North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) proudly participated in the Strategic Twin-Counties Education Partnership (S.T.E.P.) Education and Business Leaders’ Summit held Thursday morning at partner Nash Community College. The annual event was convened by representatives from local businesses, K-12, schools, and higher education to strengthen collaboration between education and industry.
The summit featured three dynamic panel discussions, each addressing critical topics on workforce development and preparing students for success. Conversations highlighted the importance of creating awareness of opportunities early and equipping young people with essential soft skills that make them more qualified and adaptable in the workplace.
Dr. Evan D. Duff, President of NC Wesleyan University, served on the panel “How Our Colleges Are Keeping Pace with Employer Demand.” He spoke on the University’s commitment to aligning programs with workforce needs, specifically spotlighting the recent demand for more healthcare professionals in the region. Dr. Duff emphasized NCWU’s new Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program as a direct response to that need.
“As the hometown university in our community’s backyard, we are committed to meeting employer demand while providing students with a strong investment,” said Dr. Duff. “Our BSN program is one example of how NCWU is responding to the needs of our region while equipping students for long-term success.”
Mary Cat Weloff ’21 & ’23, Coordinator of Gifts & Information at NCWU, also represented the University on the panel “Return on Engagement: Why Investing in Youth Talent Pays Off.” Speaking on the value of listening to and learning from the incoming generation, Weloff encouraged employers to remain open-minded.
“When young professionals bring in new perspectives, it doesn’t mean they are trying to change everything,” Weloff shared. “It’s about embracing fresh ideas that can make organizations stronger and more adaptable.”
By engaging in this important dialogue, NC Wesleyan University reaffirmed its role as a collaborative partner in the Twin Counties, working alongside businesses, schools, and community leaders to ensure that local students are prepared to thrive.
