North Carolina Wesleyan University’s Bishop Gaming Association (BGA), the University’s premier esports program, is excited to announce a renewed and expanded partnership with Brightspeed, ushering in a new phase of support for collegiate esports and STEM-focused student success.
As part of this renewed agreement, Brightspeed will provide a $2,500 scholarship to support a Bishop Gaming Association player, with the recipient to be selected for the spring 2027 semester. The partnership also includes continued sponsorship of NC Wesleyan University’s esports program, reinforcing Brightspeed’s commitment to expanding opportunities for students and increasing visibility of the University’s growing esports community.
Brightspeed’s Evolving Investment in Esports and STEM
The continued partnership builds on Brightspeed’s earlier investment in NC Wesleyan esports, part of a broader $580,000+ statewide commitment to STEM and esports initiatives across North Carolina. Brightspeed’s support spans tournament sponsorships, technology lab development, and direct investment in school and university esports programs, helping to enhance digital learning and competitive gaming opportunities for students.
“We’re proud to support organizations like Bishop Gaming Association as they spark creativity to help students see what’s possible,” said Sabrina Anderson at Brightspeed. “Our investment reinforces the power of community partnerships and the importance of bringing high-quality educational resources to students across North Carolina.”
At NC Wesleyan, Brightspeed’s continued backing supports scholarships, equipment upgrades, and travel for tournaments, ensuring the Bishop Gaming Association can compete at a higher level while providing students with rich, hands-on experiences in the rapidly growing esports ecosystem.
Esports as a Platform for Future Leaders
“Esports at NCWU is evolving, and this renewal from Brightspeed allows our students to evolve with it,” said Chantoni Grant, Director of Esports at NCWU. “We’re not just playing games. We are building leaders, creators, and future professionals. Brightspeed’s continued support gives our students the tools to take that next step.”
Participation in NC Wesleyan esports offers students opportunities to develop skills in broadcasting, content creation, event production, analytics, digital marketing, and information technology, all while representing the University in competitive play. These experiences align with workforce demands in technology, media, and STEM-related fields, positioning esports as both a co-curricular passion and a professional launchpad.
Get Involved with NC Wesleyan Esports
North Carolina Wesleyan University invites students, alumni, and community partners to engage with the Bishop Gaming Association and support the University’s expanding esports efforts. Those interested in learning more about NCWU esports, scholarship opportunities, partnerships, or student involvement can visit ncwu.edu or follow NC Wesleyan and Bishop Esports on social media for program updates, team highlights, and upcoming competitions.
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.
NCWU offers a best-in-class value and a personally tailored private higher education experience. We invest in each and every student we accept by providing individualized awards, scholarships and grants. Wesleyan is YOUR hometown University that is Personal. Practical, and Purpose-Driven. With students from all over the United States and more than 40 different countries, the University has immense cultural diversity. In addition to its educational mission, NCWU serves as a vital economic engine for the region, contributing over $209 million to the local economy.
To learn more, visit ncwu.edu and follow on Facebook, LinkedIn, TikTok and Instagram.
About Brightspeed
Headquartered in Charlotte, N.C. and with assets and associated operations in 20 states, Brightspeed provides broadband and telecommunications services through a network platform capable of serving more than 7.3 million homes and businesses. Our nearly 4,000 employees are committed to building a future where more communities benefit from a more connected life, deploying a state-of-the-art fiber network and a customer experience that makes being connected as simple as it should be. For more information, please visit www.brightspeed.com.
The Dunn Center and Twin County Media Announce Community Partnership
The Dunn Center at North Carolina Wesleyan University is proud to announce a new partnership with Twin County Media, bringing together two organizations committed to celebrating and strengthening the Twin Counties through arts, entertainment, and community engagement.
Now celebrating its 30th year, The Dunn Center has become one of eastern North Carolina’s premier destinations for live entertainment, cultural programming, educational events, and community gatherings. Located on the NC Wesleyan campus, the venue welcomes thousands of visitors each year for nationally touring performances, local productions, art exhibitions, conferences, and special events.
About the Partnership
Twin County Media has quickly become a trusted source for positive local news, events, and storytelling throughout Nash and Edgecombe counties. Through its website, podcasts, newsletters, and community calendar, Twin County Media shines a spotlight on the people, organizations, and events that make the Twin Counties a great place to live, work, and visit.
