Forty Inducted into NCWU’s National Society of Leadership & Success


Sigma Alpha Pi, North Carolina Wesleyan University’s chapter of the National Society of Leadership & Success (NSLS) hosted its sixth induction of student leaders into the organization. The ceremony was held Tuesday, November 29 at 3:00 p.m. in the Garner Lobby of The Dunn Center. The NSLS is the nation’s largest leadership honor society, with more than 700 chapters and over 1.2 million members.

NCWU’s chapter seeks to foster personal reflection, goal setting and leadership development amongst its members. The goal this fall focused on helping as many of the students who joined at the start of the semester through completion of the national requirements to become fully-inducted members.

“I’m proud of this group of students and their dedication to professional development. Their commitment is evident in the fact that our NSLS chapter continues to exceed the national chapter induction rate,” stated Tanisha Reed, Chapter Advisor and Interim Director of Career Development & Leadership. “Our student leaders have been able to overcome obstacles, increase their confidence, empower their goal setting and choose a career path throughout this process.”

With a 66.1% induction rate, NC Wesleyan’s NSLS chapter is exceeding the national chapter goal by over 35%. As part of the program’s community service efforts this season, attendees were encouraged to bring new or gently used blankets and socks that will be donated to United Community Ministries for distribution to their participants during the cold months ahead.

T.J. Walker, Rocky Mount Ward 4 Councilman and Mayor Pro-Tem, served as the celebration’s keynote speaker. Walker encouraged the inductees to define success for themselves, be confident and give their all to everything that they do.

In order to achieve induction, members must attend Orientation, Leadership Training Day, three Speaker Broadcasts and three Success Networking Team meetings. Students are selected by their school for membership based on academic standing or leadership potential. Candidacy is a nationally recognized achievement of honorable distinction. To learn more about the National Society for Leadership & Success, visit nsls.org.

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. The skills cultivated by faculty and built into the curriculum include critical thinking and reflection, communication, collaboration, and information technology. North Carolina Wesleyan University delivers education that is personal, practical and purpose-driven. Personal…through mentoring and the connections that are provided. Practical…by helping students develop lifelong skills. Purpose-driven…by helping them fulfill their purpose in life. With students from all over the United States and more than 40 different countries, the University has immense cultural diversity. To learn more, visit ncwu.edu and follow on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, TikTok and Instagram.

NCWU Announces Dates for World’s Largest Bob Ross Exhibit


ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA Fantastic Little Paintings by artist, Bob Ross, is set to adorn the walls of The Mims Gallery at The Dunn Center from November 2, 2023 through January 4, 2024. The 2023 exhibition will be open to the public. Purchase Tickets for $15 per person. Free admission for children under five. This will be the first time a Bob Ross exhibit has been to North Carolina. With over 75 paintings, this will be the largest exhibition ever seen under one roof globally.

Robert Norman Ross, an American painter, art instructor and television host known by so many for his permed hair, showed the world how to paint fun pieces of art. He was the creator and host of The Joy of Painting, an instructional television program that aired from 1983 to 1994 on PBS in the United States, CBC in Canada, and similar channels in Latin America, Europe and elsewhere. Ross subsequently became known through his posthumous internet presence.

Greg Purcell, previous Art Curator for the Galleries at The Dunn Center, says “there will be more to this event than just the paintings on the walls. As we get closer to the opening, there will be classes taught by Bob Ross Certified Instructors so that you can learn how to paint like Bob Ross. The excitement is already building for this exhibit which is now less than a year away. Keep checking our website regularly and join our email list to be the first to hear about all the fun plans, as well as having the chance to get early access to tickets.”

Bob Ross, Inc. will allow the funds raised from this exhibit to go directly toward bringing future artists to the Galleries at The Dunn Center. Guests are invited to come experience the joy that Ross brought to the art world. For more information, contact Jan Volz, Gallery Art Curator at 252.985.5268 or jvolz@ncwu.edu and sign up for the email list at ncwu.edu/artgalleries.    

About The Dunn Center
The Dunn Center is a premier venue for concerts, shows and conferences in eastern NC. Located on the campus of NC Wesleyan University, in the heart of Rocky Mount, The Dunn Center is proud to host the Wesleyan Season Series of cultural events and concerts. In addition to these world-class performances, The Dunn Center features a variety of campus and community events, including Wesleyan Players productions, concerts of the Tar River Swing Band and Orchestra and other various performances by nationally known artists. The Mims and Gravely Galleries, located within The Dunn Center, hosts a variety of exhibits, including paintings, drawings, and sculpture. The galleries are open weekdays from 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., as well as during performances. To learn more, visit dunncenter.com and follow on Facebook.

