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.
Dunn Center Hosts Tar River Art Gallery
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) is proud to unveil an exciting new partnership between Tar River Art, The Dunn Center, and North Carolina Wesleyan University. This partnership will kick off with the opening of a vibrant art exhibit at The Gravely Art Gallery, located inside The Dunn Center.
On Sunday, September 14 from 2-5pm, art lovers are invited to an opening reception showcasing the works of 40 talented artists from across North Carolina and the surrounding region. The collection features an impressive variety of paintings and three-dimensional pieces, all available for purchase. Guests can expect exceptional quality at a range of accessible prices, making it the perfect opportunity to add to their personal or corporate art collections.
Following the reception, The Gravely Art Gallery will be open to the public Monday – Friday from 9am-5pm. Visitors are also welcome during Dunn Center events, or by appointment. To schedule a private viewing, contact Marilynn Barner Anselmi at 252.308.8425 or email Marilynn.anselmi@gmail.com.
About Gravely Art Gallery
The Gravely Art Gallery was made possible by a generous gift honoring the late Janice Gravely, a gifted local artist whose legacy continues to inspire creativity. The space serves as an important platform for emerging artists and a valuable cultural asset for the regional art community.
For more information about The Tar River Art Exhibit, to schedule a visit, or to inquire about renting one of the galleries or other spaces at The Dunn Center, contact Sheila Martin, Executive Director, at 252.904.7139. The Dunn Center offers an ideal setting for corporate meetings, receptions, concerts, retreats, and a wide range of special events.
NCWU Honors Calvin Davenport, Inc. for Nursing Building Renovation
North Carolina Wesleyan (NCWU) proudly welcomed Richard Davenport, President & Project Manager, and Doug Broughton, Vice President of Operations and Development, of Calvin Davenport, Inc. back to campus this week to express gratitude for their outstanding work in the recent renovation to the University’s Nursing Building.
The visit celebrated not only the successful completion of a complex project but also recognized a long-standing relationship between the Davenport Family and Wesleyan. Richard Davenport’s family has been dedicated supporters of the University for many years, with a scholarship named in honor of his grandparents, Taswell and Fidelia Griffin Endowed Scholarship Fund, continuing to support Wesleyan students.
Throughout the renovation process, the Calvin Davenport, Inc. team collaborated closely with Suzanne Brackett ’87, Senior Vice President of Administration, delivering the project ahead of schedule with unmatched quality and professionalism. One of the most unique challenges faced during the renovation was the removal of the massive vault from the building’s former life as a bank. When asked about this task, Doug Broughton shared, “Removing the vault within 90 days was definitely one of the most unique and rewarding parts of the entire renovation.”
To commemorate this impactful partnership, a plaque has been installed in the building’s lobby, permanently recognizing Calvin Davenport, Inc. for their dedication and craftsmanship in transforming the space into a state-of-the-art facility for nursing education.
“We are deeply grateful for the diligence, care, and partnership with Richard, Doug, and the entire Calvin Davenport, Inc. team brought to this project,” said Suzanne Brackett. “Their work not only created a state-of-the-art learning environment but also honors the Wesleyan tradition of investing in our students’ futures.”
Wesleyan Hosts GLF Scholarship Luncheon
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) proudly hosted the Annual Golden LEAF Foundation Luncheon on March 13 at The Dunn Center, celebrating the strong partnership between the two institutions. The event honored both past scholarship graduates and new recipients, highlighting the impact of the Golden LEAF Foundation (GLF) on student success.
The luncheon opened with a warm welcome from Mark Hinson, NCWU’s Vice President of Advancement, who expressed gratitude for the Foundation’s continued support. He emphasized the significant role GLF plays in providing educational opportunities for NCWU students and strengthening the university’s mission.
Golden LEAF Alumni Speaker and NCWU graduate, Nadia Simmons, reflected on her time at Wesleyan, sharing how her experience was profoundly shaped by the scholarship. During her time as a student, she interned with GLF—an opportunity that led to her current role post-graduation. She credited the Foundation not only for her academic success but also for the meaningful relationships and shared values it fostered among students from small towns who aspire to make a big impact.
Leah Hill, NCWU’s Director of Financial Aid, recognized and introduced the scholarship recipients, personally thanking GLF members for their generosity. As a token of appreciation, the university presented gifts to the Foundation’s representatives. Five scholarship recipients were in attendance to celebrate this milestone: Benjamin Sellers, Finnegan Allen, Joseph Cooper, Nyasia Jones, and Alexis Whitfield.
The event concluded with remarks from Arlena Dongilli, GLF Scholarship Program Manager, and NCWU President Dr. Evan D. Duff, who reaffirmed the university’s gratitude for this life-changing partnership.
Through this ongoing collaboration, NCWU and the Golden LEAF Foundation continue to empower students, foster academic achievement, and invest in the future of North Carolina’s workforce.
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 Offers Educational Benefits to UNC Health Nash
North Carolina Wesleyan University President, Dr. Evan D. Duff, and UNC Health Nash President/CEO, Dr. L. Lee Isley, have signed a partnership agreement to expand educational opportunities to employees of Nash. The partnership allows employees to develop practical skills that they can apply to their careers through certificate, undergraduate RN to BSN and graduate degree programs at NCWU.
