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
NCWU Attracts Graduate Student from California Through Forbes Recognition
麻豆原创 (NCWU) is proud to highlight the inspiring journey of Jill Griffith, a Master of Science in Strategic Leadership (MSSL) student who discovered Wesleyan more than 2,500 miles away in California.
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.
Wesleyan Signs with SIFEC
麻豆原创 (NCWU) has announced a new partnership with , further expanding its global educational reach. The agreement was officially signed on Monday, March 10, during a virtual ceremony attended by key leaders from both institutions.
Participants in the signing and partnership included NCWU President Dr. Evan D. Duff, Provost Dr. Joseph Lane, Associate Provost Dr. Molly Wyatt, Vice President of Enrollment Dr. Oscar Rodrigues, Chief Engagement Officer Cindy Edwards, and NCWU Trustee Jerome Ma. Representing SIFEC were President Xie Decheng, Contract Manager Jennifer Yang, Dean of International Education Sophia Liu, and VIP Investor for International Education Yan Yeti.
The 1+3 programs that we have signed with SIFEC (Shanghai International Fashion Education Center) and are exploring with other partners is a unique program in which students will complete one year of prerequisite and English courses at the Chinese institution before coming to the U.S. for three years to complete a B.S. in select fields (including Management and Marketing) at 麻豆原创. These partnerships will allow students from our partner institutions to learn about U.S. business fields here in Rocky Mount while completing their NCWU degree and preparing for more industry-specific studies in China. We look forward to working with these students to provide an excellent international education experience.
The students will not be receiving online instruction. They will actually spend three years in residence on our Rocky Mount campus. However, online meeting technologies does allow students who are entering the program to meet with their future U.S. advisors to plan their educational experience as they complete their first year of prerequisite courses in China.
鈥淲e are excited to welcome these students and provide them with a seamless transfer pathway to complete their dual degrees,鈥 said NCWU President Dr. Evan D. Duff. 鈥淭his partnership reflects our commitment to expanding global education opportunities and fostering international collaboration.鈥
In a continued effort to strengthen ties with SIFEC, Dr. Duff will be visiting China June 22 – 27, 2025, where he will meet face-to-face with collaborators, explore new opportunities for academic cooperation, and further solidify NCWU鈥檚 presence in the international education landscape.
The agreement marks another step in NCWU鈥檚 dedication to providing accessible, high-quality education while strengthening its international partnerships.
Employees Turn Tuition Perk into Diplomas
Director of Campus Safety, Controller, Sports Information Director, and Accounts Payable Specialist give the inside scoop on graduating with a discount.
At 麻豆原创 (NCWU), employees aren鈥檛 just shaping student success鈥攖hey鈥檙e living it. Through the University鈥檚 generous tuition discount program, eligible employees, their spouses, and their dependent children can pursue undergraduate degrees tuition-free. This 100% tuition discount opens doors for families to grow academically together, while also inspiring a culture of lifelong learning across campus. For those looking to advance even further, discounts are also available for graduate coursework, making it easier than ever for staff and faculty to sharpen their skills, earn advanced credentials, or pivot into new fields. At NC Wesleyan, education is not just a benefit鈥攊t鈥檚 a shared journey.
We interviewed just a few who have taken advantage of this benefit and the results are telling.
Meet Wayne Sears, Director of Campus Safety. Mr. Sears has worked at Wesleyan for nine years and in May 2023 received a Master of Science in Criminal Justice, due to his desire of “wanting the option to teach in the field of Criminal Justice and wanting to understand what the educational environment is like for our NCWU student family”.
What advice do you have for people considering Wesleyan graduate school while working?
Don’t put off post-graduate work. A Master鈥檚 Degree now separates educational accomplishment and knowledge in the workforce. Wesleyan’s Criminal Justice Program is a structured progressive program from beginning to end.
How would you describe your relationships with your professors?
Great! I could text, email, or call them often on their cell phones. Which I did, and they always responded. I am friends with several of them to this day.
Was there a moment you felt especially proud of your accomplishment?
Having been in the Criminal Justice field since I was twenty years old gave me a complex that I had to do exceptionally well. That was a personal challenge to me. I was awarded the Outstanding MSCJ Student award backed with a perfect 4.0 GPA and that was extremely satisfying!
