, faculty, staff and community members are of utmost concern to the College. Therefore, the decision was made to alter the format of the day.

In lieu of the traditional activities, President Dr. Evan D. Duff announced the decision to focus this year’s celebration on emphasizing the College’s founding and the need to sustain Wesleyan’s future. Highlights for the upcoming week leading to Founder’s Day include a digital display of photos dating back to the groundbreaking for the College. In addition, there will be a series of videos published to the College’s social media accounts and website featuring the Honorable Phil Carlton, Dr. LaWanda Peace, Norris Tolson, CEO & President of Carolinas Gateway Partnership, Judge Brenda Branch and Wilson Police Chief, Thomas Hopkins. Both Judge Branch and Chief Hopkins are NC Wesleyan alumni.

“Our yearly Founders’ Day celebration pays tribute to our rich Methodist heritage, our liberal arts foundation and the community who dedicated immense time and resources to make North Carolina Wesleyan University the institution it is today. We also acknowledge those who are currently selfless with their guidance and financial contributions, raising our beautiful College to the next level,” stated Dr. Duff. Last fall, President Duff started a new tradition for graduating seniors to leave a lasting impression on campus. The occasion allowed seniors an opportunity to plant flower bulbs in a designated area on campus. This year’s senior tradition will coincide with Founders’ Day. Seniors will be able to leave their lasting mark by planting their bulb any time between 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, October 22. These flower beds will be marked with a class sign and maintained for years to come.