October 20鈥26, 2025 is National Estate Planning Awareness Week, a time to reflect on how thoughtful planning today can create a lasting impact tomorrow. At 麻豆原创 (NCWU), planned gifts have helped shape the institution鈥檚 growth, stability, and student success.
One powerful example is the gift from the Estate of Anita D. Bobbitt, which significantly expanded the John C. and Huldah B. Daughtridge Memorial Scholarship. Originally supporting one student per semester, this scholarship now helps over 10 students each term鈥攑rioritizing North Carolina residents with financial need.
Planned gifts like these are more than financial contributions鈥攖hey are legacies that honor the values of their donors and transform lives for generations. Whether through a bequest in a will, a trust, or a gift from an IRA, these contributions offer flexible, tax-smart ways to support NCWU鈥檚 mission.
Why Estate Planning Matters
Despite its importance, 64% of Americans do not have any estate planning documents, and only 34% have a will. The main reason? Procrastination.
Estate planning ensures your wishes are honored鈥攚hether for your family, loved ones, or favorite charities. It鈥檚 a key part of financial wellness and peace of mind.
5 Simple Steps to Get Started
- Inventory Your Assets 鈥 List everything you own and its value. Compile a list of all of your assets and their value. Once you鈥檝e got it all organized you can start thinking about what to do with it.
- Set Your Priorities 鈥 Think about what matters most to you. Before you get down to the specifics of planning, consider your priorities and goals. What are you looking to achieve?
- Identify Beneficiaries 鈥 Decide who or what organizations you want to support. Make a list of the individuals and organizations that you want to provide for in your estate plan. Note any conditions that might determine the method and circumstances.
- Talk with Family 鈥 Discuss your plans with loved ones. If applicable, work closely with your spouse from the beginning. Coordinating plans between spouses often leads to additional savings for your estate. You may also want a meeting to discuss your plans with children or other family members.
- Seek Professional Help 鈥 A qualified attorney or advisor can guide you. Even if you only need a simple will, it is advisable to seek the help of a qualified attorney and, as needed, other professional advisors. Professional guidance is most often a worthy investment to ensure a proper plan.
Elevate the Next Generation at NCWU. Leave a Legacy Today.
If you care deeply about NC Wesleyan or are grateful for the education you or a loved one received, consider leaving a legacy through your will. This type of gift, called a bequest, is a meaningful way to support future generations.
Benefits of Planned Giving:
- Simple Process 鈥 Often just one sentence in your will.
- Flexible Options 鈥 Give a fixed amount, a percentage, or the remainder of your estate.
- No Impact on Current Finances 鈥 Your gift is made in the future.
- Purposeful Giving 鈥 Support a specific program or area of need.
- Adaptable 鈥 You can revise your plans if your situation changes.
Already Have a Will?
- That鈥檚 a great start! But there are other important steps to ensure your plans are clear and up to date:
- Do you revisit your will regularly to reflect major life changes like births, marriages, or divorces?
- Have you shared the location of your will, healthcare directives, and other key documents with a rusted person? Are they stored securely and organized?
- Are the beneficiaries listed on your retirement accounts, bank accounts, and insurance policies current?
- Have you considered your digital footprints such as online banking, email, cloud storage, and social media? Does someone you trust have access if needed?
So, don鈥檛 forget to:
- Update it after major life events.
- Share its location with someone you trust.
- Review your listed beneficiaries.
- Plan for digital assets like email and online accounts.
Maximize Your IRA鈥檚 Impact
If you’re 70陆 or older, you may be able to make a directly from your IRA to NCWU. This can:
- Count toward your Required Minimum Distribution (RMD).
- Be excluded from your taxable income.
- Reduce future tax burdens for your heirs.
Example: Linda, age 74, asked her IRA administrator to send $2,000 directly to NCWU. It counted toward her RMD and saved her on taxes鈥攚ithout affecting her current finances.
Choose Your Legacy Today
To GET STARTED or learn more about leaving a lasting legacy through a planned gift, visit ncwu.edu/planned-gifts or contact Tammy Robinson at 252.985.5410 or donorrelations@ncwu.edu.
NCWU Announces the Establishment of the James and Elizabeth Gray Endowed Scholarship
麻豆原创 (NCWU) is proud to announce the creation of the James (Jim) and Elizabeth (Beth) Gray Endowed Scholarship, honoring the life and contributions of NCWU鈥檚 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鈥檚 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鈥 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鈥檚 dedication to preschool education and her lasting impact on NCWU.
