麻豆原创 (NCWU) has strengthened its commitment to global education through a newly established international partnership with in the Philippines. The two institutions recently formalized their collaboration by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that will foster academic cooperation, research, cultural exchange, and international learning opportunities.
The agreement establishes a framework for collaboration in academics, research, skills development, and other initiatives designed to enhance the educational experience for students, faculty, and researchers at both universities. Through the partnership, NCWU and BSU will explore opportunities for faculty, researcher, and student exchanges, as well as the sharing of academic resources through both in-person and virtual formats.
NCWU President Dr. Evan Duff, a signatory to the agreement, was represented at the signing ceremony by Dr. Tim Dornemann, Associate Professor of Exercise Science. During the visit, Dr. Dornemann met with BSU President Dr. Kenneth Alip Laruan to discuss future initiatives that extend beyond the provisions of the MOU, reinforcing both institutions’ shared vision for meaningful international collaboration.
“Our partnership with Benguet State University represents an exciting opportunity to expand the global experiences available to our students and faculty,” said Dr. Duff. “By working together across cultures and disciplines, we can create meaningful educational opportunities, strengthen research collaborations, and prepare our students to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.”
The discussions provided university leaders with the opportunity to learn more about each institution’s academic programs, strategic priorities, and ongoing developments. The exchange highlighted a mutual commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and international engagement while identifying areas where collaboration can create lasting benefits for both universities.
Through this partnership, NCWU and BSU will combine their expertise and resources to develop collaborative programs that enrich teaching, research, and student learning. The agreement is expected to support joint research projects, academic exchanges, professional development opportunities, and initiatives that promote intercultural understanding and global citizenship.
As 麻豆原创 continues to expand its international partnerships, the collaboration with Benguet State University reflects the University’s dedication to providing students with transformative educational experiences that extend beyond the classroom and across the globe.
Dunn Center to Host Dual Art Exhibition
Community Art Reception Celebrating Creativity and Connection between Tar River Art Gallery and Nash Correctional Institution Art Club
ROCKY MOUNT, N.C., June 22, 2026 鈥 In the spirit of a classic Hollywood double feature, the Dunn Center on the campus of 麻豆原创 will host an extraordinary art-filled afternoon on Sunday, June 28, from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. The public is invited to attend this free event celebrating the simultaneous unveiling of two distinct exhibitions: 鈥淏eyond the Wall鈥 in the Mims Gallery and a large-scale multi-artist showcase in the Janice Gravely Gallery.
Sponsored by R F Timberlake & Company, Inc., the summer reception supports both 40 artists from the Tar River Art Gallery( TRAG) and more than 100 artists from the Nash Correctional Institution Art Club. Guests will enjoy light refreshments, view a diverse collection of original artwork, and experience live musical accompaniment from acclaimed regional cellist Jeff Hatley.
Beyond the Wall Art Exhibit
At the heart of the event is 鈥淏eyond the Wall,鈥 a compelling exhibition presented by the Nash Correctional Institution Art Club. On display from June 5 through July 30, the exhibit features 43 original works installed directly on the gallery walls. Visitors will have the opportunity not only to view the art, but also to participate in an ongoing silent auction. In a powerful gesture of community support, all proceeds from the auction will benefit the Your Choice Resource Center in Rocky Mount.
The Dunn Center鈥檚 role as host underscores its growing reputation as a regional cultural destination. With a proven track record of attracting significant public interest 鈥 including a recent Bob Ross exhibition that drew more than 13,000 visitors from around the world 鈥 the Center offers a uniquely powerful platform for showcasing both emerging and established artists. This dual exhibition continues that tradition by pairing the deeply personal and rehabilitative work of incarcerated artists with the accomplishments of recognized local creators.
Free Event and Reception Planned
Equally important is the event鈥檚 accessibility. Free admission and a welcoming location remove common barriers to participation, inviting families, students, and art enthusiasts alike to engage in a shared cultural experience. By opening its doors to a broad audience, the Dunn Center fosters dialogue, appreciation, and understanding through the universal language of art.
The June 28 reception is designed not just as an exhibition opening, but as an act of community-building. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet fellow art lovers, interact directly with the works on display, and consider the broader stories behind them. From bidding on pieces in the silent auction to listening to live music, the event encourages visitors to connect more deeply with both the artwork and the community it represents.
Ultimately, the afternoon offers more than an aesthetic experience 鈥 it is an invitation to look beyond the surface of each painting and discover the layered narratives of hope, talent, and transformation that define the region.
