With the recent and difficult announcements of the impending closures of Saint Andrews University and Limestone University, North Carolina Wesleyan University is stepping forward to offer a new home and a supportive community for affected students. Understanding the whirlwind of emotions — uncertainty, frustration, and concern about the future — Wesleyan is committed to providing not just a pathway to continue their education but a family to stand beside them every step of the way.
“We recognize that many students are facing unexpected transitions, and we want them to know they are not alone,” said Dr. Evan Duff, President of NC Wesleyan. “Our goal is to offer a safe place, clear guidance, and a community that cheers them on to the finish line.”
To ease the transfer process, NC Wesleyan is waiving application and deposit fees and offering competitive financial aid packages. The University provides robust opportunities, including athletic programs, military and veteran support, international student services, and flexible adult studies. Students can also choose from top academic programs such as Business Administration, Education, Science, Exercise Science, and Criminal Justice.
Additionally, Wesleyan offers housing options and one-on-one advising to ensure a seamless transition. Named one of the safest and most affordable universities in North Carolina, NC Wesleyan delivers a personal, practical, and purpose-driven educational experience.
“Your academic journey isn’t over,” added Dr. Duff. “It’s simply finding a new chapter — and we are ready to help you finish strong, as part of our Bishop family.”
Learn more about these special transfer opportunities for SAU and LU students.
NCWU Recognizes Outstanding Employees at 2025 Awards Ceremony
North Carolina Wesleyan University recently held its 2025 Annual Employee Awards and Recognition Ceremony on Wednesday, April 23, 2025. The University’s Employee Awards ceremony provides recognition to coaches, faculty and staff for their years of service to the University and for exemplary service to the campus and community. Pictures from this event can be found at https://photos.ncwc.edu/Faculty-and-Staff-Awards-2025.
Wesleyan Service Awards
Recipients of the Wesleyan Service Award were Hunter Pulliam and Darnell Lawrence. These employees demonstrated outstanding service to the campus and/or community that was above and beyond their job responsibilities.
Hunter assisted in a Ward 7 “Fun Day” on campus. His nominee communicated his passion and service to the community and making the event a special day for all involved. He was recognized for being a team player who assisted with transporting, handing out materials, and going above and beyond.
Darnell was recognized for going above and beyond supervising custodians, but also helping with maintenance and grounds crew. He is often found on campus outside of his working hours ensuring that campus is in the best condition it can be in for campus guests and visitors to experience.
Jefferson-Pilot Professorship Award
This year’s Jefferson-Pilot Professorship Award winner was Dr. Gail Marsal who presented her Lecture on April 10th. Regarded as one of the highest honors and form of recognition a faculty member may receive, this award is designed for the faculty members scholarly contributions to their students, the campus, and their professional field of study. Nominations are made by Faculty Council and a grant is made available to the recipient for professional development.
Distinguished Staff Award
The Distinguished Staff Award was presented to Allen Meszaros, Network Administrator. This award is designed to honor those staff members who have exhibited outstanding work performance and/or service and dedication to the University or the community. Examples include, but are not limited to, outstanding program development, positive attitude in relationships with faculty, staff and students, noteworthy achievement or exemplary leadership on the campus or in the community.
Leah Hill and Dr. Daniel Elias were both presented with the Inspirational Award honoring employees who exemplify a positive attitude and demeanor that is inspirational to students, faculty, staff, and the greater campus community. These people make an extraordinary effort to support others whose efforts improve morale and positively impacts students, faculty, and staff as well as demonstrate the University’s core values.
Chuck Taylor Leadership Award
The Chuck Taylor Leadership Award was given to Elliott Smith, Director of Student Engagement. This award is presented to employees who demonstrate and live the following: Principles of servant leadership; Building community by promoting a work environment that is respectful, collegial and supportive; Orienting goals and achievements in line with the University’s mission; Exhibiting strong stewardship of institutional resources (time, talent, financial); Developing a shared vision of institutional excellence; fosters an atmosphere of collaboration and creativity, which contributes to the efficiency and effectiveness of productivity. This individual is also an effective leader of people.
