North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) welcomed their generous donors for a time to fellowship, dine and meet face-to-face the students whose lives they are making a difference in. The Battling Bishop Brunch Scholarship Appreciation event was held on Thursday, February 27in the Dunn Center on campus.
In attendance were several sponsors, including Gold Sponsor North Carolina Conference of The United Methodist Church. The brunch began with a warm welcome from Seth Badders, NCWU Junior majoring in Biology. With a passion for serving others, Seth is involved in multiple clubs and organizations including Student Government Association (SGA), Disc Golf Club, Psychology Club, Nu Gamma Phi, and is also a Resident Assistant (RA). Eddie McKoy III ’85, Former NCWU Basketball Player and Don Scalf Scholarship Recipient, introduced the Key Note Guest Speaker.
Jeff Hood ’84, NCWU Sports Hall of Fame Inductee and CEO for Hoodies House of Hope for Youth Charitable Organization, was the guest speaker. Hood has been involved with several youth related causes for more than 35 years. A native of Queens, NY and a graduate of North Carolina Wesleyan College where he received a BA Degree. In September 2007, Jeff was inducted into the N.C. Wesleyan Sports Hall of Fame after having completed a stellar basketball career. In 2018, Jeff was recognized by the NBA’s Charlotte Hornets as their Tissot Gift of Time Community Service Person of the Year. He was also Honored and Recognized as a “Made Man” of Charlotte, NC. In 2019 NOBLE recognized Jeff as their Civil Rights Justice by Action for Youth of the Year Award. Jeff is married to Gloria Sledge Hood and together have a wonderful daughter named Maya.
In his speech, Hood shares his journey of overcoming financial challenges to attend college, emphasizing the importance of scholarships, grants, and work-study programs. He recounts memorable experiences, such as guarding diplomas the night before graduation, highlighting the lengths he went to achieve his goals. He urged scholarship recipients to appreciate the support they receive and to be grateful to donors. He underscored the role of faith in his life, drawing parallels to the biblical story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. Reflecting on his upbringing in a tough neighborhood, he discussed his determination to succeed and his initial struggles with racism, unfamiliar environments, and the pressure of being the first in his family to attend college. Despite these challenges, he found support and mentorship from Coach McCarthy and others, which helped him persevere. Hood emphasized the importance of resilience, the impact of receiving love and care from people different from himself, and the significance of giving back to support the next generation. He shared his commitment to youth programs and mentoring, encouraging young people to keep their faith and reminding donors of the impact of their contributions.
Vice President of Advancement, Mark Hinson, expressed his gratitude by saying, “To our scholarship recipients, know that those who invest in your education believe in your potential. Honor this opportunity with dedication and, when the time comes, we encourage you to pay it forward to help others.”
Acknowledgement of the Scholarship Donors and Recipients was conducted by NC Wesleyan Senior, Lovely Thornton. She is majoring in Elementary Education with a minor in Psychology. Preceding the presentation was a beautiful singing of the Alma Mater by Latisha Scott ’06 who is currently working on her debut album. Senior Matthew Tiller, who is double majoring in English and Psychology, presented ways to give. Tiller is actively involved in leadership and service on campus through his membership of Omicron Delta Kappa, Student Government Association (SGA), and the University Honor Board.
The brunch was concluded by NCWU President, Dr. Evan D. Duff, reinforcing the university’s commitment to student success and the power of philanthropy in shaping their futures.
Bishops Explore Exergaming
Students at North Carolina Wesleyan University are taking an innovative approach to understanding physical activity behavior in Dr. Shannon Crowley’s Exercise Psychology class. In this class, Dr. Crowley, Associate Professor of Public Health and Director of the MPH program, leads Public Health, Exercise Science, and Psychology students in exploring psychological theories that help predict and influence health-oriented physical activity behaviors. The course also introduces cutting-edge strategies to promote physical activity, particularly among populations that may struggle with traditional exercise routines. This is particularly important, considering that less than half of U.S. adults meet the minimum physical activity recommendations for health.
One of the most popular and engaging topics in the course is Exergaming—a dynamic concept that integrates physical activity into interactive gameplay. This method offers an exciting alternative for individuals who may not enjoy conventional workouts while still reaping the benefits of movement and exercise.
Beyond theoretical discussions, students actively participate in Exergaming sessions using virtual reality headsets, adding an experiential learning component to the class. These hands-on sessions are made possible through a partnership with Dr. Ayra Sundbom, Visiting Assistant Professor of Education and Director of Instructional Technology, further reinforcing the University’s commitment to incorporating technology-driven learning experiences into the curriculum.
