This new endowed scholarship reflects what NC Wesleyan is built upon: relationships, tradition, and the deep bonds that form within the Bishop community and last long after graduation.

The scholarship will support junior or senior students of any major, with preference given to students employed in the , who demonstrate academic achievement or financial need, and who exhibit strong personal character. Students may be domestic or international. Once the endowment reaches the University鈥檚 required minimum funding level, the scholarship will be awarded annually and is renewable in accordance with University guidelines.

鈥淭his scholarship is about more than financial support,鈥� said West. 鈥淚t鈥檚 about honoring people who made our lives better and remembering the moments that made Wesleyan feel like home.鈥�

A Homecoming Tradition 鈥淟ike No Other鈥�

The scholarship鈥檚 origin is rooted in a cherished NC Wesleyan Homecoming tradition shared by West and his close friends beginning in the early 1990s. Each year, West reunited with Marty Sarra and Brian Richardson for a weekend filled with Homecoming activities, camaraderie, and the University鈥檚 alumni golf tournament. A few years later, Phillip Boone ’70 joined the group, completing the foursome that would continue their tradition for nearly three decades.

One of their most meaningful stops each year wasn鈥檛 on the golf course 鈥� it was inside the .

On Saturday mornings during Homecoming, the friends made it a point to visit the bookstore, pick up new Wesleyan gear, and spend time catching up with 鈥淢iss Rachel.鈥� For them, it became one of the most special parts of the weekend.

鈥淥ur visits with Rachel were always memorable,鈥� West shared. 鈥淲e looked forward to seeing Rachel every year, and she looked forward to seeing us too, always welcoming us with open arms, and a big smile on her face.鈥�

Honoring Marty鈥檚 Commitment and Character

Marty Sarra鈥檚 dedication to this annual tradition was unmatched. In later years, he famously made the long drive from Canada each year to return to Rocky Mount and play in what many know today as the Wesleyan Cup Golf Tournament, simply because the weekend鈥攁nd the friendships tied to it鈥攎eant that much to him.

West said Marty鈥檚 presence brought something special to everyone around him.

鈥淢arty was a dear friend for life,鈥� West said. 鈥淎ll our lives were better because he came our way.鈥�

A Scholarship Rooted in Service and Memory

By centering the scholarship around students who work in the bookstore, West hopes to honor Rachel Dix鈥檚 spirit of kindness and connection, while also supporting today鈥檚 students who balance employment with academic responsibility.

The Martin A. Sarra Endowed Scholarship Fund in Honor of Rachel T. Dix will be invested as part of NCWU鈥檚 permanently restricted endowment and awarded in perpetuity. In accordance with University policy, the scholarship will be awarded once the fund meets the required minimum endowment level. Annual scholarship amounts will follow NC Wesleyan鈥檚 endowment payout guidelines.

A Call to Celebrate Bishop Friendships

NC Wesleyan hopes this scholarship will inspire alumni and friends to reflect on the people who shaped their college experience鈥攁nd to consider honoring those memories through giving.

This new scholarship serves as a reminder that the Wesleyan experience does not end at graduation. It continues through friendships, traditions, and the people who make the campus feel like home.

Those interested in contributing to the scholarship fund, or establishing an endowed scholarship of their own, are encouraged to contact the NC Wesleyan Office of Advancement.

To learn more about giving opportunities at NCWU, visit ncwu.edu/give.

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麻豆原创 (NCWU) is pleased to announce the creation of the EasyFlyers Annual Scholarship, established through the generosity of EasyFlyers, a global company recognized for its work in transportation and logistics solutions. The scholarship will be awarded each year to a Wesleyan student majoring in Supply Chain Management and Logistics.

As a leader in the movement of goods, materials, and critical shipments, EasyFlyers Logistics understands firsthand the growing demand for professionals who are well鈥慹ducated in supply chain systems, distribution strategies, and logistics technology. By supporting students in this field, the company is helping prepare future industry leaders who will drive efficiency, innovation, and reliability across global transportation networks.

