N.C. Wesleyan University is preparing to induct six members to its Athletics Hall of Fame.
The Bishops will honor the 2020 and 2021 classes during an invite-only ceremony on Oct. 9. The new members include the late and former athlete and administrator Cliff Sullivan, as well as former players Brittany Insley-Pecora, Chris Bryant and LeeRon Boykin in the 2020 class.
The 2021 class includes athletes Trey Drake and Caitlin Sanderson.
NC Wesleyan Partners with Local Packaging Solutions Company
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA 鈥 The Office of Career Development & Leadership at 麻豆原创 has established a new partnership with , a local corporation headquartered in Battleboro, to provide several job shadowing opportunities for its students. Ossid manufactures and sells machinery to a variety of businesses in need of wrapping, labeling and sealing equipment to package their products.
This unique learning opportunity was presented to all NC Wesleyan juniors and seniors with a major or minor in Marketing or Communications. Ossid鈥檚 Senior Marketing Specialist, Stacie Eberly, typically works out of Charlotte, but travels to the Battleboro location on a monthly basis. During her visit the week of September 13, she hosted a group of NC Wesleyan students to work on trade show preparations, digital marketing, blog content and meeting with other executives.
鈥淚t was a pleasure opening our doors to NC Wesleyan University students. They were engaged, asked great questions and provided support across multiple marketing projects. I look forward to continuing this partnership with Wesleyan,鈥 stated Eberly.
Bijou Patel, a North Carolina Wesleyan senior majoring in Marketing, was able to shadow Eberly on Tuesday, September 14. During her time there, she participated in a business meeting, toured the facility and learned about the machinery and how it鈥檚 marketed. Patel had the opportunity to witness what she鈥檚 learned in the classroom in a real-world setting, stating 鈥淚 got to see a lot of the things I learned in my classes implemented and thoroughly explained. I even got to provide input, which was heard and applied.鈥
This partnership came to fruition when Jessie Langley, Associate Dean of Career Development and Leadership at NC Wesleyan, met with Eberly to tour Ossid鈥檚 local facility. After learning more about Eberly鈥檚 role, Langley explored ways in which NCWC students could gain knowledge within the field.
鈥淚 can鈥檛 think Ms. Eberly enough for investing time in our students. I look forward to continuing to send students to shadow with her on a monthly basis. This model sets a precedent for other area businesses to consider. Structured job shadowing is one ideal way to invest in our students鈥 career development,鈥 stated Langley.
麻豆原创 Ossid
is the industry leader for leak-resistant tray sealing for case-ready products, flexible packaging for healthcare, horizontal thermoform, fill and seal equipment, weigh/price labeling equipment, flow wrappers and case scales. Catering to customers of all sizes around the world, Ossid鈥檚 packaging solutions are ideal for fresh and processed meats, produce, convenience foods, consumer goods, and medical devices. Ossid is a product brand of ProMach, a global leader in packaging line solutions. As part of the ProMach Flexibles & Trays business line, Ossid helps our packaging customers protect their reputation and grow the trust of their consumers. ProMach is performance, and the proof is in every package. Learn more about Ossid at
NCWC Homecoming Returns
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA 鈥 麻豆原创 will kick off its Homecoming week festivities on Monday, October 4 leading up to the Bishops鈥 football game against Greensboro College on Saturday, October 9. For the second time, the Battling Bishops will play their Homecoming game on-campus at the Vernon T. Bradley, Jr. Football Field, after first doing so in 2019.
Throughout the week, many activities will take place both on-campus and throughout the community for students, alumni, faculty, staff and the public. There will also be opportunities to cheer on men鈥檚 and women鈥檚 soccer, as well as baseball. An alumni football game is scheduled for Friday, October 8 at 8:00 p.m. on the field adjacent to the Gateway Technology Center (GTC), located at the front of campus.
