North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) and Rocky Mount Academy (RMA) are joining forces once again to bring the world a little closer to home. As part of RMA’s ongoing mission to develop cultural awareness and global appreciation among its students, NCWU international students were invited to take part in the school’s annual International Week celebration.
This partnership, now in its second year, blends education, culture, and connection in a way that benefits both institutions and the wider community. Last year, NCWU’s International Bishop Association (IBA) President, Gabriela Salazar, cooked and presented food from her home country of Venezuela, inspiring RMA students to think globally and celebrate cultural diversity. The collaboration was such a success that RMA extended their invitation for this year’s International Week.
Over the summer, Renee Barbour, RMA’s Director of Global Awareness, and Dawn Turner, NCWU’S Director of International Student Services, met to discuss how to strengthen the partnership. Together, they developed a plan that would allow students from both schools to share their cultures in meaningful and interactive ways.
RMA students kicked things off with a heartwarming fundraiser to purchase welcome gifts, including composition books, snacks, and essentials for all new international students arriving to Wesleyan’s campus this fall. RMA students carefully packed and decorated each bag, and Ms. Barbour personally delivered them to campus.
“Our new Bishops were thrilled to receive these thoughtful welcome bags, “said Caroline Modlin, Graduate Assistant and IBA Advisor. “It’s awesome to see young students taking such an active role in promoting kindness, curiosity, and global connection.”
This fall, NCWU international students returned the gesture by visiting RMA to present to the school’s third and fourth grade classes. Students from around the world shared stories, traditions, and artifacts from their home countries. Tara Philips represented Ireland. Ivy Joy represented Kenya. Ifeoma Joy represented Nigeria. Ksenia Goncharuk represented Russia. Antoine Moerlen represented France. Omar Abukheit represented Jordan.
The event, coordinated by Dawn Turner and Caroline Modlin, in partnership with Renee Barbour, offered RMA students a chance to engage directly with global cultures. Together, RMA and NCWU are proving that global awareness begins right here in Rocky Mount, North Carolina.
Planned Gifts Shape the Legacy and Future of Wesleyan
October 20–26, 2025 is National Estate Planning Awareness Week, a time to reflect on how thoughtful planning today can create a lasting impact tomorrow. At North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU), planned gifts have helped shape the institution’s growth, stability, and student success.
One powerful example is the gift from the Estate of Anita D. Bobbitt, which significantly expanded the John C. and Huldah B. Daughtridge Memorial Scholarship. Originally supporting one student per semester, this scholarship now helps over 10 students each term—prioritizing North Carolina residents with financial need.
Planned gifts like these are more than financial contributions—they are legacies that honor the values of their donors and transform lives for generations. Whether through a bequest in a will, a trust, or a gift from an IRA, these contributions offer flexible, tax-smart ways to support NCWU’s mission.
Why Estate Planning Matters
Despite its importance, 64% of Americans do not have any estate planning documents, and only 34% have a will. The main reason? Procrastination.
Estate planning ensures your wishes are honored—whether for your family, loved ones, or favorite charities. It’s a key part of financial wellness and peace of mind.
5 Simple Steps to Get Started
- Inventory Your Assets – List everything you own and its value. Compile a list of all of your assets and their value. Once you’ve got it all organized you can start thinking about what to do with it.
- Set Your Priorities – Think about what matters most to you. Before you get down to the specifics of planning, consider your priorities and goals. What are you looking to achieve?
- Identify Beneficiaries – Decide who or what organizations you want to support. Make a list of the individuals and organizations that you want to provide for in your estate plan. Note any conditions that might determine the method and circumstances.
- Talk with Family – Discuss your plans with loved ones. If applicable, work closely with your spouse from the beginning. Coordinating plans between spouses often leads to additional savings for your estate. You may also want a meeting to discuss your plans with children or other family members.
