North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) proudly announces a generous $7,000 gift presented to President Dr. Evan Duff by alumnus Bobby Thompson on behalf of Alpha Delta Chi Fraternity. The donation supports the Charles Livingston Rogers II Endowed Scholarship, a fund created to honor the life, leadership, and lasting legacy of beloved alumnus and fraternity brother, Charles “Charlie” Livingston Rogers II.
The gift represents the proceeds from “The Big Chill,” an annual alumni reunion rooted in the deep camaraderie of the former Alpha Delta Chi (ΑΔΧ) Fraternity, Beta Chapter, founded at NCWU in 1965. What began decades ago as a small gathering of brothers has transformed into a spirited tradition celebrating fellowship, memories, and the powerful bonds formed on NC Wesleyan’s campus.
Known for his enthusiasm, humor, and dedication to bringing people together, Charlie organized the fraternity’s “Big Chill” reunions for more than 40 years. What was intended to be the final “Bill Chill,” hosted October 23–26, evolved instead into an extended celebration of his life and his unparalleled commitment to keeping the Brotherhood connected.
The ΑΔΧ alumni group, known for legendary stories that include rerouting Hwy 301 traffic through campus and frequenting local favorites like The Rainbow Club and Mack’s, continues to channel its energy into giving back to today’s students. Their support of the Rogers Scholarship ensures that incoming freshmen from North Carolina, especially those pursuing theatre or with strong civic engagement, receive meaningful financial support as they begin their own Wesleyan journey.
This year’s contribution reflects both pride in the Brotherhood’s enduring legacy and a friendly, unspoken challenge: the alumni of Alpha Delta Chi hope their commitment to giving inspires others to match their dedication to the next generation of Bishops.
“In my lifetime, I have watched a ton of movies and a ton of football, and after a while, you can’t hardly list any that stick out, but what I can tell you is the list of people that have made a huge impact in my life,” said Thompson. “One of the greatest hard lessons I have learned is to understand what is premeditated and understand what is and what isn’t.”
NC Wesleyan University extends heartfelt appreciation to the Alpha Delta Chi alumni for their ongoing generosity, loyalty, and example of what it means to uplift the Bishop community.
NC Wesleyan University Announces the Establishment of the Betty A. Price Endowed Scholarship
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) is honored to announce the signing of the Betty A. Price Endowed Scholarship, established by author and pastor Rev. Dr. Michael A. Price in loving memory of his late wife, Betty A. Price. Dr. Price was joined at the signing by his sister-in-law, Sondra Bledsoe of Rolesville, who came to support the legacy being created in Betty’s name.
The endowed scholarship pays tribute to a woman whose life embodied resilience, faith, intellect, and service. Betty Price passed away peacefully on October 20, 2025, after a decade-long battle with Alzheimer’s — a journey marked not by struggle alone, but by courage and enduring grace.
Born in Raleigh on February 4, 1949, Betty began her working life as a cashier at Roses Discount Store before embarking on an inspiring academic and professional path. She graduated magna cum laude from North Carolina Wesleyan University in 1989 with a Bachelor of Science in Accounting, later becoming a Certified Public Accountant in 1992. Her dedication to learning continued with the completion of her MBA from the University of Phoenix in 2009.
Betty’s career spanned roles as Controller and Financial Manager for respected organizations such as Memorex/Telex, Martin-Marietta, Progress Energy, and Blue Cross/Blue Shield. Her commitment to education extended to the classroom as well, where she taught at both the University of Mount Olive and her alma mater, NC Wesleyan University.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Betty was a devoted Christian whose heart for service shaped countless ministries — from assisting with new church builds to supporting inner-city food pantries. She served faithfully as an assistant treasurer, a member of the Diaconate, and a Sunday School teacher, touching lives through both leadership and compassion.
Her husband, Rev. Dr. Michael A. Price, a pastor, educator, and author known for his work on faith and leadership, established this scholarship to honor Betty’s legacy and continue the work she cared so deeply about. The Betty A. Price Endowed Scholarship will support single mothers pursuing higher education, offering them the kind of opportunity and encouragement that defined Betty’s own journey.