“We’re excited to partner with Twin County Media because both of our organizations are dedicated to enriching the Twin Counties,” said Mark Hinson, Vice President of Advancement at North Carolina Wesleyan University. “As The Dunn Center celebrates its 30th anniversary, this collaboration will help us reach even more people with the exceptional performances, cultural experiences, and community events that make our region so special.”
As part of the partnership, Twin County Media will help showcase The Dunn Center’s performances, exhibitions, and special events, making it even easier for residents across the region to discover world-class entertainment close to home.
The Dunn Center’s 30th anniversary season is already underway with tickets on sale now for several exciting performances, including:
- Tell Me Lies – Fleetwood Mac Experience on September 18
- The President’s Own United States Marine Band in concert on October 5 (free admission)
- The Ultimate ELVIS Tribute! on October 15
- Additional concerts, performances, and art exhibitions throughout the 2026-2027 season.
Community members are encouraged to explore the full lineup and purchase tickets for upcoming shows by visiting the Dunn Center website. Together, The Dunn Center and Twin County Media look forward to connecting even more people with the arts, entertainment, and stories that continue to make the Twin Counties thrive.
Sponsorship Opportunities Available
As The Dunn Center celebrates 30 years of serving eastern North Carolina, local businesses and organizations are invited to become part of the excitement through a variety of sponsorship opportunities. Sponsorship packages provide valuable visibility before thousands of patrons who attend performances, exhibitions, educational programs, and special events throughout the year. Sponsors receive recognition through event marketing, digital promotions, on-site signage, and other community engagement initiatives designed to connect their brand with one of the region’s premier cultural destinations.
Whether supporting a specific performance, an entire series, or the Dunn Center’s annual programming, sponsorship investments help make high-quality arts and entertainment experiences accessible to communities across the Twin Counties. Organizations interested in learning more about sponsorship opportunities are encouraged to contact North Carolina Wesleyan University’s Office of Advancement or visit The Dunn Center website for additional information.
Rental Space Available
In addition to sponsorship opportunities, The Dunn Center offers versatile rental spaces for corporate meetings, conferences, private events, receptions, and community gatherings, providing organizations with a premier venue in the heart of eastern North Carolina.
Red Oak United Methodist Church Establishes Endowed Scholarship at NCWU
Red Oak United Methodist Church has deepened its longstanding commitment to North Carolina Wesleyan University by establishing the Red Oak United Methodist Church Endowed Scholarship, creating a lasting investment in students pursuing their educational and vocational calling.
Established in honor of The Rev. Dr. Robert W. Simpson, pastor of Red Oak United Methodist Church and Head Men’s Lacrosse Coach at NC Wesleyan, the scholarship reflects the congregation’s dedication to supporting students with a passion for ministry, faith-based service, and leadership.
About the Scholarship
The endowed scholarship will provide perpetual financial assistance to traditional students from Eastern North Carolina who are minoring in Religious Studies or who demonstrate a strong interest in ministry, faith-based service, or church leadership. Recipients must also demonstrate financial need, maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA, and exemplify leadership, community involvement, and strong academic progress.
The new endowment is the latest chapter in a relationship that has quietly flourished over many years. Red Oak United Methodist Church has consistently supported NC Wesleyan’s mission, cheering on the University through its involvement in campus initiatives, including sponsorship of the University’s annual Rock the Mount welcome events that greet new and returning students each fall.
The History of the Partnership
That partnership grew even stronger following this year’s Battling Bishops Brunch, NC Wesleyan’s annual scholarship appreciation and fundraising event. Originally reimagined two years ago from the University’s traditional scholarship luncheon, the brunch celebrates scholarship donors while encouraging new investments in student success. The North Carolina Conference of The United Methodist Church has proudly served as the event’s Gold Sponsor since its inception.
Inspired by the stories shared during the brunch and the opportunity to make a lasting impact, several members of Red Oak United Methodist Church met with representatives from NC Wesleyan’s Advancement Office to learn more about scholarship opportunities. Their conversations led to an extraordinary commitment not only to establish an endowed scholarship that will support students for generations, but also to create an annual scholarship that can begin helping students immediately.
“Supporting students has always been an extension of our ministry,” said Rev. Dr. Robert W. Simpson. “We wanted to extend Christ’s mission by supporting young people seeking higher education through religious studies and by investing in students who feel called to ministry, faith-based service, and servant leadership. Our hope is that this scholarship will help remove financial barriers while encouraging students to use their education to serve others and make a lasting difference in their communities.”
The endowed scholarship will become part of North Carolina Wesleyan University’s permanently restricted endowment and will be invested according to University policy. Scholarship awards will begin once the fund reaches the University’s minimum endowment requirements and has been invested for the required period. The scholarship is designed to be renewable, ensuring continued support for deserving students.
