North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) has garnered significant recognition in recent weeks, with a series of impressive rankings that highlight the institution’s commitment to excellence in higher education. As the data continues to pour in, it’s clear that NCWU is delivering on its promise to offer a top-tier, affordable, and supportive educational experience—one that is both student and parent-approved.
The accolades started strong in September with rankings from U.S. News & World Report, where NC Wesleyan was ranked Top 50 in Regional Colleges South out of 131 institutions. The University also placed No. 17 in Best Value Schools, No. 11 in Best Colleges for Veterans, and listed as a Top Performer on Social Mobility. These rankings showcase NCWU’s dedication to providing quality education while ensuring that students from all backgrounds have the opportunity to succeed and thrive.
U.S. News & World Report is widely recognized as a global leader in educational rankings, and NCWU’s continuous recognition reflects the University’s ongoing commitment to delivering best-in-class value. Year after year, Wesleyan maintains its position among the top colleges, demonstrating a steadfast focus on student success and offering a personalized private higher education experience.
The momentum continued with a prestigious ranking from Forbes Advisor, which named NCWU’s Online MBA program the best in the country for the second consecutive year above Johns Hopkins University. Forbes praised the program’s focus on executive leadership, information security, and supply chain management, highlighting its emphasis on organizational change, ethical decision-making, and economic theory. This recognition underscores Wesleyan’s growing strength in graduate education and its determination to expand and improve its programs.
Further accolades came from Intelligent, which ranked NCWU’s Online Master of Criminal Justice among the top 20 programs in the country. Notably, Wesleyan was one of only two universities in North Carolina to receive this distinction. The program’s flexibility, rigor, and focus on preparing students for impactful careers in criminal justice are key components of its success.
Lastly, Niche ranked NC Wesleyan highly in several categories. In North Carolina-specific rankings, the University earned top spots: No. 2 for Diversity of 46, just behind Duke University, No. 5 for Safest Campuses of 40, and No. 14 for Best Colleges for Business of 40. Nationally, Wesleyan was ranked No. 80 out of 1,495 for Most Diverse Colleges in America, reflecting the University’s inclusive and welcoming environment.
The University fosters an environment where students from various backgrounds, cultures, and perspectives can come together to learn and grow. With students representing a wide range of socioeconomic, racial, and ethnic backgrounds, NCWU takes pride in creating a campus community that reflects the broader world. This diverse environment not only enhances the learning experience but also prepares students for success in a global society. The University’s dedication to inclusivity ensures that all students feel welcome, supported, and empowered to reach their full potential. By embracing diversity, NCWU encourages collaboration and understanding, which enriches both the academic and social fabric of the institution.
Beyond the accolades, NCWU remains focused on offering affordable education to both traditional students and adult learners. The University awards $24 million in scholarships, grants, and financial aid annually, making higher education accessible and reducing the financial burden for students. In fact, NCWU’s average scholarship package brings the cost of attending Wesleyan in line with that of public universities.
A recent analysis by The New York Times in March 2023 reinforced Wesleyan’s affordability, ranking the University as one of the top ten most affordable colleges in North Carolina and the most affordable private, nonprofit institution in the state.
As NC Wesleyan continues to excel in rankings and recognitions, its mission remains clear: to provide a high-quality, affordable education that prepares students for success both in their careers and in life. Whether you’re a traditional student just out of high school or a working adult balancing a busy schedule, NCWU offers the resources and support to help you achieve your academic and professional goals.
Wesleyan Works Program extended to LCC
North Carolina Wesleyan University is excited to announce a new transfer agreement with Lenoir Community College through the Wesleyan Works program, providing a streamlined pathway for students to continue their education. This collaboration is designed to support LCC graduates who wish to pursue a bachelor’s degree by guaranteeing admission to Wesleyan for those who complete an Associate of Arts (AA), Associate of Science (AS), or Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree. Students who participate in Wesleyan Works will have access to academic advising and financial aid counseling while attending LCC, as well as access to attend events on the NCWU main campus in Rocky Mount.