Longevity Awards were also given to various full-time and part-time employees for their years of service. Recognition was awarded in 5-year, 10-year, 15-year, etc. increments of service to the University for the contractual or fiscal year.
Congratulations to all employees who were honored and we thank each employee for your dedication and commitment to NC Wesleyan University! For more information regarding Faculty and Staff Awards or to nominate an employee, visit https://ncwu.edu/faculty-staff-resources/facult’y-staff-service-awards/.
NCWU Earns #1 and #2 Honors as 2025-26 Military Friendly® Institution
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) is proud to announce it has been named a 2025-2026 Military Friendly® Gold Top 10 School, earning the impressive #2 national ranking in the category of “Private Institutions Not Offering Doctorate Degrees.” In addition, NCWU has been ranked #1 as a 2025-2026 Military Friendly® Military Spouse Friendly School—a testament to the University’s unwavering commitment to military-connected students and their families.
These prestigious designations reflect NCWU’s dedication to fostering an environment where veterans, active-duty service members, and their spouses can thrive academically, socially, and personally. Out of more than 1,800 participating institutions, only 830 earned special recognition for going above and beyond in serving military students. Rankings were determined through a combination of public data, proprietary surveys, and rigorous assessment criteria including student retention, graduation, job placement, and loan default rates—specifically for military and veteran students.
“At North Carolina Wesleyan University, we are deeply grateful for the service and sacrifices made by our nation’s veterans and their families,” said Laura Brown, Associate Dean of Veteran Services. “These designations reaffirm our mission to support military-connected students through accessible education, dedicated resources, and a community that recognizes and honors their unique experiences.”
One such example of this support is Nicholas and Amelia Hosine, a Bishop couple and U.S. Army veterans who are now pursuing their degrees in Organizational Leadership at NCWU with plans to graduate in December 2025. Having transferred from Wake Tech Community College, they found the University’s flexible online programs and transfer-friendly pathways ideal for balancing academics and family life.
“The transition from military to college life was both challenging and rewarding,” Nicholas shared. “NCWU provided a welcoming environment where I felt supported from the moment I applied. The advisors, faculty, and staff have gone above and beyond to ensure student veterans are set up for success.”
The Hosines highlight NCWU’s quarterly class schedule as a key benefit—keeping them focused, engaged, and moving steadily toward their goals. They credit their time in service with instilling discipline and leadership, while Wesleyan has sharpened their critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. “The combination of military experience and a Wesleyan education is preparing us for impactful careers where we can lead, support others, and continue to grow,” Nicholas added.
When asked what it meant to them to attend an institution that received these rankings, Nicholas responded “I truly believe NCWU deserves this award and I am proud to be part of a school that values and supports military-affiliated students. the support I have received throughout the registration process and while working with advisors has been outstanding. Everyone has been helpful, understanding, and committed to student success, especially for veterans.”
The full list of recognized institutions will be published in the May and October issues of G.I. Jobs magazine and at MilitaryFriendly.com.
Kayla Lopez, National Director of Military Partnerships at Military Friendly®, stated, “Institutions that earn these distinctions show true commitment to the success of military students and their families. They set a benchmark for excellence and help raise the bar across higher education.”
Methodology, criteria, and weightings were determined by Viqtory with input from the Military Friendly ® Advisory Council of independent leaders in the higher education and military recruitment community. Final ratings were determined by combining the institution’s survey scores with the assessment of the institution’s ability to meet thresholds for Student Retention, Graduation, Job Placement, Loan Repayment, Persistence (Degree Advancement or Transfer) and Loan Default rates for all students and, specifically, for student veterans.
As NCWU prepares the next generation of leaders, it remains steadfast in its mission to meet students where they are—whether in a classroom, online, or transitioning from military service to civilian life.