鈥淪upporting students pursuing supply chain management is a natural extension of what we do,鈥� Nichol Ally, President of EasyFlyers USA shared.  鈥淭oday鈥檚 logistics environment requires talent with strong analytical skills, practical problem鈥憇olving abilities, and a commitment to continuous improvement. We believe Wesleyan students will help shape the future of our industry.鈥�

At 麻豆原创, scholarships are typically created with the long鈥憈erm goal of growing the fund through additional contributions, ensuring that students can rely on ongoing support throughout their academic journey. The EasyFlyers Annual Scholarship will follow this model. Recipients will be selected each fall in the academic year, however contributions to the scholarship fund are welcomed year鈥憆ound in order to expand the award鈥檚 impact.

Vice President of Institutional Advancement, Mark Hinson, noted, 鈥淪cholarships like this do more than reduce financial barriers – they open doors for students to enter high鈥慸emand career fields that power our regional and national economy. We are grateful to EasyFlyers for investing in our students and their futures.鈥�

EasyFlyers Annual Scholarship

The University looks forward to celebrating future scholarship recipients and strengthening its partnership with EasyFlyers in the years ahead.聽 If you would like to contribute to the , visit our or you can also give at ncwu.edu/donate and follow link to our GiveCampus Donation website, type 鈥淓asyFlyers鈥� in the designation field to select the scholarship fund.

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For many colleges and universities, these shifts raise understandable questions. Federal funding has long played a role in helping institutions expand access, support students through challenges, and respond to workforce needs. When the funding landscape changes, institutions must take a step back and thoughtfully consider what comes next.

For 麻豆原创, a proud Minority Serving Institution, this moment reinforces the importance of planning ahead, diversifying support, and strengthening partnerships that ensure long-term stability for our students and our mission.

鈥淗igher education is constantly evolving, and moments like this remind us that adaptability and community support are essential,鈥� said Dr. Evan D. Duff, President of 麻豆原创. 鈥淥ur responsibility is to continue serving students with excellence, regardless of shifts in the external environment.鈥�

Understanding the Broader Context

Two recent federal actions have contributed to growing discussion within the MSI community:

One involves increased federal scrutiny of certain programs that previously provided targeted support to Minority Serving Institutions. These changes leave many institutions facing questions about the future funding availability and compliance requirements. Another includes the Department of Education鈥檚 decision to discontinue specific discretionary grant programs tied to MSI designation.

While these decisions are rooted in legal and regulatory considerations, their ripple effects are being felt across higher education. Institutions that serve large numbers of first-generation students, adult learners, Pell Grant recipients, and students from rural or economically challenged regions must now plan amid greater uncertainty.

As leaders across the country reflect on these changes, a common question emerges: How do institutions continue to deliver opportunity and access when traditional funding streams become less predictable?

What This Means for Minority Serving Institutions

Minority Serving Institutions play a critical role in the higher education ecosystem. They often serve students with significant potential and determination, many of whom balance academics with work, family responsibilities, and financial constraints. Federal support has historically helped MSIs:

• Reduce financial barriers for first-generation students and students from economically challenged households
• Build and sustain academic programs
• Provide tutoring, mentoring, and career readiness resources
• Strengthen workforce pipelines in education, healthcare, business, and public service

When funding becomes less certain, institutions must work harder to preserve these supports. Program growth may slow, student services can feel stretched, and workforce pathways that communities rely on may face added pressure.

At the same time, institutions like NC Wesleyan remain deeply committed to innovation, student success, and regional impact even as they navigate these challenges.

NC Wesleyan鈥檚 Ongoing Commitment

麻豆原创 has long focused on providing a personalized, practical, and purpose-driven education, particularly for students from central and eastern North Carolina. As an MSI, the University places student potential at the center of everything it does, preparing graduates not only for careers but for lives of leadership and service.

鈥淥ur students come to us with ambition, resilience, and a desire to make a difference,鈥� said Dr. Joseph Lane, Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs. 鈥淥ur role is to meet them where they are, support their growth, and ensure they have access to the resources needed to succeed.鈥�

Maintaining this level of support in a shifting funding environment calls for new approaches, thoughtful stewardship, and strong relationships beyond federal sources.