- Seek Professional Help – A qualified attorney or advisor can guide you. Even if you only need a simple will, it is advisable to seek the help of a qualified attorney and, as needed, other professional advisors. Professional guidance is most often a worthy investment to ensure a proper plan.
Elevate the Next Generation at NCWU. Leave a Legacy Today.
If you care deeply about NC Wesleyan or are grateful for the education you or a loved one received, consider leaving a legacy through your will. This type of gift, called a bequest, is a meaningful way to support future generations.
Benefits of Planned Giving:
- Simple Process – Often just one sentence in your will.
- Flexible Options – Give a fixed amount, a percentage, or the remainder of your estate.
- No Impact on Current Finances – Your gift is made in the future.
- Purposeful Giving – Support a specific program or area of need.
- Adaptable – You can revise your plans if your situation changes.
Already Have a Will?
- That’s a great start! But there are other important steps to ensure your plans are clear and up to date:
- Do you revisit your will regularly to reflect major life changes like births, marriages, or divorces?
- Have you shared the location of your will, healthcare directives, and other key documents with a rusted person? Are they stored securely and organized?
- Are the beneficiaries listed on your retirement accounts, bank accounts, and insurance policies current?
- Have you considered your digital footprints such as online banking, email, cloud storage, and social media? Does someone you trust have access if needed?
So, don’t forget to:
- Update it after major life events.
- Share its location with someone you trust.
- Review your listed beneficiaries.
- Plan for digital assets like email and online accounts.
Maximize Your IRA’s Impact
If you’re 70½ or older, you may be able to make a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) directly from your IRA to NCWU. This can:
- Count toward your Required Minimum Distribution (RMD).
- Be excluded from your taxable income.
- Reduce future tax burdens for your heirs.
Example: Linda, age 74, asked her IRA administrator to send $2,000 directly to NCWU. It counted toward her RMD and saved her on taxes—without affecting her current finances.
Choose Your Legacy Today
To GET STARTED or learn more about leaving a lasting legacy through a planned gift, visit ncwu.edu/planned-gifts or contact Tammy Robinson at 252.985.5410 or donorrelations@ncwu.edu.
A Perfect Pairing of Sponsors for Exhibit at Dunn Center Coming Soon
The Dunn Center at North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) is proud to announce Aunt Ruby’s Peanuts and Our State Magazine as sponsors for its upcoming exhibit, The Life and Art of Charles M. Schulz, running November 14, 2025, through January 29, 2026.
This exciting collaboration arrives at the perfect moment as the world celebrates the 75th Anniversary of Peanuts. It is a partnership that is as fitting as it is heartwarming – Peanuts meets peanuts.
Aunt Ruby’s Peanuts, a beloved local brand based in Enfield, N.C., shares more than just a name with Schulz’s iconic comic strip. Both represent the simple joys of everyday life, family, and nostalgia, the kind of timeless warmth that connects generations.
“Aunt Ruby’s Peanuts has long been a symbol of local pride and tradition,” said Sheila Martin, Executive Director of The Dunn Center. “Their partnership, alongside Our State Magazine, another North Carolina staple, perfectly captures the spirit of celebrating art, nostalgia, and homegrown excellence.”
As a leading voice for North Carolina culture, Our State Magazine continues its mission of highlighting the people, places, and traditions that make the state unique. Its sponsorship of this exhibit reinforces a shared commitment to celebrating the creativity and community spirit that both Schulz’s work and The Dunn Center represent.
Visitors to The Life and Art of Charles M. Schulz will experience an intimate look into the life and legacy of one of America’s most influential artists. The exhibit features original comic panels, rare drawings, and personal reflections that trace Schulz’s 50-year journey with Peanuts—a comic strip that continues to warm hearts and inspire generations.
Tickets are only $5.00 and are on sale now for The Life and Art of Charles M. Schulz at https://www.etix.com/ticket/e/1053186/the-life-art-of-charles-mschulz-rocky-mount-the-dunn-center or by visiting the Dunn Center Box Office.
