This distinction reflects NCWU鈥檚 commitment to delivering high-quality, career-focused graduate education, particularly for adult learners balancing work, family, and personal responsibilities while pursuing advanced degrees.

Unlike traditional ranking systems, uses a data-driven methodology designed to provide prospective graduate students with practical insights into academic quality, affordability, graduation outcomes, and student support. Institutions are evaluated using a proprietary scoring model that incorporates national data sources such as the U.S. Department of Education, College Scorecard, NCES College Navigator, the Bureau of Labor Statistics, College Board, and institutional disclosures, as well as benchmarking indicators from organizations including U.S. News & World Report.

NCWU鈥檚 Criminal Justice program stands out for its accessibility, flexibility, and emphasis on real-world preparation. The program is designed with the adult learner in mind, providing a supportive, engaging online environment that allows students to advance professionally while continuing to meet the demands of everyday life.

鈥淎t North Carolina Wesleyan, we understand that many of our graduate students are working professionals already serving in their communities,鈥� said Katie Farrell, Dean of Adult & Professional Studies. 鈥淥ur online programs are built to meet students where they are, providing flexibility, individualized support, and coursework that directly connects to career advancement in the criminal justice field.鈥�

NCWU鈥檚 Master of Criminal Justice program equips students with advanced knowledge in criminal justice leadership, policy, ethics, and contemporary challenges in law enforcement and public safety. Graduates leave the program prepared to pursue higher-level roles in corrections, law enforcement administration, investigative services, homeland security, and other related fields.

鈥淥ur goal is to ensure students are not only earning a degree, but also gaining the confidence and expertise needed to take the next step in their careers,鈥� said Dr. Gail Marsal, Associate Professor of Criminal Justice and Program Coordinator. 鈥淭his program supports students as they transition into leadership roles and expand their impact within the criminal justice system.鈥�

OnlineMasters.com鈥檚 rankings are focused exclusively on accredited, nonprofit institutions offering online and hybrid master鈥檚 programs. Each school is assigned an Online Master鈥檚 Score ranging from 0 to 100, measuring overall performance across the criteria most predictive of graduate student success.

NCWU鈥檚 recognition in the 2026 rankings reinforces the University鈥檚 growing reputation for providing adult learners with innovative graduate opportunities that lead to meaningful career outcomes.

To view the complete ranking, visit:

麻豆原创 麻豆原创

麻豆原创 (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 , , and .

麻豆原创 ONLINEMASTERS.COM

OnlineMasters.com is an independent higher education research platform dedicated to helping students identify high-quality online master鈥檚 programs. Led by a team of data analysts and higher education researchers, the organization operates separately from editorial and marketing functions to preserve objectivity and methodological integrity.

Using verified federal education data, aggregated third-party rankings including U.S. News & World Report, and labor market research from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, OnlineMasters.com produces transparent, research-driven rankings that evaluate academic quality, affordability, return on investment, and student support. Its mission is to provide clear, unbiased insights that empower prospective graduate students to make confident, informed decisions about advanced education.

To learn more, visit https://www.onlinemasters.com.

The post OnlineMasters.com Ranks 麻豆原创 Among Best in the U.S. appeared first on 麻豆原创.

The ceremony included the presentation of various awards from each school within the university:

• School of Math and Sciences: Awards for outstanding achievements in disciplines such as Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science, and Mathematics.
• School of Business & Professional Studies: Recognized excellence in fields like Accounting, Marketing, Computer Information Systems, and Organizational and Sports Administration.
• School of Education and Social Sciences : Honored students who have demonstrated exceptional dedication and skill in teaching, educational leadership, History, Political Science, Psychology and Criminal Justice.
• School of Health Sciences: Recognized excellence in fields like Exercise Science, Nursing, Public Health, Sports Science and more.
• School of Humanities: Awards for outstanding achievements in disciplines such as Writing, Religious Studies, English and more.

Students were selected for these prestigious honors by a panel of faculty and staff, based on their leadership, academic achievement, community service, contributions to the university, and good citizenship. There is no doubt that these students will go on to accomplish great things.

Provost Dr. Joe Lane expressed his pride in the students’ accomplishments, stating, “Our awardees and honor society members have displayed outstanding contributions both inside and outside the classroom. Their dedication and hard work are truly commendable, and we are confident that they will continue to excel in their future endeavors.”

