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his 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.
NCWU Receives Highest U.S. News & World Report Ranking in Over a Decade
麻豆原创 (NCWU) is celebrating one of its strongest showings in more than a decade, climbing 12 spots in the . Released Tuesday, September 23, the report evaluated over 1,700 institutions nationwide on 17 measures of academic quality.
NCWU proudly ranked No. 33 in Regional Colleges South, the University鈥檚 highest position in more than ten years, and earned recognition as No. 14 in Best Value Schools. In addition, NCWU was ranked No. 9 Best Colleges for Veterans and recognized in the Social Mobility category for enrolling and graduating large numbers of first-generation and Pell Grant students.
These distinctions build on recent accolades, including being named a 2025鈥2026 Military Friendly庐 Gold Top 10 School with an impressive #2 national ranking among private institutions not offering doctorate degrees, and earning the designation of #1 Military Spouse Friendly庐 School.
鈥淯.S. News鈥 Best Colleges remains a reliable resource for prospective students and their families as they navigate the college selection process,鈥 said LaMont Jones, Ed.D., managing editor for Education at U.S. News. 鈥淲ith over half of the ranking factors dedicated to student outcomes, the rankings and editorial content provide vital data, college advice and informed reporting to every student pursuing higher education.鈥
鈥淥ur dedication to students and the community is reflected in our consistency of being recognized by U.S. News & World Report year after year. The personal, practical, and purpose-driven education that we provide our students is something that I鈥檓 proud of; in addition, our faculty and staff do an exceptional job of ensuring a quality experience for these future leaders,鈥 shared NCWU President Dr. Evan D. Duff.
For another consecutive year, NC Wesleyan has held a spot in the top 50 Best Regional Colleges (South), reaffirming its position as the hometown university of choice for students seeking high-quality, affordable education.
To view the full list of 2026 U.S. News & World Report rankings, visit: .
麻豆原创 U.S. News & World Report
U.S. News & World Report is the global leader in quality rankings that empower consumers, business leaders and policy officials to make better, more informed decisions about important issues affecting their lives and communities. A multifaceted digital media company with Education, Health, Money, Travel, Cars, Real Estate, News and 360 Reviews platforms, U.S. News provides rankings, independent reporting, data journalism, consumer advice and U.S. News Live events. More than 40 million people visit USNews.com each month for research and guidance. Founded in 1933, U.S. News is headquartered in Washington, D.C.
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 >
NCWU Walks & Talks with Twin-County Partners
麻豆原创 (NCWU) proudly participated in the Education and Business Leaders鈥 Summit held Thursday morning at partner . The annual event was convened by representatives from local businesses, K-12, schools, and higher education to strengthen collaboration between education and industry.
The summit featured three dynamic panel discussions, each addressing critical topics on workforce development and preparing students for success. Conversations highlighted the importance of creating awareness of opportunities early and equipping young people with essential soft skills that make them more qualified and adaptable in the workplace.
Dr. Evan D. Duff, President of NC Wesleyan University, served on the panel 鈥How Our Colleges Are Keeping Pace with Employer Demand.鈥 He spoke on the University鈥檚 commitment to aligning programs with workforce needs, specifically spotlighting the recent demand for more healthcare professionals in the region. Dr. Duff emphasized NCWU鈥檚 new Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program as a direct response to that need.
鈥淎s the hometown university in our community鈥檚 backyard, we are committed to meeting employer demand while providing students with a strong investment,鈥 said Dr. Duff. 鈥淥ur BSN program is one example of how NCWU is responding to the needs of our region while equipping students for long-term success.鈥
Mary Cat Weloff 鈥21 & 鈥23, Coordinator of Gifts & Information at NCWU, also represented the University on the panel 鈥Return on Engagement: Why Investing in Youth Talent Pays Off.鈥 Speaking on the value of listening to and learning from the incoming generation, Weloff encouraged employers to remain open-minded.