CONTACT:
Jan Sullivan Volz, Art Curator, Tar River Art Gallery
(252) 532-2130
Frank Timberlake
(919) 269-4300 OF or (919) 805-0055 CELL
Dunn Center and Tar River Art Gallery. (Jun 17, 2026, 08:37 ET). Dunn Center to Host Unique Double Art Feature Exhibits Opening With a Free Public Reception on June 28. PR Newswire.
Susan Powell The Powell Perspective. (Jun 17, 2026). Art’s Dual Mandate: Correction and Creativity at the Dunn Center. BriefGlance.com.
School of Mathematics & Sciences Celebrates a Year of Achievement
麻豆原创鈥檚 School of Mathematics and Sciences is proud to share highlights from the 2025鈥2026 academic year鈥攕howcasing outstanding student accomplishments, faculty excellence, and dynamic experiential learning opportunities across disciplines.
Encompassing programs in biology, biomedical science, chemistry, environmental science, earth science, mathematics, and physics, the School continues to provide students with rigorous academic training, mentorship, and real-world preparation for future success.
A Community That Goes 鈥淏eyond the Textbook鈥
the unique value of a Wesleyan education鈥攐ne rooted not just in knowledge but in shared academic experience. Through collaborative learning, faculty mentorship, and hands-on engagement, students gain both intellectual depth and meaningful personal growth.
Honors Convocation Recognizes Academic Excellence
At the April 2, 2026 Honors Convocation, top students were recognized for their academic achievements:
- Biology Award: Benjamin Sellers
- Chemistry Award: Mary Bentley
- American Institute of Chemists Award: Mary Bentley
- Environmental Science Award: Andrea Elaez Miranda
- Kappa Mu Epsilon Mathematics Honor Society Inductees:
Cosima Geywitz, Ivy Joy Chelegat, Juan Felipe Gonzalez Leuro, Mary Bentley
Students Shine Through Research and Professional Experiences
NCWU students demonstrated exceptional achievement through research presentations, internships, and national conferences.
- Environmental science students presented original research at the Carolinas SETAC Conference hosted by NC State.
- Andrea Elaez Miranda presented at the Society for Freshwater Science Meeting in Washington, gaining valuable professional insights and networking opportunities.
- Through an NSF GeoPath grant, students engaged with local schools, promoting STEM education in the community.
Notable Student Highlights
- Cosima Geywitz earned the prestigious GlaxoSmithKline Women in Science Scholar Award.
- Mary Bentley achieved remarkable success, including:
- Acceptance into multiple nationally funded research programs
- Internship at Los Alamos National Laboratory
- Over $12,000 in Department of Energy funding
- Multiple research opportunities and publications in progress
- Environmental Science students gained field experience through internships with the NC Wildlife Resources Commission, contributing to conservation initiatives statewide.
Student Symposium Highlights Innovation
The annual Student Science Symposium, held April 9, 2026, featured cutting-edge undergraduate research.
Poster Competition Winners:
- Lower-Level: Connor Jones & Daniel Smith
- Upper-Level: Benjamin Sellers & Ayden Harper
Honors Program Milestones
Students in the Taylor-Crocker Honors Program completed impactful research projects spanning chemistry and environmental science.
The School also recognized Dr. Bill Yankosky for his extraordinary 18 years of service as Honors Program Director. His leadership fostered strong student mentorship and a thriving academic community.
Faculty Achievements and Leadership
Faculty continued to excel in teaching, research, and service:
- Dr. Brent Dozier was promoted to Professor of Mathematics
- Dr. Emily Weber earned tenure, promotion, and the Excellence in Teaching Award
- Dr. Justin Davis published research through Caltech鈥檚 microPublication platform
- Ms. Brittany Al Attabi successfully launched NCWU鈥檚 first Regional Science Olympiad, hosting over 300 students
- Dr. Daniel El铆as published research, mentored student publications, and led an immersive ecological study abroad experience in Belize
Global and Experiential Learning
Students participated in a transformative field experience in Belize, exploring ecosystems, conservation efforts, and cultural history. This hands-on opportunity reinforced NCWU鈥檚 commitment to experiential and global learning.
Building Community Through STEM
The School also hosted engaging campus events, including:
- Science Olympiad Tournament bringing regional students to campus
- Pi Day 2026 celebrations, blending mathematics with campus fun
Looking Ahead
The 2025鈥2026 academic year reflects the School鈥檚 dedication to academic excellence, experiential learning, and community engagement. With strong student outcomes, innovative research, and passionate faculty, NCWU鈥檚 School of Mathematics and Sciences continues to prepare students for success beyond the classroom.