鈥淭丑颈蝉 scholarship is a meaningful way to celebrate the Gray family鈥檚 legacy and their devotion to advancing education,鈥 said Dr. Evan D. Duff, President of NCWU. 鈥淭heir generosity will directly impact generations of students, helping them pursue their dreams with the same values of excellence and service that the Grays embodied.鈥
The endowment, funded by Jim and Beth Gray, will be invested in accordance with the University鈥檚 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鈥檚 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 麻豆原创 for generations to come.
WESmagazine Edition Released
WESmagazine includes articles featuring areas of academics, student life, athletics and advancement. You鈥檒l get a glance at the growing campus and thriving community. WESmagazine is published twice per year by the Office of Marketing & Communication along with The Advancement Office at 麻豆原创.
See what some of our Alumni are up in Alumni Class Notes and enjoy many featured articles such as:
- The Pulse of Progress: Expanding Nursing at NCWU
- Wesleyan Launches 鈥淭he Deep End鈥 Podcast
- Beyond the Classroom: A Decade of Difference
- Faculty & Staff Spotlight – Dr. Gail Marsal
- Hartness Student Center Upgrades
- Club Highlight – The Bishop Billiards Club
- NCWU Student Spotlight – Andy Rizzo
- Student Life
- Legacy of Leadership, John Brackett, Beyond the Spotlight Legacy Achievement Award
- Bishop Coach Spotlight – Albie Brice
- Spirit on the Rise: Cheer & Dance finish 2nd place at the 2025 NCA College Nationals
- Empowering Communities, Fueling Futures: Economic Impact Study
- A Heart That Never Retired: Rachel T. Dix.
- The Voice of Wesleyan: Latisha Scott 鈥06
- Inaugural Battling Bishops Brunch
- Alumni Champion Spotlight – Felicia Pierce-Daniel
Learn more about publication and give us your feedback >
Wesleyan Emerging as a Destination Disc Golf with Upcoming Weekend Tournament
麻豆原创 (NCWU) will once again highlight its role as a regional destination for disc golf this weekend as it welcomes players from across the community and beyond for a series of tournaments on campus. The University鈥檚 course, which has drawn growing praise from amateur and professional players alike, will host three events in just two days, underscoring Wesleyan鈥檚 expanding reputation as a hub for the sport.
What began as a single, one-round Disc Golf event has grown into a weekend attraction featuring:
- Friday, Sept. 12 at 5:00 p.m. 鈥 Dangerous Doubles 2 presented by . National disc golf representative Tyler Searle will return with his Latitude 64 mobile store, parked along U.S. 301 at hole 16.
- Saturday, Sept. 13 at 9:00 a.m. 鈥 Climo Challenge. A three-disc challenge featuring a shotgun start with 34 players, including several NCWU students, competing across the course.
- Saturday, Sept. 13 at 12:00 p.m. 鈥 Throw What You Know Challenge. The weekend鈥檚 main PDGA tournament, featuring nearly 40 players, also in shotgun format.
The growth of Wesleyan鈥檚 Disc Golf reflects both community enthusiasm and the University鈥檚 commitment to offering versatile event space. With four sanctioned tournaments already held this year, and two more planned by December, including one during Homecoming. The Wesleyan course continues to attract players from across North Carolina and beyond, including Georgia, South Carolina, Virginia, West Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Tennessee.
鈥淭丑颈蝉 weekend has snowballed into a Rocky Mount disc golf attraction,鈥 said tournament organizer Marcus Rich. 鈥淭he course and the campus together have become a draw not only for local players, but also for visitors traveling from out of state. Events like these bring people to Wesleyan who one day may become part of our campus community.鈥
As disc golf continues to grow nationwide, Wesleyan has positioned itself as a premier destination in eastern North Carolina, serving both students and the wider community. The University鈥檚 course offers a unique blend of competitive play and collegiate spirit, making it a valuable resource for tournaments, community recreation, and campus life.
First in the Family: Wesleyan Students Breaking Barriers
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
Omnium Issue 8 Out Now!
Check out the new issue of , released in August 2025. Omnium collects written work by promising undergraduate scholars.
This year鈥檚 issue has a strong focus on revisiting older ways of 鈥渄oing society鈥濃攆rom questioning the impact of social media and internet pornography on mental health and social relationships to exploring daring new trends in animal conservation and to formulating guidelines for responsible business leaders. During a year of declining trust in corporate leaders, especially those in the technology sector, this issue of Omnium features six essays focusing on ethical business practices, including a special section of articles created by NCWU graduate students in the business and leadership master鈥檚 programs. We hope that readers will be as excited about these new essays as their reviewers and editor are.