“Our partnership with Lenoir Community College reflects our commitment to creating seamless pathways for students,” said NCWU President Dr. Evan Duff. “By working together, we are not only enhancing transfer opportunities but also enriching the educational landscape for all learners. This collaboration embodies our shared vision of accessibility, support, and success, ensuring that every student can achieve their academic dreams.”
The Wesleyan Works program highlights Lenoir Community College’s commitment to expanding opportunities for students and strengthening partnerships with institutions of higher education. Through this agreement, LCC and NCWU are ensuring that students have the support they need to achieve their academic and career goals.
“We are thrilled to partner with NC Wesleyan University through Wesleyan Works,” said LCC President Dr. Rusty Hunt. “This program will open new doors for our students, allowing them to continue their education with confidence, knowing they have guaranteed admission to a four-year institution.”
For more information about the Wesleyan Works program and how to enroll, please contact Alex Ranieri, LCC’s Director of Advising at Academic Success, at apranieri16@lenoircc.edu or 252-527-6223, ext. 936.
NCWU Hosts State Aid Training
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) was one of three locations to host the North Carolina State Education Assistance Authority (NCSEAA) and College Foundation Inc. (CFI) State Aid Training on Tuesday, October 1, 2024. The event offered financial aid professionals from across the state a valuable opportunity to deepen their understanding of state aid programs and recent changes for the 2024-2025 academic year.
The training focused on several key areas, including state aid program eligibility, updates to financial aid policies, and the processes for Residency Determination Services (RDS) and the Grant Portal. The RDS is a centralized system that determines residency status for students applying to North Carolina public colleges and universities. It simplifies the process, allowing students to use a single residency determination when applying to multiple schools and qualifying for state aid programs at both public and private institutions.
The event was open to financial aid administrators and business office staff from community colleges and four-year public and private institutions across the state. Both new and experienced staff attended, ensuring that all participants had the chance to learn, network, and share best practices.
NCWU was proud to serve as a host for this important training, contributing to the ongoing development and support of the state’s financial aid professionals.
Wesleyan Nurses Success
NC Wesleyan University’s RN-to-BSN online program offers more than just an opportunity for professional growth—it fosters the potential for life-changing experiences. For mother-daughter duo Sonya Wester and Kaley Bailey, graduating together this past August wasn’t just an educational milestone, but a deeply heartwarming chapter in their lives. Their journey through Wesleyan’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program is a testament to the beauty of shared goals, mutual support, and the power of family bonds.
The RN-to-BSN program at NC Wesleyan University is designed for working professionals, offering flexibility through 100% online coursework. With accelerated 8-week terms, students can tailor their learning pace, choosing to study full or part-time. The convenience of multiple start dates allows learners to begin their education journey when it best fits their schedule. This flexibility, combined with the ability to complete the program in as little as 12 months, made it an ideal fit for Sonya and Kaley.
Sonya, a dedicated nurse with years of experience, humbly shared that nursing was not a career she chose, but rather a calling that chose her. Her passion for helping others, learning, and serving was deeply embedded in her work, and she constantly sought opportunities to grow. For her daughter Kaley, Sonya’s dedication and compassion became an inspiration. Kaley decided to follow in her mother’s footsteps, pursuing the same path with determination and pride.
The flexibility of Wesleyan’s online nursing program provided the perfect balance for both women, who had to juggle personal and professional responsibilities while advancing their education. They were attracted to the program not only for its convenience but also for the incentives offered. Sonya explained, “Wesleyan provided an incentive to enroll that was very rewarding. I had good feedback from previous students, and a former employer, who was part of the community leaders at Wesleyan, encouraged me to take the leap.”
What made this experience truly unique for Sonya and Kaley was the opportunity to achieve such a significant milestone together. Kaley expressed her joy in a touching sentiment: “Not many people get to say they graduated college with their mom, but I do, and I could not be more honored and proud. Her hard work and dedication to giving it her all was such an inspiration to me throughout this whole journey and is what kept me going. I am excited to see where this journey takes us next.”
For Sonya, the experience brought her even closer to her daughter: “We have always been close, but sharing the struggles, the joys, and the accomplishments has made us even closer and stronger. It was very exciting to walk alongside her, watching her knowledge, leadership abilities, and experience grow. It has been an honor and a privilege to witness this.”