鈥淲hen young professionals bring in new perspectives, it doesn鈥檛 mean they are trying to change everything,鈥 Weloff shared. 鈥淚t鈥檚 about embracing fresh ideas that can make organizations stronger and more adaptable.鈥
By engaging in this important dialogue, NC Wesleyan University reaffirmed its role as a collaborative partner in the Twin Counties, working alongside businesses, schools, and community leaders to ensure that local students are prepared to thrive.
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his 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
NCWU Holds First White Coat Ceremony for Nursing Students
麻豆原创 (NCWU) celebrated a historic milestone as it hosted its inaugural White Coat Ceremony for the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. The ceremony, held on Thursday, August 28, in Powers Auditorium, honored NCWU鈥檚 Fall 2025 BSN cohort as they embark on their journey into the nursing profession.
The White Coat Ceremony is a time-honored tradition in healthcare education, symbolizing a student鈥檚 commitment to compassionate, ethical, and patient-centered care. Each student received a white coat, marking their transition from classroom study to clinical training.
The program included opening remarks from NCWU President, Dr. Evan D. Duff, and a blessing of the hands by Reverend Edwin Ferguson, reminding students of the sacred responsibility nurses hold in caring for others. Nurse faculty members: Dr. Crystal Ostheim, Dr. Lesley McGraw, Dr. Christina Jones-Hooker, Dr. Consuela Blazes, and Mrs. Tara Ballard, were also recognized for their leadership and dedication to preparing the next generation of healthcare professionals.
The ceremony concluded with students reciting both the White Coat Ceremony Oath and the Academic Integrity Oath, pledging their commitment to uphold the highest standards of nursing practice and professional ethics.
Dr. Crystal Ostheim, Director of Nursing Programs at NCWU, expressed her pride in this milestone: 鈥淭his ceremony is not just about receiving a white coat, it鈥檚 about embracing the values of compassion, respect, and integrity that define the nursing profession. Our students are stepping into a calling that will not only transform their lives but also the lives of the countless patients and families they will serve. We are so grateful for the donors and community partners who helped make this program and this moment possible.鈥
NCWU鈥檚 BSN program was made possible thanks to the generous support of community partners and donors, including the , , and several others. Their contributions have provided the resources necessary for state-of-the-art facilities, simulation labs, and scholarships that help shape the future of nursing in Eastern North Carolina and beyond.
The Fall 2025 BSN cohort includes: Courtney Cox, Maya Dari, Mya Hayun, Brandy Massey, Taylor Skinner, Maria Gabriella Villasmil, and Victoria Gomez.
For more information about NCWU鈥檚 Nursing Program, visit /academics/majors-minors/nursing/.
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.
Dunn Center Hosts Tar River Art Gallery
麻豆原创 (NCWU) is proud to unveil an exciting new partnership between , The Dunn Center, and 麻豆原创. This partnership will kick off with the opening of a vibrant art exhibit at The Gravely Art Gallery, located inside The Dunn Center.
On Sunday, September 14 from 2-5pm, art lovers are invited to an opening reception showcasing the works of 40 talented artists from across North Carolina and the surrounding region. The collection features an impressive variety of paintings and three-dimensional pieces, all available for purchase. Guests can expect exceptional quality at a range of accessible prices, making it the perfect opportunity to add to their personal or corporate art collections.
Following the reception, The Gravely Art Gallery will be open to the public Monday 鈥 Friday from 9am-5pm. Visitors are also welcome during Dunn Center events, or by appointment. To schedule a private viewing, contact Marilynn Barner Anselmi at 252.308.8425 or email Marilynn.anselmi@gmail.com.
麻豆原创 Gravely Art Gallery
The Gravely Art Gallery was made possible by a generous gift honoring the late Janice Gravely, a gifted local artist whose legacy continues to inspire creativity. The space serves as an important platform for emerging artists and a valuable cultural asset for the regional art community.
For more information about The Tar River Art Exhibit, to schedule a visit, or to inquire about renting one of the galleries or other spaces at The Dunn Center, contact Sheila Martin, Executive Director, at 252.904.7139. The Dunn Center offers an ideal setting for corporate meetings, receptions, concerts, retreats, and a wide range of special events.
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.