麻豆原创 remains committed to fostering an environment of academic excellence and leadership, and the Honors Convocation is a testament to the university’s dedication to recognizing and celebrating student achievements.

When you see these students, please take a moment to congratulate them.

To view entire 2026 honors list and photos from event, visit ncwu.edu/academics/academic-honors

The post University Celebrates 2026 Honors Convocation appeared first on 麻豆原创.

Inspired by personal life experiences, including navigating an abusive relationship, Quinn says she felt called to share her story as a message of hope for others facing hardship.

鈥淭his book came from my personal life experiences,鈥� Quinn shared. 鈥淚 felt led to share my story to bring hope, healing, and encouragement to others who may be in this situation and think there is no way out, feel broken, and/or overlooked.鈥�

Quinn described the writing process as both emotional and healing, requiring her to revisit painful moments while also reflecting on how far she has come.

鈥淭he writing process was both emotional and healing,鈥� she said. 鈥淚t required me to revisit painful moments, but it also allowed me to see how far God has brought me.鈥�

In addition to writing the book, Quinn also learned the publishing process firsthand鈥攖aking on formatting, designing her own cover, and navigating distribution. She credits the experience with strengthening her confidence not only as an author, but as an entrepreneur. Quinn said the moment she realized she wanted to become an author was when she understood her story had purpose beyond herself.

鈥淚 realized I wanted to become an author when I understood that my story was not just for me; it was meant to help others,鈥� she said.

Through her book, Quinn hopes readers recognize that healing is possible鈥攅ven in the most difficult circumstances.

鈥淚 want readers to know that no matter how broken their situation may seem, they are not beyond restoration,鈥� she said. 鈥淭here is healing, there is purpose, and there is still life after crisis.鈥�

Quinn also shared how her experience at NC Wesleyan has supported her growth as she balances academics and personal goals.

鈥淢y time at NCWU has strengthened my leadership skills, discipline, and confidence,鈥� she said. 鈥淭he program has helped me grow both personally and professionally, giving me the structure and encouragement needed to pursue my goals, including becoming a published author.鈥�

For students who may dream of writing or publishing a book, Quinn encourages them to begin now rather than waiting for the 鈥減erfect moment.鈥�

鈥淪tart writing and don鈥檛 wait,鈥� she said. 鈥淵our story matters, and someone needs to hear what you have to say. Stay consistent, be willing to learn the process step-by-step, and believe in your voice.鈥�

Quinn says her greatest accomplishment is having the courage to share her truth.

鈥淭his book represents healing, strength, and obedience to what I believe God placed in my heart to do,鈥� she said.

Her book, A Woman in Crisis Living on Broken Pieces, is available for purchase on Amazon and through her website at

Looking ahead, Quinn plans to continue growing her author brand, 鈥淗er Voice His Glory,鈥� while expanding her speaking and ministry platform. She is also preparing future writing projects, including a workbook and a new book titled Your Brokenness Was Necessary.

The post NC Wesleyan Student Turns Pain into Purpose Through Published Memoir appeared first on 麻豆原创.

For many colleges and universities, these shifts raise understandable questions. Federal funding has long played a role in helping institutions expand access, support students through challenges, and respond to workforce needs. When the funding landscape changes, institutions must take a step back and thoughtfully consider what comes next.

For 麻豆原创, a proud Minority Serving Institution, this moment reinforces the importance of planning ahead, diversifying support, and strengthening partnerships that ensure long-term stability for our students and our mission.

鈥淗igher education is constantly evolving, and moments like this remind us that adaptability and community support are essential,鈥� said Dr. Evan D. Duff, President of 麻豆原创. 鈥淥ur responsibility is to continue serving students with excellence, regardless of shifts in the external environment.鈥�

Understanding the Broader Context

Two recent federal actions have contributed to growing discussion within the MSI community:

One involves increased federal scrutiny of certain programs that previously provided targeted support to Minority Serving Institutions. These changes leave many institutions facing questions about the future funding availability and compliance requirements. Another includes the Department of Education鈥檚 decision to discontinue specific discretionary grant programs tied to MSI designation.

