North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) is proud to announce that alumnus Jackson Nethercutt ’23 has released his latest single, “These Illustrations,” which debuted March 28. The song is now available on Apple Music, Spotify, YouTube, and iTunes.
Following his graduation from Wesleyan in 2023, Nethercutt moved to Salt Lake City for a yearlong internship at the University of Utah. After completing the experience, he returned to North Carolina and began a new chapter as an elementary school music teacher near Wilmington in 2024. While the transition brought exciting opportunities, it also came with significant personal and professional adjustments.
“These Illustrations tells the story of how a relationship formed and blossomed from a friendship to a romance,” said Nethercutt. “It became an irreplicable interconnectedness created by shared hardship.”
Nethercutt shared that the first half of the song reflects his internal conflict about allowing love into his life during a time when he already felt emotionally overwhelmed. As the song progresses, it shifts toward the peace and warmth he found through the relationship, ultimately capturing the exhilaration of falling in love while navigating a difficult season of life.
In addition to its personal meaning, Nethercutt noted that the song was also his most challenging production project to date. With its extended length and complex structure, including key and time signature changes, the recording process required significant time and attention to detail. Nethercutt wrote, performed, recorded, and produced the track entirely on his own from his apartment studio.
“I did a lot of experimenting with things like unique vocal harmonies, layering eight different acoustic guitar parts in the chorus, and having two bass lines going back and forth at each other in the hook,” he explained.
Nethercutt credits his experience in NCWU’s Music Production (MUP) program for preparing him to independently produce music at a professional level. He also expressed gratitude to Tony Sawyer, Assistant Professor of Music Production and Director of 301 North Records, who helped him develop key recording and mixing skills, as well as songwriting abilities through courses such as Music Theory and History of Popular Music.
“I gained a lot of skill and experience in the MUP program at Wesleyan that allows me to be able to do it all myself instead of having to pay someone else to do it for me,” said Nethercutt.
“These Illustrations” is Nethercutt’s second release under his stage name Kneethercute, a nickname stemming from a mispronunciation of his last name that has followed him since high school. He has also released music collaboratively under the name Camp Runaway.
Looking ahead, Nethercutt is currently working on his next musical project, expected later this summer, as well as a new YouTube channel titled “A Human Adventure,” which will document his life and music in an authentic and personal way.
Fans can follow Nethercutt on social media @kneethercute to stay updated on future releases.
NCWU congratulates Jackson Nethercutt on this exciting new release and proudly celebrates the continued achievements of its alumni in the music and production industries.
NC Wesleyan Student Turns Pain into Purpose Through Published Memoir
North Carolina Wesleyan University student Ella Quinn, currently pursuing a degree in Business Administration, is using her voice to inspire others through her newly released book, A Woman in Crisis Living on Broken Pieces.
Inspired by personal life experiences, including navigating an abusive relationship, Quinn says she felt called to share her story as a message of hope for others facing hardship.
“This book came from my personal life experiences,” Quinn shared. “I felt led to share my story to bring hope, healing, and encouragement to others who may be in this situation and think there is no way out, feel broken, and/or overlooked.”
Quinn described the writing process as both emotional and healing, requiring her to revisit painful moments while also reflecting on how far she has come.
“The writing process was both emotional and healing,” she said. “It required me to revisit painful moments, but it also allowed me to see how far God has brought me.”
In addition to writing the book, Quinn also learned the publishing process firsthand—taking on formatting, designing her own cover, and navigating distribution. She credits the experience with strengthening her confidence not only as an author, but as an entrepreneur. Quinn said the moment she realized she wanted to become an author was when she understood her story had purpose beyond herself.
“I realized I wanted to become an author when I understood that my story was not just for me; it was meant to help others,” she said.
Through her book, Quinn hopes readers recognize that healing is possible—even in the most difficult circumstances.
“I want readers to know that no matter how broken their situation may seem, they are not beyond restoration,” she said. “There is healing, there is purpose, and there is still life after crisis.”
Quinn also shared how her experience at NC Wesleyan has supported her growth as she balances academics and personal goals.