The exhibit will run November 14, 2025 – January 29, 2026.
Whether you come for the art, the nostalgia, or the peanuts, this exhibit is sure to bring smiles to every generation celebrating 75 years of Peanuts and 30 years of The Dunn Center’s commitment to the arts.
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
A Charlie Brown Christmas – Eagle Style at The Dunn Center
The Dunn Center at North Carolina Wesleyan University is proud to serve as the stage for Rocky Mount Academy’s Exceptional Eagles as they present their upcoming holiday production, A Charlie Brown Christmas, on Thursday, December 18 at 6:00p.m. Tickets are available now at the Dunn Center Box Office.
As a local and cultural venue, The Dunn Center is dedicated to supporting local education and providing a professional performance space where students can share their talents with the broader community. Hosting Rocky Mount Academy’s Exceptional Eagles’ production reflects that mission, showcasing the creativity, inclusion, and spirit of students right here in our community.
The Exceptional Eagles program at Rocky Mount Academy serves students aged 5-21 with a wide range of special needs. With inclusion at the heart of every school day, student interns work alongside the Exceptional Eagles to foster friendships, build skills, and create a learning environment that embodies “inclusion at its finest”. Currently, 25 students are enrolled in the program.
Since 2021, the Exceptional Eagles have brought audiences four inspiring performances, each highlighting the joy and resilience of their students. A Charlie Brown Christmas marks their fifth production, promising an evening filled with laughter, music, and holiday cheer.
“This performance is more than a play,” said April Whitehead, RMA Program Director. “It’s a celebration of talent, determination, and the beauty of a truly inclusive community.”
In addition to the show, Rocky Mount Academy students will support Rise Against Hunger, and international nonprofit dedicated to ending hunger worldwide. On December 18, students will pack 20,000 meals to help those in need. Donations made at the doors during the performance will directly support this effort.
Event Details
- What: A Charlie Brown Christmas presented by Rocky Mount Academy’s Exceptional Eagles
- When: Thursday, December 18, 2025 | 6:00 p.m.
- Where: The Dunn Center, North Carolina Wesleyan University, Rocky Mount, N.C.
- Tickets: Available now at the Dunn Center Box Office
The Dunn Center is honored to provide a platform where young performers can shine and where the community can come together in support of local education and meaningful causes. This holiday season, join us for a night of inclusion, community pride, and the simple joys that make the season bright.
NCWU Announces the Establishment of the James and Elizabeth Gray Endowed Scholarship
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) is proud to announce the creation of the James (Jim) and Elizabeth (Beth) Gray Endowed Scholarship, honoring the life and contributions of NCWU’s former President Jim Gray and his wife, Beth. This permanently restricted endowment will provide lasting support for NCWU students and will carry forward the Gray family’s commitment to education.
The scholarship was formally announced during the NCWU football game on Saturday,September 20, where Jim and Beth Gray and their family joined President Dr. Evan D. Duff on the field for a special check-signing ceremony. The moment celebrated not only the Grays’ generosity, but also their ongoing commitment to the Wesleyan community.
When awarded, the scholarship will be communicated to students as the Elizabeth Gray Education Scholarship, recognizing Beth Gray’s dedication to preschool education and her lasting impact on NCWU.
“This scholarship is a meaningful way to celebrate the Gray family’s legacy and their devotion to advancing education,” said Dr. Evan D. Duff, President of NCWU. “Their generosity will directly impact generations of students, helping them pursue their dreams with the same values of excellence and service that the Grays embodied.”
The endowment, funded by Jim and Beth Gray, will be invested in accordance with the University’s endowment guidelines to ensure it is awarded in perpetuity. The scholarship will be distributed annually with preference given to:
- Students majoring in Preschool Education, followed by Education majors.
- Students who demonstrate strong academic achievement and good personal character.
- Recommendations from the University’s Education Department.
The scholarship may be awarded to both freshmen and upper-classmen and can be renewed.