Two NCWU Students to Intern at Pfizer


ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – North Carolina Wesleyan University and Pfizer recently formed a partnership that will provide hands-on learning opportunities to NCWU students majoring in science. Through the work of Dr. Daniel Elias, Assistant Professor of Environmental Science, and Dr. Molly Wyatt, Associate Provost, Pfizer will establish a new student fellowship program beginning in the spring 2023 semester.

“Pfizer’s purpose – ‘Breakthroughs that change patients’ lives’ – is best reflected in the people whom we serve. Our success in achieving our purpose can be accomplished only by finding and cultivating the best talent. Pfizer’s collaboration with NCWU demonstrates both our commitment to our purpose and to community outreach,” stated Kara Price, Ph.D., Vice President, Rocky Mount Site Lead. “NCWU students gain real-world experience, while Pfizer can continue to source excellent talent. It’s a win-win for everyone.”

NCWU students, Rheanna Wilder and Mauro Infante, will be the first two student fellows at Pfizer through this partnership. Rheanna is a senior, women’s soccer player majoring in Biology and Environmental Science. Mauro, a sophomore from Uruguay, is also a student-athlete on the men’s soccer team majoring in Chemistry and Mathematics.

Centered: Rheanna Wilder (L) and Mauro Infante (R) stand with representatives from NC Wesleyan and Pfizer in NCWU’s Pfizer Lab on Monday, November 21.

Dr. Joe Lane, NCWU Provost, noted that “This partnership with Pfizer demonstrates the power of Wesleyan’s personal, practical and purpose-driven education. Wesleyan students will have the opportunity to take what they have learned in our lecture halls and labs and apply it to real-world problems with Pfizer’s professionals. We know that Rheanna and Mauro will be the first of many Wesleyan students to build their network and resumés at Pfizer. They will do great work and we look forward to highlighting their experiences.” 

During their time at Pfizer, both students will have the opportunity to gain experience in multiple areas. This includes regulatory compliance related activities, Lean/IMEx projects, training and instructional design, science-related laboratory activities, employee performance improvement projects and operational excellence support.

About Pfizer: Breakthroughs That Change Patients’ Lives

At Pfizer, we apply science and our global resources to bring therapies to people that extend and significantly improve their lives. We strive to set the standard for quality, safety and value in the discovery, development and manufacture of health care products, including innovative medicines and vaccines. Every day, Pfizer colleagues work across developed and emerging markets to advance wellness, prevention, treatments and cures that challenge the most feared diseases of our time. Consistent with our responsibility as one of the world’s premier innovative biopharmaceutical companies, we collaborate with health care providers, governments and local communities to support and expand access to reliable, affordable health care around the world. For more than 170 years, we have worked to make a difference for all who rely on us. We routinely post information that may be important to investors on our website at www.pfizer.com. In addition, to learn more, please visit us on and follow us on Twitter at @Pfizer and @Pfizer News, LinkedIn, YouTube and like us on Facebook at Facebook.com/Pfizer.

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. The skills cultivated by faculty and built into the curriculum include critical thinking and reflection, communication, collaboration, and information technology. North Carolina Wesleyan University delivers education that is personal, practical and purpose-driven. Personal…through mentoring and the connections that are provided. Practical…by helping students develop lifelong skills. Purpose-driven…by helping them fulfill their purpose in life. With students from all over the United States and more than 40 different countries, the University has immense cultural diversity. To learn more, visit ncwu.edu and follow on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, TikTok and Instagram.

NCWU Hosts Homecoming on New Turf Field, Gives Away Car to Student


ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – After originally being delayed due to Hurricane Ian, North Carolina Wesleyan University was excited to able to celebrate Homecoming this past Saturday, November 5, with kickoff at noon against Huntingdon College. This year, for the first time ever, Wesleyan’s Homecoming game was held on its new turf field at the Vernon T. Bradley, Jr. Stadium.

(L to R): Joey Griffin (owner), Cierra Gamble (NCWU senior), Clarence Harris (General Manager of Joey Griffin Kia)

Tailgating began at 9:00 a.m. followed by an alumni football game on the Vernon T. Bradley, Jr. Lacrosse Field at 9:30 a.m. Returning for its fourth year, NCWU’s annual chili cook-off started at 11:00 a.m. This year’s halftime included a first-of-its-kind giveaway. On September 1, the University announced a partnership with Joey Griffin Kia to give a current NCWU student the deal of a lifetime… a brand-new car!