“My time at NCWU has strengthened my leadership skills, discipline, and confidence,” she said. “The program has helped me grow both personally and professionally, giving me the structure and encouragement needed to pursue my goals, including becoming a published author.”
For students who may dream of writing or publishing a book, Quinn encourages them to begin now rather than waiting for the “perfect moment.”
“Start writing and don’t wait,” she said. “Your story matters, and someone needs to hear what you have to say. Stay consistent, be willing to learn the process step-by-step, and believe in your voice.”
Quinn says her greatest accomplishment is having the courage to share her truth.
“This book represents healing, strength, and obedience to what I believe God placed in my heart to do,” she said.
Her book, A Woman in Crisis Living on Broken Pieces, is available for purchase on Amazon and through her website at ellanquinnauthor.com.
Looking ahead, Quinn plans to continue growing her author brand, “Her Voice His Glory,” while expanding her speaking and ministry platform. She is also preparing future writing projects, including a workbook and a new book titled Your Brokenness Was Necessary.
NCWU Hosts 2026 Omnium Conference
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) held the second annual Omnium Conference on Wednesday, March 25 at the Gateway Technology Center on campus. The event spotlighted undergraduate research and celebrated scholarly achievement across disciplines.
What is The Omnium Conference?
The Omnium Conference is a formal presentation of student research papers in affiliation with Omnium: The Undergraduate Research Journal at NCWU. Omniumis a Latin word meaning “everything”, and the journal provides students with the opportunity to explore major genres of academic writing, join in scholarly conversations, share their ideas, perform original research, and see their work published in a professional venue. Now in its eighth year, Omnium was established in 2019 by Dr. Doreen Thierauf, Associate Professor of English and General Education Program Coordinator. Dr. Thierauf serves as the journal’s editor and as conference co-organizer, joined by Dr. Shane Thompson, Associate Professor of Bible and the Ancient Near East and Director of the Office of Undergraduate Research.
“Omnium provides a professional platform for students to engage in original research, participate in academic dialogue, and see their work published,” said Dr. Thierauf. “It also serves as a teaching tool for faculty at NCWU and other institutions, with articles reflecting the academic growth of students at every stage of their college careers from first-year composition essays to projects created in senior seminars and honors theses”.
2026 Conference Details
The 2026 conference featured six student presentations, organized into two thematic sessions followed by interactive panel discussions:
- Session 1: Writing, Filming, and Buying Identity
- Alastair Cannon (NC State U): “Disproving the Myth of Simplicity in Anatolian Hieroglyphs”
- Shafiq Nuijts: “Wan Pipel: Identity, Tolerance, and Coexistence in Suriname”
- Session 2: Healing Our Communities
- Niana Gunther: “Lessons Learned from Unexpected Results: Investigating Herbal Remedies and Probiotic Growth”
- Kayla Collins: “Stress, Sleep, and Mental Wellbeing among NCWU Students”
- Maya Dari: “Building Resilience: One Jenga Block at a Time”
- Maria Gabriela Salazar: “Factors Influencing the Development of Cultural Competence in Nurses”
This year’s keynote address was delivered by Dr. Lee Templeton, Professor of English and Chair of the School of Humanities. His presentation was titled “The Dragons of Higher Education.”
The 2026 conference marked an ongoing collaboration between Dr. Thierauf and Dr. Shane Thompson. Together, they aim to expand Omnium’s mission to highlight the exceptional work being produced by NCWU undergraduates across all disciplines. The organizers were thrilled to feature a student from North Carolina State University, Alastair Cannon, in the conference lineup and hope to attract more students from regional campuses to the conference in the years to come.
Photos from this event can be viewed: Omnium Research Conference 03/25/26 – ncwesleyan
First Year to Doctoral Success
One of life’s most challenging questions is, “What do I want to be when I grow up?” For many, the answer is not only about choosing a path, but also understanding the steps, time, and dedication required to achieve it—while still finding joy in the journey and a community that supports you along the way.
At North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU), that sense of community is at the heart of the student experience. From the first campus visit to graduation and beyond, students are surrounded by mentors, faculty, and peers who are deeply invested in their success—personally and professionally.