By merging psychology, technology, and exercise, Dr. Crowley’s students are gaining firsthand insight into how innovation can reshape the future of fitness and health behavior interventions.
NCWU Biology Students are Published
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) proudly celebrates the continued success of its Biology Department students, who are gaining recognition in the scientific community through published research. Every student who completed BIO325 in Spring 2022, 2023, and 2024 has been published or is under review for publication, showcasing their hands-on experience in experimental design and scientific writing. This practical approach equips students with real-world research skills and prepares them for future scientific endeavors.
“Our new undergraduate coauthors have achieved remarkable success, and we’re excited to see what they do next,” said Dr. Joe Lane, Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs. “Undergraduate research is a cornerstone of the Wesleyan experience, and our faculty are among the best at guiding students to produce meaningful work.”
Most recently, seven students coauthored two studies on the effects of pharmaceuticals and microplastics on Physella acuta, a freshwater snail. These studies were conducted in the BIO325 Environmental Science Lab:
- Effects of Ibuprofen and Microplastics on Movement, Growth, and Reproduction in Physella acuta – Published in Frontiers. Authors: Elías, D., Ramirez Vieytez, J., Funoy Sayar, M., Loaisiga, J., Harper, A., and Doll, J.
- Impact of Acetaminophen and Microplastic Exposure on Physa acuta – To be published in Biologia. Authors: Elias, D., Lynch, C., Minchew, K., Van Norden, C., and Doll, J.
“Watching students grow into published researchers is incredibly rewarding,” said Dr. Daniel Elias, Associate Professor and Program Coordinator of Environmental Science. “Every group since 2022 has contributed valuable insights to the field.”
For the students, this experience is more than just an academic achievement—it’s an opportunity to make a lasting impact.
“This paper being published means a lot for my future career and my passion for understanding possible human risks from environmental contaminants,” said Morena Funoy Sayar, a 2025 graduate. “I hope this article inspires other scientists to continue researching the effects of microplastics and pharmaceuticals on both the environment and human health.”
Chloe Lynch, a 2026 graduate, echoed this sentiment: “The most rewarding part of this project was having the opportunity to grow as a researcher and contribute to science. Getting my work published was validation of all the time and effort we put into it. It’s exciting to know our research could spark further discussions and future studies.”
These publications reflect NCWU’s unwavering commitment to fostering scientific discovery and empowering students to achieve meaningful success in research and beyond.
Station 4 Embraces Bishop Branding
In a powerful celebration of community and school spirit, Rocky Mount Fire Department’s Station 4 has partnered with North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) to proudly brand their firetrucks with a unifying theme: “Guardians of the Bishops.” When challenged to choose a theme reflecting something meaningful in their area, the station found its inspiration in the heart of Wesleyan.
The partnership is more than a creative design. Station 4 has fully embraced its role as protectors of the campus and community. Firetrucks now display the “Guardians of the Bishops” motto on their windshields, while axes and tools are painted in Wesleyan’s signature navy and gold. The latest touch—a custom mud flap at the rear of the truck—completes the transformation, turning essential equipment into a living symbol of pride and unity.
For Fire Chief Darvin Moore, this connection is deeply personal. A proud NCWU Class of 2016 alumnus, Moore’s Wesleyan roots run deep, making this partnership a true reflection of his journey.
The students couldn’t be more excited to see their local heroes embrace the Battling Bishop spirit. What began as a branding project has grown into something far greater—a visible bond of support, community, and shared pride that strengthens both the campus and the city it calls home.
NCWU Announces Danijel Velicki as 2025 Commencement Speaker
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) is gearing up for its 61st Spring Commencement, set to take place on Saturday, May 3, 2025. This year, the university will celebrate the achievements of over 300 graduates, marking a significant milestone in their academic journeys.
The keynote address will be delivered by Danijel Velicki, a successful entrepreneur, financial educator, and founder of Opus Wealth Strategies and Sqwire, LLC—a financial education platform that has already made an impact at NCWU. Velicki’s inspiring story is one of perseverance and determination.
Originally from Zagreb, Croatia, Velicki immigrated to the United States in 1995 with just $40 to his name. He worked tirelessly to fund his education, earning a bachelor’s degree in marketing and finance from Fairmont State University. Today, Velicki is a thriving business owner and is pursuing a graduate degree in Innovation and Strategy at Oxford University’s Saïd Business School.