Their story is one of love, resilience, and shared purpose. Together, Sonya and Kaley have not only earned their degrees but have also deepened their bond as mother and daughter. Their journey at NC Wesleyan University is a reminder that education is not just about individual growth but can also strengthen the ties that bind us to those we love.
U.S. News & World Report Ranks NCWU No. 45
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) has once again earned a spot in the prestigious U.S. News & World Report’s 2025 Best College Rankings, reaffirming its commitment to providing exceptional value and a personalized private education experience. This year, NCWU was ranked No. 45 among Regional Colleges South, standing out from 131 colleges in the region.
The U.S. News & World Report is widely recognized as a global leader in quality rankings, offering insights that help consumers, business leaders, and policymakers make well-informed decisions. With a reputation built on independent reporting, data journalism, and consumer advice across various sectors—including education, health, money, and real estate—U.S. News reaches over 40 million visitors each month, making it a trusted resource for millions of people worldwide.
Beyond its overall ranking, NC Wesleyan earned several additional distinctions. It was ranked No. 17 in the Best Value Schools category, an accolade that highlights the University’s focus on delivering high-quality education at an affordable price. In recognition of its support for military veterans, NCWU was ranked No. 11 among Best Colleges for Veterans. The University also placed No. 60 in Top Performers on Social Mobility, reflecting its efforts to ensure that students from diverse economic backgrounds can succeed and thrive.
NC Wesleyan’s continuous presence among the top 50 Regional Colleges South is a testament to its dedication to fostering academic excellence, social mobility, and a vibrant campus community. As the University moves forward, these rankings serve as a proud reminder of its growing impact and leadership in higher education.
NCWU receives Global Funding for Swale Development and Student Engagement
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) anticipates the Fall 2024 semester as their start date for beginning a project highlighting sustainability, improving biodiversity and water quality, as well as erosion prevention on its campus. The project is generously funded by Easyflyers®, a global logistics company that offers comprehensive shipping solutions. The campaign’s focus is developing a vegetated swale in an urban ditch. This green infrastructure will improve stormwater runoff management, reduce erosion, and use native plants.
“Easyflyers® has been a sponsor with NC Wesleyan over the last several years. Through campus beautification projects and event sponsorships, we’ve partnered to establish a greener and more sustainable campus”, states Nichol Ally, President and Managing Director of the Americas. “The EasyFlyers® Earth Day 2023 Project at NC Wesleyan provided a natural and beautiful outdoor sitting and mediation area supplemented with unique trees.”
Earth Day 2024
The company’s Earth Day 2024 donation is funding a project referred to as “The Swale”. It will be completed by students in Wesleyan’s biology classes and overseen by Dr. Daniel Elias who states “This project showcases both EasyFlyers® and Wesleyan’s commitment to environmental stewardship. Using native plants, we can reduce some of the impact of urbanization on our ecosystem. We are grateful that EasyFlyers® want to make earth sustainability projects a priority and allows Wesleyan to assist in these efforts.”
Students at NCWU will actively participate in this project through site preparation, plant selection, and maintenance. Additionally, students will have the opportunity to conduct water quality assessments and monitor ecosystem health as part of courses like Global Water Issue (BIO330), Agroecology (BIO226), and Environmental Science (BIO324).
Dr. Elias emphasizes this project’s educational value, “Having our students involved in every part of this project will promote a deeper understanding of environmental science and develop a sense of responsibility towards sustainable practices.”
Further, the university plans to conduct regular monitoring to ensure the vegetated swale’s long-term success. Data collected by student-led monitoring and inspections will contribute to addressing the efficacy of green infrastructures as a solution to urbanization.
NCWU Receives Grant for Digital Humanities Teaching & Learning
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – North Carolina Wesleyan University recently received a $60K grant from The National Endowment for the Humanities. Over the two-year grant period, NCWU will expand the Digital Humanities Lab, create a new course (Introduction to Digital Humanities), improve faculty knowledge of the digital humanities, incorporate local history into digital humanities projects, and promote undergraduate student research projects using digital humanities tools and methods. The proposed expansion of NCWU’s digital humanities programming is aligned with the institution’s mission and commitment to the eastern North Carolina region and its emphasis on innovative teaching approaches to use new information technologies.