Describe your graduate school journey in 3 words.
Well. Worth It.
Teikisha Anderson, Controller and employee of over eleven years, is currently obtaining a Master of Strategic Leadership Degree and plans to graduate in May 2025. Her motivation was enhanced once receiving a promotion into a leadership position on campus and feels that this degree will equip her with the essential skills necessary to become an innovative and effective leader.
What advice do you have for people considering Wesleyan graduate school while working?
Do it! The Graduate Programs are designed and structured to meet the needs of the average working adult. With effective time management and dedication, they can successfully balance home, work, and academic responsibilities. While some temporary sacrifices may be necessary, the overall achievements and benefits will be worth it.
How would you describe your relationships with your professors?
Working at NC Wesleyan has allowed me to connect with some of my professors on a professional level. However, as a staff member, I do not receive any preferential treatment regarding my classes or expectations. While I am familiar with some professors, many of them are adjuncts whom I have never met personally. Regardless, my experiences with my professors have been overwhelmingly positive. They communicate effectively and respond to my questions and concerns. Even in taking all online classes, the smaller class sizes allow professors to address any issues, confusion, or concerns promptly, which I can truly appreciate.
Was there a moment you felt especially proud of your accomplishment?
My proudest moment will be walking across that stage wearing that hooded regalia but that has yet to come; however, for now, I am proud of myself for pushing forward every day and maintaining a 4.0 GPA. As a self-proclaimed perfectionist, I am slightly obsessed with and committed to doing my absolute best in all that I do. I am committed to this academic journey and that in itself is my proudest accomplishment.
Describe your graduate school journey in 3 words.
God’s Got Me!
Entering his sixth year at Wesleyan, Bayden Collins is Wesleyan’s Sports Information Director. He received his Master of Business Administration Degree in December 2024. Collins was self-motivated to obtain a Master鈥檚 Degree from a very early age and feels that it will greatly help him in his career of administration in collegiate athletics.
What advice do you have for people considering Wesleyan graduate school while working?
I would highly recommend the Graduate Program while working at NCWU because there is no better place that you can obtain a degree in one year online while working at the same time. I am extremely blessed to say I earned my MBA at the age of 22 and Wesleyan afforded me that opportunity.
How would you describe your relationships with your professors?
While I was online, I still felt a very close relationship with my professors. Whenever I needed something, I could call or email them at any time if I ever needed anything. Also, each professor would do a beginning-of-the-week video/lecture where you felt like you were in the classroom which led to an awesome learning experience!
Was there a moment you felt especially proud of your accomplishment?
I was especially proud at the hooding ceremony when I saw Coach Denton, Mr. Mike Armbruster, and Coach Thompson outside the Dunn Center waiting to congratulate me. It meant a lot, and I am glad to work with such great people!
Describe your graduate school journey in 3 words.
Rewarding, Challenging, Enlightening
DeOnna Wilson worked at Wesleyan in the Business Office for four years before she accepted her current role as an Accounts Payable Specialist. She completed her Master of Business Administration in 2023 with the support of her family and “work family”. Wilson learned that it was essential to never be afraid of asking questions, as “seeking help can lead to growth and understanding”.
What advice do you have for people considering Wesleyan graduate school while working?
For those pursuing Graduate School while working, mastering time management and establishing a realistic schedule is essential. Prioritize your tasks and confidently seek clarification from professors whenever necessary鈥攖hey are there to support you. Don鈥檛 forget to include breaks in your schedule; maintaining a healthy balance between work and study is crucial for your success.
How would you describe your relationships with your professors?
I had varied relationships with my professors during my studies. With the professors I connected with, I fI had varied relationships with my professors during my studies. I found myself emailing some professors almost every other day to clarify assignments or projects. They were incredibly supportive and always willing to go the extra mile to assist me. Whenever they were on campus, they would take the time to meet with me, walking me through my mistakes and helping me understand the material better. I appreciated their pride in my efforts to learn, and their quick responses to my emails made it even easier to seek help. It truly made a difference in my learning experience.
Was there a moment you felt especially proud of your accomplishment?
