ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – Black Diamond, the newest exhibit coming to Gravely Gallery at The Dunn Center, will inspire you to dig deeper into the old American past time—baseball. This solo exhibition, featuring over 20 works by artist Darryl Matthews, will run from September 22 – November 10, 2022. An opening reception will be held on Thursday, September 22 from 5:00-7:00 p.m.
Matthews is the son of late Negro Leagues’ player, Francis Oliver Matthews. The exhibition provides an intimate view of the Negro Leagues through extraordinary paintings of players such as Buck Leonard, Josh Gibson, Satchel Paige, James Thomas “Cool Papa” Bell, Jackie Robinson, Francis Oliver Matthews, and female players Toni Stone, Mamie “Peanut” Johnson and Connie Morgan.
The Negro League underscored the racial, socioeconomic, recreational and political realities of the 19th and 20th centuries. In the African-American community, Negro League Baseball represented achievement, success, ingenuity, self-empowerment and perseverance. The leagues raised black consciousness and they were a catalyst for change. The stories of the games and the African-American and Latino players were chronicled in historically black publications, such as the Chicago Defender, Pittsburgh Courier and New York Amsterdam News. The teams barnstormed their way through U.S. cities and towns, the Caribbean and Canada, enthralling fans. Some athletes traveled overseas to play in Japan, as well. Wherever the players took to the field, they were building a legacy and creating history.
In December 2020, Major League Baseball (MLB) officially recognized the Negro League as Major Leaguers. All 3,400 players from 1920 to 1948 were elevated to MLB status—100 years after the start of the Negro League. The pronouncement is significant for a group of legends who broke new ground and paved the way for future generations.
Darryl Matthews: Black Diamond celebrates these legends and all that they accomplished and symbolized. Greg Purcell, Art Curator for The Dunn Center, states “As not only a lover of art, but also history, this exhibit will show what extraordinary people these ball players were.”
This exhibit is presented in part by both the Buck Leonard Association for Sports and Human Enrichment and the Drinking Gourd Gallery, as part of a series of public events celebrating the 50-year anniversary of Buck’s historic induction to the National Baseball Hall of Fame.
About the Buck Leonard Association for Sports & Human Enrichment
Established by family in 1999 to help organize and manage local youth baseball, the Buck Leonard Association for Sports and Human Enrichment (BLASHE) has evolved into an organization that engages and empowers children and families of Rocky Mount, NC with programming and resources that promote digital literacy, education, health, and community. For more information, please visit us at BuckLeonard.org.
About The Dunn Center
The Dunn Center is a premier venue for concerts, shows, exhibits 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 sculptures. 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 is Host Institution for American Council on Education Fellows Program
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – Starting this month, North Carolina Wesleyan University will welcome Dr. Timothy Channell as part of the American Council on Education (ACE) Fellows Program. ACE offers a prestigious Fellows Program for those aspiring to administrative level positions. Dr. Channell serves as the Assistant Provost of Budget and Academic Operations and Professor of Music Business at Radford University in Virginia and is a class of 2022-23 ACE Fellow.
Dr. Channell’s current role at Radford includes overseeing all academic budgets, along with serving as the university liaison to the State Council of Higher Education of Virginia and overseeing the Institutional Effectiveness and Quality Improvement Office. In addition, he is the liaison to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) and oversees academic human resources and two regional higher education center sites.
“The administration and I look forward to working with Dr. Tim Channell on his leadership journey. This ACE Fellowship will allow him to bring value back to Radford University, while also enhancing the operations of Wesleyan through a selected project based on his years of higher education experience,” stated President Dr. Evan D. Duff.
During his time at NC Wesleyan, Dr. Channell will work alongside President Duff and other members of the administration intermittently through April 2023. Since 1965, nearly 2,000 vice presidents, deans, department chairs, faculty and other emerging leaders have participated in the ACE Fellows Program. The Program offers Fellows a learning experience that enables them to immerse themselves in the study and practice of leadership, while experiencing the culture, policies and decision-making processes of another institution.
Dr. Channell received a Bachelor of Arts in Music Education from Marshall University, a Master of Business Administration from West Virginia Wesleyan College and a Doctor of Education in Higher Education Administration/Curriculum and Instruction from Marshall University.
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 Recognized by U.S. News & World Report
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – On Monday, September 12, U.S. News & World Report released their 2022-2023 Best Colleges rankings. This report evaluates 1,500 colleges and universities nationwide based on 17 measures of academic quality. Of the reports, North Carolina Wesleyan University was ranked in the Regional Colleges (South) categories of Best Colleges for Veterans, Best Value Schools, Best Regional Colleges, Social Mobility, Most International Students and Campus Ethnic Diversity.