Betty is survived by her husband of 17 years, Rev. Dr. Michael Price; her son Rodney; siblings Julia Herring, Sondra Bledsoe, and Mike Adams; and many beloved nieces and nephews. Her final resting place — the shoreline of Ft. DeSoto County Park in Pinellas County, Florida — reflects her spirit: peaceful, enduring, and full of quiet strength.
NC Wesleyan University is humbled and grateful to carry forward Betty’s legacy through this endowed scholarship, ensuring her story continues to inspire generations of scholars to come.
NCWU Announces Transformative Enhancements for 2026
As North Carolina Wesleyan University prepares to welcome a new year, the University is proud to announce a wide range of exciting updates, expanded programs, and student-centered initiatives designed to meet the evolving needs of today’s learners, whether they are recent high school graduates, working professionals, or global scholars. With a renewed commitment to accessibility, innovation, and lifelong learning, Wesleyan is positioning itself as the region’s premier institution for flexible, affordable, and high-impact education.
Empowering Adult Learners Through Expanded APS Offerings
Many working adults don’t realize just how many pathways exist at Wesleyan to elevate their careers, switch industries, or complete a long-term educational goal. Through our Adult Professional Studies (APS) programs, students can choose from 10 flexible degree options, including Nursing (RN to BSN), Business, Education, Leadership, Supply Chain Management, Psychology, Criminal Justice, and more—each designed specifically for busy adults balancing work, family, and life.
Wesleyan also offers career-boosting certificates that can make an immediate difference in earning potential and workplace advancement. With as few as six courses, certificate completers can gain industry-relevant skills without committing to an additional full degree. These certificate credits can also be applied toward formal undergraduate or graduate degree programs, offering students a flexible pathway to continue their education if they choose. Additionally, the learning outcomes from select certificates may qualify students to apply or test for specific professional certifications not administered by North Carolina Wesleyan University.
“Many adults assume they need to start over,” said Katie Farrell, Dean of Adult and Professional Studies. “But at Wesleyan, you can upgrade your skills, gain confidence, and increase your value in the workplace in months, not years.”
Affordability: More Possible Than Ever
Another major misconception is that further education is financially out of reach. Wesleyan is committed to breaking that barrier. With scholarships, financial aid, employer partnerships, and personalized financial counseling, most students discover that earning their next credential is far more affordable than they imagined.
New this year is Wesleyan’s Refer-A-Friend Tiered Scholarship Program strictly for Adult and Graduate programs, offering up to $500 per referral with no limit to the number of referrals:
- Completed Application: $50
- Enrolled Student:
- 1st referral: $100 scholarship
- 2nd referral: $250 scholarship
- 3rd referral and beyond: $500 each in scholarship
This program not only rewards current students but also empowers them to actively support friends, colleagues, and family members looking to advance their careers.
Wesleyan Works: A Seamless Pathway from Community Colleges
Wesleyan continues to strengthen its partnerships across North Carolina with the Wesleyan Works Program, offering guaranteed admission for community college students who complete their associate degree. Participants enjoy Wesleyan benefits from day one, including transfer credit maximization, academic advising, and affordability support – making the transition to a bachelor’s degree smoother and more cost-effective than ever.
Reimagining Student Success for Traditional Students: Introducing the COMPASS Center
In addition to the enhancements for adult and professional students, Wesleyan is elevating the on-campus experience for traditional students by rebranding and relocating the Student Success Center to the Career and Opportunity Mentorship for Personal, Academic, and Student Success (COMPASS) Center.
The COMPASS Center marks a modern, holistic approach to student development. Integrating academic advising, first-year transition programs, leadership training, career readiness, and inclusive learning support, COMPASS equips students not just to succeed in the classroom but to design meaningful, purpose-driven lives.
“Our mission is simple,” Anne Aichele, Program Director, shared. “We want every student to explore, define, and design their academic, personal, and professional journey with confidence.”
Students will gain familiarity with this change when they return in January, but a full launch will take place for the 2026-2027 academic year.