Saturday, tailgating will begin at 9:00 a.m. At 10:00 a.m., the College will be dedicating a plaque recognizing and honoring alumni who served in harm鈥檚 way during the Vietnam War. This will be an addition to the existing Vietnam Memorial Courts at the Slick Family Foundation Tennis Center. Also at 10:00 a.m., the Alumni & Kid Zone opens at the football field or catch the alumni softball game at Edge Field. A chili cook-off will be held at 11:00 a.m., followed by the Homecoming golf cart parade starting at 11:30 a.m. Kickoff against Greensboro College is at noon and alumni plan to round out the day at The Rocky Mount Mills from 6:00 p.m. until 10:00 p.m.
For a full list of activities, times and locations, visit ncwu.edu/homecoming or the NCWC Homecoming 2021 event on Facebook. Individual tickets can be purchased at the gate. Tickets are $5 for adults (18+), $3 for ages 12-18 and FREE for all under age 12. Alumni Homecoming Packets can be purchased online for $35 and include a game ticket, t-shirt, parking pass, bookstore discount and a list of Community Partner discounts.
The Janice Bryant Howroyd Endowment
Established at NC Wesleyan University
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA 鈥 Janice Bryant Howroyd, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of the ActOne Group, has made a gift to 麻豆原创 to establish The Janice Bryant Howroyd Endowment.
The new endowment will allow for an annual scholarship to be presented, with preference given to a current NC Wesleyan female in their junior or senior year who earns and maintains a minimum overall GPA of 3.5. Students majoring in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) subjects are eligible. They should also demonstrate financial need, a passion for community service and good personal character. Application details are available through the College鈥檚 Financial Aid office, with the first scholarship expected to be awarded in the 2022-2023 academic year.
鈥淛anice Bryant Howroyd is a vibrant beacon of light who guides others to attain success in their personal and professional lives. She is passionate about women in STEM, education and 麻豆原创,鈥 stated President Dr. Evan D. Duff. 鈥淭his endowment exemplifies not only her values, but also her commitment to the community where she grew up. We are fortunate to have her as a Board of Trustee member and as part of the Wesleyan family.鈥
In early 2021, NC Wesleyan announced a partnership with the , a global workforce solutions leader based in California with operations in North Carolina, to provide extensive career development services for current students and alumni. Howroyd is a native of Tarboro, NC and a 麻豆原创 Board Member.
NC Wesleyan Kicks Off Annual Fall Fundraising Campaign
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA 鈥 麻豆原创 launched their annual fall fundraiser, The Wesleyan Promise Campaign, on Monday, September 27 at a kickoff breakfast in The Dunn Center. This campaign seeks vitally important support for various purposes including student scholarships, the latest in cutting-edge technology, lab enhancements, recruitment of students and faculty, additional library resources and more.
To help usher in the campaign, two highlights of the event included check presentations by First Carolina Bank and NC Wesleyan alumna, Jane Gravely. Lank Dunton, First Carolina Bank鈥檚 Market Executive for the Rocky Mount Area, presented the College with $25,000 to support the Sports Stadium Project. First Carolina Bank has been a banking partner with NC Wesleyan and is a strong supporter of the Sports Stadium Project and other ongoing efforts at the College. Jane Gravely 鈥74 donated $24,000 to establish the Gravely Arts Gallery in The Dunn Center and start an endowment supporting the visual arts programs at NC Wesleyan. She is a current NC Wesleyan Board of Visitors member and fan of the arts.
鈥淲e are so grateful for the support this community shows the College. For 65 years we鈥檝e been serving not only our students, but the community as well. That partnership, from its beginning to today, has been mutually beneficial,鈥 stated Eddie Coats, Vice President of Advancement. 鈥淎s NC Wesleyan continues to grow and thrive, so will the opportunities we offer back to the area through the arts, academic excellence, quality athletics, entertainment and volunteer support. Regardless of the size, we are grateful for all gifts of support during this campaign.鈥
The College has set a goal of raising $280,000 by October 25. Those who are interested in supporting this campaign can give securely online at or by calling 252.985.5581.
