ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – North Carolina Wesleyan University recently procured a substantial theological library collection from the family of the late Rev. Dr. Frank Scurry. Dr. Scurry was president emeritus of the now defunct Carolina Graduate School of Divinity, an accredited interdenominational seminary located in Greensboro, NC.
Dr. Scurry pastored in the NC Yearly Meeting of Friends for 25 years before starting and leading Carolina Graduate School of Divinity in 1994. Upon closure of the institution, he sought to sell the collection of roughly 25,000 books. Consistent with the interdenominational mission of the Carolina Graduate School of Divinity, the collection contains approximately 17,000 volumes and represents a broad, balanced perspective on church history, theology, pastoral ministry, biblical studies and ethics. The large volume of books is estimated to be worth over $500,000 and will be housed in the Elizabeth Braswell Pearsall Library in custom-made cherry shelving, also donated with the books.
Rev. Dr. Hugh Hoyle, a Carolina Graduate School of Divinity alum, and wife, Lois Hoyle, the former librarian, connected five years ago with NC Wesleyan’s Chaplain, Rev. Dr. Barry Drum, about Wesleyan’s possible purchase of the collection. Dr. Drum, in conjunction with the Hoyles and Dr. Scurry, secured the donation during the summer of 2019 with the help of NC Wesleyan’s Advancement Office and Administration. The collection will increase the overall number of volumes in Wesleyan’s library by almost 25 percent.
“This generous gift from Dr. Scurry and the Carolina Graduate School of Divinity will strengthen NC Wesleyan’s commitment to theology as a primary pillar of liberal arts education. All Wesleyan students are required to take introductory general education courses in Religious Studies, as well as related classes in ethics. This collection broadens the relevant resources available to both students and faculty,” stated Rev. Dr. Barry Drum.
The collection enhances Wesleyan’s future endeavors to expand their Religious Studies program in studies of the Bible, church history, theology and ethics.
Dr. Scurry’s wife, Virginia Scurry, and their son, David Scurry, were recognized at a dedication on December 5 in Wesleyan’s Pearsall Library.
NC Wesleyan Holds 80th Commencement Ceremony
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – On Saturday, December 5, North Carolina Wesleyan University held its Winter Commencement for 195 graduates on the front lawn of campus. This was the College’s 80th graduation, with the first occurring in 1964.
The closed event was open only to graduates, faculty and the platform party to allow the College to ensure physical distance and the safety of those participating. Masks were provided to all graduates and each participant was required to wear their mask at all times during this outdoor event. There were 18 international graduates from nine countries: Argentina, Cambodia, Venezuela, United Kingdom, Nepal, Italy, France, Japan and Mexico. This commencement also included the first cohort of Wesleyan’s new Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) program, with 22 students graduating. NCWC’s MBA Program began its first cohort in January 2020. The one-year program is 100% online and consists of five eight-week sessions, two classes per session and ends with a final capstone course.
“It is always invigorating to see our students bring their hard work, dedication and learning from Wesleyan to fruition through our commencement exercises. We persevered through one of the most challenging years of our lives and we did it by supporting each other. Commencement is an essential process that fulfills the instructional mission of the College,” stated President Dr. Evan D. Duff.
Alumna, Ms. Latisha Scott ’06, performed the Star-Spangled Banner followed by a baccalaureate message from College Chaplain, Rev. Dr. Barry Drum. In his message, Dr. Drum encouraged students to use their critical thinking skills in their everyday life, challenging them to “think critically, but believe passionately.”
The commencement address was given by Ms. Sharon Lawrence. Lawrence is an award-winning actress with roles on NYPD Blue, the Dynasty reboot, and can most recently be seen opposite Kirsten Dunst in Showtime’s On Becoming a God in Central Florida. She also appears on several different television series, including: Shameless, Criminal Minds, Grey’s Anatomy, the CBS comedy, “Me, Myself and I,” and the Apple + series Home Before Dark. A native of North
Carolina, she was born in Charlotte and later moved to Raleigh where she graduated from Broughton High School. Lawrence attended the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, graduating in 1983 with a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism.
Lawrence addressed the graduates, stating: “I learned from my family that education and determination are important. I’ve learned how empowering it is to give back and I hope that you honor and cherish input from your friends and family, that you keep learning every day and you have big goals and dreams and serve others.” She went on to encourage them by saying “There is so much more ahead for all of us and I look forward to seeing where you, the distinguished Class of 2020, will go and how North Carolina Wesleyan continues to grow.”
The event was live streamed and recorded so family and friends could celebrate with their students virtually. Photographs of the event can be found HERE.