As a United Methodist-affiliated institution, North Carolina Wesleyan University remains committed to providing a transformational education that prepares graduates to lead lives of purpose, service, and impact. Through partnerships like this one, the University continues expanding access to higher education while honoring its faith-based heritage.
Individuals wishing to contribute to the Red Oak United Methodist Church Endowed Scholarship may make gifts of any amount through the North Carolina Wesleyan University Office of Advancement, helping ensure the scholarship continues to grow and serve future generations of Battling Bishops.
Rock the Mount at NC Wesleyan University
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) is excited to announce the return of its annual Rock the Mount celebration, an honored tradition that marks the official start of the academic year and warmly welcomes incoming students to campus and the local community. Sponsored this year by First Carolina Bank, the event will take place from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Monday, August 17 – the day before fall classes begin.
Held each fall, Rock the Mount is a vibrant, high-energy event featuring local businesses, nonprofits, churches, and campus partners who line the heart of campus with booths, giveaways, and smiles. It’s a chance to showcase community offerings while connecting with students who are new to the area and eager to get involved.
Maxie T. Coker, Jr, Senior Commercial Banking Officer, and Elizabeth Overton, Team Support Specialist for First Carolina Bank, share, “First Carolina Bank greatly values our relationship with North Carolina Wesleyan University and looks forward to continuing this partnership for many years to come. Rock the Mount is a fantastic event that connects the local community with the university’s students and creates a meaningful shared experience for everyone involved. We’re excited to make 2026 the best year yet!”
What to Expect:
The day begins with a signature Wesleyan tradition: the Bishop Tunnel. Hundreds of new students take part in this spirited rite of passage as they walk through a tunnel of applause, cheers, and encouragement from returning students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community members. At the end of the tunnel, they’re greeted personally by President Dr. Evan D. Duff and his wife, Marcy, then proceed toward a vibrant festival of tents, music, and engagement opportunities.
Vendor spaces are in high demand, with limited spots available. If you wish to have your spot secured for this event, contact Elliott now! Local restaurants, coffee shops, service providers, churches, and nonprofits are encouraged to participate. Whether you’re an automotive shop (freshmen can have cars on campus!), a local café, or a church seeking new connections, this is a unique chance to reach a new audience of potential customers, volunteers, interns, or even future employees.
This year’s entertainment will include DJ 3two1, along with a variety of food trucks offering local flavor, including:
- Three Boys Catering (Alumni Owned)
- Minnie’s Food and Thingz
- Sweet P’s Galaxy Lemonade
- CPS Catering
- Shawarmalicious
- Fairy Tale Concessions
- Carolina Icee
- Taquria La Lupita
Vendor Information:
- NCWU will provide a 6-foot table.
- Vendors should bring a tablecloth.
- Tents (up to 10’x10’) are optional but recommended for shade.
- Giveaways are not required but encouraged to boost engagement.
- Participation is free, but space is limited.
Registration Deadline: Friday, July 31. Early registration is encouraged.
Sign Up Here: Rock the Mount Vendor Link
Join us in making a memorable first impression and welcoming the NCWU Class of 2030 in style! For more information, contact Elliott Smith at esmith@ncwu.edu.
ARTLAB and NC Wesleyan University Partner to Launch New Embryology and Andrology Education Programs
In recognition of National Infertility Awareness Week (NIAW), ARTLAB and North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) are highlighting a major step forward in reproductive science education with the launch of a new academic credential designed to strengthen the future workforce of fertility laboratory professionals. The partners are proud to announce the first stage in their strategic collaboration: a post-baccalaureate certificate in Applied Reproductive Biology, launching in Summer 2026. The first cohort will start July 6 – Sept 11, 2026.
This 16-credit (10-week) certificate program is now accepting applications from candidates who have completed a B.S. in a laboratory science or who will complete such a degree in May 2026. To inquire or apply for the first cohort, contact Dr. Eva Schenkman at eva@artlabconsulting.com.
Designed to meet the growing workforce demands of assisted reproductive technology (ART) laboratories across the United States, the program combines academic rigor with applied training. ARTLAB, currently the largest IVF training center in the world, brings extensive reproductive laboratory expertise and real-world industry experience to the curriculum.