“Military Friendly® is committed to transparency and providing consistent data-driven standards in our designation process. Our standards provide a benchmark that promotes positive outcomes and support services that better the educational landscape and provide opportunity for the Military Community. This creates a competitive atmosphere that encourages Institutions to evolve and invest in their programs consistently. Schools who achieve awards designation show true commitment in their efforts, going over and above that standard.” – Kayla Lopez, National Director of Military Partnerships, Military Friendly. ®
About Military Friendly ® Schools:
The Military Friendly® Schools list is created each year based on extensive research using public data sources from more than 8,800 schools nationwide, input from student veterans, and responses to the proprietary, data-driven Military Friendly® Schools survey from participating institutions. The survey questions, methodology, criteria and weighting were developed with the assistance of an independent research firm and an advisory council of educators and employers. The survey is administered for free and is open to all postsecondary schools that wish to participate. Criteria for consideration can be found at www.militaryfriendly.com.
About Viqtory:
Founded in 2001, VIQTORY is a service-disabled, veteran-owned small business (SDVOSB) that connects the military community to civilian employment, educational and entrepreneurial opportunities through its G.I. Jobs® and Military Friendly® brands. VIQTORY and its brands are not a part of or endorsed by the U.S. Dept of Defense or any federal government entity. Learn more about VIQTORY at www.viqtory.com.
NCWU Hosts Omnium Conference
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) held its inaugural Omnium Conference on Wednesday, April 9 at the Gateway Technology Center on campus. The event spotlighted undergraduate research and celebrated scholarly achievement across disciplines.
The Omnium Conference is a formal presentation of student research papers in affiliation with Omnium: The Undergraduate Research Journal at NCWU. Omnium is 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 sixth volume, 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 sole editor and Dr. Shane Thompson, Assistant Professor of Bible and the Ancient Near East, is a co-founder of the conference which is poised to become an annual event.
“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”.
The 2025 conference featured nine student presentations, organized into three thematic sessions followed by interactive panel discussions:
- Session 1: From Fact to Fiction, From Fiction to Fact
- Natalie Messer – “Exodus: The Unknown Apocalyptic Text”
- Clarence Alexander Sanderford – “Doomsday on Screen: How Apocalyptic Films Reflect Society’s Fears”
- Maxima Iglesias – “The Illusion of Achieving Happiness Without Effort”
- Session 2: Challenging Harmful Cultures
- Kya Alston – “Ebonics: Putting Respect to Black Sound”
- Shafiq Nuijts – “Whose Independence? Challenging the Netherlands’ Commemorative Culture”
- Layali Kasem – “Weathering the Heights of Withering Critics & Whittling at the Global Theory Industry”
- Session 3: Healing Our Communities
- Christian Van Norden – “Racism in Healthcare: Dissolving Barriers and Seeking Justice”
- Anna Hamilton – “The Porn Problem: How Widespread Accessibility Harms Mental Health and Social Norms”
- Jolyna Sundbom – “Farm to Fork in Your Community: The Advantages of Sustainable Agriculture”
This year’s keynote address was delivered by Dr. Shannon Crowley, Associate Professor of Public Health and Director of Public Health Program. Her presentation explored the psychological and physiological impacts of movement and exercise.
The 2025 conference marked a new collaboration between Dr. Thierauf and Dr. Shane Thompson, Director of the Office of Undergraduate Research. Together, they aim to expand Omnium’s mission to highlight the exceptional work being produced by NCWU undergraduates across all disciplines.
The Spring 2025 conference also served as a proof-of-concept for future interdisciplinary research showcases, reinforcing NCWU’s ongoing commitment to undergraduate academic excellence.
NCWU Celebrates an Open House Ceremony for New Nursing Facility
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) proudly celebrated the upcoming launch of its new Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Program, set to welcome its first cohort in Fall 2025. To mark this milestone, the University hosted a private Open House and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony on Thursday, April 10, 2025, on its Rocky Mount campus.
The event welcomed generous donors, University leadership, and community partners for an exclusive preview of the state-of-the-art nursing facilities. This was only possible with generous partnerships such as: Golden LEAF Foundation, UNC Nash Hospital, Cannon Foundation, The Eddie & Jo Allison Smith Family Foundation, Daniel and Brenda Crocker, Paul and Leslie Bauer, Lonnie and Carol Poole Family Foundation, Southern Bank Foundation, State of North Carolina Treasury, Rocky Mount Community Foundation, Gerald and Melia Cox, and Guardian Corporation. Attendees had the opportunity to tour newly designed classrooms, faculty offices, simulation labs, study areas, and break rooms—all tailored to support the next generation of nursing professionals.