Again, NC Wesleyan has been ranked in the top 50 for Best Regional Colleges, coming in at #47 of 99 schools. Also, NCWU was once more recognized as a Best Value School and was one of only 12 schools chosen as Best Colleges for Veterans. This ranking pairs well with the University’s 2022-2023 Military Friendly® School Gold designation.
“Our dedication to our students, and to the communities we serve, is reflected in this year’s rankings by U.S. News & World Report. I’m proud of the work that NCWU does to ensure a quality education through meaningful, real-world experiences,” stated President Dr. Evan D. Duff.
Other notable rankings include recognition in the Social Mobility category, which considers a university enrolling and graduating large proportions of first-generation college students and disadvantaged students who are awarded with Pell Grants. The vast mix of cultures that make up NCWU’s student population is reflected in this year’s ranking for Campus Ethnic Diversity. Only six colleges and university’s in North Carolina made the list of 82 that were ranked. With students from over 40 different countries, NC Wesleyan was the only school in North Carolina be recognized for Most International Students. To learn more about this year’s U.S. News & World Report rankings, visit usnews.com/college.
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.
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 Real-World Experiences Through Practical Skills Academy
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – North Carolina Wesleyan University has instituted a Practical Skills Academy (PSA) to offer life and professional skills to students in areas not typically covered in traditional coursework. Some of the learning opportunities that will be available starting fall 2022 include personal finance, navigating contracts, completing W-4 forms and other HR documents, presenting proposals, professional communication and appearance, work ethic and fine dining.
Learning opportunities will exist within the PSA, as well as demonstrated in some curricula through applied learning assignments. Faculty and staff will guide students as they develop practical skills that are broadly useful, fully transferable, and applicable to any challenge or career. The skills cultivated by our faculty and built into our curriculum include critical thinking and reflection, communication, collaboration, and information technology. Through this applied educational approach, faculty will help students connect their learning outcomes to real-world skills they will use in their personal and professional lives.
“At NC Wesleyan, we demonstrate what it means to be personal, practical and purpose-driven. Through our new Practical Skills Academy, we’re excited to offer students the chance to learn what it takes to be a well-rounded professional and world citizen. Upon graduation, they can be confident that what they’ve learned both inside and outside the classroom can be applied to their careers and lives,” stated President Dr. Evan D. Duff.
The University has partnered with Sqwire, an online financial wellness platform designed to help members reclaim ownership of their finances so they can live a more fulfilled, healthy life. Combining comprehensive financial education with personal support, members always have useful information at their fingertips – no matter what financial decisions they make. Nearly 70 lessons break down key concepts and relevant financial topics for everyday living, along with videos, infographics, worksheets, calculators, resources and curated content. Sqwire has partnered with President Duff to expand its suite of learning modules to include tax forms, employment documents, navigating contracts, and other aspects of everyday life. This complete platform will be available to NCWU students in 2023 at no cost.
The Practical Skills Academy will also offer North Carolina Wesleyan University’s newly-developed Resident Expert Program (WES-R.E.P.). This program provides students with an opportunity to work directly with industry leaders through mentoring and workshops. Through on-site and virtual opportunities, these professionals will connect with students to share their industry knowledge. Experts will be chosen in a variety of fields including the fine arts, business, education, healthcare, the sciences and specific professional fields. These high-profile experts are hand-selected by the President and the administrative team.
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.
Fall Art Exhibit Coming to The Mims Gallery at NCWU
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – Autumn Hues: A Collection of Diversity, the newest exhibit coming to The Mims Gallery at The Dunn Center, is a beautiful collection of works from the Wilson Active Artists Association. This free, colorful exhibit will run from September 1 to October 28, 2022 and is open to the public. A reception will be held on Thursday, September 1 from 5:00-7:00 p.m.
The Wilson Active Artists Association is one of the longest running nonprofit organizations in Wilson, North Carolina. Founded in 1965, its mission is to help promote art in Wilson. Over time, the Association has grown from its original eight members by providing opportunities for its artists to showcase their work in Wilson and the surrounding areas, as well as having education and awareness classes.
“I’m thrilled to be having the Wilson Active Artists showcasing their work in the Gallery. The chance to work with such a talented local group of artists was too great to pass up,” stated Greg Purcell, Art Curator for The Dunn Center.