Advancing Global Education: International Services Realigned for Excellence
To strengthen support for Wesleyan’s growing international community, International Student Services will now transition under the leadership of Dr. Oscar Rodriguez. Dr. Rodriguez’s extensive experience with PDSO/DSO operations, along with his bilingual fluency and deep commitment to compliance and cultural care, positions him as an exceptional advocate for global students.
“These enhancements demonstrate our dedication to positioning each department for maximum impact,” said University leadership. “Our priority is always student success – from local adult learners to students joining us from around the world.”
A Call to the Community
As Wesleyan continues to grow, innovate, and serve its region, the University invites local professionals, employers, adult learners, and community members to explore how Wesleyan can support their next chapter. Whether you want to advance in your career, change fields, finish a degree, or simply open new doors, there’s a place for you at Wesleyan—and we’re ready to help you begin.
In return, we welcome our community to partner with us in shaping the next generation of talent. Local businesses and organizations can make a powerful impact by offering internships, job-shadowing experiences, course-based project collaborations, mentoring opportunities, guest speaking, and other forms of professional engagement. These partnerships not only strengthen Wesleyan students’ real-world readiness, but also help employers build strong pipelines of skilled, motivated graduates who are eager to contribute to the regional workforce.
Together, we can build a stronger, more connected community—one where education and opportunity thrive side by side.
Whether you want to advance in your career, change fields, finish a degree, or simply open new doors, there’s a place for you at Wesleyan, and we’re ready to help you begin.
Interested in learning more?
Visit our website or contact our admissions team to explore programs, certificates, scholarship opportunities, and upcoming enrollment dates.
NCWU Hosts Veterans’ Day Salute
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) proudly hosted its annual Veterans Day Celebration in the heart of campus on November 11, honoring the brave men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces. The ceremony was a moving tribute filled with gratitude, reflection, and unity.
The event began with a Flag Ceremony conducted by the Army ROTC Pirate Battalion from East Carolina University, followed by NCWU student and military dependent, Steven Fiscante, who led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance. NCWU student, MarQuayla Garrett, delivered a stunning rendition of the National Anthem, setting the tone for a morning of reverence and pride.
Rev. Edwin Ferguson, NCWU Chaplain, led attendees in a heartfelt prayer, followed by welcoming remarks from Aaron Pait, U.S. Marine Corps veteran and NCWU student. Pait reminded the audience of the deeper meaning of the day, sharing, “Memorial Day is when we pause to honor those who died in service. Today we honor the service itself, and everyone who answered the call. Today makes room for the whole person, not just the uniform.”
He encouraged those in attendance to truly engage with the day, saying, “Don’t just observe today — engage with it. Sit down with a veteran. Ask what service meant to them and what it still means. And then ask yourself: what does it take to remain worth defending?”
Christopher S. Cash Memorial Scholarship Recipients
During the ceremony, Leah Hill, NCWU Director of Financial Aid, recognized the Christopher S. Cash Memorial Scholarship recipients, Samuel Church and Anthony Conner. This scholarship honors the legacy of NCWU alumnus Captain Christopher S. Cash (‘93), who was mortally wounded while leading his platoon in Iraq. His memory continues to inspire future generations of Wesleyan students to lead with courage and compassion.
Guest Speaker – Dr. Kelvin Spragley
The program concluded with remarks from Dr. Kelvin Spragley, NCWU’s Director of Teacher Education and Chief Diversity Officer, and a veteran of the United States Army. In his stirring address, Dr. Spragley reminded all in attendance that the service of veterans extends beyond the battlefield—it is rooted in the defense of our nation’s ideals.
He reflected, “Veterans do not swear an oath to defend a person, a party, or a policy. They take an oath to defend the Constitution of the United States. Their loyalty is to the principles that form the foundation of our democracy — liberty, justice, equality, and the rule of law.”
Dr. Spragley emphasized that true patriotism is not blind obedience, but “courageous love — love that tells the truth and seeks to correct what is wrong while preserving what is right.” He concluded by calling on all Americans to honor veterans not only with words, but with action:
“Veterans have done their part to defend that ‘we’ in ‘We the People.’ Now it’s our turn to make sure that ‘we’ truly means everyone. So today, let us say not only ‘thank you for your service,’ but also ‘we will continue your mission.’ We will stand for justice, for freedom, and for the principles that define this great but imperfect nation.”