Special remarks were shared by NCWU President Dr. Evan D. Duff, who noted, “Five years ago we started making plans to launch a BSN Program and we were able to bring those plans to fruition with important hires, and the support of our community and dedicated donors.” underscoring the impact and importance of this new program to the region. He shared how the facility began as bank facility, was then donated to Wesleyan, and has since then been utilized for other purposes. It was decided that it would become Wesleyan’s mission to “focus all energy on converting this building to a state-of-the- art Nursing Education Facility”.
The ceremony concluded with an official ribbon cutting, symbolizing the beginning of an exciting new chapter in NCWU’s commitment to advancing healthcare education and serving the needs of eastern North Carolina.
A second Open House will be held on Wednesday, April 16, for faculty, staff, and other invited guests to view the facilities and learn more about the BSN program.
For more information about the Bachelor of Science in Nursing at NCWU, please visit https://ncwu.edu/academics/majors-minors/nursing/.
University Celebrates 2025 Honors Convocation
Rocky Mount, NC – April 3, 2025 – North Carolina Wesleyan University proudly hosted its annual Honors Convocation, celebrating the exceptional achievements of its students. The event, held at the Dunn Center for the Performing Arts, recognized students who have demonstrated outstanding leadership, academic excellence, community service, and contributions to the university.
The ceremony included the presentation of various awards from each school within the university:
- School of Math and Sciences: Awards for outstanding achievements in disciplines such as Biology, Chemistry, Exercise Science, Environmental Science, Public Health, and Mathematics.
- School of Business: Recognized excellence in fields like Accounting, Marketing, Computer Information Systems, and Organizational and Sports Administration.
- School of Education and Social Sciences : Honored students who have demonstrated exceptional dedication and skill in teaching, educational leadership, History, Political Science, Psychology and Criminal Justice.
- School of Humanities: Awards for outstanding achievements in disciplines such as Writing, Religious Studies, English and more.
Students were selected for these prestigious honors by a panel of faculty and staff, based on their leadership, academic achievement, community service, contributions to the university, and good citizenship. There is no doubt that these students will go on to accomplish great things.
Provost Dr. Joe Lane expressed his pride in the students’ accomplishments, stating, “Our awardees and honor society members have displayed outstanding contributions both inside and outside the classroom. Their dedication and hard work are truly commendable, and we are confident that they will continue to excel in their future endeavors.”
North Carolina Wesleyan University remains committed to fostering an environment of academic excellence and leadership, and the Honors Convocation is a testament to the university’s dedication to recognizing and celebrating student achievements.
When you see these students, please take a moment to congratulate them.
To See entire list and photos from event, visit ncwu.edu/academics/academic-honors
Office of Undergraduate Research Announces 2025 Omnium Conference
Rocky Mount, NC – Omnium and the NC Wesleyan University (NCWU) Office for Undergraduate Research are thrilled to announce the 2025 Omnium Conference, set to take place at the Gateway Technology Center’s Media Center on Wednesday, April 9, 2025, from 9:30 AM to 3:00 PM.
This exciting event will feature nine NCWU students presenting research papers they have developed for their courses, ranging from first-year writing assignments to honors projects. Attendees will have the opportunity to support these talented students and enjoy complimentary food while participating in one or more sessions.
A highlight of the conference will be the keynote presentation by Dr. Shannon Crowley at 1:00 PM. Dr. Crowley’s insights and expertise promise to be a valuable addition to the day’s events.
Event Details:
- Date: Wednesday, April 9, 2025
- Time: 9:30 AM – 3:00 PM
- Location: Gateway Technology Center’s Media Center
This event is open to the public, and all are encouraged to attend and support the academic achievements of NCWU’s undergraduate researchers.