Wilson Active Artists Association works in a variety of mediums which include paintings, flow art, sculpture, ceramics, pottery, jewelry and fiber art. The Association is always welcoming new members not only from Wilson, but eastern North Carolina as well. For more information about the Wilson Active Artists Association, visit wilsonactiveartists.com.
Upcoming shows at The Mims Gallery include:
- Connections featuring the work of Kim Valentine & Tracey Penrod from November 3, 2022 – January 2, 2023
- A 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 May 4, 2023 – August 4, 2023
About The Dunn Center
The Dunn Center is a premier venue for concerts, shows, exhibits 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 sculptures. 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.
About Wilson Active Artists Association
Wilson Active Artist Association is an organization that seeks to create, promote, and support an interest in the visual arts through communication and the exchange of artistic ideas; to serve as a meeting place for artists; to furnish workshops in various art fields and mediums; to encourage participation in exhibits in Wilson and other areas. The Association holds monthly meetings on the second Tuesday of every month at 4:30 p.m. To learn more, visit wilsonactiveartists.com.
NC Wesleyan Welcomes First-Ever Incoming Class as University
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – North Carolina Wesleyan University held its 66th annual New Student Convocation today in Minges Auditorium at The Dunn Center. The 314 new Bishops are the first class of incoming freshmen to begin their educational journey under NC Wesleyan’s new identity as a university. President Dr. Evan D. Duff welcomed the Class of 2026, congratulating them on taking the next step in their educational journey.
“We are your family, your home away from home. We want you to have a personal relationship, a connection, not only with your peers, but with faculty, staff and the administration. In everything you’re learning or doing here, whether it’s inside or outside the classroom, we want it to be relevant and practical. We really want you to find your purpose here at Wesleyan,” stated Duff.
Guest speaker for the event was Carl Thomas, a 2002 Sociology alumnus and Co-Founder/Co-CEO of Professional Readiness Equals Progress (P.R.E.P.), LLC in the DC-Baltimore area. P.R.E.P., founded in 2014, is a full-service job readiness and workforce development program designed to provide comprehensive support to disadvantaged youth and adults.
While addressing the newest class of Bishops, Thomas shared his experiences at NC Wesleyan and why he chose to attend. He noted that although he was accepted at other larger institutions, Wesleyan’s small environment and friendly staff suited his needs best. Thomas reminded students to focus on the importance of seizing opportunities when they are in front of them, to learn how to identify and solve problems in their community, and to take advantage of the many leadership and development activities available at North Carolina Wesleyan University.
“You will digest three truths that will frame your time here at North Carolina Wesleyan University—the first: you are exactly where you should be. The second: the people around you conspire with the universe for your greatness. The third: you could be anywhere else in the world, but you’re here right now. Make that worth it. Take advantage of the many leadership opportunities and development activities at Wesleyan. Seize the opportunity to be great,” stated Thomas. “As I look back on all the opportunities I’ve had, Wesleyan offered me so many things to grow and build on. At Wesleyan, I found a springboard which nurtured my capacity to see the value in my community and in my voice.”
Afterwards, students exited The Dunn Center and were immediately greeted by a cheering crowd of returning students, faculty, staff and friends of NC Wesleyan who formed a time-honored tradition— the Bishop Tunnel. As they proceeded through the tunnel to enter the annual Rock the Mount event, they were each welcomed by President Duff and his wife, Marcy. Rock the Mount is an annual tradition for NC Wesleyan to welcome new students to campus and to the community. It takes place the day before the University’s first day of classes, serving as the official kick-off event for the new academic year. Local businesses and organizations are given the opportunity to come and celebrate the start of a new school year with food, music and advertising. This year, almost 90 community organizations lined the street in the center of campus to celebrate Wesleyan’s Class of 2026.
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.
Ready, Set, PULL! For Wesleyan Sporting Clays Classic Returning for Second Year
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – On Thursday, October 13 North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) will host its second annual PULL! For Wesleyan Bishops Sporting Clays Classic. The fundraising event will be held at one of the finest clay shooting courses in the state—Rose Hill Farm Sporting Clays and Hunting Preserve in Nashville, NC. All proceeds from this event will support various efforts to help Wesleyan students in their journey for lifelong learning and achievement as they prepare to make a difference in the communities where they’ll live and serve.
Sponsorship of the Bishops Sporting Clays Classic gives businesses and individuals the chance to enjoy a day of fun in the great outdoors while entertaining special clients, vendors or potential clients and strengthening those relationships in a unique and unforgettable atmosphere. Shooters can participate recreationally or competitively.
