As nursing students across Eastern North Carolina navigate changes in regional nursing education, North Carolina Wesleyan University is highlighting both the strength of its growing nursing programs and the impact its graduates are making throughout the region.

Great 100 Nurses

One example is NC Wesleyan University alumna Celina Hawkins ‘24, BSN, RN, who has been named one of the Great 100 Nurses of North Carolina for 2026.

Hawkins, who serves as Education Coordinator at ECU Health Edgecombe Hospital, was selected among 100 nurses statewide recognized for their professional excellence, dedication to the nursing profession and contributions to their communities.

The Great 100 Nurses of North Carolina has recognized nurses across the state since 1989. Each year, thousands of nominations are submitted by patients, healthcare professionals, friends and family members, with 100 nurses ultimately selected for the honor.

Hawkins began her nursing education at Edgecombe Community College, earning her associate degree in nursing before continuing her education at North Carolina Wesleyan University, where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Our RN to BSN program for registered nurses can be completed 100% online and has one of the lowest tuition rates in the state.

She has spent 14 years with ECU Health, beginning her career in the Surgical Unit at ECU Health Edgecombe Hospital before moving into nursing education. In her current role, Hawkins supports professional development, clinical excellence and lifelong learning among nursing staff.

Her recognition comes at a time when prospective and current nursing students throughout the region may be reassessing their educational options following recent changes to regional nursing programs.

NC Wesleyan’s Accredited Nursing Programs

North Carolina Wesleyan is prepared to help students explore their next steps.

The university offers a growing prelicensure Bachelor of Science in Nursing program, along with an established RN-to-BSN program for registered nurses seeking to complete their bachelor’s degree. NC Wesleyan’s RN-to-BSN program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.

“We want students pursuing nursing to know that there are options available to them,” said Dr. Crystal Ostheim, Director of Nursing Programs and Initiatives. “Our goal is to provide students with a strong educational foundation and the support they need to build successful careers in nursing and make a difference in their communities.”

NC Wesleyan recently welcomed 29 students into its prelicensure BSN program, marking another milestone in the university’s growing commitment to nursing education.

For students who are reconsidering their nursing education plans, NC Wesleyan encourages prospective students to connect with its admissions and nursing teams to discuss their individual circumstances, academic backgrounds and potential pathways.

“Every student’s situation is different,” said Dr. Ostheim. “We’re here to listen, answer questions and help students understand what their options may be.”

Hawkins’ recognition as one of North Carolina’s Great 100 Nurses provides a powerful example of where a Wesleyan nursing education can lead. From earning her BSN at NC Wesleyan to becoming a nursing educator and now being recognized among the state’s Great 100 Nurses, Hawkins continues to make an impact on the healthcare profession and the communities she serves.

For students considering nursing or exploring a change in their educational plans, NC Wesleyan is ready to help them take the next step.

Our Fall 2027 BSN Nursing Program Application will OPEN on September 15, 2026 in order to accommodate the growing demand for our nursing program. APPLY first using our Traditional Admissions process.

NOTE: The Nursing Program (BSN) application is for students who have met all requirements and desire to apply to the Nursing program. Students MUST apply to Traditional admissions first and then be accepted to NC Wesleyan BEFORE they complete the BSN Application.