For Dr. Caitlin Brabblerose ’18, that support system proved transformative. A double major graduate in Biology and Environmental Science, Brabblerose recently reached a significant milestone: successfully defending her doctoral dissertation. Her journey is a testament to the power of personalized education and meaningful mentorship.
“Wesleyan provided me with such a unique undergraduate experience that prepared me in ways I never anticipated for graduate school,” said Brabblerose.
Post-Undergrad Applied Learning Experience
After graduating in 2018, Brabblerose began her career as a Laboratory Technologist with LabCorp, working in Genomics and Toxicology. She later pursued her Master of Science in Biology at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, eventually continuing into the Ph.D. program, where she spent more than five years studying the biological rhythms of intertidal organisms.
Her dissertation, Entrainment of Biological Rhythms in Fiddler Crab Embryos and Larvae, explored the complex internal clocks that guide these organisms, including circadian and circatidal rhythms. Through behavioral, molecular, and chemical research, her work contributes to a longstanding body of scientific knowledge dating back more than a century.
Reflection and Relationships
While her research is impressive, Brabblerose credits much of her success to the foundation built at Wesleyan. She explained that the small class sizes created high expectations, and her professors consistently pushed her to work harder and achieve more. The writing‑intensive courses prepared her for the reality that science involves communication as much as discovery.
She encourages students to take advantage of small class sizes and to get to know their professors, noting that they are the ones who will advocate for students, write recommendation letters, and continue to offer support long after graduation.
Her experience in the Taylor-Crocker Honors Program further mirrored the demands of graduate school, culminating in an undergraduate thesis defense that foreshadowed her doctoral journey.
That support came full circle when several of her former professors attended her dissertation defense—a moment Brabblerose describes as both meaningful and surreal. She shared that having the same professors who supported her honors thesis being present at her Ph.D. completion made the experience feel complete, as though everything had come full circle.
What’s next?
Now, as she looks ahead, Brabblerose plans to continue her journey in academia, pursuing postdoctoral opportunities with the long-term goal of becoming a principal investigator. She hopes to combine her passions for research, teaching, and outreach to inspire future generations. Caitlin’s goal is to give back to students the same way her professors gave and to share her story as a powerful reminder that success is not achieved alone—it is built through community, mentorship, and the willingness to embrace every step of the journey.
At NCWU, that journey doesn’t end at graduation. It continues to be shaped by relationships, fueled by opportunity, and celebrated through the accomplishments of its alumni.
NCWU Hosts Regional Science Olympiad
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) proudly hosted a Regional Science Olympiad competition on campus this past Saturday, welcoming more than 300 middle and high school students for a day of hands-on, competitive STEM events.
A total of 27 teams from 15 schools participated in the event, showcasing their knowledge and skills across a variety of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics disciplines. The competition featured two divisions: Division B (Middle School) with 6 schools and 11 teams, and Division C (High School) with 9 schools and 16 teams.
The event was coordinated by Brittany Al Attabi, NCWU Visiting Instructor of Biology and Chemistry, whose leadership helped bring together a dynamic and engaging experience for all participants.
“The Science Olympiad participants are passionate about the STEM disciplines and are fierce competitors,” said Al Attabi. “Their hard work throughout the school year was evident in their participation. We loved having such a large number of science-minded students on campus and hope to continue to bring this event back in the future.”
Students competed in a wide range of events, from hands-on engineering challenges to knowledge-based scientific exams, fostering both collaboration and innovation.
Dr. Joseph H. Lane, Jr., Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs, emphasized the significance of the event. “Professor Al Attabi really should be commended for bringing such an extraordinary group of young people to our campus and providing them with this opportunity to practice science in a fun but competitive environment,” said Lane. “The enthusiasm and ingenuity of these students is an inspiration, and we hope that they will take what they have learned in practicing for and competing in this event forward into future scientific discoveries.”
Competition Results:
Division B – Middle School
Junior Varsity:
1st Place – Alston Ridge Middle School JV1
2nd Place – Alston Ridge Middle School JV2
Varsity:
1st Place – Alston Ridge Middle School
2nd Place – Woods Charter School
Division C – High School
Junior Varsity:
1st Place – Apex Friendship High School JV1
2nd Place – The Epiphany School of Global Studies JV1
Varsity:
1st Place – Needham B. Broughton High School
2nd Place – Woods Charter School
NCWU looks forward to continuing to host events like the Science Olympiad that inspire the next generation of scientists, researchers, and innovators while strengthening connections with schools and communities across the region.