That lucky and deserving Bishop is Cierra Gamble, an NCWU senior, who received the keys to her new 2022 Kia Rio, courtesy of Joey Griffin Kia, on Saturday during the halftime festivities. From September 1 until November 2, NCWU students, faculty and staff nominated current, full-time students they believe deserved and needed a new car. Students were not allowed to self-nominate, but each student could be nominated more than once.

“Winning the car, to me, is a dream come true! It means that I am one step closer to reaching my goals than I was before,” stated Gamble. “No longer do I have to turn down opportunities due to lack of transportation. The Lord really provided. Thank you, Mr. Joey Griffin, for this opportunity!”

After the excitement of the game, students and alumni headed into the heart of Rocky Mount to see what the city had to offer. The Wesleyan community was able to stop by and take advantage of discounts at Aroma Bar & Bistro or Moe & D’s Restaurant Grill & Bar. There was an exclusive alumni-only event at Blanche’s Bistro. Larema Coffee House hosted an open mic night with talent from NCWU and offered discounts for both students and alumni.

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. The skills cultivated by faculty and built into the curriculum include critical thinking and reflection, communication, collaboration, and information technology. North Carolina Wesleyan University delivers education that is personal, practical and purpose-driven. Personal…through mentoring and the connections that are provided. Practical…by helping students develop lifelong skills. Purpose-driven…by helping them fulfill their purpose in life. With students from all over the United States and more than 40 different countries, the University has immense cultural diversity. To learn more, visit ncwu.edu and follow on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, TikTok and Instagram.

Local High School Student Debuts Photography Exhibit at NCWU


ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA The newest exhibit to grace the walls of the Gravely Art Gallery in The Dunn Center at North Carolina Wesleyan University is The Study of Composition by Nick Dupont. A talented, local sophomore at Rocky Mount Academy, this will be his first time ever exhibiting his photography to the public. This eye-catching exhibit is free and open to the public running from November 17, 2022 through January 31, 2023. A reception will be held on opening night from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m.

Photography has been a passion for Nick ever since he got his first point-and-shoot camera as a young child. As he has grown, he has developed his own way of telling a story through a lens. Whether a portrait or landscape, his use of light and depth of field really capture his subject to draw in viewers.

Greg Purcell, Gallery Curator, is thrilled that the Gravely Gallery will be the first place that Nick will exhibit his photographs. “We are getting a chance to see the world through the talented eye of a young man who is still developing his own world view and finding his way through life,” stated Purcell. “This will be an exhibit to remember as his subjects are wide-ranging and exciting.”

The Gallery is open Monday through Friday 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. and during events at The Dunn Center. To stay up-to-date on future shows coming to the Mims & Gravely Galleries, visit ncwu.edu/artgalleries, where you can join the mailing list as well. Upcoming shows include:

Colorful Chaos by artist Delayna Robbins from January 19, 2023 – March 9, 2023

Action Paintings by Wes Day from March 16, 2023 – April 27, 2023

Just Imagine by Mark Cole from May4, 2023 – August 4- 2023

About The Dunn Center
The Dunn Center is a premier venue for concerts, shows and conferences in eastern NC. Located on the campus of NC Wesleyan University, in the heart of Rocky Mount, The Dunn Center is proud to host the Wesleyan Season Series of cultural events and concerts. In addition to these world-class performances, The Dunn Center features a variety of campus and community events, including Wesleyan Players productions, concerts of the Tar River Swing Band and Orchestra and other various performances by nationally known artists. The Mims and Gravely Galleries, located within The Dunn Center, hosts a variety of exhibits, including paintings, drawings, and sculpture. The galleries are open weekdays from 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., as well as during performances. To learn more, visit dunncenter.com and follow on Facebook.

NC Wesleyan Honors Program Receives Donation for Upgrades


ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – The Taylor and Crocker families recently provided funds to refurnish the Taylor-Crocker Honors Program Lounge at NC Wesleyan University and purchased Honors Jackets for all 50 students in the Program. The lounge was relocated to a larger space on campus and received new carpet, paint and furniture, along with cupboards that are stocked with snacks and drinks for students to enjoy.