Omnium would not exist without the many expert teachers and scholars at NCWU who donate their time to this project. A very warm thank-you to the faculty judges for reading this year鈥檚 submissions in record time: Drs. Maria Gil, Meredith Gringle, Jarrod Kelly, Margaret Love, Chad Ross, Rachel Roy, Mark Sursavage, Lee Templeton, Shane Thompson, and Emily Weber.
We invite our readers to enjoy and learn from the new essays collected here, and also encourage teachers in any discipline to use them as models in their own courses. Please use attribution when you do so.
OUR MISSION. Omnium, housed in the English Department at NCWU, provides our undergraduate students with the opportunity to explore the major genres of academic writing, join in scholarly conversations, share their ideas, perform original research, and see their work published in a professional venue. Omnium also serves as a teaching resource for NCWU faculty鈥攁nd faculty at other institutions鈥攁s the essays and research articles published here reflect the skill and knowledge of real students at various stages of their academic careers, from first-year composition essays to projects created in senior seminars and honors theses. The materials lend themselves well to in-class discussion, analysis, and emulation, and we hope that students will be energized when they realize that there is no single arcane secret to writing well. All it takes is practice, motivation, and direction.
For questions about Omnium, please contact the editor, Dr. Doreen Thierauf.
NCWU Honors Two Trustees with Golden Emeritus Award
麻豆原创 (NCWU) proudly recognized two esteemed individuals for their exceptional service and unwavering dedication to the institution. During a special ceremony held on Tuesday, July 29 at the Gateway Technology Center, Dr. Daniel Crocker and Mr. Roger Taylor were honored with the Golden Emeritus Award.
This prestigious recognition is reserved for trustees who have shown extraordinary commitment and leadership for many years of service. Dr. Crocker and Mr. Taylor have each dedicated 28 years to NCWU鈥檚 Board of Trustees, providing invaluable guidance, serving on numerous committees, and helping shape the future of the university through their leadership. Their leadership, vision, and generosity have helped shape Wesleyan into the institution it is today.
Dr. Crocker began his tenure in 1997 and has served continuously ever since. Over the years, he has held several leadership roles, including Vice Chair of the Board from 2016 to 2018 and Chair of the Board from 2018 to 2023. His strategic insight and steadfast dedication have left a lasting impact on the University鈥檚 progress and direction.
Mr. Taylor began serving on the Board in 1996, completing 20 consecutive years, briefly stepping away in accordance with the bylaw policy. He returned after one year and continued serving for another eight consecutive years. Mr. Taylor has been an influential voice on multiple committees, most notably leading the Athletics Committee for many years with great passion and commitment.
Board Chair Paul Bauer led the presentation, offering heartfelt remarks about each recipient鈥檚 lasting contributions. Both Dr. Crocker and Mr. Taylor followed with their own words of gratitude and reflection, emphasizing their enduring connection with the University.
President Dr. Evan D. Duff shared, 鈥淒r. Crocker and Mr. Taylor, your legacy here is profound, and it is a great privilege to express our collective gratitude for your enduring service. The Taylor-Crocker Honors Program stands as a beacon of excellence at NC Wesleyan, a reflection of your visionary leadership. Your wisdom, guidance, and unwavering support have shaped not only our university but my own journey as well. You have set an example of service and dedication that will inspire future generations of leaders.鈥
Dr. Crocker, reflecting on the evening, noted, 鈥淚 look upon this evening as not a celebration of anything Brenda and I may have done on this campus, but rather as an opportunity to say thank you to all of you for the excellent work you do every day in perpetuating the mission of this school. We thank you for including us in the NCWU family, making us always feel so welcomed.鈥
Mr. Taylor, whose relationship with the University spans more than half a century, shared, 鈥淪ince 1968, when I arrived on the campus of NCWC, I have witnessed the transformation into a university. The bonding of faculty, staff, students, administration, and the area community has only added value to those who have participated. The trustees have faced many difficulties, but through it all, our university is stronger today than ever before.鈥
The Golden Trustee Emeritus Award represents the University鈥檚 deep gratitude and respect for those who have played a lasting role in its development. Through their vision, service, and love for the Wesleyan community, Dr. Crocker and Mr. Taylor have left an enduring legacy that will benefit generations of students to come.
NCWU Announces New Endowed Scholarship in Public Health
麻豆原创 (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鈥檚 legacy and further support students in this vital field. The scholarship is designed to be a lasting tribute to Dr. Whitaker鈥檚 contributions to the field and his enduring impact on community health.
鈥淭丑颈蝉 scholarship reflects our family鈥檚 deep respect for my father鈥檚 life鈥檚 work and our shared belief in the power of public health to improve lives,鈥 said George G. Whitaker. 鈥淲e are proud to support students who are passionate about continuing that mission.鈥
Administered through the University鈥檚 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鈥檚 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. 麻豆原创 is deeply grateful to the Whitaker family for their vision and enduring commitment to both higher education and public service.