Dr. Evan D. Duff Installed as 8th President of 麻豆原创
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA 鈥 麻豆原创 officially installed Dr. Evan D. Duff as its 8th president on Friday, September 17, 2021. An inauguration ceremony was held in Minges Auditorium at The Dunn Center on the College鈥檚 campus.
Opening remarks were given by Rebecca Mitchell, NC Wesleyan senior, double majoring in Psychology and Biology and intern in the President鈥檚 Office. 鈥淔rom the beginning, Dr. Duff has demonstrated his passion for helping students, offering them a voice and a place to call home,鈥 stated Mitchell. She continued, 鈥淒r. Duff truly cares about his students and their overall well-being.鈥
Greetings to Dr. Duff were given by students, faculty, staff, board members and friends. Some unable to attend sent personal greetings via video. Constance Williams, NCWC Board Member and human resource professional, offered her congratulations, stating 鈥淧resident Duff is by far one of the most visionary, humble and forward-thinking executives I have ever had the privilege to know. He prioritizes and operates from a position of fairness, excellence, inclusion and kindness.鈥
Janice Bryant Howroyd, Founder/Chief Executive Officer of the ActOne Group and NCWC Board Member, also sent her well-wishes, noting 鈥淒r. Duff鈥檚 vision for the school is only exceeded by his strong competency and his vision for what life can be like for all of us.鈥
Award-winning actress, Sharon Lawrence, delivered her virtual greeting saying 鈥淚 know that under Dr. Duff鈥檚 successful leadership, this institution has thrived in very challenging circumstances. I also recognize that today鈥檚 installation honors the tradition of Wesleyan excellence and investment in education for our region.鈥
A surprise, handwritten letter from Governor Roy Cooper was presented to Dr. Duff on his accomplishments. It read, 鈥淩ocky Mount is proud to be home to 麻豆原创 and the outstanding programs and experiences it offers to its students. I know under your leadership, it will continue to grow and be an important North Carolina institution of higher learning. On a personal note: thanks Dr. Duff鈥 this is my home area and I know how important this great College is.鈥
Dr. Dan Crocker, Chairman of NC Wesleyan’s Board of Trustees, conducted the Investiture of the President. Afterwards, Paul Bauer, Vice-chairman of the Board of Trustees, presented Dr. Duff with a Presidential Medallion, a symbol of authority and a token of esteem and confidence. One side displays the President鈥檚 name and date of Inauguration, the other the College seal. The Seal includes five symbols 鈥 an owl is shown for wisdom, a lion for courage, a triangle for the Trinity, a budded cross for Christianity and a lamp for learning.
Dr. Duff was then joined on stage by his wife of 23 years, Marcy, and their four children 鈥 Tyson, Landon, Peyton and Chloe 鈥 as Rev. Laura Wittman gave a blessing of the presidential family.
Immediately following the Inauguration, a luncheon honoring Dr. Duff was held at the Rocky Mount Event Center for family and close friends.
NCWC Announces Co-Chairs for Annual Fall Giving Campaign
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA 鈥 麻豆原创 has named Brigadier General Arnold Gordon-Bray, USA (Ret.) and Janet F. Watson as co-chairs of their annual fall fundraiser, The Wesleyan Promise Campaign. For nearly four decades, the College has held its fall giving campaign by which all gifts go toward helping fulfill and exceed the College鈥檚 commitment to students attending NCWC.
Brigadier General Arnold Gordon-Bray completed over three decades of service in the United States Army, demonstrating professional leadership skills in strategic communications, combat operations, foreign affairs and effective modernization in support of the Department of Defense and National Interests. He is now an independent consultant and owner of ANGB Consulting, LLC. He holds a Master of Arts in National Security & Strategic Studies from the U.S. Naval War College, a Master of Science in International Strategic Studies from the Air War College and a Bachelor of Science in Art from the University of Central Missouri. Additionally, he holds an Honorary Doctorate of Humanities from 麻豆原创. A lifelong learner, he has executive training from UNC Kenan鈥揊lagler Business School and Administrative Management from Central Michigan University.