About the NCWU Office for Undergraduate Research
The NCWU Office of Undergraduate Research (OUR) is dedicated to fostering an environment where students from all disciplines can engage in advanced inquiry through research, creative, and scholarly experiences. Our mission is to support and promote these opportunities, ensuring that students have the resources and guidance they need to explore their academic interests deeply. Our vision is to encourage collaboration between faculty members and students, enhancing professional advancement and life-long learning. Through research, scholarly, and creative endeavors, we aim to cultivate a community of learners who are prepared to contribute meaningfully to their fields and society.
NCWU Celebrates 10th Anniversary of an Award-Winning Afterschool Program
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) hosted a special celebration on Saturday, March 29, to mark the 10th Anniversary of its Award-Winning Afterschool Program. The event, held on the Southern Bank Green at the heart of campus, brought together community members, faculty, students, and program supporters to recognize a decade of impact in education.
The celebration featured an invocation, greetings, and reflections from esteemed speakers, including Deon Bailey, Joylette Whitaker, Dr. Chad Ross, Sarah Turner, Dr. Patricia Brewer, and Dr. Kelvin Spragley. In addition to the esteemed speakers were testimonials from the students and their parents, covering their challenges and successes in the program. Attendees also enjoyed games, activities, and a parade to conclude the event.
The Afterschool Tutorial Initiative was launched in February 2015 through NCWU’s Teacher Education Program in collaboration with the Association for the Learning Disabled and Handicapped (ALDH). The initiative was created in response to the growing need for intensive, specialized services for K-12 students with learning differences. Through strong partnerships with parents, Nash and Edgecombe County Schools, and ALDH, the program quickly became a vital resource for students and their families.
Over the years, the program has evolved into an integrated clinical lab, utilizing research-based practices in math and reading. NCWU students enrolled in the Introduction to Exceptional Children (SPE 300) course work directly with K-12 students, providing individualized training and resources to enhance learning outcomes. These pre-service educators gain valuable experience by applying social learning strategies, tracking progress, conducting parent-student conferences, and developing accommodations tailored to each child’s educational plan.
Dr. Patricia Brewer, Executive Director of the Afterschool Program, plays a crucial role in coordinating instruction and providing advocacy training for parents. These advocacy sessions equip families with tools and strategies to support their children’s academic success, including simulated parent conferences and specialized training modules.
Since its inception, the program has celebrated numerous student achievements. Two high school graduates have already launched successful career paths—one securing employment at Amazon in Cary, N.C., and another completing welding training at Wayne Community College in Goldsboro, N.C. Additionally, many participating students have earned local, state, and national recognition for their academic, social, and emotional growth. In April 2024, the Award-Winning Program was featured in the national newspaper Education Week, addressing educator preparation programs on parent and family engagement.
The Afterschool Program was designated as an award-winning initiative by the National Education Association and the NC Student Association of Educators in 2016. Over the past decade, 31 students have participated in the program, with seven publications showcasing its impact.
NCWU remains committed to fostering student success through innovative and inclusive educational programs. The University is proud to celebrate this milestone and looks forward to continuing to make a difference in the lives of students for years to come.
NCWU’s Dr. Tim Dornemann Expands Global Impact in Sports Science Education
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) is committed to fostering global engagement among its faculty and staff, encouraging them to share their expertise and passion beyond campus. Dr. Tim Dornemann, Ed.D., CES, PES, CSCS, CPSS OS Pro., Associate Professor of Exercise Science and Director of the MS-HSPSS Program, exemplifies this commitment through his international contributions to sports science education.
While preparing to launch NCWU’s new Master of Science in Human Performance & Sports Science (MS-HSPSS) Program in Fall 2025, Dr. Dornemann is currently sharing his knowledge in India . He spent a few days at the Sports University of Haryana, a premier institution dedicated to advancing sports education. During his time there, he co-hosted clinics engaging 400 participants. He then led a specialized clinic for Sports Authority of India in Kolkata, reaching an additional 200 in-person attendees, as well as online participants from across the country.