NCWU Students Gain Supply Chain Insight Through Amazon Facility Tour
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – On Wednesday, March 18, North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) traveled to Charlotte, North Carolina, for a tour of Amazon’s CLT4 Distribution Facility, gaining a firsthand look at one of the most recognizable and sophisticated logistics operations in the world.
The visit was especially meaningful for NCWU students studying Supply Chain Management, Logistics, and related business disciplines. By stepping inside a major distribution environment, students were able to connect classroom learning with the realities of modern warehousing, distribution, operational flow, and large-scale supply chain execution.
Experiences like this reflect the core educational philosophy of NC Wesleyan: preparing students through education that is personal, practical, and purpose driven. At NC Wesleyan, learning is designed to go beyond textbooks and lectures by giving students meaningful opportunities to engage directly with industries, workplaces, and professionals in the field.
Hands-On Learning
For students pursuing careers in supply chain and logistics, field experiences such as the Amazon tour are especially valuable. They help students better understand how concepts such as transportation, distribution, inventory flow, process efficiency, and operations management function in a real-world setting. These opportunities also help students see how their coursework can translate into tangible career paths in a fast-moving and highly relevant sector of the economy.
North Carolina Wesleyan University’s School of Business & Professional Studies is committed to providing students with an education that blends academic rigor with practical application. Through strong faculty mentorship, industry-relevant programs, and hands-on learning opportunities, the University works to ensure that graduates are not only knowledgeable, but also career-ready and confident in applying what they have learned.
The Amazon facility visit serves as another example of NCWU’s commitment to creating transformative learning experiences that help students discover purpose in their education and confidence in their future. For a university with a growing interest in Supply Chain Management and Logistics, opportunities like this reinforce the importance of exposing students to real operational environments where strategy, technology, and execution come together.
At NC Wesleyan, these experiences are not extras; they are part of the institution’s broader mission to develop graduates who are prepared to lead, contribute, and thrive in today’s business world.
Learn more about our Supply Chain Management program and how it can open up new roads for you in your career.
Wesleyan Hosts Golden LEAF Scholarship Luncheon
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) proudly hosted the Annual Golden LEAF Foundation Luncheon on March 19 at The Dunn Center, celebrating a strong and enduring partnership that began in 2003. The event honored both past scholarship graduates and current recipients, highlighting the meaningful impact of the Golden LEAF Foundation (GLF) on student success.
The luncheon opened with remarks from NCWU President Dr. Evan D. Duff and Vice President of Advancement Mark Hinson, who expressed gratitude for the Foundation’s continued support. Both emphasized the vital role GLF plays in expanding educational opportunities and advancing the university’s mission.
Four-year Golden LEAF Scholarship recipient Benjamin Sellers ’26 reflected on his journey at Wesleyan, sharing how the scholarship shaped both his academic and personal growth. He credited NCWU and GLF for his success, including publishing two articles and graduating debt-free this May. Sellers noted that while he initially planned to pursue a career in chiropractic care, the connections and opportunities he discovered at Wesleyan opened doors to new possibilities.
Leah Hill, NCWU’s Director of Financial Aid, recognized and introduced the scholarship recipients, offering personal thanks to GLF members for their generosity. As a token of appreciation, the university presented gifts to Foundation representatives. Scholarship recipients in attendance included Benjamin Sellers, Finnegan Allen, Joseph Cooper, and Malachi Hayes. Other recipients include Nyasia Jones, and Amanda Layton.
The program concluded with remarks from GLF President Scott Hamilton, Scholarship Program Manager Arlena Dongilli, and President Duff, each reaffirming the strength and impact of the partnership. Hamilton shared, “We love watching our scholarship recipients grow. These scholarships are about more than education—they support the transformation of rural communities, and the impact students make when they return home.”
Through this ongoing collaboration of 23 years and counting, NCWU and the Golden LEAF Foundation continue to empower students, foster academic achievement, and invest in the future of North Carolina’s workforce.