NC Wesleyan Freshman Speaks on Native American History
Honoring National Native American Heritage Month
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – North Carolina Wesleyan University is home to students from many different cultures and backgrounds. With November being National Native American Heritage Month, NCWC freshman Zachary Blake Scott took the time to educate and enlighten others about his tribe and American Indians in general. National Native American Heritage Month pays tribute to the rich ancestry and traditions of Native Americans.
Scott, who is a member of the Lumbee tribe of North Carolina, is majoring in Criminal Justice, minoring in Political Science and outfielder on the NC Wesleyan baseball team. Born and raised in Pembroke, a town in Robeson County, Scott is a community advocate in native outreach among the youth. He is passionate about singing and one of the youngest members of the American Indian drum group, Southern Sun Singers. All of his life, he has enjoyed attending powwows — a way that Native Americans get together to dance, sing and eat. Scott is the grandson of a minister and remains very dedicated to his faith and Christianity.
According to Scott: “The Lumbee are descendants of Siouan, Algonquian, and Iroquoian speaking tribes who lived in North Carolina prior to European contact. We are considered as Eastern Woodland people because we have always depended on the natural resources around us to provide basic needs such as food, shelter, clothing, weapons, medicines and tools. We have a culture of agriculture, family, hunting, gathering and Christianity. In fact, I still live on the farmland that my grandfather was raised on. All of my relatives have worked on this farm as their livelihood. My ancestors lived amongst the pines, swamps and the dark waters of the Lumber River, where we get our name. Many of the Lumbee still call this area home. We have never lived on a reservation. After European contact, my tribe, like others in North Carolina, were colonized. Many of our tribal distinctions were lost at the time. We lost our language, we dressed like colonists and most took on the Christian religion. Not much is written about our history because we, like most all tribes, passed down our stories verbally.”
There are eight state recognized tribes in the state of North Carolina, with only the Cherokee being federally recognized. In 1885, the state of NC recognized the Lumbee Tribe (not originally called Lumbee) and established a separate school system for tribal members. In 1953, the tribe’s name was changed to Lumbee.
Scott notes: “In 1956, Congress recognized the Lumbee as Indian, but failed to give us the status of a federally recognized tribe, which denied us benefits granted to federally recognized tribes. For years, my people have been fighting for federal recognition. There have been numerous bills regarding this to pass the House but has always stalled in Senate. Just this week, the Lumbee Recognition Act was passed out of the House of Representatives again. I am hopeful that it will not be long before we are granted the recognition we deserve.”
About the Lumbee Tribe
The 55,000 members of the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina reside primarily in Robeson, Hoke, Cumberland and Scotland counties. The Lumbee Tribe is the largest tribe in North Carolina, the largest tribe east of the Mississippi River and the ninth largest in the nation. The Lumbee take their name from the Lumbee River which winds its way through Robeson County. Pembroke, North Carolina is the economic, cultural and political center of the tribe.
NCWC & Pitt Community College Reauthorize Enhanced Memorandum of Understanding
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWC) recently reauthorized an agreement that will help qualified graduates of Pitt Community College (Pitt CC) transfer to Wesleyan. The agreement will strengthen the partnership the two have had in place since 2012 and provides a seamless transfer for students who enroll at Wesleyan following completion of their two-year degree at Pitt CC.
“Pitt Community College is proud and excited to continue our transfer partnership with NC Wesleyan. This partnership has provided our graduates with a seamless transfer to a four-year institution, and this enhanced agreement will bring additional opportunities to our students,” stated Dr. Thomas Gould, VP of Academic Affairs for Pitt CC.
The agreement will enhance and expand the educational opportunities of Associate in Arts, Associate in Science and Associate in Applied Science graduates by offering Pitt CC graduates 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 Pitt CC to NC Wesleyan. This MOU allows Pitt CC Associate in Applied Science students to transfer an additional 15 hours of general education credits for a total of 75 transfer credits.
“We have enjoyed a successful partnership with Pitt Community College and are excited to enhance this agreement which provides additional opportunities for their students. Our goal has always been to support the community college mission and provide their graduates with a convenient and affordable pathway to complete their 4-year degree,” stated Katie Farrell, Associate Dean of Adult & Professional Studies.
Students who graduate from Pitt CC 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 Pitt CC students who may not have otherwise been able to attend the College. NC Wesleyan remains committed to Pitt CC as a partner and has staff members on their campus designated specifically to assisting graduates of Pitt CC with the admission and advising processes.
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 College’s main campus. The program is ideal for students who would like to attend NC Wesleyan’s evening or online programs.