While these decisions are rooted in legal and regulatory considerations, their ripple effects are being felt across higher education. Institutions that serve large numbers of first-generation students, adult learners, Pell Grant recipients, and students from rural or economically challenged regions must now plan amid greater uncertainty.

As leaders across the country reflect on these changes, a common question emerges: How do institutions continue to deliver opportunity and access when traditional funding streams become less predictable?

What This Means for Minority Serving Institutions

Minority Serving Institutions play a critical role in the higher education ecosystem. They often serve students with significant potential and determination, many of whom balance academics with work, family responsibilities, and financial constraints. Federal support has historically helped MSIs:

• Reduce financial barriers for first-generation students and students from economically challenged households
• Build and sustain academic programs
• Provide tutoring, mentoring, and career readiness resources
• Strengthen workforce pipelines in education, healthcare, business, and public service

When funding becomes less certain, institutions must work harder to preserve these supports. Program growth may slow, student services can feel stretched, and workforce pathways that communities rely on may face added pressure.

At the same time, institutions like NC Wesleyan remain deeply committed to innovation, student success, and regional impact even as they navigate these challenges.

NC Wesleyan鈥檚 Ongoing Commitment

麻豆原创 has long focused on providing a personalized, practical, and purpose-driven education, particularly for students from central and eastern North Carolina. As an MSI, the University places student potential at the center of everything it does, preparing graduates not only for careers but for lives of leadership and service.

鈥淥ur students come to us with ambition, resilience, and a desire to make a difference,鈥� said Dr. Joseph Lane, Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs. 鈥淥ur role is to meet them where they are, support their growth, and ensure they have access to the resources needed to succeed.鈥�

Maintaining this level of support in a shifting funding environment calls for new approaches, thoughtful stewardship, and strong relationships beyond federal sources.

Why Private Support Matters More Than Ever

Private philanthropy, whether from individuals, foundations, corporations, or community partners, has always been an important part of NC Wesleyan鈥檚 story. Today, it plays an even more critical role.

Private support helps the University:

• Provide emergency and retention funding when students face unexpected challenges
• Create new academic programs and realign existing programs with evolving workforce needs and expectations
• Offer scholarships that reduce financial strain and increase access
• Strengthen career preparation, advising, and student success initiatives

Simply put, philanthropy helps ensure that opportunity does not pause when circumstances change.

In recent years, private philanthropy has played a stabilizing role for many institutions navigating change. Philanthropists such as MacKenzie Scott, who has made significant and and beyond, and which has invested nationally in strengthening nursing and healthcare education, illustrate how private support can reinforce institutional capacity. Similarly, historic gifts like the more than show how visionary donors can expand research, teaching, and student opportunity at scale across the higher education landscape.

Where Philanthropy Makes a Difference

Support for NC Wesleyan can take many forms, each with meaningful impact:

• Scholarships and endowed funds for first-generation students, adult learners, and career changers
• Program innovation that opens new academic pathways and created opportunities for hands-on learning
• Student success initiatives including enhanced advising, mentorship programs, internships, and practica to foster career readiness
• Community partnerships that strengthen regional education, healthcare, and workforce development

These investments don鈥檛 just support individual students, they strengthen families, employers, and communities throughout the region.

Looking Ahead, Together

Federal policy changes serve as a reminder that higher education thrives best when it is supported by a broad and engaged community. For NC Wesleyan, this moment is both a challenge and an opportunity: a chance to deepen partnerships, invite new voices into the conversation, and ensure the University remains strong for generations to come.

鈥淥ur mission has always been about opening doors,鈥� Tammy Robinson, Director of Donor Engagement, shared. 鈥淲ith the support of our partners and supporters, we will continue to do just that, creating pathways to success for students and strengthening the communities we serve.鈥�

NC Wesleyan鈥檚 students are ready to lead. With stability, opportunity, and shared investment, they will continue to do so鈥攁cross North Carolina and beyond.

The post Ensuring Opportunity Never Pauses: The Power of Philanthropy appeared first on 麻豆原创.

