North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) has strengthened its commitment to global education through a newly established international partnership with Benguet State University (BSU) in the Philippines. The two institutions recently formalized their collaboration by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that will foster academic cooperation, research, cultural exchange, and international learning opportunities.
The agreement establishes a framework for collaboration in academics, research, skills development, and other initiatives designed to enhance the educational experience for students, faculty, and researchers at both universities. Through the partnership, NCWU and BSU will explore opportunities for faculty, researcher, and student exchanges, as well as the sharing of academic resources through both in-person and virtual formats.
NCWU President Dr. Evan Duff, a signatory to the agreement, was represented at the signing ceremony by Dr. Tim Dornemann, Associate Professor of Exercise Science. During the visit, Dr. Dornemann met with BSU President Dr. Kenneth Alip Laruan to discuss future initiatives that extend beyond the provisions of the MOU, reinforcing both institutions’ shared vision for meaningful international collaboration.
“Our partnership with Benguet State University represents an exciting opportunity to expand the global experiences available to our students and faculty,” said Dr. Duff. “By working together across cultures and disciplines, we can create meaningful educational opportunities, strengthen research collaborations, and prepare our students to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.”
The discussions provided university leaders with the opportunity to learn more about each institution’s academic programs, strategic priorities, and ongoing developments. The exchange highlighted a mutual commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and international engagement while identifying areas where collaboration can create lasting benefits for both universities.
Through this partnership, NCWU and BSU will combine their expertise and resources to develop collaborative programs that enrich teaching, research, and student learning. The agreement is expected to support joint research projects, academic exchanges, professional development opportunities, and initiatives that promote intercultural understanding and global citizenship.
As North Carolina Wesleyan University continues to expand its international partnerships, the collaboration with Benguet State University reflects the University’s dedication to providing students with transformative educational experiences that extend beyond the classroom and across the globe.
NCWU Partners with First Carolina Bank
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – On Thursday, June 23, leaders from North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) and First Carolina Bank (FCB) met to establish a formal relationship between the two to expand educational opportunities for FCB employees. This partnership will allow employees to develop practical skills that they can apply to their careers through certificate, undergraduate and graduate degree programs.
“The partnership between First Carolina Bank and North Carolina Wesleyan University is unique in that both were founded in Nash County. This agreement enhances the ability of both institutions by continuing to provide services to our community and beyond,” stated Michael Drew, Vice President of Enrollment. “North Carolina Wesleyan University is proud to serve our region and welcomes First Carolina Bank as our newest partner in carrying out our mission of offering professional advancement at the certificate, undergraduate and graduate level.”
Mutually benefitting both organizations, this partnership allows FCB employees to receive financial aid awards to attend NCWU. In return, FCB will market this opportunity and NC Wesleyan’s programs to all of their employees. Each employee is offered a one-time $250 award from the University to be used towards a certificate program. Receipt of the award is provided during the last semester of enrollment. They can also receive a $1000 award at the end of their first semester of enrollment in undergraduate classes, as well as an additional $1000 award at the end of the last semester, for a total University award of $2,000. In addition, those who pursue a graduate degree at NCWU are offered a $500 award at the end of their first semester of enrollment and a second $500 award at the end of the last semester, for a total University award of $1,000.
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.