North Carolina Wesleyan University remains committed to supporting veterans, active-duty service members, and military-affiliated students as a proud Military Friendly® Gold Top 10 School. The Veterans Day Ceremony reflects Wesleyan’s dedication to recognizing service and fostering a campus community rooted in gratitude and respect.
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.
NCWU Announces the Establishment of the James and Elizabeth Gray Endowed Scholarship
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) is proud to announce the creation of the James (Jim) and Elizabeth (Beth) Gray Endowed Scholarship, honoring the life and contributions of NCWU’s former President Jim Gray and his wife, Beth. This permanently restricted endowment will provide lasting support for NCWU students and will carry forward the Gray family’s commitment to education.
The scholarship was formally announced during the NCWU football game on Saturday,September 20, where Jim and Beth Gray and their family joined President Dr. Evan D. Duff on the field for a special check-signing ceremony. The moment celebrated not only the Grays’ generosity, but also their ongoing commitment to the Wesleyan community.
When awarded, the scholarship will be communicated to students as the Elizabeth Gray Education Scholarship, recognizing Beth Gray’s dedication to preschool education and her lasting impact on NCWU.
“This scholarship is a meaningful way to celebrate the Gray family’s legacy and their devotion to advancing education,” said Dr. Evan D. Duff, President of NCWU. “Their generosity will directly impact generations of students, helping them pursue their dreams with the same values of excellence and service that the Grays embodied.”
The endowment, funded by Jim and Beth Gray, will be invested in accordance with the University’s endowment guidelines to ensure it is awarded in perpetuity. The scholarship will be distributed annually with preference given to:
- Students majoring in Preschool Education, followed by Education majors.
- Students who demonstrate strong academic achievement and good personal character.
- Recommendations from the University’s Education Department.
The scholarship may be awarded to both freshmen and upper-classmen and can be renewed.
By establishing this fund, Jim and Beth Gray have created a legacy that will continue to support students and the mission of North Carolina Wesleyan University for generations to come.
NCWU Announces New Endowed Scholarship in Public Health
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) is honored to announce the establishment of the Dr. J. Allen Whitaker Scholarship of Public Health, a newly endowed scholarship created through the generosity of George G. Whitaker in memory of his late father, Dr. J. Allen Whitaker.
The scholarship will support students pursuing degrees in Public Health and will be awarded annually beginning one year after the endowment’s initial investment. The fund has already met the $10,000 minimum required for activation, thanks to a generous gift from George G. Whitaker. Additional contributions are welcome from others who wish to honor Dr. Whitaker’s legacy and further support students in this vital field. The scholarship is designed to be a lasting tribute to Dr. Whitaker’s contributions to the field and his enduring impact on community health.
“This scholarship reflects our family’s deep respect for my father’s life’s work and our shared belief in the power of public health to improve lives,” said George G. Whitaker. “We are proud to support students who are passionate about continuing that mission.”
Administered through the University’s permanently restricted endowment and managed by the Board of Trustees, the fund will provide annual awards based on academic merit and character, with preference given to undergraduate and graduate students pursuing a degree in Public Health. Scholarship recipients will be selected by the University’s Financial Aid Office in partnership with the Public Health faculty.
Dr. J. Allen Whitaker began his career as a public health officer, a field that remained his lifelong passion. Although he went on to practice urology for more than 40 years, his heart was always rooted in public health. This scholarship honors his legacy by investing in the next generation of leaders dedicated to advancing public health. North Carolina Wesleyan University is deeply grateful to the Whitaker family for their vision and enduring commitment to both higher education and public service.
Youngest Bishop Alumni Est. Scholarship
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) is proud to announce the establishment of the Gregor Baum Annual Scholarship, created by Gregor Baum, Class of 2024, the youngest alumnus in the university’s history to launch an annual scholarship. Originally from Frankfurt, Germany, Baum graduated with a degree in Business Administration and a minor in Leadership. His vision for this scholarship is to attract more international students to NCWU while supporting their academic and personal growth.