鈥淭hese gifts were not just scholarships; they were lifelines,鈥� said Katie Farrell, Dean of Adult and Professional Studies. 鈥淭hey met students where they were and provided exactly what was needed at exactly the right time.鈥�

Turning Deferred Dreams into Degrees

The immediate outcomes of the Angel Donor initiative are powerful and measurable:

• A Healthcare Administration student described the support as 鈥淗eaven-sent,鈥� allowing her to complete the final course needed to graduate in May 2026.
• Multiple Educational Studies and Leadership students were able to overcome financial barriers. This funding not only prevented delays but also accelerated degree completion and career trajectories, allowing future educators to enter the classroom sooner, helping address critical workforce gaps in education across the region.

Stability During Life鈥檚 Hardest Moments

Some stories speak not only to academic persistence, but to human resilience:

• A Leadership student, also a retired grandmother, unexpectedly assumed custody of three grandchildren and experienced temporary homelessness. She used the funds to secure housing, cover tuition, meet basic needs, and create a modest holiday for her family.
• A Criminal Justice student experiencing homelessness was able to remain enrolled and complete her final credits.
• A police officer finishing a Criminal Justice degree received support during the loss of his father.
• A Leadership student, a recently elected Town Commissioner recovering from a massive stroke, was able to continue his education while focusing on recovery and community service.

While this summary highlights selected stories shared with permission, additional funds continue to be distributed to other deserving students whose privacy is being respectfully protected.

A Season of Hope

The Angel Donor initiative affirms NC Wesleyan鈥檚 unwavering commitment to adult learners, students who balance education with work, family, and life鈥檚 unexpected challenges. Through strategic, compassionate support, the University is proving that persistence paired with opportunity can change lives.

As the holiday season approaches, these gifts stand as a reminder that generosity can be transformational, not someday, but today.

NC Wesleyan extends its deepest gratitude to the Angel Donors whose belief in students made these life-altering moments possible.

The post Wesleyan Donors Provide “Heaven Sent” Initiative appeared first on 麻豆原创.

---

Honor Lists for Fall 2025

The post Academic Honor Lists Announced for Fall 2025 appeared first on 麻豆原创.

Empowering Adult Learners Through Expanded APS Offerings

Many working adults don鈥檛 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鈥攅ach 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 麻豆原创.

鈥淢any adults assume they need to start over,鈥� said Katie Farrell, Dean of Adult and Professional Studies. 鈥淏ut at Wesleyan, you can upgrade your skills, gain confidence, and increase your value in the workplace in months, not years.鈥�

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鈥檚 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鈥檚 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.

鈥淥ur mission is simple,鈥� Anne Aichele, Program Director, shared. 鈥淲e want every student to explore, define, and design their academic, personal, and professional journey with confidence.鈥�

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鈥檚 growing international community, International Student Services will now transition under the leadership of Dr. Oscar Rodriguez. Dr. Rodriguez鈥檚 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.

鈥淭hese enhancements demonstrate our dedication to positioning each department for maximum impact,鈥� said University leadership. 鈥淥ur priority is always student success – from local adult learners to students joining us from around the world.鈥�

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鈥檚 a place for you at Wesleyan鈥攁nd we鈥檙e 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鈥� 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鈥攐ne 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鈥檚 a place for you at Wesleyan, and we鈥檙e 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.

The post NCWU Announces Transformative Enhancements for 2026 appeared first on 麻豆原创.

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 鈥�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, and longtime champion of Tackle the Tar, delivered heartfelt remarks about the importance of keeping talent in the region.

鈥淲e need our young people to stay in Nash County, further their education, and give back to the community,鈥� Davis shared. 鈥淔ind the things you enjoy doing. Rotary develops leaders 鈥� consider joining us. Our club is very proud of each of you and what you are accomplishing.鈥�

In closing, NCWU President Dr. Evan D. Duff expressed gratitude for the partnership and the opportunities it creates.

鈥淚 am grateful that both traditional and adult students can benefit from these scholarships,鈥� Duff said. 鈥淥ur recipients are already making meaningful contributions, and I know they will continue to do so. The Rotary鈥檚 support is helping shape the next generation of leaders.鈥�

Through and the unwavering support of the Rocky Mount Rotary Club, students at 麻豆原创 continue to gain access to life-changing educational opportunities 鈥� strengthening both their futures and the future of the region.