The moment I felt a wave of pride for my accomplishment was when I walked across that stage to receive my diploma. Seeing all my family and work family there, beaming with smiles as I crossed that stage, made the achievement even more special. I completed my Master鈥檚 Degree despite the doubts I faced at the beginning and the many nights filled with tears questioning whether I could pull it off. In the end, it was all worth it, as I not only passed all my classes but also got to celebrate this significant milestone with my loved ones.
Describe your graduate school journey in 3 words.
Determined. Nervous. Time Management.
NC Wesleyan University Sends Off Class of 2025
On Saturday, May 2025, 麻豆原创 held its annual commencement ceremony at the . The University celebrated over 360 graduates, marking its 85th graduation.
The event was open to graduates, faculty, the platform party and guests of graduates where over 2000 were in attendance. University Chaplain, Rev. Edwin Ferguson, gave the invocation, followed by a performance of the Star-Spangled Banner by alumna, Ms. Latisha Scott 鈥06.
President Dr. Evan D. Duff welcomed the crowd to the momentous occasion and congratulated the graduates on their accomplishments noting, 鈥淵our degree is provided by an institution which seeks not only to dispense knowledge and develop the habits for lifelong learning, but also expects its graduates to be responsible citizens, contributors to the common good and individuals who care about others. As we celebrate together, we acknowledge the obligations all of us have to help bring about a better world.鈥
Commencement Keynote Speaker
The commencement address was given by Mr. Danijel Velicki, Entrepreneur, Financial Educator, and Founder of Opus Wealth Strategies and . Originally from Zagreb, Croatia, Velicki immigrated to the United States in 1995 with just $40 to his name. He worked tirelessly to fund his education, earning a bachelor鈥檚 degree in marketing and finance from Fairmont State University. Today, Velicki is a thriving business owner and is pursuing a graduate degree in Innovation and Strategy at Oxford University鈥檚 Sa茂d Business School.
Through his financial education platform, , Velicki aims to empower individuals and families with the tools they need to achieve financial stability and success. The platform offers online lessons and personalized support to help users develop smart spending habits and make informed financial decisions for to support a prosperous life. Velicki鈥檚 philosophy is deeply rooted in his belief that the 鈥淎merican Dream鈥 is attainable for everyone with the right support and determination.
Velicki addressed the graduates stating, 鈥淪uccess is not about comfort. Growth does not happen when you play it safe. The secret to success is passion, conviction, and discipline. Don鈥檛 be a gray speck on the wall. If you walk into a room, be heard, be seen, and be remembered. And most importantly, ASK! Most people are afraid to ask, but here鈥檚 what I know for certain 鈥 鈥榶ou miss 100% of the shots you don鈥檛 take鈥 as Michael Jordan once said.鈥
He went on to offer the Class of 2025 three key relationships for a lifetime of growth: a mentor, a peer, and a mentee. A mentor is someone who has walked the path before you. A peer is someone who grows with you, challenges you, pushes you and celebrates with you. A mentee is someone you help lift up because the best way to learn is to teach.
Velicki ended with 鈥淵our life is a blank canvas. You may be the first in your family to earn a degree. You may have changed careers to get here. You may have doubted whether you鈥檇 even make it to this moment. But here you are. Be bold in your dreams. Be relentless in your pursuits. Be kind in your interactions. The world is waiting for the unique imprint that each of you will leave- and I have no doubt it will be extraordinary鈥.
Students and Teacher Awards
After Velicki鈥檚 inspiring speech, Dr. Lane, Provost and Sr. Vice President of Academic Affairs, presented the Exemplary Teacher Award to Dr. Doreen Thierauf, Associate Professor of English. This award recognizes excellence in teaching and promotion of student learning, civility and concern for students and colleagues, commitment to value-centered education, service to students beyond the classroom and service to the larger community beyond campus. During her eight years on our faculty, Dr. Thierauf has published more than a dozen articles, edited volume chapters, and reviews, and she averages more than four publications and more than four newly presented talks or papers each and every year. She further creates a dynamic and energized classroom space in which students are invited to share their own thoughts and feelings on some of the most challenging concepts you can possibly discuss, and in spite of, or perhaps because of, the heavy subjects that Dr. Thierauf asks to students to reflect on, her students routinely rise to the occasion.
