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. 鈥淭丑别 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.
NCWU Graduate to Ph.D. at Texas A&M University
Andy Rizzo, a standout graduate of 麻豆原创鈥檚 Class of 2025, has dual-earned Bachelor of Science degrees in Biology and Environmental Science. Hailing from Buenos Aires, Argentina, Andy chose NCWU for its small, welcoming campus and strong support for international students.
鈥淚 felt it would make my transition as an international student easier,鈥 Andy said. 鈥淏ut what made me stay was the community 鈥 the friends, faculty, and staff who made my college journey truly amazing.鈥
Andy鈥檚 time at Wesleyan was marked by involvement and leadership. She served as RA and Head RA, led both the Student Entertainment & Activities Team (S.E.A.T.) and the International Bishop Association, and was active in multiple honor societies and student organizations. Her dedication was recognized with several awards, including the Algernon Sydney Sullivan Award, Environmental Science Award, Internship Award for her work at , and being crowned Homecoming Princess in 2023 and Homecoming Queen in 2024.
One of her biggest academic influences was Dr. Daniel Elias, under whom Andy conducted research on environmental pollutants. Dr. Elias reflected, 鈥淲atching Andy grow as a researcher has been one of the most rewarding parts of my work. Through her leadership on projects studying PFAS, salinity, microplastics, and predatory cues in Physa acuta, her presentations at multiple conferences, and her mentorship through the , Andy showed true academic growth, resilience, and responsibility. Beyond the lab, she also helped lead outreach efforts, native planting projects, and citizen science initiatives. I could not be prouder of her journey and everything still ahead.鈥
Now, Andy is heading to to pursue her Ph.D. in , backed by a teaching assistantship with Dr. Seemann. She鈥檒l be researching the effects of environmental pollutants on fish 鈥 continuing the meaningful work she started at Wesleyan.
鈥淚鈥檓 very grateful for my journey at Wesleyan,鈥 she said. 鈥淣one of my accomplishments would have been possible without the support of my parents, my friends from home and at Wesleyan, Mrs. Dawn Turner, and Dr. Daniel Elias.鈥
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 .
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
A Day for Wesleyan Giving Campaign- March 25th
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA 鈥 On March 25, 2025, friends and alumni of NC Wesleyan will have an opportunity to show their Bishop Pride and support the University during its six annual, 24-hour day of giving campaign,
WHAT IS A DAY FOR WESLEYAN?
This is a day when all NC Wesleyan University supporters, particularly alumni, celebrate the University through donations to support its vision and its students. In a short period of time, donors to the campaign can help advance the educational experiences for all students, help invest in new technologies for learning, create more scholarship opportunities, allow students to grow into their purpose, and help build Wesleyan’s future in the region.
鈥淭丑别 campaign this year is focusing on the emerging needs for the University. Supporting the Annual Fund, also known as the Wesleyan Fund, gives the university the flexibility to grant more scholarships and financial aid to students in need, create more internships within our business community, invest in relevant technologies for the library and classrooms, and provide more co-curricular activities for all students,鈥 said Mark Hinson, Sr. Executive for Philanthropic Engagement. 鈥淎ll gifts during A Day for Wesleyan Giving Day, regardless of size, add up to make a huge impact!鈥
When asked about the importance of , NC Wesleyan President, Dr. Evan Duff, stated; 鈥淲e hope that our alumni and the community will join us in showing their Bishop Pride and support this campaign on Tuesday, March 25. When alumni and friends of the University unite to share their passion for Wesleyan, amazing things can happen for this entire community.鈥
Help Wesleyan continue impacting this community while also providing its students with a personal, practical and purpose-driven education. Donors can learn more and participate in A Day for Wesleyan by visiting the secure giving website, , or by calling 252.985.5581.
Wesleyan Hosts GLF Scholarship Luncheon
麻豆原创 (NCWU) proudly hosted the Annual Luncheon on March 13 at The Dunn Center, celebrating the strong partnership between the two institutions. The event honored both past scholarship graduates and new recipients, highlighting the impact of the Golden LEAF Foundation (GLF) on student success.
The luncheon opened with a warm welcome from Mark Hinson, NCWU鈥檚 Vice President of Advancement, who expressed gratitude for the Foundation鈥檚 continued support. He emphasized the significant role GLF plays in providing educational opportunities for NCWU students and strengthening the university鈥檚 mission.
Alumni Speaker and NCWU graduate, Nadia Simmons, reflected on her time at Wesleyan, sharing how her experience was profoundly shaped by the scholarship. During her time as a student, she interned with GLF鈥攁n opportunity that led to her current role post-graduation. She credited the Foundation not only for her academic success but also for the meaningful relationships and shared values it fostered among students from small towns who aspire to make a big impact.
Leah Hill, NCWU鈥檚 Director of Financial Aid, recognized and introduced the scholarship recipients, personally thanking GLF members for their generosity. As a token of appreciation, the university presented gifts to the Foundation鈥檚 representatives. Five scholarship recipients were in attendance to celebrate this milestone: Benjamin Sellers, Finnegan Allen, Joseph Cooper, Nyasia Jones, and Alexis Whitfield.
The event concluded with remarks from Arlena Dongilli, GLF Scholarship Program Manager, and NCWU President Dr. Evan D. Duff, who reaffirmed the university鈥檚 gratitude for this life-changing partnership.
Through this ongoing collaboration, NCWU and the Golden LEAF Foundation continue to empower students, foster academic achievement, and invest in the future of North Carolina鈥檚 workforce.