The post NCWU Students Receive $40,000 in Scholarships appeared first on 麻豆原创.

When Matthew Tiller walked across the stage at 麻豆原创鈥檚 commencement in May 2025, he carried more than his own dreams. As a first-generation college student, he carried the hopes of his entire family.

鈥淏eing the first in my family to attend college means breaking a barrier and opening a door that was never there before, 鈥淭iller shared. 鈥淚t feels like I鈥檝e paved a new way for my family, not just for myself.鈥�

Tiler, who double-majored in English and Psychology, admitted that the journey was not easy. His family, though proud, did not know how to help navigate applications, deadlines, or financial aid. 鈥淗onestly, they didn鈥檛 really know how to support me, so college became a learning environment for both me and my family,鈥� he said.

He isn鈥檛 alone. For fellow first-generation student Tamiya Rooks, a Biomedical Science major with a focus in Pre-Veterinary Medicine, the experience has also been about perseverance. 鈥淔or me, being a first-generation college student means that I have managed to beat the odds,鈥� Rooks said. 鈥淭o my parents, it means that they did an amazing job with raising their children and get to see her grow more. Making them immensely proud.鈥�

At Wesleyan, Tiller found mentors who guided him through. Professors in the English program offered academic and personal support, while supervisors in the Financial Aid office helped him grow into a leader. 鈥淲orking there was more than a paycheck, it was mentorship,鈥� he said. 鈥業 know I would not be the leader I am without their guidance.鈥�

Rooks echoed that feeling of support. 鈥淏eing the first in my family to go to college, I wanted a community that believed in my potential and would give me the resources to succeed, and Wesleyan offered that,鈥� she said.

Faculty and staff play a vital role in this culture. Paige Wells, Director of the Campus Experience, knows the challenges first-generation students face because she lived them herself. 鈥淎s someone who was a first-generation college student, I fully believe my personal experiences have uniquely equipped me to support students from similar backgrounds with greater empathy and intentionality,鈥� she said. 鈥淭o me, this work is more than just a job鈥攊t鈥檚 a personal mission.鈥� Wells also notes that misconceptions about the financial side of college often discourage families. 鈥淚t鈥檚 not because they don鈥檛 care鈥攊t鈥檚 simply a lack of information and familiarity with the process. That鈥檚 why it鈥檚 so important to create welcoming spaces where students and families feel safe asking questions and getting honest guidance.鈥�

That sense of belonging doesn鈥檛 end with graduation. Wesley Mercer, now a Helpdesk Technician at NCWU, once stood where today鈥檚 first-generation students do. 鈥淚 feel like a lot of people are overwhelmed or scared of the idea of going to college. When I first started as a student, the staff and faculty were much more helpful than I originally thought,鈥� he reflected.

Today, Mercer is proud to be part of the institution that helped him succeed. 鈥淚 am excited that I get to be a 鈥榩iece of the pie鈥� that is Wesleyan. It is amazing to be on the other side of the institution that meant so much to me as a student. It is almost surreal to see things from the other side.鈥�

For Mercer, the highlight of his journey remains graduation. 鈥淜nowing that I finally did it is still my proudest moment,鈥� he said. 鈥淓ven as a staff member, I always really enjoy getting to go to graduation and seeing students get their diplomas.鈥�

Both Tiller and Rooks admit the challenges were real. For Tiller, it meant forging ahead without a roadmap. For Rooks, it meant leaving home and stepping into the unknown. 鈥淎pplying to college was the easy part really, but preparing for it was the most difficult,鈥� she reflected. 鈥淚t鈥檚 never easy to leave your home and family to go to a new place, even if it is for your benefit.鈥�

Despite the obstacles, each points to proud milestones. Tiller cites leadership awards and internships. Rooks highlights completing her first year and joining the lacrosse team, something she had dreamed of for years. 鈥淚鈥檝e made so many new friends who are really like family to me now, and that means so much,鈥� she said.