Through his financial education platform, Sqwire, Velicki aims to empower individuals and families with the tools they need to achieve financial stability and success. The platform offers online lessons and personalized support to help users develop smart spending habits and make informed financial decisions for the long term.
Velicki’s philosophy is deeply rooted in his belief that the “American Dream” is attainable for everyone with the right support and determination. “It takes the right support system, people you can trust to answer the tough questions, and a commitment to never giving up,” Velicki said. “I want to ensure that every person in this country has the same opportunities I did, along with a team of people truly invested in their success.”
Dr. Evan D. Duff, President of NCWU, expressed his enthusiasm for Velicki’s participation in this year’s commencement ceremony. “Danijel represents what you can achieve through hard work and determination,” said Dr. Duff. “NCWU is grateful for his ‘pay it forward’ mantra, as we utilize the Sqwire platform on campus to enhance our students’ practical and life skills. I am looking forward to his inspirational message on May 3.”
With Velicki’s compelling story and dedication to empowering others, the 2025 Spring Commencement promises to be a day filled with celebration, reflection, and hope for the future. Graduates and their families can look forward to a memorable event as they honor the achievements of the Class of 2025 and prepare for the opportunities that lie ahead.
Youngest Bishop Alumni Est. Scholarship
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) is proud to announce the establishment of the Gregor Baum Annual Scholarship, created by Gregor Baum, Class of 2024, the youngest alumnus in the university’s history to launch an annual scholarship. Originally from Frankfurt, Germany, Baum graduated with a degree in Business Administration and a minor in Leadership. His vision for this scholarship is to attract more international students to NCWU while supporting their academic and personal growth.
The Gregor Baum Annual Scholarship will benefit traditional international students who are active members of a sports team, campus club, or Greek life. Recipients must exhibit good character, maintain good academic standing, and achieve a minimum 3.70 GPA. Two scholarships will be awarded each semester, providing essential financial support for high-achieving students.
Baum’s journey to NCWU began on a tennis scholarship. However, a career-ending back injury brought him into a period of personal hardship and depression. With the guidance of a compassionate school counselor, Baum discovered new passions and founded a Rotaract Club at Wesleyan with a focus on mental health. Together with his team and counselor, he co-created a wellness journal to support student mental health, which has since been adopted by schools nationwide. This pivotal experience inspired Baum to establish GH Inner Performance, a company dedicated to promoting mental health and inner well-being.
“I want this scholarship to support international students who face challenges similar to what I experienced when I first came to the U.S. and Wesleyan,” shared Baum. “It’s meant to help high-achieving students by providing them with the financial support they deserve.”
Baum also expressed his deep gratitude to NCWU, saying, “Wesleyan helped me grow and supported me on my journey. The experiences I gained at Wesleyan were invaluable and played a significant role in the success of GH Inner Performance. It’s only because of this success that I am now able to give back to the university that has given me so much.”
A quote by John Wesley has been a guiding principle in Baum’s life: ‘Work as much as possible, earn as much as possible, give as much as possible.’ This mindset is reflected in his commitment to giving back to the Wesleyan community.
We are incredibly proud of Gregor’s story and the legacy he is building at Wesleyan. This scholarship is a testament to his resilience, compassion, and dedication to helping others. We look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have on the lives of future Bishops.
NCWU Donates Joy to RMA Students
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) continues to demonstrate its commitment to community engagement with a creative and heartfelt gesture. This morning, Dr. Evan D. Duff, NCWU President and Sheila Martin, the Executive Director of the Dunn Center, donated a collection of Bob Ross plushies to students at Rocky Mount Academy.
The donation, inspired by the beloved artist’s legacy of creativity and positivity, brought smiles to the faces of the students, fostering a spirit of joy and connection. The Bob Ross plushies serve as a fun and meaningful reminder of the importance of embracing creativity and sharing kindness within the community.
“At NCWU, we value opportunities to give back and inspire others, especially the younger generation,” said NCWU President. “This small act is a reflection of our commitment to fostering a supportive and vibrant community in Rocky Mount.”
The university’s ongoing outreach efforts aim to strengthen ties with local organizations and bring about positive change. The partnership with Rocky Mount Academy is just one of many ways NCWU strives to make a difference in the lives of others.
For more information about NCWU’s community initiatives, visit ncwu.edu.
NCWU Ranks Nationally for Criminal Justice Graduate Degree
The latest rankings of online programs by U.S. News & World Report names North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) among the nation’s best.