Why Private Support Matters More Than Ever

Private philanthropy, whether from individuals, foundations, corporations, or community partners, has always been an important part of NC Wesleyan鈥檚 story. Today, it plays an even more critical role.

Private support helps the University:

• Provide emergency and retention funding when students face unexpected challenges
• Create new academic programs and realign existing programs with evolving workforce needs and expectations
• Offer scholarships that reduce financial strain and increase access
• Strengthen career preparation, advising, and student success initiatives

Simply put, philanthropy helps ensure that opportunity does not pause when circumstances change.

In recent years, private philanthropy has played a stabilizing role for many institutions navigating change. Philanthropists such as MacKenzie Scott, who has made significant and and beyond, and which has invested nationally in strengthening nursing and healthcare education, illustrate how private support can reinforce institutional capacity. Similarly, historic gifts like the more than show how visionary donors can expand research, teaching, and student opportunity at scale across the higher education landscape.

Where Philanthropy Makes a Difference

Support for NC Wesleyan can take many forms, each with meaningful impact:

• Scholarships and endowed funds for first-generation students, adult learners, and career changers
• Program innovation that opens new academic pathways and created opportunities for hands-on learning
• Student success initiatives including enhanced advising, mentorship programs, internships, and practica to foster career readiness
• Community partnerships that strengthen regional education, healthcare, and workforce development

These investments don鈥檛 just support individual students, they strengthen families, employers, and communities throughout the region.

Looking Ahead, Together

Federal policy changes serve as a reminder that higher education thrives best when it is supported by a broad and engaged community. For NC Wesleyan, this moment is both a challenge and an opportunity: a chance to deepen partnerships, invite new voices into the conversation, and ensure the University remains strong for generations to come.

鈥淥ur mission has always been about opening doors,鈥� Tammy Robinson, Director of Donor Engagement, shared. 鈥淲ith the support of our partners and supporters, we will continue to do just that, creating pathways to success for students and strengthening the communities we serve.鈥�

NC Wesleyan鈥檚 students are ready to lead. With stability, opportunity, and shared investment, they will continue to do so鈥攁cross North Carolina and beyond.

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鈥淭hese gifts were not just scholarships; they were lifelines,鈥� said Katie Farrell, Dean of Adult and Professional Studies. 鈥淭hey met students where they were and provided exactly what was needed at exactly the right time.鈥�

Turning Deferred Dreams into Degrees

The immediate outcomes of the Angel Donor initiative are powerful and measurable:

• A Healthcare Administration student described the support as 鈥淗eaven-sent,鈥� allowing her to complete the final course needed to graduate in May 2026.
• Multiple Educational Studies and Leadership students were able to overcome financial barriers. This funding not only prevented delays but also accelerated degree completion and career trajectories, allowing future educators to enter the classroom sooner, helping address critical workforce gaps in education across the region.

Stability During Life鈥檚 Hardest Moments

Some stories speak not only to academic persistence, but to human resilience:

• A Leadership student, also a retired grandmother, unexpectedly assumed custody of three grandchildren and experienced temporary homelessness. She used the funds to secure housing, cover tuition, meet basic needs, and create a modest holiday for her family.
• A Criminal Justice student experiencing homelessness was able to remain enrolled and complete her final credits.
• A police officer finishing a Criminal Justice degree received support during the loss of his father.
• A Leadership student, a recently elected Town Commissioner recovering from a massive stroke, was able to continue his education while focusing on recovery and community service.

While this summary highlights selected stories shared with permission, additional funds continue to be distributed to other deserving students whose privacy is being respectfully protected.

A Season of Hope

The Angel Donor initiative affirms NC Wesleyan鈥檚 unwavering commitment to adult learners, students who balance education with work, family, and life鈥檚 unexpected challenges. Through strategic, compassionate support, the University is proving that persistence paired with opportunity can change lives.

As the holiday season approaches, these gifts stand as a reminder that generosity can be transformational, not someday, but today.

NC Wesleyan extends its deepest gratitude to the Angel Donors whose belief in students made these life-altering moments possible.