“The recent changes and updates to the Honors Lounge are simply amazing! On behalf of the program, I personally want to express my sincerest thanks to the Taylors and Crockers. Their efforts will ensure the lounge is a special place for Honors Program students now and for years to come,” stated Dr. Bill Yankosky, Director of the Taylor-Crocker Honors Program. “We are very appreciative of the support these two families have given to the program and look forward to strengthening that relationship in the years to come.”

Originally established in 1988 under the leadership of former English Professor, Dr. Steve Ferebee, the Program was renamed in 2009 when Roger G. Taylor, class of 1970, and his wife, Gaile, met with former President James A. Gray III. The funding that was provided for The Roger G. and Gaile Davenport Taylor Honors Program covered memberships and attendance to Honors Association Conferences, Honors Project supplies and thesis binding, guest speakers, social events for team building, professional development, Honors symposiums and travel.

In 2014, NCWU Board Chair, Dr. Dan Crocker and wife Brenda, came alongside the Taylors to support the initiative and a $100,000 pledge was made to fund the Taylor-Crocker Honors Program. The Crockers also established the Dr. James Durant Melton Outward Bound Scholarship that supports Honors Students who participate in the NC Outward Bound Program which offers challenging outdoor adventure programs. 

“The Taylors and Crockers have been avid supporters of North Carolina Wesleyan University and their investment in the Honors Program has definitely been impactful for our students,” stated Tammy Robinson, Director of Donor Engagement. “The newly furnished Honors Lounge is a beautiful and welcoming space for our Honors students. It’s a comfortable, dedicated space just for them, equipped with snacks to relax, study, read or socialize. We are so grateful for the generosity of the Taylors, the Crockers and all those who have given to the Honors Program.”

Incoming students with a combined score of at least 1170 on the Critical Reading and Mathematics sections of the SAT (or equivalent ACT scores) and a high school GPA of 3.5 or higher are invited to apply to the Taylor-Crocker Honors Program. Freshmen enrolled in the Program take special freshman courses in English and Humanities. Honors Program students then take one honors course each semester during their sophomore and junior years. During senior year, these students design and complete a supervised, interdisciplinary project consisting of a written and oral component. The project gives honors students the unique opportunity to work on an individual basis with a faculty member.

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. The skills cultivated by faculty and built into the curriculum include critical thinking and reflection, communication, collaboration, and information technology. North Carolina Wesleyan University delivers education that is personal, practical and purpose-driven. Personal…through mentoring and the connections that are provided. Practical…by helping students develop lifelong skills. Purpose-driven…by helping them fulfill their purpose in life. With students from all over the United States and more than 40 different countries, the University has immense cultural diversity. To learn more, visit ncwu.edu and follow on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, TikTok and Instagram.

NCWU Extends Educational Opportunities to Wake Tech Employees


ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) and Wake Technical Community College (Wake Tech) today expanded their relationship by signing an education partnership agreement that supports undergraduate and graduate degree completion opportunities for Wake Tech employees.

“This agreement is the first of many that we hope to institute with our Wesleyan Works community college partners. We have enjoyed a 10year relationship with Wake Tech and look forward to enhancing the higher education opportunities for their employees,” stated President Dr. Evan D. Duff.

This partnership allows Wake Tech employees to receive exclusive tuition rates to attend NCWU. The dynamic programs allow Wake Tech employees to remain employed while attending classes online or one night per week. One-on-one advising support and mentoring will also be provided.

“We value lifelong learning at Wake Tech, so we are excited to expand our partnership with North Carolina Wesleyan University to now include undergraduate and graduate degree opportunities for our faculty and staff at reduced tuition rates,” said Wake Tech President Dr. Scott Ralls. “Employees who would like to further their education now have an affordable and accessible option.”

Wake Tech and North Carolina Wesleyan already have existing transfer agreements in place that allow Wake Tech students to transfer to North Carolina Wesleyan and complete a bachelor’s degree.

NCWU will offer a reduced tuition rate of $350 per credit hour for undergraduate programs and $400 per credit hour for graduate programs to the employees of select community college partners.

About Wake Technical Community College

Wake Tech is North Carolina’s largest community college, serving more than 70,000 adults annually, with six campuses (a seventh campus under construction), two training centers, multiple community sites, and a comprehensive array of online learning options. Wake Tech is fully accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and offers more than 250 associate degrees, diplomas, and certificates that prepare students for university transfer or immediate employment. More than half of those programs can be completed totally online. Wake Tech also offers short-term, non-degree programs as well as public safety training, small business support, customized corporate training, and basic skills courses such as English as a Second Language and high school equivalency preparation. Wake Tech also serves high school students at four Cooperative Innovative High Schools in partnership with Wake County Public Schools.  For more information, visit waketech.edu or @waketechcc on social media.