Nearly 45% of Wesleyan鈥檚 student population are first-generation college students. Many faculty and staff were once first-generation themselves, making them uniquely able to mentor students like Tiller and Rooks. Wells notes that one of the biggest barriers is simply understanding the process. 鈥淥ne of the biggest misconceptions about college is the financial aspect, especially from the perspective of families who haven鈥檛 navigated the process before,鈥� she said. 鈥淢any families don鈥檛 fully understand the true cost of attendance or know what questions to ask when comparing schools, which can unintentionally limit the options they consider. It鈥檚 not because they don鈥檛 care, it鈥檚 simply a lack of information and familiarity with the process. For any student, especially a first-generation student, the process can be overwhelming, and that鈥檚 why it鈥檚 so important to create welcoming spaces where students and their families feel comfortable and safe asking questions and getting honest, clear guidance.鈥�

Looking ahead, Rooks hopes to become a veterinarian, serving her community by protecting and healing animals. 鈥淚 want to show my family that dreams can be reached with dedication, and I hope to make them proud by turning my passion into a way to help others,鈥� she said.

Supporting first-generation students is not just part of Wesleyan鈥檚 mission. It is woven into the fabric of who the university is. With nearly half its students blazing new trails, every diploma represents resilience, mentorship, and opportunity.

As Tiller puts it: 鈥淭ake that leap! Do it! Be brave! The challenges are worth it, and you will always come out on top.鈥�

The post First in the Family: Wesleyan Students Breaking Barriers appeared first on 麻豆原创.

Jill, who works in Strategy and Transformation division as a Sales Leader, sought to deepen her leadership skills with a structured and formal graduate program. With support from 笔别辫蝉颈颁辞鈥檚 education reimbursement program, she began researching accredited, affordable, and career-aligned master鈥檚 degrees. Her search led to a Forbes article highlighting top accredited graduate programs, where NC Wesleyan鈥檚 MSSL program stood out.

鈥淭he course outline and program requirements were accessible, and the online resources gave me a confidence that the MSSL program matched both my interests and professional needs,鈥� Griffith shared. 鈥淲hat truly made the experience personal was the exceptional support I received from Jennifer Phipps, Admissions and Advising Coordinator, who made the admissions process smooth and welcoming.鈥�

While on a business trip to Winston-Salem, Jill made the three-hour drive to Rocky Mount to see NC Wesleyan鈥檚 main campus in person. She met with faculty, including University President and MSSL professor Dr. Evan Duff, and was welcomed by several staff members with personalized hospitality from parking instructions and workspace accommodations to a guided campus tour.

鈥淚 had seen photos of the campus online, but visiting in person was such a pleasant surprise,鈥� said Griffith. 鈥淭he historic buildings were beautifully maintained, and the welcoming atmosphere was evident from banners promoting patience, accountability, and respect, to spaces like volleyball courts and hammocks. I simply felt like this was my school.鈥�

Since beginning the program, Jill has completed eight courses and already sees a direct impact on her work with PepsiCo. The MSSL program has provided her with new tools to communicate strategy, improve execution, and inspire collaborative problem-solving.

鈥淲ith my experience at , the program gave me a framework to better understand the building blocks of strategy and its evolving role in driving success,鈥� she explained. 鈥淪ome of the most exciting insights came from case studies and real-world examples that gave me the language to move ideas forward with greater impact.鈥�

Griffith also values the broader ripple effect of online learning: 鈥淲hether it鈥檚 your partner, kids, friends, or colleagues, the excitement from learning often sparks meaningful conversations beyond the classroom. When you are authentic about your experience, it can bring value beyond what you expected.鈥�

Her journey underscores N.C. Wesleyan鈥檚 national reach, offering high-quality, affordable programs that resonate with professionals across the country. Jill looks forward to completing her degree in the coming year and hopes to serve as a mentor for Wesleyan鈥檚 undergraduate students, continuing tradition of impactful mentorship.

鈥淛ill鈥檚 story is a powerful example of how N.C. Wesleyan鈥檚 mission to prepare students for leadership extends beyond state lines,鈥� says President Dr. Duff. 鈥淗er dedication reflects the type of scholar-practitioner we strive to develop, leaders who apply classroom knowledge directly to their professions and communities.鈥�

Through the support of PepsiCo and the accessible, personalized experience offered at NCWU, Jill has reignited her passion for learning, proving that growth thrives when opportunity meets curiosity.

The post NCWU Attracts Graduate Student from California Through Forbes Recognition appeared first on 麻豆原创.