Come Rock the Mount at NC Wesleyan University
麻豆原创 (NCWU) is excited to announce the return of its annual Rock the Mount celebration, an honored tradition that marks the official start of the academic year and warmly welcomes incoming students to campus and the local community. Sponsored this year by , the event will take place from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, August 19鈥攖he day before fall classes begin.
Held each fall, Rock the Mount is a vibrant, high-energy event featuring local businesses, nonprofits, churches, and campus partners who line the Southern Bank Green with booths, giveaways, and smiles. It鈥檚 a chance to showcase community offerings while connecting with students who are new to the area and eager to get involved.
鈥 is thrilled to support NC Wesleyan University and Rock the Mount,鈥 says Kim Sutton, Senior Vice President of Southern Bank. 鈥淎s your partner in financial wellness education, we鈥檙e proud to invest in your success and celebrate your history of positive community outreach in our area. We鈥檙e banking on YOU, Battling Bishops!鈥
The day begins with a signature Wesleyan tradition: the Bishop Tunnel. Hundreds of new students take part in this spirited rite of passage as they walk through a tunnel of applause, cheers, and encouragement from returning students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community members. At the end of the tunnel, they鈥檙e greeted personally by President Dr. Evan D. Duff and his wife, Marcy, then proceed toward a vibrant festival of tents, music, and engagement opportunities.
Last year鈥檚 Rock the Mount welcomed nearly 80 vendors, and NCWU aims to exceed that number this year. Local restaurants, coffee shops, service providers, churches, and nonprofits are encouraged to participate. Whether you’re an automotive shop (freshmen can have cars on campus!), a local caf茅, or a church seeking new connections, this is a unique chance to reach a new audience of potential customers, volunteers, interns, or even future employees.
This year鈥檚 entertainment will include DJ 3two1, along with a variety of food trucks offering local flavor, including:
- 3 Boys Catering
- Taquria La Lupita
- Minnie鈥檚 Food and Things
- Sweet P’s Galaxy Lemonade
- Swarmalicous
Vendor Information:
- NCWU will provide a 6-foot table.
- Vendors should bring a tablecloth.
- Tents (up to 10鈥檟10鈥) are optional but recommended for shade.
- Giveaways are not required but encouraged to boost engagement.
- Participation is free, but space is limited.
Registration Deadline: Wednesday, July 31. Early registration is encouraged.
Sign Up Here:
Join us in making a memorable first impression and welcoming the NCWU Class of 2029 in style! For more information, contact Elliott Smith at esmith@ncwu.edu.
From Court to Career: Nadia Simmons鈥 Path in Sports Administration
Nadia Simmons, a standout student in Business and Sports Administration at 麻豆原创 (NCWU), continues to pave the way toward a promising career in athletics and sports leadership. A dual graduate of 麻豆原创鈥攅arning her undergraduate degree in 2024 and her Master of Business in 2025鈥擲immons exemplifies the impact of hands-on experience, academic commitment, and personal initiative.
From 2021 to 2023, Simmons interned as a Youth Sports Coordinator at the through support from the . During her internship, she led engaging youth sports programs, promoted teamwork and fitness, supported coaches, and built strong relationships with families in the community.
鈥淲itnessing the development of the youth and building bonds with families was incredibly rewarding,鈥 said Simmons. 鈥淚t strengthened my leadership skills and deepened my passion for community involvement and youth athletics.鈥
Currently serving as a Graduate Intern in NCWU鈥檚 athletic department, Simmons remains focused on preparing for a future career in athletics. She continues to actively explore professional opportunities and credits her proactive networking and the foundational support of the with helping position her for success.
鈥淢y time at NCWU has been truly exceptional,鈥 Simmons said. 鈥淭he diverse and welcoming environment here has expanded my skill set and connected me with inspiring individuals across campus. The relationships I鈥檝e built have created a vibrant and supportive academic community.鈥
A five-year member of the NC Wesleyan Women鈥檚 Basketball Team, Simmons chose the university for its unique blend of academic excellence and athletic competitiveness. 鈥淚 was drawn to NCWU鈥檚 family atmosphere and strong athletics program. Being able to pursue my degree while playing the sport I love made my college experience meaningful,鈥 she added.
Simmons also shares a personal connection to Wesleyan through her family 鈥 she is the proud older sister of twin sisters who are set to graduate from NCWU next year.
As she looks ahead to her graduation in 2025, Simmons remains a powerful example of how passion, purpose, and perseverance can create lasting impact both on and off the court.