“The beauty of Rose Hill Farms, the fun of the sport itself for both beginners and experts, and the strengthening of relationships makes this event so enjoyable,” states Mark Hinson, Senior Executive for Philanthropic Engagement at NC Wesleyan. “As Wesleyan prepares students and alumni for career opportunities in this region, having companies and industries participate in this event helps us develop connections that can benefit our students and community.”
Check-in will begin at noon, followed by lunch with a 1:30 p.m. shotgun start. There will also be raffle items and awards in various categories. The entry fee is $750 for a four-person team, which includes all necessary ammo for each participant and eye/ear protection. If you have your own cart for course transportation and wish to use it, feel free to bring it at your own risk. You are responsible for it at the event. Visit ncwu.edu/pullforwesleyan for sponsorship details and to register. If you prefer to register and pay by phone, call 252.985.5266. If mailing a company check, make checks payable to NC Wesleyan University, Attn: Bishops Sporting Clays Classic, 3400 N. Wesleyan Blvd., Rocky Mount, NC 27804. Please include Sporting Clays Classic on the memo/reference line. For questions, contact Mark Hinson at mhinson@ncwu.edu or 252.985.5145.
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.
Grant Makes Renovations Possible for The Mims Gallery
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – After nearly thirty years, The Mims Gallery, located in The Dunn Center at North Carolina Wesleyan University will receive a much-needed facelift. The Mims Foundation recently awarded a grant to the University for a complete renovation of the art gallery named for Allan C. and Margaret L. Mims. A local Nash County businessman, Mr. Mims was one of the founding members of NC Wesleyan nearly 66 years ago.
“I’m grateful to Tom Betts, one of our board members, and the representatives of the Mims Foundation Board of Directors for making this renovation possible,” stated Dr. Evan D. Duff, NCWU President.
Sheila Martin, Executive Director of The Dunn Center and Greg Purcell, Art Curator, note that this renovation will include the work of local artists, Marilyn Anselmi and Jan Sullivan-Volz. The new shelving will feature wood from the Rocky Mount Mills, circa 1850, as well as a copper mobile hanging from the skylight that depicts the indigenous leaves of North Carolina, a sight sure to marvel visitors.
The Mims Foundation gift is a game changer for the gallery. Work will begin soon, ensuring that the space will be ready for art exhibits previously booked for late 2022 and early 2023. These updates are also timely in that they will transform the area prior to The Mims Gallery welcoming thousands of visitors anticipated for the Fantastic Little Paintings exhibit featuring the work of the late Bob Ross. The Ross collection of 88 paintings will fill The Mims and Gravely Galleries from November 2, 2023 until January 4, 2024.
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’s Goldsboro Campus Relocates to Wayne Community College
On Monday, August 8, leaders from North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) and Wayne Community College (WCC) met at the Wayne Learning Center Atrium in Goldsboro to sign an Enhanced Institutional Partnership. The two schools have had a partnership agreement in place since 2017, allowing WCC students a seamless transfer to continue their education at NC Wesleyan following completion of their two-year degree at WCC.
Dr. Patricia A. “Patty” Pfeiffer, President of WCC, and Dr. Evan D. Duff, President of NCWU, signed the enhanced agreement renewing their Wesleyan Works transfer partnership, while also forging a closer-knit relationship between the two institutions. Earlier this summer, NCWU made the decision to relocate their Goldsboro Adult Studies location to the campus of Wayne Community College. This change positively impacts enrollment and will save the University over $1.5M over the next seven years. In addition, the move allows NCWU to have dedicated space on the campus of WCC, offering a more convenient option for students at WCC to pursue a degree from NC Wesleyan.
“NCWU’s mission has focused on providing seamless transfer pathways for our NC community college graduates. Through partnerships like this, we can see our vision come to fruition,” stated Katie Farrell, Associate Dean of Adult & Professional Studies: Strategy, Partnerships & Assessments. “We are excited to serve our Goldsboro community and Wayne Community College graduates in pursuing their educational goals.”
The agreement will enhance and expand the educational opportunities of graduates with an Associate in Arts, Associate in Fine Arts, Associate in Science or Associate in Applied Science. They will be offered access to the benefits of the Wesleyan Works program, pre-admission advising, generous transfer credit and a clear definition of the transfer of courses from WCC to NC Wesleyan. This partnership allows WCC Associate in Applied Science students to transfer an additional 15 hours of general education credits for a total of 75 transfer credits.