Project co-directors, Dr. Jason W. Buel (Communication/Media Arts) and Dr. Shane M. Thompson (Religious Studies) established NCWU’s first Digital Humanities Lab as a physical space on campus to raise the profile of the University’s humanities, with the goal to make them more exciting, accessible, and modern to the general student population.
Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Joseph H. Lane, Jr., states “We are very excited that Dr. Thompson and Dr. Buel have received this grant. Their work in the area of digital humanities is the perfect example of the ways that North Carolina Wesleyan enriches our students’ lives with innovative teaching approaches that take advantage of the amazing new tools that can enrich our classrooms and our contributions to the community.”
The National Foundation on the Arts and the Humanities Act of 1965 created the National Endowment for the Humanities as an independent federal agency. The law identified the need for a national cultural agency that would preserve America’s rich history and cultural heritage, and encourage and support scholarship and innovation in history, archaeology, philosophy, literature, and other humanities disciplines. The Endowment awards grants to top-rated proposals examined by panels of independent, external reviewers.
About The National Endowment For The Humanities
Created in 1965 as an independent federal agency, the National Endowment for the Humanities supports research and learning in history, literature, philosophy, and other areas of the humanities by funding selected, peer-reviewed proposals from around the nation. Additional information about the National Endowment for the Humanities and its grant programs is available at: www.neh.gov.
19th Annual Student Research Symposium on Campus
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA- North Carolina Wesleyan University hosted their 19th Annual Student Symposium for the 2024 Spring Semester on Wednesday, April 10 at The Dunn Center. The Symposium included student oral presentations, guest speaker, Meredith Gringle, and concluded with a student poster presentation.
Co-Coordinator, Dr. Heather Louch, shares that the Student Symposium started in 2004 as a way for students conducting research to share that research with the university community. It was modeled after a conference, where research is shared either through poster sessions or oral presentations. Louch states, “Presenting at a conference is something that most students do if they go on to graduate school; with the Symposium, they gain a similar experience and see the full circle of research from developing an inquiry to sharing the results with a broader audience. It has been a successful event for so many years only due to the ongoing support of colleagues at the University.”
Louch often asks students what they learned about “doing science,” and the admittance of frustration, lack of motivation or interest, and realization of how much work it requires is also paired with how rewarding and fun it can be. Louch responds, “All of these comments encompass the sentiments felt by researchers as they work through their investigations and prepare to share their research, so in that regard, students have experienced first hand the ups and downs of the research investigation while also being able to discuss those findings with the community. What better way to learn about ‘doing science’?”
Winners of the poster competition have received a certificate and a cash prize courtesy of the School of Mathematics and Sciences (all poster presenters were enrolled in science courses). The winners are as follows (upper and lower designation refers to the course number with 300/400 being the upper-level courses):
1st Place Lower-Level Category:
Dunya Salem – Does Texture Protect Caterpillars from Predation?
2nd Place Lower-Level Category:
Mackenzie Landers, Wesley Owens, Stephanie Valle – How Ladybug Spots Affect Predation
1st Place Upper-Level Category:
Chloe Lynch, Kristalyn Minchew, Christian Van Norden – The Effects of Acetaminophen and Microplastics on Physella acuta Movement, Growth, and Reproduction
2nd Place Upper-Level Category:
Gracie Wade – Investigating and Observing Feline Activity Through the Eyes of Hunger
Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Joseph Lane, states, “The Student Symposium represents the very best example of North Carolina Wesleyan’s personal, practical, and purpose-driven approach to education. We are so proud of the students who presented their research and who demonstrated excellent command of their topics when answering questions from the judges, faculty, and community.”
NCWU’s First Faculty Member of Color Earns Jefferson-Pilot Award
North Carolina Wesleyan University Professor, Dr. Patricia Brewer, has been awarded with the 2023-2024 Jefferson-Pilot Professorship. This award is the highest and most singular honor that can be bestowed upon a faculty member and is given in recognition of scholarship, teaching and community service.