About Golden Leaf Foundation
Golden LEAF’s mission is to increase economic opportunity in North Carolina’s rural, tobacco-dependent, and economically distressed communities through leadership in grantmaking, collaboration, innovation, and stewardship as an independent and perpetual foundation.
The Golden LEAF Foundation is a nonprofit organization established in 1999 to receive a portion of North Carolina’s funding from the 1998 Master Settlement Agreement with cigarette manufacturers. For 25 years, Golden LEAF has worked to increase economic opportunity in North Carolina’s rural and tobacco-dependent communities through leadership in grantmaking, collaboration, innovation, and stewardship as an independent and perpetual foundation.
Golden LEAF has provided lasting impact to tobacco-dependent, economically distressed, and rural areas of the state by helping create 68,000 jobs, more than $780 million in new payrolls, and more than 98,000 workers trained or retrained for higher wages.
Governed by a board of directors appointed by leaders of NC’s legislative and executive branches, Golden LEAF has focused on critical issues facing North Carolina communities including bringing jobs and building industry by providing resources to communities, awarding scholarships to local students and administering the state’s relief efforts following natural disasters.
About North Carolina Wesleyan University
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) is a small, private Methodist-affiliated institution with a liberal arts-based core curriculum that prepares students for professional advancement, life-long learning and responsible participation in their communities. NCWU offers liberal arts, professional and graduate degree programs for traditional, transfer and working-adult students.
NCWU offers a best-in-class value and a personally tailored private higher education experience. We invest in each and every student we accept by providing individualized awards, scholarships and grants. Wesleyan is YOUR hometown University that is Personal. Practical, and Purpose-Driven. With students from all over the United States and more than 40 different countries, the University has immense cultural diversity. In addition to its educational mission, NCWU serves as a vital economic engine for the region, contributing over $209 million to the local economy.
To learn more, visit ncwu.edu and follow on Facebook, LinkedIn, TikTok and Instagram.
Teacher Education Wesleyan Experience
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) continues to prepare the next generation of educators through its dedicated Teacher Education program, where students gain the knowledge, mentorship, and real-world experience needed to make an impact in the classroom.
Recently, two pre-service teachers in the program — Kathlene “Brooke” Rose and Kayden Comerford — shared their experiences studying Elementary Education at Wesleyan and reflected on how the University is helping prepare them for their future careers as licensed teachers.
Rose, a native of Nash County who recently transferred from East Carolina University, says she quickly found a sense of belonging on campus.
“Wesleyan feels like home,” Rose shared. “There is nowhere I would rather be as I learn to become a practicing licensed teacher.”
Comerford, who is originally from Apex, North Carolina and previously lived in Loudoun County, Virginia, emphasized the supportive learning environment that defines the Wesleyan community.
“Wesleyan is a tightknit community where I feel that all parties want the other to succeed,” said Comerford.
According to Dr. Kelvin Spragley, Director of Teacher Education at NCWU, the program is designed to equip students with both the academic foundation and hands-on classroom experience needed to succeed as educators.
“Preparing effective teachers requires more than coursework,” said Spragley. “Our students engage in meaningful field experiences and mentorship opportunities that allow them to build confidence, develop instructional skills, and understand the real needs of today’s classrooms.”
Wesleyan’s Teacher Education program prepares students for licensure in elementary education while emphasizing leadership, service, and community engagement. Through close faculty mentorship and partnerships with local schools, students graduate ready to step into classrooms and make a difference in the lives of their students.
As future educators like Rose and Comerford continue their journeys, Wesleyan remains committed to supporting students who feel called to teach and inspire the next generation.
Disc Golf Championship Brings Regional Players to NC Wesleyan
North Carolina Wesleyan University will welcome competitors from across the region as it hosts a round of the Spike Hyzer’s North Carolina Disc Golf Championship XV, a premier tournament in the sport of disc golf. The event will take place Friday through Sunday, March 20–22, 2026, with NC Wesleyan serving as one of the featured courses during the competition weekend.
The tournament is an A-Tier sanctioned event by the Professional Disc Golf Association (PDGA) and is presented by Discraft with support from Grip EQ. The championship is expected to draw players from across the United States and the Mid-Atlantic region.