These global initiatives often serve as the foundation for future dual enrollment opportunities between N.C. Wesleyan and international institutions, fostering cross-cultural learning and collaboration. Dr. Dornemann’ s dedication to global engagement is further demonstrated though his recent work worldwide. Last summer, he joined The Board of Directors for The Christian Society of Kinesiology and Leisure Studies (CSKLS) in Longview Texas at LeTourneau University, conducted both a corrective exercise clinic at Trinity School and a strength and exercise workshop in the Philippines, and worked with athletes and soccer coaches at North Chiang Mai University in Thailand. N.C. Wesleyan is proud of Dr. Dornemann’ s contributions to the field of sports science and his efforts to expand the university’s global reach. His work reinforces the university’s commitment to academic excellence and international collaboration.
NCWU Generates Over $209 Million in Economic Impact
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) continues to be a vital economic driver in Central and Eastern North Carolina, contributing $209.3 million to the regional economy in fiscal year 2022-23, according to a recent economic impact study performed by Lightcast.
The report highlights NCWU’s role in job creation, business development, and workforce readiness, supporting 2,316 jobs across Edgecombe, Franklin, Halifax, Johnston, Nash, Pitt, and Wilson counties. The university employs 244 faculty and staff, with payroll expenditures of $16.3 million circulating throughout the local economy. Additionally, NCWU serves as both an employer and buyer of goods for its day-to-day and construction operations.
NCWU’s commitment to innovation and entrepreneurship is evident in its spin-off companies, which include MBM Corporation, FullSTEAM, Taylor Financials and Stroud Company CPA, generating $18.1 million in regional income. These companies, founded and nurtured by university programs, faculty, and alumni, have strong ties to NCWU and continue to create economic opportunities in the region.
Out-of-region visitors attracted to North Carolina activities at Wesleyan brought new dollars to the economy through their spending at restaurants, gas stations, and other regional businesses. Visitor spending from university events contributed an additional $413,000, while student spending added $4.9 million. Around 47% of students attending Wesleyan originated from outside the region. In addition, some retained students would have left the Central and Eastern NC for other educational opportunities if not for NCWU. These relocated and retained students spent money on groceries, rent payments, and other living expenses at regional businesses.
NCWU’s alumni play a significant role in the regional economy. Former students currently in the workforce generate $156.8 million in added income, supporting approximately 1,640 jobs. Whether the impact is evident once in a lifetime or a million times a day, it is a lasting impact.
Students experience a strong return on investment, gaining an estimated $4.90 in higher future earnings for every dollar invested in their education. In return for their investment, students will receive a stream of higher future earnings that will continue to grow throughout their working lives. For example, the average NCWU bachelor’s degree graduate from FY 2022-23 will see annual earnings that are $29,900 higher than a person with a high school diploma or equivalent working in North Carolina.
The university’s presence also provides substantial benefits to North Carolina taxpayers, generating $48.5 million in increased tax revenues and reducing demand for government-funded services. Over the course of students’ careers, NCWU’s contributions to the state economy are projected to reach $461.1 million, yielding a social return of $38.4 million in social savings.
Beyond economic contributions, the education provided by NCWU leads to significant social savings in areas such as healthcare, the justice system, and income assistance. A more educated workforce results in lower healthcare costs, reduced crime rates, and decreased reliance on government supported programs, yielding an estimated $38.4 million in social savings.
Overall, the social benefits of NCWU amount to a present value of $499.5 million, encompassing $294.3 million in added student income, $135.5 million in additional business income, $31.5 million from university activities, and $38.4 million in social savings.
NCWU President Dr. Evan D. Duff emphasized the university’s impact, stating “This study reaffirms NCWU’s role as a catalyst for regional economic growth, workforce development, and social mobility. We are proud to contribute to the prosperity of North Carolina and remain committed to providing high-quality education that fuels individual and community success.”
Wesleyan continues to create value by equipping students with the skills necessary for career success and economic mobility. The university’s influence extends beyond its classrooms, shaping the lives of its students and strengthening the broader regional economy. It offers a best-in-class value and a personally tailored private higher education experience. Wesleyan invests in each and every student by providing individualized experiences that are Personal, Practical, and Purpose-Driven.
To read more about this report, click here!