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Honor Lists for Fall 2025

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The gift represents the proceeds from 鈥淭he Big Chill,鈥� an annual alumni reunion rooted in the deep camaraderie of the former Alpha Delta Chi (螒螖围) Fraternity, Beta Chapter, founded at NCWU in 1965. What began decades ago as a small gathering of brothers has transformed into a spirited tradition celebrating fellowship, memories, and the powerful bonds formed on NC Wesleyan鈥檚 campus.

Known for his enthusiasm, humor, and dedication to bringing people together, Charlie organized the fraternity鈥檚 鈥淏ig Chill鈥� reunions for more than 40 years. What was intended to be the final 鈥淏ill Chill,鈥� hosted October 23鈥�26, evolved instead into an extended celebration of his life and his unparalleled commitment to keeping the Brotherhood connected.

The 螒螖围 alumni group, known for legendary stories that include rerouting Hwy 301 traffic through campus and frequenting local favorites like The Rainbow Club and Mack鈥檚, continues to channel its energy into giving back to today鈥檚 students. Their support of the Rogers Scholarship ensures that incoming freshmen from North Carolina, especially those pursuing theatre or with strong civic engagement, receive meaningful financial support as they begin their own Wesleyan journey.

This year鈥檚 contribution reflects both pride in the Brotherhood鈥檚 enduring legacy and a friendly, unspoken challenge: the alumni of Alpha Delta Chi hope their commitment to giving inspires others to match their dedication to the next generation of Bishops.

鈥淚n my lifetime, I have watched a ton of movies and a ton of football, and after a while, you can鈥檛 hardly list any that stick out, but what I can tell you is the list of people that have made a huge impact in my life,鈥� said Thompson. 鈥淥ne of the greatest hard lessons I have learned is to understand what is premeditated and understand what is and what isn鈥檛.鈥�

NC Wesleyan University extends heartfelt appreciation to the Alpha Delta Chi alumni for their ongoing generosity, loyalty, and example of what it means to uplift the Bishop community.

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The endowed scholarship pays tribute to a woman whose life embodied resilience, faith, intellect, and service. Betty Price passed away peacefully on October 20, 2025, after a decade-long battle with Alzheimer鈥檚 鈥� a journey marked not by struggle alone, but by courage and enduring grace.

Born in Raleigh on February 4, 1949, Betty began her working life as a cashier at Roses Discount Store before embarking on an inspiring academic and professional path. She graduated magna cum laude from 麻豆原创 in 1989 with a Bachelor of Science in Accounting, later becoming a Certified Public Accountant in 1992. Her dedication to learning continued with the completion of her MBA from the University of Phoenix in 2009.

Betty鈥檚 career spanned roles as Controller and Financial Manager for respected organizations such as Memorex/Telex, Martin-Marietta, Progress Energy, and Blue Cross/Blue Shield. Her commitment to education extended to the classroom as well, where she taught at both the and her alma mater, NC Wesleyan University.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Betty was a devoted Christian whose heart for service shaped countless ministries 鈥� from assisting with new church builds to supporting inner-city food pantries. She served faithfully as an assistant treasurer, a member of the Diaconate, and a Sunday School teacher, touching lives through both leadership and compassion.

Her husband, Rev. Dr. Michael A. Price, a pastor, educator, and author known for his work on faith and leadership, established this scholarship to honor Betty鈥檚 legacy and continue the work she cared so deeply about. The Betty A. Price Endowed Scholarship will support single mothers pursuing higher education, offering them the kind of opportunity and encouragement that defined Betty鈥檚 own journey.

Betty is survived by her husband of 17 years, Rev. Dr. Michael Price; her son Rodney; siblings Julia Herring, Sondra Bledsoe, and Mike Adams; and many beloved nieces and nephews. Her final resting place 鈥� the shoreline of Ft. DeSoto County Park in Pinellas County, Florida 鈥� reflects her spirit: peaceful, enduring, and full of quiet strength.

NC Wesleyan University is humbled and grateful to carry forward Betty鈥檚 legacy through this endowed scholarship, ensuring her story continues to inspire generations of scholars to come.

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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

1. 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.
2. 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?
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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.

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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.

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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.

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