Students who graduate from WCC and transfer under this agreement may select any of NC Wesleyan’s programs of study or may transfer to the college’s Adult and Professional Studies program, taking advantage of the Wesleyan Works program. Students are required to maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0 and be in good academic standing. The agreement brings NC Wesleyan within the reach of WCC students who may not have otherwise been able to attend the University.
Wesleyan Works is a transfer program designed for community college students who plan to continue their education at NC Wesleyan. Students who participate in Wesleyan Works will have access to academic advising and financial aid counseling through NC Wesleyan, as well as access to events on the University’s main campus. The program is ideal for students who would like to attend NC Wesleyan’s evening or online programs.
About Wayne Community College
Wayne Community College is a public, learning-centered institution with an open-door admission policy located in Goldsboro, NC As it works to develop a highly skilled and competitive workforce, the college serves 11,000 individuals annually as well as businesses, industry, and community organizations with high quality, affordable, accessible learning opportunities, including more than 140 college credit programs. WCC’s mission is to meet the educational, training, and cultural needs of the communities it serves.
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 Collaborates with Rocky Mount Prep
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) has partnered with Rocky Mount Preparatory School (Rocky Mount Prep) to offer educational opportunities to their employees who are pursuing their Teaching License with NCWU’s Teacher Education Program. This opportunity is available to those seeking teacher licensure as a Residency Student, as a bachelor’s-only student, those pursuing a second bachelor’s degree, or for those seeking tutoring support for licensure exam preparation.
“This partnership with Rocky Mount Prep provides an invaluable opportunity to support our local school systems and the teachers that have a direct impact on future generations,” noted Katie Farrell, Associate Dean of Strategy, Partnerships & Assessment at NC Wesleyan. “We have enjoyed witnessing the support the Rocky Mount Prep administrators provide to their teachers and look forward to helping these teachers grow in their profession.”
Rocky Mount Prep staff who apply to North Carolina Wesleyan University in pursuit of a degree and/or teacher licensure, must do so via the University’s Adult & Professional Studies Program. Those who are accepted will receive a discounted tuition rate through one of two scholarships: a Public Service Scholarship equating to 10% of the total semester tuition or NC Wesleyan alumni will receive a scholarship equivalent to 50% of tuition. In addition, Rocky Mount Prep is supporting their employees’ pursuit by offering a $4,000 per year tuition reimbursement.
“We know the importance of having highly-qualified and well-supported teachers in our classroom. We pride ourselves on a strong culture of support for our team members. At Rocky Mount Prep, we have an amazing team that serves diligently every day and shares invaluable experiences with our scholars in support of their academic attainment,” said Dr. Chaunte Garrett, Rocky Mount Prep Superintendent. “We are delighted to partner with NCWU to support the teacher development pipeline in this region and to offer our current team members, and any new team members who want to become highly-qualified teachers, the opportunity to do so. It is a win for Rocky Mount Prep and NCWU, but most importantly it will have a great impact on our region.”
North Carolina Wesleyan University’s Teacher Education Program will provide exclusive tutoring assistance at a rate of $35 per hour for Rocky Mount Prep staff. Tutoring services will be provided face-to-face or virtually via a third party or by NCWU Teacher Education faculty.
In addition, Rocky Mount Prep will promote the partnership to all staff and provide the option for NCWU Teacher Education students to gain practical training experience and observe live classes. Dr. Garrett mentioned that “Team Rocky Mount Prep is a diverse family of educators with several of our teachers scoring in the top 25% of teachers in the state in scholar academic growth. We are glad to share this wealth of knowledge with future educators.”
“This seamless partnership provides a wonderful opportunity to enlarge the pool of licensed and highly-qualified teachers to educate North Carolina’s K-12 students,” stated Dr. Kelvin Spragley, NCWU’s Director of Teacher Education.
During their time observing live classes and teaching techniques at Rocky Mount Prep, NC Wesleyan’s Teacher Education students will also have the chance to be trained as North Carolina Education Corps tutors for Rocky Mount Prep. North Carolina Education Corps partners with local public school units to recruit, train, and support corps members to accelerate learning and provide support for students. Corps members are employed by schools to work part-time as high-impact literacy tutors grounded in the science of reading and reading instruction.
About Rocky Mount Prep
Rocky Mount Prep is a tuition-free public charter school. Rocky Mount Prep educates scholars from Kindergarten to 12th grade from school districts across the Eastern North Carolina Region. Our instructional model serves the whole child in alignment with our mission “to educate, equip, and empower each scholar to excel.” The school is accepting applications for enrollment for the 2022-2023 school year. To learn more, visit rmprep.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.