Explore more and join our community of scholars. Your journey starts here.
NC Wesleyan Earns Clean Fifth-Year Accreditation Review from SACSCOC
What is SACSCOC?
麻豆原创 (NCWU) is proud to announce it has successfully completed its Fifth-Year Interim Committee Review, receiving a completely clean audit, full compliance across all reviewed standards with no follow-up reports, no referrals, and no additional monitoring required. It will formally go to the SACSCOC Board of Trustees in June for approval.
The is a rigorous evaluation that takes place midway through an institution鈥檚 10-year accreditation cycle. The review assesses continued compliance with key accreditation standards and evaluates the progress and effectiveness of the institution鈥檚 Quality Enhancement Plan (QEP), a long-term initiative designed to improve student learning and success.
During the review, SACSCOC evaluated NCWU鈥檚 compliance with 22 specific core requirements and standards, including areas such as faculty qualifications and adequacy, student achievement, academic program quality, student support services, distance education policies, transparency, and institutional effectiveness.
In addition, NCWU submitted its Quality Enhancement Plan Impact Report, which was reviewed and accepted by the SACSCOC committee. 鈥Dr. Daniel Elias (Associate Professor of Environmental Science/Program Coordinator, Environmental Science) provided extraordinary leadership in preparing NCWU’s Quality Enhancement Plan,鈥 said Dr. Joe Lane, Provost and Senior Vice President of Academic Affairs.
Contributions & Recognitions
鈥淭his is an extraordinary milestone for 麻豆原创,鈥 said Dr. Evan D. Duff, President of NCWU. 鈥淪uccessfully completing the SACSCOC Fifth-Year Interim Review with a completely clean audit is a tremendous accomplishment and a powerful affirmation of the quality, integrity, and dedication that defines Wesleyan. Our faculty and staff don鈥檛 simply prepare for accreditation, they live our standards every day, ensuring our students receive an exceptional educational experience.鈥
A clean Fifth-Year Interim Review is an achievement reached by only a small percentage of institutions, making the outcome a significant validation of NCWU鈥檚 commitment to excellence and continuous improvement.
The successful review reflects the work of the University鈥檚 Institutional Effectiveness team, along with strong collaboration across academic and administrative departments.
Dr. Duff specifically recognized the leadership of Dr. Jarrod Kelly, Associate Provost for Institutional Effectiveness and Accreditation, and Scott Marsigli, Institutional Effectiveness Analyst and Administrative Assessment Coordinator, who played key roles in coordinating the review process and preparing the comprehensive report submitted to SACSCOC. The Provost鈥檚 Office was also acknowledged for its coordination and oversight to ensure academic programs and student outcomes were thoroughly documented and aligned with accreditation expectations.
In reflection, Dr. Jarrod Kelly shares, 鈥淗aving the SACSCOC Review Committee raise zero questions or concerns about our report speaks to the dedication and commitment of faculty and staff, particularly the team who spent over a year working on the report. To my knowledge, NCWU has never had a completely clean review with no committee findings. I believe that this reflects positively on our approach since our last reaffirmation to better educate and inform the campus community about the goals and importance of accreditation processes for maintaining quality and building a culture of continuous improvement.”
鈥淭his accomplishment is a reflection of the collective excellence of our entire campus community,鈥 Dr. Duff added. 鈥淚t reinforces that 麻豆原创 is not only meeting expectations, but we are exceeding them. We are on strong footing as we continue toward our next full reaffirmation, and I could not be prouder of the team that makes this institution so special.鈥
NC Wesleyan remains committed to providing a high-quality educational experience that supports student success, strengthens academic programs, and serves the broader community with integrity and purpose.
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 First Carolina Bank, the event will take place from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Monday, August 17 – the 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 heart of campus 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.
Maxie T. Coker, Jr, Senior Commercial Banking Officer, and Elizabeth Overton, Team Support Specialist for First Carolina Bank, share, 鈥淔irst Carolina Bank greatly values our relationship with 麻豆原创 and looks forward to continuing this partnership for many years to come. Rock the Mount is a fantastic event that connects the local community with the university鈥檚 students and creates a meaningful shared experience for everyone involved. We鈥檙e excited to make 2026 the best year yet!鈥
What to Expect:
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.
Vendor spaces are in high demand, with limited spots available. If you wish to have your spot secured for this event, contact Elliott now! 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:
- Three Boys Catering (Alumni Owned)
- Minnie’s Food and Thingz
- Sweet P’s Galaxy Lemonade
- CPS Catering
- Shawarmalicious
- Fairy Tale Concessions
- Carolina Icee
- Taquria La Lupita
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: Friday, July 31. Early registration is encouraged.