By establishing this fund, Jim and Beth Gray have created a legacy that will continue to support students and the mission of North Carolina Wesleyan University for generations to come.
NCWU Receives Highest U.S. News & World Report Ranking in Over a Decade
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) is celebrating one of its strongest showings in more than a decade, climbing 12 spots in the 2026 U.S. News & World Report Best College Rankings. Released Tuesday, September 23, the report evaluated over 1,700 institutions nationwide on 17 measures of academic quality.
NCWU proudly ranked No. 33 in Regional Colleges South, the University’s highest position in more than ten years, and earned recognition as No. 14 in Best Value Schools. In addition, NCWU was ranked No. 9 Best Colleges for Veterans and recognized in the Social Mobility category for enrolling and graduating large numbers of first-generation and Pell Grant students.
These distinctions build on recent accolades, including being named a 2025–2026 Military Friendly® Gold Top 10 School with an impressive #2 national ranking among private institutions not offering doctorate degrees, and earning the designation of #1 Military Spouse Friendly® School.
“U.S. News’ Best Colleges remains a reliable resource for prospective students and their families as they navigate the college selection process,” said LaMont Jones, Ed.D., managing editor for Education at U.S. News. “With over half of the ranking factors dedicated to student outcomes, the rankings and editorial content provide vital data, college advice and informed reporting to every student pursuing higher education.”
“Our dedication to students and the community is reflected in our consistency of being recognized by U.S. News & World Report year after year. The personal, practical, and purpose-driven education that we provide our students is something that I’m proud of; in addition, our faculty and staff do an exceptional job of ensuring a quality experience for these future leaders,” shared NCWU President Dr. Evan D. Duff.
For another consecutive year, NC Wesleyan has held a spot in the top 50 Best Regional Colleges (South), reaffirming its position as the hometown university of choice for students seeking high-quality, affordable education.
To view the full list of 2026 U.S. News & World Report rankings, visit: usnews.com/best-colleges/rankings/regional-universities-south.
About U.S. News & World Report
U.S. News & World Report is the global leader in quality rankings that empower consumers, business leaders and policy officials to make better, more informed decisions about important issues affecting their lives and communities. A multifaceted digital media company with Education, Health, Money, Travel, Cars, Real Estate, News and 360 Reviews platforms, U.S. News provides rankings, independent reporting, data journalism, consumer advice and U.S. News Live events. More than 40 million people visit USNews.com each month for research and guidance. Founded in 1933, U.S. News is headquartered in Washington, D.C.
WESmagazine Edition Released
WESmagazine includes articles featuring areas of academics, student life, athletics and advancement. You’ll get a glance at the growing campus and thriving community. WESmagazine is published twice per year by the Office of Marketing & Communication along with The Advancement Office at North Carolina Wesleyan University.
See what some of our Alumni are up in Alumni Class Notes and enjoy many featured articles such as:
- The Pulse of Progress: Expanding Nursing at NCWU
- Wesleyan Launches “The Deep End” Podcast
- Beyond the Classroom: A Decade of Difference
- Faculty & Staff Spotlight – Dr. Gail Marsal
- Hartness Student Center Upgrades
- Club Highlight – The Bishop Billiards Club
- NCWU Student Spotlight – Andy Rizzo
- Student Life
- Legacy of Leadership, John Brackett, Beyond the Spotlight Legacy Achievement Award
- Bishop Coach Spotlight – Albie Brice
- Spirit on the Rise: Cheer & Dance finish 2nd place at the 2025 NCA College Nationals
- Empowering Communities, Fueling Futures: Economic Impact Study
- A Heart That Never Retired: Rachel T. Dix.
- The Voice of Wesleyan: Latisha Scott ’06
- Inaugural Battling Bishops Brunch
- Alumni Champion Spotlight – Felicia Pierce-Daniel
Learn more about publication and give us your feedback >
NCWU Walks & Talks with Twin-County Partners
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.
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.