The Gregor Baum Annual Scholarship will benefit traditional international students who are active members of a sports team, campus club, or Greek life. Recipients must exhibit good character, maintain good academic standing, and achieve a minimum 3.70 GPA. Two scholarships will be awarded each semester, providing essential financial support for high-achieving students.
Baum’s journey to NCWU began on a tennis scholarship. However, a career-ending back injury brought him into a period of personal hardship and depression. With the guidance of a compassionate school counselor, Baum discovered new passions and founded a Rotaract Club at Wesleyan with a focus on mental health. Together with his team and counselor, he co-created a wellness journal to support student mental health, which has since been adopted by schools nationwide. This pivotal experience inspired Baum to establish GH Inner Performance, a company dedicated to promoting mental health and inner well-being.
“I want this scholarship to support international students who face challenges similar to what I experienced when I first came to the U.S. and Wesleyan,” shared Baum. “It’s meant to help high-achieving students by providing them with the financial support they deserve.”
Baum also expressed his deep gratitude to NCWU, saying, “Wesleyan helped me grow and supported me on my journey. The experiences I gained at Wesleyan were invaluable and played a significant role in the success of GH Inner Performance. It’s only because of this success that I am now able to give back to the university that has given me so much.”
A quote by John Wesley has been a guiding principle in Baum’s life: ‘Work as much as possible, earn as much as possible, give as much as possible.’ This mindset is reflected in his commitment to giving back to the Wesleyan community.
We are incredibly proud of Gregor’s story and the legacy he is building at Wesleyan. This scholarship is a testament to his resilience, compassion, and dedication to helping others. We look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have on the lives of future Bishops.
Maryhelen Willhite Endowed Scholarship Established
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – Bishops are often asked, “What makes Wesleyan different?” or “Why Wesleyan?” The answer is simple. It is the people, the community. This is proven once again by another generous donor, Maryhelen Willhite Jones.
Maryhelen is the daughter of the late Dr. W. Lyle Willhite who was a professor at NC Wesleyan from 1976 to 1984. Her dedication and commitment to Wesleyan runs deep and in 1996, she was able to assist one of Dr. Willhite’s former students, Rick Bradham III, ’81, in establishing The Dr. W.L. Willhite Endowed Scholarship.
Because of her late father’s influence, Maryhelen made her first contribution in the spring of 2024 to establish The Maryhelen Willhite Jones Endowed Scholarship, her own Second Generation Legacy Scholarship. This award will be given to undergraduate students majoring in Marketing who have excelled in academic and extracurricular accomplishments at NCWU.
Dr. Willhite instilled in Maryhelen to be bold and give with purpose and passion. Now she has been able to “bring that ‘can do’ boldness to NCWU through another endowed scholarship with the Willhite name.”
Maryhelen says “I believe in not only paying things forward, but also paying them inward.”
Although her background is in the Arts, International Relations, and Information/ Library Sciences, she has a passion for all things Marketing: brands, products, companies, non-profits, social causes, innovations, and ideas. Maryhelen states, “If I had to do it over again, I would go into the field of Marketing. What I can do instead is to help support those who decide to do just that.”
Maryhelen knows that Wesleyan’s undergraduate marketing degree involves research skills, critical thinking, demographics, collaboration, creativity, communication, persuasion, information, observation, social, economic, and cultural considerations, and yes, sometimes playfulness!
“My ultimate focus is on the students, who no matter what their career fields end up to be, are ethically grounded and have a strong moral self-compass,” says Maryhelen Willhite Jones.
“The Dr. W. L. Willhite Endowed Scholarship has been financially supporting Wesleyan students for over 27 years. To have a scholarship established by his daughter, Maryhelen, that will impact lives in the same way is a grand gesture. We are grateful for the ongoing support from the Willhite family, which will continue to make a difference for future Wesleyan alumni. The relationship developed has been meaningful and of great significance.”
Gravely Foundation Supports Local College Students