Andrea Belen Rizzo received the Algernon Sydney Sullivan Award, which honors a senior who best exemplifies excellence in character, leadership, service to the community and a commitment to spiritual values. This humanitarian award is meant to recognize those who have selflessly given to others or served others in some way. The recipient is chosen by the Honors Awards Committee.
Ms. Rizzo is a Biology and Environmental Science graduate from Argentina who has distinguished herself on the Wesleyan campus and in the community by her leadership of the Worldwide Welcome Team for international students at North Carolina Wesleyan and is a member of S.E.A.T., Science Club, NSLS, Phi Beta Sigma Honor Society, President of IBA, id on the President鈥檚 Honors List, and both Homecoming Princess and Queen. She will be continuing her education at Texas A&M as she was recently accepted into their Ph.D. Marine Biology program.
The President鈥檚 Cup Award was presented to Anna Elizabeth Ray, a senior who best exhibits those characteristics considered most desirable in a graduate. Of particular importance is the attainment of the highest standards of academic performance as demonstrated by the overall grade point average at 麻豆原创. The recipient is also chosen by the Honors Awards Committee.
Ms. Ray is from Richlands, North Carolina. She graduated with a major in Psychology, and was a member of the Cross-Country Team. She became an active student leader, serving as a member of S.E.A.T. and a Resident Advisor. Graduating with honors, she plans to pursue a master鈥檚 degree in Human Resource Management.
Upon the recommendation of the Honorary Degree Committee and the approval of the Board of Trustees, Mr. Danijel Velicki was honored with the degree of Doctor of Humanities Honorary Degree from NC Wesleyan University.
Clemmons Family Honored
This commencement ceremony was especially moving as Wesleyan honored Matthew Clemmons, who passed away September of 2021, with a Posthumous Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology. Matthew was a student-athlete and part of the NCWU football team. He was on the Dean鈥檚 List and was soon to be inducted into the Student Leadership Society. Twelve of his family members, friends, and former coach were in attendance to receive the degree in his memory.
The event was live streamed and recorded so family and friends who were not able to attend in person could celebrate with their students virtually. The recording can be viewed at ncwu.edu and the University鈥檚 page.
Photos can be viewed at .
NCWU Welcomes Transfers
With the recent and difficult announcements of the impending closures of and , 麻豆原创 is stepping forward to offer a new home and a supportive community for affected students. Understanding the whirlwind of emotions 鈥 uncertainty, frustration, and concern about the future 鈥 Wesleyan is committed to providing not just a pathway to continue their education but a family to stand beside them every step of the way.
鈥淲e recognize that many students are facing unexpected transitions, and we want them to know they are not alone,鈥 said Dr. Evan Duff, President of NC Wesleyan. 鈥淥ur goal is to offer a safe place, clear guidance, and a community that cheers them on to the finish line.鈥
To ease the transfer process, NC Wesleyan is waiving application and deposit fees and offering competitive financial aid packages. The University provides robust opportunities, including athletic programs, military and veteran support, international student services, and flexible adult studies. Students can also choose from top academic programs such as Business Administration, Education, Science, Exercise Science, and Criminal Justice.
Additionally, Wesleyan offers housing options and one-on-one advising to ensure a seamless transition. Named one of the safest and most affordable universities in North Carolina, NC Wesleyan delivers a personal, practical, and purpose-driven educational experience.
鈥淵our academic journey isn鈥檛 over,鈥 added Dr. Duff. 鈥淚t鈥檚 simply finding a new chapter 鈥 and we are ready to help you finish strong, as part of our Bishop family.鈥
Learn more about these special transfer opportunities for SAU and LU students.
University Celebrates 2025 Honors Convocation
Rocky Mount, NC聽鈥 April 3, 2025 鈥 麻豆原创 proudly hosted its annual Honors Convocation, celebrating the exceptional achievements of its students. The event, held at the Dunn Center for the Performing Arts, recognized students who have demonstrated outstanding leadership, academic excellence, community service, and contributions to the university.
The ceremony included the presentation of various awards from each school within the university:
- School of Math and Sciences:聽Awards for outstanding achievements in disciplines such as Biology, Chemistry, Exercise Science, Environmental Science, Public Health, and Mathematics.