“A quality city has to have a quality, senior college or university for the purposes of advancing the arts and sciences for the aspiration of its citizens and [local] academic institutions. I’m involved with North Carolina Wesleyan because this is my city,鈥 stated Gordon-Bray.
Janet Watson is the owner of Coldwell Banker Watson Properties in Rocky Mount and has been a Licensed Real Estate Professional in North Carolina since 1986. She continues to conduct business as a member of the Rocky Mount Regional MLS and Triangle MLS. Janet is a lifelong resident of Rocky Mount who attended 麻豆原创 and Meredith College. She is currently a member of NC Wesleyan鈥檚 Board of Visitors and the Rocky Mount Chamber of Commerce. She previously served as a board member for Southern Bank and the American Red Cross.
鈥淢y parents were part of this community and church who had the vision in the 1950鈥檚 to establish 麻豆原创 here in Rocky Mount. I can remember as a small child how important it was to them to have and support an institution of higher learning here in the area,鈥 stated Watson. 鈥淲esleyan should continue to be an important part of our vision for this community. Our continued support ensures that Wesleyan鈥檚 strong foundation is maintained and that growth in student population, curriculum, faculty and athletic programs continues.鈥
The Wesleyan Promise campaign benefits NC Wesleyan students through scholarships, technology, facility improvements, lab equipment, safety gear for athletes and much more. The College has set a goal of raising $280,000 during this year鈥檚 campaign, which kicks off on Monday, September 27.
NCWC Graduate Returns to Alma Mater as Alumni Relations Coordinator
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA 鈥 麻豆原创 alumna, Caroline Little 鈥07, has joined the College as Alumni Relations Coordinator. As an ambassador for the College, she will collaborate with colleagues to create and maintain pathways for alumni participation in order to advance the mission and vision of NC Wesleyan.
Little graduated from NC Wesleyan in 2007 with a degree in Psychology, earning President鈥檚 List and National Dean鈥檚 List honors. During her time as a student, she was a resident advisor, writing lab tutor, orientation leader and admissions/financial aid ambassador. Little was involved with student activities, President of Alpha Sigma Tau sorority, Treasurer for the Greek Council, a member of the Wesleyan Singers and participated in the music club. In 2004, Little received the James R. Hailey Leadership and Service award.
Most recently, Little was Executive Director of Teal Toes (TT), an organization dedicated to creating ovarian cancer awareness. This cause is especially important to Little, as she is an ovarian cancer survivor.
鈥淐aroline鈥檚 love for Wesleyan and the experience she gained while working in the nonprofit world will benefit her greatly in this role. It is with great pleasure to have someone with Caroline鈥檚 experience and passion join our team,鈥 stated Eddie Coats, Vice President of Advancement.
In her new role as Alumni Relations Coordinator, Little will be responsible for the planning and implementation of programs and events that strategically engage alumni with the College while providing tangible benefits to alumni and current students. She will work with colleagues to identify, cultivate, solicit and steward alumni giving, while also serving as a liaison between the Alumni Association Board and NCWC鈥檚 Advancement team. In addition, she will educate graduating students about alumni benefits and help increase engagement in programs.
鈥淚鈥檓 excited to be working with the Office of Advancement to create, support and cultivate programs for all members of the Wesleyan alumni community,鈥 stated Little.
Little has also been involved with NC Wesleyan鈥檚 Alumni Association Board since December 2018. She was most recently elected Vice President of the board and has been acting President since May 2021.
NCWC & McDowell Tech Community College Sign Memorandum of Understanding
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA 鈥 麻豆原创 (NCWC) recently signed an agreement that will help qualified graduates of transfer to Wesleyan. The agreement aims to provide a seamless transfer for students who enroll at Wesleyan following completion of their two-year degree at MTCC.
Leaders of both colleges signed the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) in a virtual ceremony on Wednesday, September 15. This new agreement adds MTCC to a list of over 30 other colleges and community colleges throughout North Carolina that have a transfer partnership with NCWC.