“At Wesleyan, we have programs that support almost every career path at UNC Health Nash. Those programs include certificates in Executive Leadership and Human Resources Management, as well as our Bachelor’s degree in Healthcare Administration, RN to BSN program, and our Masters in Public Health and Masters in Strategic Leadership,” stated Dr. Evan D. Duff. “Since the launch of our RN to BSN program in 2019, the University has been fortunate to have the support of Dr. Isley and UNC Health Nash. This new agreement is one way for us to give back to their employees.
The partnership includes special financial awards for those who enroll in one of Wesleyan’s certificate, baccalaureate or graduate degree programs. Nash employees who are seeking to grow as a leader in their respective divisions can do so with NCWU’s flexible programs for working adults. All of these programs are 100% online with one-on-one support from faculty who have industry experience. NC Wesleyan’s degree programs improve competency in areas specific to the roles of employees at UNC Health Nash. This partnership will also provide Registered Nurses with one of the most affordable BSN options in the state of North Carolina.
Mutually benefiting all parties, this partnership allows UNC Health Nash employees to receive special rates to attend NCWU. In return, the hospital will market this opportunity and NC Wesleyan’s programs to all of their employees. In addition, Nash will afford NC Wesleyan University an opportunity to advise their employees through email, on-site opportunities, flyers, brochures and the posting of other promotional materials. Nash employees must remain employed with the hospital in order for them to remain eligible for these awards.
Nash County Launches Education Network Agreement
Nash County Public Schools (NCPS), Nash Community College (NCC), and North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) are pleased to announce the signing of the Nash County Education Network agreement. The agreement was signed this morning at NCWU by Dr. Evan D. Duff, President of North Carolina Wesleyan University; Dr. Lew K. Hunnicutt, President of Nash Community College; and Dr. Steven Ellis, Superintendent of Nash County Public Schools.
This collaborative initiative is designed to support local talent by offering an affordable educational pathway from high school to a bachelor’s degree within Nash County. Tuition will be capped at $20,000 in total for completion of both an NCC associates degree and an NCWU bachelor’s degree. These students will also be offered access to academic advising and financial aid counseling by NCWU prior to enrollment at NCWU. The Nash County Education Network exemplifies community cooperation and a commitment to keeping our most promising individuals close to home. Addressing the misconception that higher education at Wesleyan is financially inaccessible, Dr. Duff remarked, “We need to educate them here, so they’ll stay here,” highlighting the strategy to make education attainable for Nash County’s students.
The network not only emphasizes affordability but also cultivates a “live here, learn here, work here” ethos that benefits the entire community. Students can now seamlessly transition from K-12 at NCPS to completing their associate degree at NCC and then transfer to NC Wesleyan to complete their four-year degree. These exclusive opportunities are tailored for Nash County students who complete their associate degree at Nash Community College, reinforcing the strategic educational journey from local classrooms at NCPS to the business world, including internships and job placements. “We are creating more than a pathway; we’re preparing for a future where education and industry intersect, leading to a thriving local economy,” Hunnicutt stated. Dr. Ellis added, “This pathway will have a profound impact on our public school system and our students’ futures. It opens doors to higher education and career opportunities that were once out of reach for many.”
For further information about the Nash County Education Network, please contact Heather Louise Finch, NCPS, at hlfinch@ncpschools.net and Kenyon “K.J.” Askew, Jr., NCC, at klaskew736@nashcc.edu.
About the Nash County Education Network:
The Nash County Education Network (NCEN) is a transfer program for Nash County Public School graduates who plan to continue their education at NCC, with the educational goal of fulfilling their undergraduate degree at NCWU. This pathway is formally spring 2024 to ensure that graduates from both NCPS and NCC are automatically eligible for admission to one of NCWU’s undergraduate degree programs. Tuition will be capped at $20,000 in total for completion of both an NCC associate degree and an NCWU bachelor’s degree*. These students will also be offered access to academic advising and financial aid counseling by NCWU prior to enrollment at NCWU. Participants in the NCEN will also be offered access to any events on NCWU’s main campus in Rocky Mount, NC, at no cost.
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.
NCWU Offers Educational Benefits to Edgecombe County Sheriff’s Office
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – This month, leaders from North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) and Edgecombe County Sheriff, Cleveland Atkinson, Jr., signed a partnership agreement offering educational opportunities to employees of the Edgecombe County Sheriff’s Office (ECSO). 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.
“The Edgecombe County Sheriff’s Office serves a pivotal role in helping to ensure the safety of our Twin Counties. At NCWU, we value their service and are proud to be able to offer these deputies the resources to increase their skillset and pursue their educational goals,” 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 ECSO 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
Edgecombe County Sheriff, Cleveland Atkinson, Jr. noted: “This is an awesome partnership and provides ways to make us better. It is an honor for the Sheriff’s office to partner with NC Wesleyan University and I firmly believe that more education will train our department to better serve Edgecombe County.”
Mutually benefitting all parties, this partnership allows ECSO 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, ECSO 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. ECSO 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.