NC Wesleyan & Wilson Community College Renew Memorandum of Understanding
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWC) recently reauthorized an agreement that will help qualified graduates of Wilson Community College (WCC) transfer to Wesleyan. The agreement aims to provide a seamless transfer for students who enroll at Wesleyan following completion of their two-year degree at WCC.
Leaders of both colleges signed the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) virtually on November 19. The MOU expands upon the previously signed agreement, allowing WCC students to transfer an additional 15 hours of general education credits, whereas the last MOU allowed for 60 total transfer credits.
WCC Vice President for Academic Affairs Mr. Rob Holsten shared, “We are excited to continue and expand our partnership with North Carolina Wesleyan University to offer more options for students to continue their studies after completing their two-year degree here at Wilson Community College. This type of partnership furthers the College’s mission to help students reach their educational goals and adds to existing opportunities for transferable degrees.”
The agreement will enhance and expand the educational opportunities of Associate in Arts, Associate in Science and Associate in Applied Science graduates by offering WCC graduates 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.
“NC Wesleyan and Wilson Community College continue to be strong partners for the matriculation of WCC graduates to an affordable, local education at the undergraduate and graduate level. North Carolina Wesleyan University remains committed to WCC as a partner and has staff members designated specifically to assisting graduates of Wilson Community College with the admission and advising processes,” according to Michael Drew, Dean of Admissions and Adult Studies. “Our community, businesses and region rely on Wesleyan’s commitment to these partnerships to fulfill these educational opportunities”
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 College.
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 College’s main campus. The program is ideal for students who would like to attend NC Wesleyan’s evening or online programs.
NC Wesleyan Celebrates 15th Annual Lighting of Wesleyan
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – North Carolina Wesleyan University hosted its 15th annual Lighting of Wesleyan event on Tuesday, November 17. As with most recent events in 2020, the format of the celebration had to be altered due to COVID-19. In lieu of North Carolina Wesleyan’s typical yearly festivities, the College opted to decorate the campus for students and the community to enjoy in a COVID-appropriate setting.
In years past, the College has held a community event that included a live nativity, Christmas carols, free hayrides, a meet-and-greet with Santa, hot beverages, concessions and ended with the viewing of a Christmas show at The Dunn Center. Guests were also able to stroll through the College commons while enjoying a large collection of Christmas lights and inflatables. The College’s semester is set to end early due to the pandemic. With students leaving campus for Christmas break on November 24, this event was moved up several weeks in order to allow students time to admire the sights. To continue spreading the holiday spirit, the community is invited to drive through Wesleyan’s beautiful campus from November 25-December 11. Guests must remain in their vehicles at all times, as this is a drive-through viewing only. Come out and experience NC Wesleyan’s beautiful campus while kicking off the Christmas season!
NCWC Wins National Contest
Exercise is Medicine® on Campus Mascot Challenge
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – North Carolina Wesleyan University was recently selected by the American College of Sports Medicine as the Judges’ Pick for first place in The Exercise is Medicine® On Campus (EIM-OC) Mascot Challenge video contest. This year, a record 32 colleges and universities submitted video entries.
As the first-place winner, the NC Wesleyan EIM-OC team will be receiving a $1,000 grant to host physical activity programming on Wesleyan’s campus. The video was created by Dr. Shannon Crowley, EIM-OC Advisor, Dr. Danielle Braxton, Health and Movement Science Club Advisor and Health and Movement Science Club student officers Emily Ketchum, Isaiah Matta, Savion Young and Rolando Valladarez. NC Wesleyan’s EIM-OC Leadership Team members, Dr. Meir Magal and Physician Assistant Jessica Brys-Wilson, also assisted with creation of the video. The submission, which featured NCWC’s mascot, Wes, can be viewed below.
“Our EIM-OC Leadership Team and Health and Movement Science Club have done a fantastic job in their efforts to promote the health benefits of physical activity on campus. We are thrilled to receive this award for our Exercise is Medicine on Campus video submission,” stated Dr. Shannon Crowley, Assistant Professor of Exercise Science.
The vision of Exercise is Medicine® (EIM), a global health initiative managed by the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), is to make physical activity assessment and promotion a standard in clinical care, connecting health care with evidence-based physical activity resources for people everywhere and of all abilities. Exercise is Medicine® On Campus (EIM-OC) calls upon universities and colleges to promote physical activity as a vital sign of health. EIM-OC encourages faculty, staff and students to work together toward improving the health and well-being of the campus community.
NC Wesleyan & Nash Community College Renew Memorandum of Understanding
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWC) recently reauthorized an agreement that will help qualified graduates of Nash Community College (NCC) transfer to Wesleyan. The agreement aims to provide a seamless transfer for students who enroll at Wesleyan following completion of their two-year degree at NCC.