- School of Business:聽Recognized excellence in fields like Accounting, Marketing, Computer Information Systems, and Organizational and Sports Administration.
- School of Education and Social Sciences :聽Honored students who have demonstrated exceptional dedication and skill in teaching, educational leadership, History, Political Science, Psychology and Criminal Justice.
- 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 See entire list and photos from event, visit ncwu.edu/academics/academic-honors
NCWU Ranks Nationally for Criminal Justice Graduate Degree
The latest rankings of online programs by names 麻豆原创 (NCWU) among the nation鈥檚 best.
For a few years in a row, N.C. Wesleyan鈥檚 Master of Criminal Justice degree program has been ranked among the top 50 nationally by U.S. News & World Report. The publication鈥檚 2025 Best Online Programs Rankings, released on January 21, evaluated online programs based on scores in categories such as engagement, faculty credentials and training, expert opinions, and student excellence.
鈥淲e understand that many adults are looking to return to school, but may face challenges with balancing work, family and other responsibilities,鈥 said Dr. Elizabeth Gail Marsal, Associate Professor and Program Coordinator for Criminal Justice. 鈥淭his recognition by U.S. News & World Report demonstrates the quality education that NCWU provides for online adult learners through practical and purpose-driven experiences.鈥
NC Wesleyan鈥檚 Master of Science in Criminal Justice program offers many benefits including: rolling admissions, 100% online classes starting every eight weeks, one-on-one mentoring, supportive faculty who have real-world experience, career assistance and you can finish the program in as little as 12 months. The program offers concentrations in Criminal Justice Administration or Criminal Justice Practice. 麻豆原创 is the only private, nonprofit higher education school in the region to offer a Master of Science in Criminal Justice. To learn more about admission requirements and curriculum information, visit ncwu.edu/cjmasters.
鈥淎ccess to accurate and up-to-date information about online programs is important for prospective students and professionals as they choose a program that aligns with their educational and career goals,鈥 says LaMont Jones, Ed.D., managing editor for education at U.S. News. 鈥淏y evaluating factors such as student engagement and program quality, Best Online Programs rankings can help students identify which schools offer an exceptional online learning experience.鈥
Prospective students can see how N.C. Wesleyan compares to other institutions and how the rankings are calculated on .
麻豆原创 U.S. News & World Report
U.S. News & World Report is the global leader for journalism that empowers consumers, citizens, business leaders and policy officials to make confident decisions in all aspects of their lives and communities. A multifaceted media company, U.S. News provides unbiased rankings, independent reporting and analysis, and consumer advice to millions of people on each month. A pillar in Washington for more than 90 years, U.S. News is the trusted home for in-depth and exclusive insights on education, health, politics, the economy, personal finance, travel, automobiles, real estate, careers and consumer products and services.
NCWU Announces New Prelicensure BSN Program
麻豆原创 (NCWU) is proud to announce the expansion of its Nursing Program with the addition of a Prelicensure Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree. This comprehensive four-year program is set to welcome its first cohort of students in August 2025, with applications being accepted from February 1 to May 1, 2025. Admission decisions will be finalized by June 1, paving the way for selected students to begin in the fall semester.
The new 4-year program is designed to provide a seamless educational pathway for aspiring nurses. Freshman and sophomore years will focus on completing prerequisites and general education requirements. Students will then apply for admission to the nursing program at the end of their sophomore year. Upon acceptance, students will dedicate their junior and senior years to nursing-specific coursework and clinical experiences. Transfer students are also welcome to apply, with the flexibility to complete prerequisite courses at other institutions before transferring to NCWU.
Wesleyan鈥檚 current RN-to-BSN program is nationally accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), and the university intends to seek accreditation for the new prelicensure program as well. Entirely donor-funded through partnerships with local and state organizations, the program reflects a strong investment from the surrounding community in its success.
Leading the initiative are Dr. Crystal Ostheim, DNP, RN, FNP-BC, BP-C, CNE, Director of Nursing Programs, and Dr. Lesley Gillian McGraw, DNP, RN, CNE, Prelicensure BSN Program Director. Additionally, two experienced nursing educators will join the team starting February 1, further bolstering the program’s academic and clinical expertise.