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. The skills cultivated by faculty and built into the curriculum include critical thinking and reflection, communication, collaboration, and information technology. North Carolina Wesleyan University delivers education that is personal, practical and purpose-driven. Personal…through mentoring and the connections that are provided. Practical…by helping students develop lifelong skills. Purpose-driven…by helping them fulfill their purpose in life. With students from all over the United States and more than 40 different countries, the University has immense cultural diversity. To learn more, visit ncwu.edu and follow on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, TikTok and Instagram.

Veterans Day Celebration Events Planned at NCWU


ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – Join North Carolina Wesleyan University on Thursday, November 10 for a day full of pre-Veterans Day events celebrating and honoring the men and women of our armed forces. The morning will start off with a Veterans Day Salute in the Garner Lobby of The Dunn Center at 10:00 a.m. with guest speaker, Mr. Denny Hair. As a living historian, Hair is regarded as one of the world’s foremost experts on General Patton.

NCWU’s 2021 Veterans Day Salute

During the ceremony, Ms. Dawn Cash-Salau will present the Christopher S. Cash Memorial Scholarship in memory of her late husband. Army National Guard Capt. Christopher S. Cash was a 1993 alumnus of NC Wesleyan and an infantry company commander who deployed to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. He was killed in action during combat operations in 2004. To honor her late husband’s legacy of selfless service, Cash-Salau created a 10-mile race, Reindeer Dash for Cash, held each December in downtown Greenville, NC. The proceeds from each race are awarded to college students at Chris’ alma maters, North Carolina Wesleyan University and East Carolina University, and to the North Carolina National Guard Educational Foundation. To date, over $450,000 has been raised and over 125 students have been awarded scholarships.

“We are excited to have so many great events planned to honor our Veterans. At North Carolina Wesleyan, we understand the commitment veterans and their families make for our great country and we aim to continuously offer acknowledgment at every opportunity,” stated Laura Brown Brown, Associate Dean of Veteran Services.

Later in the evening, Mr. Hair will hold a signing event for his book, “The Third Army Goes to War,” followed by a reception in the Mims Gallery of The Dunn Center at 6:00 p.m. At 7:00 p.m., he will present “An Evening with General Patton” in Powers Auditorium. This free event is open to the public with no ticket required.

Rounding out the evening, The United States Air Force Heritage of America Concert Band will perform a free concert at The Dunn Center in Minges Auditorium at 8:00 p.m. This “Salute to our Veterans” will be a fun evening of military tradition and honor. For six decades, the USAF Heritage of America Concert Band has educated, inspired and entertained over 1.5 million people annually by providing music for events that support Airmen and their families, honor our Nation’s veterans and build relationships of trust between the American people and the Air Force. The Concert Band is comprised of over 40 professional Airman-musicians who captivate audiences on regular tours throughout the East Coast with a variety of renditions of great orchestral classics, marches, Broadway hits, jazz standards, movie music and patriotic favorites.

Veterans Day Salute Events

  • 10:00 a.m.- Veterans Day Salute in the Garner Lobby of The Dunn Center, guest speaker, Mr. Denny Hair
  • 6:00 p.m. – Book Signing with Mr. Hair and Reception in the Mims Gallery of The Dunn Center
  • 7:00 p.m. – “An Evening with General Patton” in Powers Auditorium
  • 8:00 p.m. – The United States Air Force Heritage of America Concert Band, free concert at The Dunn Center in Minges Auditorium

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. The skills cultivated by faculty and built into the curriculum include critical thinking and reflection, communication, collaboration, and information technology. North Carolina Wesleyan University delivers education that is personal, practical and purpose-driven. Personal…through mentoring and the connections that are provided. Practical…by helping students develop lifelong skills. Purpose-driven…by helping them fulfill their purpose in life. With students from all over the United States and more than 40 different countries, the University has immense cultural diversity. To learn more, visit ncwu.edu and follow on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, TikTok and Instagram.

The Mims Art Gallery Embraces Local Artist Duo as Next Exhibit


ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA Connections, the newest exhibit to appear at North Carolina Wesleyan University, is a wonderful collaboration of the works of Tracey Penrod and Kim Valentine. This magnificent exhibit will run from November 3, 2022 – January 2, 2023 and is free for all to attend. The public is invited to an opening reception that will be held in the Mims Gallery of The Dunn Center on Thursday, November 3 from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m.