For a few years in a row, N.C. Wesleyan’s Master of Criminal Justice degree program has been ranked among the top 50 nationally by U.S. News & World Report. The publication’s 2025 Best Online Programs Rankings, released on January 21, evaluated online programs based on scores in categories such as engagement, faculty credentials and training, expert opinions, and student excellence.
“We understand that many adults are looking to return to school, but may face challenges with balancing work, family and other responsibilities,” said Dr. Elizabeth Gail Marsal, Associate Professor and Program Coordinator for Criminal Justice. “This recognition by U.S. News & World Report demonstrates the quality education that NCWU provides for online adult learners through practical and purpose-driven experiences.”
NC Wesleyan’s Master of Science in Criminal Justice program offers many benefits including: rolling admissions, 100% online classes starting every eight weeks, one-on-one mentoring, supportive faculty who have real-world experience, career assistance and you can finish the program in as little as 12 months. The program offers concentrations in Criminal Justice Administration or Criminal Justice Practice. North Carolina Wesleyan University is the only private, nonprofit higher education school in the region to offer a Master of Science in Criminal Justice. To learn more about admission requirements and curriculum information, visit ncwu.edu/cjmasters.
“Access to accurate and up-to-date information about online programs is important for prospective students and professionals as they choose a program that aligns with their educational and career goals,” says LaMont Jones, Ed.D., managing editor for education at U.S. News. “By evaluating factors such as student engagement and program quality, Best Online Programs rankings can help students identify which schools offer an exceptional online learning experience.”
Prospective students can see how N.C. Wesleyan compares to other institutions and how the rankings are calculated on USNews.com.
About U.S. News & World Report
U.S. News & World Report is the global leader for journalism that empowers consumers, citizens, business leaders and policy officials to make confident decisions in all aspects of their lives and communities. A multifaceted media company, U.S. News provides unbiased rankings, independent reporting and analysis, and consumer advice to millions of people on USNews.com each month. A pillar in Washington for more than 90 years, U.S. News is the trusted home for in-depth and exclusive insights on education, health, politics, the economy, personal finance, travel, automobiles, real estate, careers and consumer products and services.
Spring 2025 Humanities Speaker Series: Dr. Brent Strawn (Duke University) & Dr. Suzanna Geiser (Campbell University)
The School of Humanities is proud to host two star speakers for the Spring 2025 speaker series, both of whom study intersections of the humanities and the law. Dr. Brent Strawn (Duke Divinity/Duke Law) will give his talk, “Does It Matter if You Mean to Do It? Intention in Biblical Law (and Beyond),” in Powers Auditorium on Wednesday, March 12, at 3:00 P.M.
Our second guest speaker, Dr. Suzanna Geiser (Campbell Law), will present on “Unspoken Agonies: Navigating the Inexpressibility of Pain in Legal Narratives and Legal Judgment” in Powers Auditorium on Wednesday, March 26, at 3:00 P.M. We hope to see everyone there!
NCWU Alumnus Heads to Duke University
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) proudly congratulates alumna Isabel “Izzi” Neall on her acceptance to Duke University’s Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program, where she will begin her studies in Fall 2025. Izzi graduated Summa Cum Laude in May 2023, earning a B.S. in Exercise Science with a minor in Psychology.
During her time at Wesleyan, Izzi was a standout both in and out of the classroom. As a key player on the Women’s Soccer Team, she earned the MVP Award, Moe Bauer Sportsmanship Award, and Scholar-Athlete Award. Beyond athletics, she excelled academically as a member of the Taylor-Crocker Honors Program and took on leadership roles as the Social Media and SGA Representative for the Health and Science Movement Club and President of the Student League of Academic Prestige.
Respected by her peers and professors alike, Izzi’s academic journey was marked by excellence and dedication. Dr. Meir Magal, Inaugural Souza Professor of Exercise Science and Math, Chair and Program Director, shared his admiration:
“Interacting with Izzi was always a pleasure. She was an exceptional exercise science student, excelling both academically and athletically. During her time at Wesleyan, she successfully earned the rigorous American College of Sports Medicine Certified Exercise Physiologist certification and completed an honors project she presented at both regional and national conferences.”
Reflecting on her Wesleyan experience, Izzi said, “The connections! I was able to build relationships with my professors and classmates that provided me with so many opportunities to learn and grow. Wesleyan and the Exercise Science Program challenged me, but also created a supportive environment where I could thrive.”
This August, Izzi will move to Durham, NC, to begin her next chapter at Duke University. NCWU is incredibly proud of Izzi and looks forward to cheering her on as she continues to achieve greatness!