“As one of the few academically affiliated programs in embryology, this collaboration with North Carolina Wesleyan University brings together training taught by globally recognized leaders with a commitment to standardization in a historically unregulated field,” said Dr. Eva Schenkman, MS, PhD, Founder of ARTLAB. “As fertility rates decline and demand for assisted reproductive technologies increases worldwide, the need for highly skilled embryologists has become increasingly urgent. Together, ARTLAB and NC Wesleyan are setting a new standard for the field.”
“We are excited to launch our first certificate program with ARTLAB. This is one example of our commitment to deliver career-focused programs that reflect our Personal, Practical, Purpose-driven Education promise,” said Dr. Joe Lane, Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs at North Carolina Wesleyan University. “We are especially excited about the opportunities this certificate will provide to our biology students seeking new professional pathways in this highly specialized and rapidly growing field. We also look forward to welcoming new students into the Wesleyan community as they come to Rocky Mount to complete this ten-week professional program.”
NCWU President Dr. Evan D. Duff added, “This partnership with ARTLAB and Dr. Eva Schenkman represents exactly where higher education needs to go—aligning academic rigor with real-world, high-demand careers that change lives. By launching one of the few academically grounded programs in embryology and andrology, North Carolina Wesleyan is not only expanding opportunity for our students but also helping to build the future workforce of reproductive medicine professionals. We are proud to lead in a space where science, purpose, and human impact intersect in such a profound way.”
Through this partnership, ARTLAB and NCWU will continue to develop both credit-bearing and professional training courses to support professionals entering and advancing within the field.
Students pursuing the post-baccalaureate certificate may be eligible for federal financial aid, student loans, and grant opportunities. Formalizing this program under the auspices of North Carolina Wesleyan University significantly expands access to advanced education in reproductive science.
Additional details regarding admissions requirements, program structure, and enrollment timelines will be available in the coming days.
Learn More >
Wesleyan Hosts Golden LEAF Scholarship Luncheon
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) proudly hosted the Annual Golden LEAF Foundation Luncheon on March 19 at The Dunn Center, celebrating a strong and enduring partnership that began in 2003. The event honored both past scholarship graduates and current recipients, highlighting the meaningful impact of the Golden LEAF Foundation (GLF) on student success.
The luncheon opened with remarks from NCWU President Dr. Evan D. Duff and Vice President of Advancement Mark Hinson, who expressed gratitude for the Foundation’s continued support. Both emphasized the vital role GLF plays in expanding educational opportunities and advancing the university’s mission.
Four-year Golden LEAF Scholarship recipient Benjamin Sellers ’26 reflected on his journey at Wesleyan, sharing how the scholarship shaped both his academic and personal growth. He credited NCWU and GLF for his success, including publishing two articles and graduating debt-free this May. Sellers noted that while he initially planned to pursue a career in chiropractic care, the connections and opportunities he discovered at Wesleyan opened doors to new possibilities.
Leah Hill, NCWU’s Director of Financial Aid, recognized and introduced the scholarship recipients, offering personal thanks to GLF members for their generosity. As a token of appreciation, the university presented gifts to Foundation representatives. Scholarship recipients in attendance included Benjamin Sellers, Finnegan Allen, Joseph Cooper, and Malachi Hayes. Other recipients include Nyasia Jones, and Amanda Layton.
The program concluded with remarks from GLF President Scott Hamilton, Scholarship Program Manager Arlena Dongilli, and President Duff, each reaffirming the strength and impact of the partnership. Hamilton shared, “We love watching our scholarship recipients grow. These scholarships are about more than education—they support the transformation of rural communities, and the impact students make when they return home.”
Through this ongoing collaboration of 23 years and counting, NCWU and the Golden LEAF Foundation continue to empower students, foster academic achievement, and invest in the future of North Carolina’s workforce.
About Golden Leaf Foundation
Golden LEAF’s mission is to increase economic opportunity in North Carolina’s rural, tobacco-dependent, and economically distressed communities through leadership in grantmaking, collaboration, innovation, and stewardship as an independent and perpetual foundation.
The Golden LEAF Foundation is a nonprofit organization established in 1999 to receive a portion of North Carolina’s funding from the 1998 Master Settlement Agreement with cigarette manufacturers. For 25 years, Golden LEAF has worked to increase economic opportunity in North Carolina’s rural and tobacco-dependent communities through leadership in grantmaking, collaboration, innovation, and stewardship as an independent and perpetual foundation.
Golden LEAF has provided lasting impact to tobacco-dependent, economically distressed, and rural areas of the state by helping create 68,000 jobs, more than $780 million in new payrolls, and more than 98,000 workers trained or retrained for higher wages.