Tracey Penrod

Tracey Penrod is a contemporary artist from Eastern North Carolina who works in both abstract expressive and representational forms. Penrod states “My inspiration comes from moments and scenes captured in time that are both beautiful and peaceful in their simple nature. For this upcoming show, Kim and I decided on the theme of Connections since much of our existing work already examines the many aspects and importance of connections.”

Kim Valentine

Kim Valentine is based in Elm City, NC and has been inspired to create since she was a child. She loves to explore in many mediums such as alcohol inks, paper, splatter and stencil paints just to name a few. Valentine states “I love to experiment with new ideas and techniques and I am always wondering ‘What If?’”

There will be 70 works of art on display for guests to enjoy during this exhibition. The Gallery is open Monday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and during events at The Dunn Center.

“I’m excited to have these two friends showing their work together. This exhibition is going to bring a lot of joy to those who can come out and see it,” stated Greg Purcell, Gallery Curator. “We all know that the upcoming holidays can be stressful, so take some time out to visit us, relax and see some great art.”

To stay up-to-date on future shows coming to the Mims & Gravely Galleries, visit ncwu.edu/artgalleries. Be sure to join the mailing list as well. Upcoming shows include:

Colorful Chaos by artist Delayna Robbins from January 19, 2023 – March 9, 2023

Action Paintings by Wes Day from March 16, 2023 – April 27, 2023

Just Imagine by Mark Cole from May4, 2023 – August 4- 2023

About The Dunn Center
The Dunn Center is a premier venue for concerts, shows and conferences in eastern NC. Located on the campus of NC Wesleyan University, in the heart of Rocky Mount, The Dunn Center is proud to host the Wesleyan Season Series of cultural events and concerts. In addition to these world-class performances, The Dunn Center features a variety of campus and community events, including Wesleyan Players productions, concerts of the Tar River Swing Band and Orchestra and other various performances by nationally known artists. The Mims and Gravely Galleries, located within The Dunn Center, hosts a variety of exhibits, including paintings, drawings, and sculpture. The galleries are open weekdays from 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., as well as during performances. To learn more, visit dunncenter.com and follow on Facebook.

NCWU Appoints Interim Director of Career Development


ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – North Carolina Wesleyan University recently announced the designation of Tanisha Reed as the Interim Director of Career Development. Ms. Reed has been serving NCWU since July 2022 in her role with AppleOne, a recruitment firm of the ActOne Group. Now, she will also direct the activities and initiatives of the University’s Office of Career Development & Leadership. This includes career development education, strategic initiatives pertaining to industry partnerships and alumni career connections, data tracking and reporting, and one-on-one student services.

“We strive to equip students with the practical skills that they need to enter the workforce as highly-productive candidates leading to a rewarding career,” stated Dr. Molly Wyatt, Associate Provost. “The University is grateful for the generosity of AppleOne and ActOne in donating Tanisha’s time to serving our students and directing this very important division of NCWU.”

In March 2021, NC Wesleyan announced an agreement with the ActOne Group, a global workforce solutions leader based in California with operations in North Carolina, to provide extensive career development services for current students and alumni. Janice Bryant Howroyd, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of the ActOne Group, is a native of Tarboro, NC and also an NC Wesleyan Board Member. As a courtesy to the University, ActOne’s team of professionals work alongside NC Wesleyan’s Office of Career Development & Leadership to enhance internships, career development, plus job placement for Wesleyan students and graduates.

In addition to her work with AppleOne and NCWU’s Office of Career Development & Leadership, Ms. Reed also volunteers her time in an advisory role with NCWU’s National Society of Leadership and Success and is ushering a cohort of approximately 60 students through the leadership program this fall.

A New Jersey native, Reed holds an M.S. in Human and Social Services from Walden University and an A.S. and B.S. in Criminal Justice from Everest University. She is actively working to receive a certificate in Evidence-Based Coaching that she will complete this fall.

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. The skills cultivated by faculty and built into the curriculum include critical thinking and reflection, communication, collaboration, and information technology. North Carolina Wesleyan University delivers education that is personal, practical and purpose-driven. Personal…through mentoring and the connections that are provided. Practical…by helping students develop lifelong skills. Purpose-driven…by helping them fulfill their purpose in life. With students from all over the United States and more than 40 different countries, the University has immense cultural diversity. To learn more, visit ncwu.edu and follow on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, TikTok and Instagram.