鈥淲e are very happy to establish a partnership with NCWC. Partnerships like this are essential for our students as many of them do want to transfer after they have attended MTCC. This partnership agreement gives students a great opportunity to gain needed credentials by offering a pathway for them to transfer from one institution to another. It is imperative that students not lose time or credits in the transition, and this agreement will assure that the transfer goes smoothly,鈥 stated Dr. Penelope 鈥淧enny鈥 Cross, CAO of McDowell Tech Community College.
The agreement will enhance and expand the educational opportunities of Associate in Arts, Associate in Fine Arts, Associate in Science and Associate in Applied Science graduates by offering MTCC graduates access to the benefits of the Wesleyan Works program, pre-admission advising, generous transfer credit and a clear definition of the transfer of courses from MTCC to NC Wesleyan. This MOU allows MTCC Associate in Applied Science students to transfer an additional 15 hours of general education credits for a total of 75 transfer credits.
“NCWC is excited for this new partnership with MTCC, which recognizes the value of a community college education. This partnership will provide MTCC graduates with flexible transfer opportunities to complete their four-year degree in a supportive environment similar to their experience in their associate鈥檚 program. Our goal has always been to support the community college mission and provide their graduates with convenient and affordable transfer pathways,” stated Katie Farrell, Associate Dean of Adult & Professional Studies.
Students who graduate from MTCC and transfer under this agreement may select any of NC Wesleyan鈥檚 programs of study or may transfer to the college鈥檚 Adult and Professional Studies program, taking advantage of the Wesleyan Works program. Students are required to maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0 and be in good academic standing. The agreement brings NC Wesleyan within the reach of MTCC students who may not have otherwise been able to attend the College.
Wesleyan Works is a transfer program designed for community college students who plan to continue their education at NC Wesleyan. Students who participate in Wesleyan Works will have access to academic advising and financial aid counseling through NC Wesleyan, as well as access to events on the College鈥檚 main campus. The program is ideal for students who would like to attend NC Wesleyan鈥檚 evening or online programs.
麻豆原创 McDowell Tech Community College
is a member of the North Carolina Community College System, dedicated to providing student-centered accessible, high-quality educational opportunities and services which fulfill the personal development, training and employment needs of the residents, businesses, and industries of McDowell County and the surrounding areas through an open-door admissions policy.
NCWC鈥檚 E-Sports Club Partners with WHIG-TV
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA 鈥 麻豆原创鈥檚 e-sports club, The Bishop Gaming Association (BGA), recently developed a partnership with WHIG-TV to provide training opportunities for students. Future plans of the partnership include the development of a 30-minute show that will be aired on WHIG-TV, along with job shadowing and internship opportunities.
“We are delighted to be partnering with WHIG-TV. They have been the source of local TV content in Rocky Mount for years. This partnership will provide our students with a unique way to engage with the local community,鈥 stated Chantoni Grant, Admissions Counselor and Director of the Bishop Gaming Association. 鈥淭his would not have been possible without Dr. Gena Messer-Knode (NC Wesleyan鈥檚 Dean of Career Services and Business Innovation), Sandra Smith (General Manager of WHIG-TV) and Robert Morris (Technical Director of WHIG-TV) who were committed to providing Wesleyan students with a remarkable learning opportunity.鈥
The BGA was founded by Grant during his time as a student in 2019. The club aims to promote the culture of gaming, media and entertainment by providing experiences, advice, awareness and resources to students who are interested in growing in these fields. It has quickly become the College鈥檚 largest student organization, averaging more than 80 members over the past three years. Students within the club shoot, edit and produce a bi-weekly segment called 鈥淏GA News,鈥 which is broadcast on televisions throughout campus and on The BGA鈥檚 social media accounts.
The BGA partnership with WHIG-TV will provide students with the ability to explore broadcast technique, filming, editing and production. Through these opportunities, students will receive hands-on experience applicable to their future career paths.