Leaders of both colleges attended the November 6 signing held on the campus of North Carolina Wesleyan University. The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) expands upon the previously signed agreement, allowing NCC students to transfer an additional 15 hours of general education credits, whereas the last MOU allowed for 60 total transfer credits.
“I am proud to continue to partner with President Duff and North Carolina Wesleyan University to enhance educational access and opportunities in Nash County and beyond,” NCC President Dr. Lew Hunnicutt said. “Our two colleges complement each other well, and together we will continue to meet community and student needs well into the future.”
The agreement will enhance and expand the educational opportunities of Associate in Arts, Associate in Science and Associate in Applied Science graduates by offering NCC graduates 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 NCC to NC Wesleyan.
“North Carolina Wesleyan University and NCC have long partnered for the education and service to the greater Nash County area. We are fortunate to continue this long-lasting and thriving relationship which offers NCC graduates the opportunity to matriculate for undergraduate and graduate degree options at NCWC. These partnerships are vital for employers and businesses to advance our region,” stated Michael Drew, Dean of Admissions & Adult Studies.
Students who graduate from NCC 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 NCC students who may not have otherwise been able to attend the College. 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 College’s main campus. The program is ideal for students who would like to attend NC Wesleyan’s evening or online programs.
NC Wesleyan & Craven Community College Sign Memorandum of Understanding
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWC) recently signed an agreement that will help qualified graduates of Craven Community College (Craven CC) transfer to Wesleyan. The agreement aims to provide a seamless transfer for students who enroll at Wesleyan following completion of their two-year degree at Craven CC.
Leaders of both colleges signed the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on November 5 in a virtual signing via Zoom. This new agreement adds Craven CC to a list of over 30 other colleges and community colleges throughout North Carolina that have a transfer partnership with NCWC.
“We are proud to partner with NC Wesleyan and provide our graduates an opportunity to participate in Wesleyan Works,” said Craven CC President Dr. Ray Staats. “Providing our students opportunities to build upon their degrees they’ve earned at Craven CC gives them a convenient and seamless way to earn their baccalaureate degrees, and NC Wesleyan offers program options that align with many of our associate degrees. We value our university partnerships as they provide local options for our students and demonstrate our commitment to lifelong learning.”
The agreement will enhance and expand the educational opportunities of Associate in Arts, Associate in Science and Associate in Applied Science graduates by offering Craven CC graduates 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 Craven CC to NC Wesleyan. This MOU allows Craven CC Associate in Applied Science students to transfer an additional 15 hours of general education credits for a total of 75 transfer credits.
“NCWC has enjoyed a successful partnership with Craven Community College since 2015 and we are excited to enhance the benefits of this partnership in 2020,” stated Katie Farrell, Associate Dean of Adult & Professional Studies. “Our goal has always been focused on improving transfer credits for community college graduates and through this agreement, Craven graduates will have increased flexibility in transferring their credits resulting in a faster and affordable pathway to their 4-year degree.”
Students who graduate from Craven CC 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 Craven CC students who may not have otherwise been able to attend the College.
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 College’s main campus. The program is ideal for students who would like to attend NC Wesleyan’s evening or online programs.
About North Carolina Wesleyan University
North Carolina Wesleyan University, a private institution affiliated with the United Methodist Church, prepares students for professional advancement, life-long learning and responsible participation in their communities. NC Wesleyan University provides a highly personalized education in a dynamic and challenging environment. With students from all over the United States and more than 40 different countries, NC Wesleyan is a small college with a big taste for cultural diversity. To learn more, visit ncwu.edu and follow on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and Instagram.
About Craven Community College
Founded in 1965, Craven Community College (Craven CC) is part of the North Carolina Community College System. With campuses in New Bern and Havelock-Cherry Point, Craven CC serves about 3,200 curriculum students and more than 10,000 continuing education students each year. The college offers a wide range of associate degree and certificate programs, as well as college transfer courses, career and occupational offerings, partnerships with four-year universities, specialized workforce training options, developmental studies and basic skills classes. The Lifetime Learning Center and Adult Enrichment Program offer lifelong learning opportunities. Craven Early College High School programs are available on both campuses. Craven CC is also home to Public Radio East, one of the few community colleges nationally with this distinction. For more information about the college, visit www.cravencc.edu.
COVID-19 Update – October 28
There are four weeks left before the end of the fall 2020 term. We remain confident that we can make it to November 24th with on-campus, face-to-face instruction. Over these next few weeks, please reference the Wesleyan Pledge as a reminder of each of our responsibilities as part of the Wesleyan Community. As we come to the end of this term and begin planning for the next, continue to visit our website for updates to the College’s Reopening Plans for spring 2021.