Governed by a board of directors appointed by leaders of NC’s legislative and executive branches, Golden LEAF has focused on critical issues facing North Carolina communities including bringing jobs and building industry by providing resources to communities, awarding scholarships to local students and administering the state’s relief efforts following natural disasters.
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.
NCWU offers a best-in-class value and a personally tailored private higher education experience. We invest in each and every student we accept by providing individualized awards, scholarships and grants. Wesleyan is YOUR hometown University that is Personal. Practical, and Purpose-Driven. With students from all over the United States and more than 40 different countries, the University has immense cultural diversity. In addition to its educational mission, NCWU serves as a vital economic engine for the region, contributing over $209 million to the local economy.
To learn more, visit ncwu.edu and follow on Facebook, LinkedIn, TikTok and Instagram.
NC Wesleyan & ARTLAB Forge New Science Path!
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) is proud to announce a groundbreaking academic partnership with ARTLAB, the world’s largest IVF training center. This opens the door to one of the few undergraduate-level pathways in reproductive laboratory science in the United States.
This collaboration brings together NC Wesleyan’s student-centered academic experience and ARTLAB’s globally recognized laboratory expertise to create a new, hands-on educational opportunity in the rapidly growing field of assisted reproductive technology (ART). For students interested in science, healthcare, and life-changing innovation, this partnership represents a pathway few universities can offer.
Together, NCWU and ARTLAB are developing a series of credit-bearing academic and professional learning opportunities designed to prepare students for careers in reproductive science laboratories. While program details are still being finalized, the partnership is focused on delivering high-impact, experiential learning aligned with workforce needs and industry standards.
“We are excited to collaborate with North Carolina Wesleyan University on an initiative that expands access to formal education in reproductive science,” said Dr. Eva Schenkman, MS, PhD, Founder of ARTLAB. “By combining academic instruction with immersive laboratory exposure, we are creating a pathway that is both accessible and exceptional—one that reflects the future of this field.”
ARTLAB brings decades of applied experience training professionals in embryology and andrology, offering students exposure to real-world laboratory environments and techniques rarely available at the undergraduate level.
“This partnership reflects exactly what we strive to offer at NC Wesleyan—personal, practical, purpose-driven education,” said Dr. Joe Lane, Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs. “It creates new possibilities for students interested in science and healthcare while positioning the University at the forefront of an emerging and highly specialized field.”
Additional information regarding program structure, admissions, and enrollment timelines will be shared in the coming months.
New Partnership Expands NCWU Careers…
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) is pleased to announce a new partnership with Innatrix, an innovative biotechnology company committed to advancing agricultural and environmental solutions. This collaboration will significantly expand career development opportunities for NCWU students, particularly those pursuing studies in the sciences.
Through this partnership, NCWU students will gain enhanced access to real-world learning experiences, including guided tours of Innatrix’s laboratory facilities, professional engagement with industry experts, and exposure to biotechnology and agriscience career pathways. The partnership will create new avenues for students to participate in job shadowing, internships, mentorship opportunities, and discussions led by Innatrix professionals on topics ranging from industry trends to workplace professionalism.
Innatrix will also take part in academic events at NCWU, such as the University’s annual Science Symposium, further strengthening the connection between classroom learning and industry application.
Partnership Details
A highlight of this collaboration will be Dr. Li Jiarui, CEO of Innatrix, serving as a featured speaker at NCWU’s annual Student Symposium in April. This event provides students in environmental sciences and other majors with a platform to present their research across a wide range of academic fields. The Symposium has become a showcase for undergraduate scholarships, with many students achieving remarkable outcomes. For example, every student who completed the BIO325 Environmental Science course at NCWU in Spring 2022, 2023, and 2024 has had their research published, demonstrating the University’s commitment to rigorous, hands-on scientific research. Their work includes studies on the effects of pharmaceuticals and microplastics on freshwater snails, several of which have appeared or will soon appear in peer-reviewed scientific journals.
“This partnership represents a meaningful step forward for our students,” said NCWU Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Joe Lane. “By connecting academic study with hands-on experience in a cutting-edge industry, we are helping prepare our graduates for the demands of an evolving workforce.”
NCWU will continue to highlight Innatrix’s involvement through coordinated communications and collaborative initiatives, reinforcing the shared commitment to developing the next generation of scientific talent within the region.
“We’re excited about this partnership. Our scientists are committed to mentoring the next generation, giving them hands-on experience to develop solutions to the world’s pressing challenges,” said Innatrix CEO and President, Dr. Jiarui Li. “Together, we can make a greater impact on improving public health and feeding a growing population.”