The NC Wesleyan round will take place Saturday morning at 10:00 a.m., when amateur division players compete on the university’s scenic course located along a two-mile loop on campus. The round will feature a shotgun start, meaning players will begin simultaneously from multiple holes throughout the course.
Overall, the tournament features both professional and amateur divisions competing across three days at multiple courses in the area, including Sunset Park and Farmington Park. Professional competitors, currently totaling more than 50 registered players, will compete across three rounds over three days. The amateur field, which includes players from across North Carolina as well as Virginia, West Virginia, and Washington, D.C., will compete in multiple rounds throughout the weekend, including the Saturday morning competition at NC Wesleyan.
Notable competitors include professional players Chandler Kramer, Colten Montgomery, Barry Schultz, and Brian Schweberger, among others.
The tournament is organized by Chuck Connelly, tournament director of Spike Hyzer Disc Golf.
“I am looking forward to partnering with Chuck to present our course on the stage of one of his tournaments,” said Marcus Rich of North Carolina Wesleyan University. “This is the first year we have had the opportunity to present NC Wesleyan’s course in one of his tournaments, and this goes much further than just a round of disc golf. With this tournament, it expands our reach as more players set foot on campus and witness all that North Carolina Wesleyan University has to offer. We have a great course on a beautiful campus, and sharing this gem with the local community and beyond is a true honor.”
Spectators and members of the community are welcome to attend and experience the action as players navigate the university’s course.
More information about the tournament, including registration and schedules, can be found online.
Meet NCWU’s 2026 Commencement Speaker: Jessica Harrison ’10
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) will proudly celebrate its 62nd Spring Commencement Ceremony on Saturday, May 2, 2026, honoring the academic achievements of more than 330 graduates as they complete their Wesleyan journeys and prepare for lives of leadership, service, and purpose.
The ceremony will bring together graduates, families, faculty, staff, alumni, and community members for one of the University’s most meaningful traditions. Commencement serves as both a celebration of student accomplishment and a reflection of NCWU’s commitment to personalized education, mentorship, and community engagement.
“This moment represents years of perseverance, growth, and hard work by our students,” said Dr. Evan D. Duff, President of North Carolina Wesleyan University. “Commencement is not only a milestone for our graduates, but also a celebration for the families, faculty, and mentors who supported them along the way. We are incredibly proud of the Class of 2026 and excited to see the impact they will make in their communities and professions.”
Meet the Speaker
This year’s keynote address will be delivered by Jessica Daniels Harrison ‘10, a dedicated public servant, civic leader, and proud NCWU alumna. Harrison currently serves as Mayor of the Town of Zebulon, North Carolina, making history as the first woman elected to the role. She was initially appointed to the Town’s Board of Commissioners in February 2022 and later elected by the community in November 2023 as commissioner before being elected mayor in November 2025.
As mayor, Harrison is recognized for her strategic leadership, commitment to inclusive governance, and advocacy for initiatives that strengthen families, promote economic development, and engage youth. Her leadership extends beyond local government through her service as Regional Director for the National Black Caucus of Local Elected Officials and Assistant Secretary for the North Carolina Black Elected Municipal Officials. In 2024, she was honored with the 40 Under Impact Award by the National League of Cities.
Harrison is also the Founder and CEO of She Is ME, LLC, an organization focused on empowering women to recognize their potential, overcome stereotypes, and actively engage in their communities. Alongside her husband, she owns and operates The Harrison Institution, Inc., a nonprofit leadership development firm. Together, they also serve as Care Pastors at Life Worship Center in Raleigh.
A graduate of North Carolina Wesleyan University, Harrison earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology before completing a Master of Education in Educational Leadership at Concordia University. She is a proud member of Zeta Phi Beta, Inc., and considers her greatest roles to be wife to Tory and mother to TJ, Tyler, and Jordyn. Guided by her faith and the scripture Matthew 7:12, Harrison approaches leadership with integrity, compassion, and commitment to building strong, resilient communities.
The 2026 Spring Commencement Ceremony promises to be a meaningful celebration of achievement, reflection, and new beginnings, honoring the Class of 2026 as they step forward to shape the future.