The Jefferson-Pilot Professorship is an endowed award that was established in 1981 through the generosity of the Jefferson-Pilot Life Insurance Company. The honoree is nominated by a committee of faculty and appointed by NC Wesleyan President, Dr. Evan D. Duff. To be eligible for consideration, the faculty member must have tenure and have clearly distinguished themselves with high standards of excellence. As teachers, they demonstrate a whole-hearted dedication and rigorous professionalism in forwarding their students’ learning and personal development for life and work. As scholars, they have to possess a mastery of their discipline, contribute to new understanding and knowledge, and demonstrate a lively commitment to life-long learning for themselves, as well as their students. Additionally, as a member of the Wesleyan community, they give generously to the aims and programs of the University, both with their time and means.
“I’ve always found Dr. Brewer to be a strong advocate for exceptional learners,” stated Dr. Evan D. Duff. “She’s worked tirelessly in the classroom and the community to make a difference in the lives of others.”
Dr. Brewer, now in her nineteenth year at Wesleyan, delivered her Jefferson-Pilot Professorship Lecture, entitled: “Transformative Teaching: The Who, What, Why and How Service-Learning Pedagogy Impacts Culturally Diverse Populations” on Thursday, April 20. Her lecture explored experiential learning that most impacts students’ success.
Dr. Brewer is an associate professor of education and coordinator of the special education program. She earned a B.S. in elementary education and an M.A. in special education, both from NC Central University; an M.Ed. (educational leadership) at East Carolina University; and a Ph.D. (special education administration) from Southern Illinois University. She founded the Students Helping Students Afterschool Program Initiative with the Association for the Learning Disabled and Handicapped (ALDH) in February 2015. The initiative was in response to an outcry for additional, intensive services for special needs children in Nash/Rocky Mount schools, grades K-12. All NCWU pre-service students contribute through the required course Special Education 300: Introduction to Exceptional Children. They work once a week for two hours at Wesleyan over a 10-week period. The program allows NC Wesleyan’s education students to put theory into practice in real-life experiences, such as identifying and evaluating student needs, analyzing and interpreting data for instruction, providing research-based learning strategies, and collaborating with parents.
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 Offers Educational Assistance to Nashville Police
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – On Wednesday, March 16 leaders from North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) and the Nashville Police Department (NPD) signed a partnership agreement offering educational opportunities to employees of NPD. The partnership allows employees and their immediate families to develop practical skills that they can apply to their careers through certificate, undergraduate and graduate degree programs at NCWU.
“Continuing education and skillset building are important to all career fields. With a robust criminal justice program at NCWU, we’re proud to be a resource that allows these officers to attain their educational goals right here at home,” stated Michael Drew, VP of Enrollment.
This partnership allows NC Wesleyan to offer a one-time $250 University Award of enrollment in certificate classes to each NPD employee, and their immediate family member(s), during their last semester of enrollment. North Carolina Wesleyan University has certificate programs in Executive Leadership, Healthcare Administration and Human Resource Management that can be completed in as little as 16 weeks.
For those who are interested in pursuing their bachelor’s degree, NCWU will offer a $1,000 University Award at the end of the first semester of enrollment in undergraduate classes. Additionally, a second award of $1,000 will be presented at the end of their last semester, for a total University Award amount of $2,000.
Employees enrolling in NC Wesleyan’s Master of Business Administration (MBA) or Master of Criminal Justice (MSCJ) degree programs will receive a $500 University Award at the end of their first semester of enrollment in graduate classes. In addition, NCWU will award a second amount of $500 at the end of their last semester, for a total University Award amount of $1,000
“You can only get so far with the knowledge you have and on-the-job training,” stated John Thomas Winstead, Chief of the Nashville Police Department. “So, with this partnership we can further our education, network and learn things from other people [while] gaining an education.”
Mutually benefitting all parties, this partnership allows NPD employees to receive special rates to attend NCWU. In return, the department will market this opportunity and NC Wesleyan’s programs to all of their employees. In addition, NPD will afford NC Wesleyan University an opportunity to educate their employees through email, on-site opportunities, flyers, brochures and the posting of other promotional materials. NPD employees must remain employed with the agency in order for the employee and/or their immediate family member(s) to remain eligible for this award.
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.