Together, NCWU and Innatrix look forward to building a partnership that enriches student learning, strengthens the local workforce, and supports innovation in North Carolina’s growing biotechnology sector.
About Innatrix Inc.
Innatrix, Inc. (Research Triangle Park, NC) is redefining crop protection with a patented, target-based platform and over $4M in secured capital. Our environmentally friendly biologicals reach market faster, cut costs by up to 95% versus chemical pesticides, and reduce carbon footprint by 80–90%. By precisely targeting pathogens, we eliminate harmful off-target effects.
NCWU Students Receive $40,000 in Scholarships
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) proudly hosted a Scholarship Appreciation Luncheon, bringing together Rotary leadership, Tackle the Tar organizers, and the Wesleyan students whose lives have been directly impacted by their generosity. This year, $40,000 in scholarships was awarded to NCWU students through proceeds from Tackle the Tar — marking another year of transformative community investment in local education.
Fourteen students were recognized as scholarship recipients: Caleb Allen, Emory Bunn, Aliyah Cooper, Victoria Dickens, Jaycie Hadnott, Aafrah Hasan, Shawanna Hyman, Natalie Messer, Tarnisha Ricks, Shala Wade, Sharon Whitaker, Danitha Williams, Aidan Willis, and Chemar Zeigler.
The luncheon opened with a welcome from Ashton Bunn ’26, followed by a blessing from Mark Hinson, Vice President of Advancement. Students and staff then shared reflections on the impact of Tackle the Tar, underscoring how financial support has eased the burden of higher education and strengthened their commitment to achieving personal and professional goals.
Robbie Davis, Rotary President and longtime champion of Tackle the Tar, delivered heartfelt remarks about the importance of keeping talent in the region.
“We need our young people to stay in Nash County, further their education, and give back to the community,” Davis shared. “Find the things you enjoy doing. Rotary develops leaders — consider joining us. Our club is very proud of each of you and what you are accomplishing.”
In closing, NCWU President Dr. Evan D. Duff expressed gratitude for the partnership and the opportunities it creates.
“I am grateful that both traditional and adult students can benefit from these scholarships,” Duff said. “Our recipients are already making meaningful contributions, and I know they will continue to do so. The Rotary’s support is helping shape the next generation of leaders.”
Through Tackle the Tar and the unwavering support of the Rocky Mount Rotary Club, students at North Carolina Wesleyan University continue to gain access to life-changing educational opportunities — strengthening both their futures and the future of the region.
Rocky Mount Rotary Club Continues to Invest in Wesleyan Students’ Success
Since 2016, the Rocky Mount Rotary Club has been a steadfast partner in advancing educational opportunities for students at North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU). Through its ongoing commitment to service and community impact, the Rotary Club has provided annual scholarship support to deserving Wesleyan students, funds that have made a measurable difference in helping them achieve their academic and professional goals.
This year, 15 students were awarded scholarships ranging from $2,000 to $3,000, continuing the Rotary Club’s legacy of empowering local students and easing the financial burden of higher education.
During a recent check presentation, NCWU President Dr. Evan D. Duff joined Rotary representatives and scholarship recipients to celebrate this ongoing partnership. Representing the 2025 Rotary Scholars were Ashton Bunn, an Adult Degree Program senior from Nashville, and Caleb Allen, a traditional student and junior from Pinetops.
Caleb shared how vital local scholarships have been in making his college education possible, noting his aspirations to pursue a career in the computer field and his desire to one day “pay it forward.” Ashton, who plans to become a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), spoke about how Rotary’s values have inspired her. “Their commitment to service, integrity, and goodwill is something I hope to carry with me throughout my career,” she said.
Dr. Evan D. Duff commended the Rotary Club’s unwavering dedication to supporting Wesleyan students, stating, “The Rocky Mount Rotary Club exemplifies what community partnership truly means. Their investment in our students not only changes lives today but helps build a stronger workforce and community for tomorrow.”
Beyond financial contributions, the Rotary Club’s involvement with Wesleyan extends to volunteerism and community engagement. Faculty and staff from NCWU have also stepped up in support—participating in Rotary-led initiatives such as Tackle the Tar, serving as volunteers, runners, and advocates for student opportunity.
Together, these efforts highlight a shared mission between North Carolina Wesleyan University and the Rocky Mount Rotary Club: empowering local students to reach their full potential while strengthening the community they call home.