The new nursing program will utilize NCWU’s state-of-the-art simulation and skills lab, featuring high-fidelity and medium-fidelity simulation manikins, task trainers, and a mock hospital room. These facilities are designed to provide students with hands-on learning experiences in a realistic clinical environment. The program also boasts advanced classroom technology, group study rooms, and flexible lab access for students who wish to hone their skills further. To enhance clinical simulation experiences, the program will incorporate cutting-edge reality and AI technology.
Grounded in creativity and innovation, NCWU’s Prelicensure BSN program is tailored to accommodate diverse learning styles, making the educational experience both engaging and realistic.
If you have any specific questions regarding the new 4-year program, contact Dr. Crystal Ostheim, Director of Nursing Programs, at COstheim@ncwu.edu. Applications will be accepted from February 1 to May 1, 2025.
NCWU – A Premier Community College Partner
麻豆原创 (NCWU) continues to strengthen its reputation as a premier community college partner in the state, offering a seamless and affordable pathway to higher education for community college graduates and employees. With a steadfast commitment to accessible education and comprehensive student support, NCWU has built meaningful partnerships with community colleges that facilitate smooth transitions for students pursuing their bachelor degrees.
Over the past decade, more than 2,000 community college students have successfully completed their bachelor鈥檚 degrees at NCWU, reflecting the University鈥檚 dedication to fostering educational advancement. NC Wesleyan maintains articulation agreements with 38 of the 58 community colleges in North Carolina, ensuring that students can transfer credits efficiently. Additionally, Wesleyan is part of several key articulation agreements, including the and Registered Nurse (RN) to Bachelor of Science in Nurse (BSN). These partnerships reduce the number of credits students are required to take at a four-year institution, streamlining the transfer process and saving both time and money.
Wesleyan鈥檚 transfer-friendly policies set it apart from other institutions in the state, as it offers more transfer credits than any other North Carolina school. Students who have previously received college credit from a two-year institution may transfer in up to 75 credit hours and those who have attended a four-year institution up to 90 credit hours. Students can also take advantage of accelerated associate-to-master鈥檚 completion programs, allowing them to earn both degrees in just 2.5 years in high-demand fields such as Business, IT Management, and Criminal Justice. These programs are tailored to meet the needs of working adults and are designed to help students gain the skills needed to secure promotions or enter new career paths.
At the heart of NCWU鈥檚 transfer initiative is Wesleyan Works, the University鈥檚 signature transfer program. Through this program, NCWU has developed effective agreements with community colleges across the state, guaranteeing admission for graduates holding an Associate of Arts (AA), Associate of Science (AS), or Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree, Associate of Fine Arts (AFA), Associate of Engineering(AE), and Associates in Teacher Preparation (ATP).This ensures that their credits transfer smoothly, allowing them to continue their educational journey with ease. With NCWU鈥檚 one-of-a-kind pathway for AAS degrees, students can transfer in a total of 75 semester hours. Benefit 鈥 applies for all AAS credits directly towards 120 bachelor鈥檚 degree required hours but further reduces remaining credits needed at NCWU by allowing the additional 15 hours.
鈥溌槎乖 is committed to supporting community college graduates and employees through flexible, affordable programs that help students reach their full potential,鈥 said Dr. Evan D. Duff, President of NCWU. 鈥淲e understand the unique challenges faced by community college students and aim to offer programs that fit their needs and schedules, allowing them to balance work, family, and education.鈥
NCWU not only supports community college graduates, but also extends special tuition rates to community college employees, making it more affordable for them to further their education and advance their careers. The University鈥檚 online and hybrid course options provide the flexibility working professionals need, allowing them to complete coursework at their own pace while balancing other responsibilities.
In addition to affordable tuition, NCWU offers a wide range of support services, including academic advising, financial aid counseling, and career services, to ensure that students receive the guidance and resources needed for a smooth transition and successful completion of their bachelor鈥檚 degree. These services are offered on their community college campus with dedicated office hours, avoiding the extra step of them having to come to Wesleyan.
As NC Wesleyan continues to expand its partnership with community colleges, the University remains dedicated to providing personalized educational experiences for students from all backgrounds. With a focus on flexibility, affordability, and student success, NCWU is helping build a brighter future for North Carolina鈥檚 community college graduates and employees.