Sign Up Here:
Join us in making a memorable first impression and welcoming the NCWU Class of 2030 in style! For more information, contact Elliott Smith at esmith@ncwu.edu.
NC Wesleyan Music Production Program Releases First EP, 鈥淚ndie Rock鈥
麻豆原创 (NCWU) is proud to announce the release of the first-ever music Extended Play (EP) produced through its Music Production degree program. The four-song cover EP, titled 鈥淚ndie Rock,鈥 is now available on Spotify, iTunes, Apple Music, and other major streaming platforms.
Released on April 10, 2026, the Extended Play represents a major milestone for the growing Music Production program and showcases the hands-on learning experiences offered to students at NCWU. The project was a collaborative effort between two music production courses during the Fall 2025 semester, providing students with real-world experience in multiple stages of professional music creation.
Throughout the project, students applied key skills developed through the program, including music analysis, live performance preparation, studio recording techniques, mixing, and mastering, culminating in a polished final production distributed through the University鈥檚 official record label, .
Students involved in the project include:
- Noah Jacques 鈥 production
- Elly Luna 鈥 production, vocals
- Dakota Lynch 鈥 production, vocals, guitars
- Edgar Ortiz-Morales 鈥 production, bass
- Adrian Parson 鈥 production
- Lamont Taylor Jr. 鈥 production, vocals, keyboards
Also contributing to the project was Elic Gurganus, Technical Director of the Dunn Center at NCWU, who served as a guest vocalist on the EP. The project鈥檚 Executive Producer was Tony Sawyer, Assistant Professor of Music Production, who also performed all drums and percussion for the recordings.
The 鈥淚ndie Rock鈥 EP features covers of four well-known songs from prominent indie artists: Hozier (鈥淭oo Sweet鈥), Djo (鈥淓nd of Beginning鈥), Tame Impala (鈥淓lephant鈥), and Peter Bjorn and John (鈥淵oung Folks鈥).
With this release, NCWU continues expanding creative opportunities for students through experiential learning and professional-level production experiences. The EP stands as a strong example of the University鈥檚 commitment to preparing students for careers in the music and entertainment industries.
The EP is now available on all major streaming services.
NC Wesleyan to Host NCAA Division III Men鈥檚 Tennis Championship Preliminary Rounds This Weekend
麻豆原创 (NCWU) will serve as host site for the this weekend, welcoming some of the nation鈥檚 top programs to Rocky Mount for a high-stakes postseason competition.
The tournament will take place Friday through Sunday, May 8鈥11, with teams arriving on campus Thursday for practice sessions. The championship format features team competition, with both singles and doubles matches contributing to the overall team score.
NC Wesleyan will be one of six teams competing in the tournament, along with , , , , and .
鈥淏eing selected to host an NCAA postseason competition reflects positively on NC Wesleyan鈥檚 facilities, operations, and overall commitment to providing a high-quality student-athlete experience,鈥 said Madison Morrison, Assistant Athletic Director. 鈥淚t speaks to the trust the NCAA has in our ability to execute a championship-level event.鈥
Hosting responsibilities involve extensive planning and campus collaboration. From preparing facilities to coordinating travel and accommodations for teams and officials, the event requires alignment across athletics staff, facilities teams, and multiple campus partners.
鈥淭here is extensive coordination involved, including facility preparation, team and officials鈥 travel and accommodations, scheduling, compliance with NCAA championship protocols, and ensuring a strong game-day environment,鈥 Morrison said. 鈥淚t is a collaborative effort across athletics, facilities, and campus partners.鈥
Tennis Head Coach Albie Brice highlighted the tradition NC Wesleyan tennis has built in recent years and the significance of being selected once again as a regional host site.
鈥淭he Men鈥檚 and Women鈥檚 programs have established a tradition of excellence through unwavering dedication and hard work both on and off the court,鈥 Brice said. 鈥淭his marks the third time the Men鈥檚 Team has been chosen as an NCAA Regional Host since 2021, while the Women鈥檚 Team has hosted twice since then. In the past six years, NCWU has hosted five NCAA Regionals, showcasing its commitment to nurturing top-tier tennis talent.鈥
Brice also emphasized the competitive level of the tournament field and the opportunity for the weekend to produce memorable postseason moments.
鈥淲e anticipate an exceptional tennis tournament this weekend featuring some of the nation鈥檚 finest teams,鈥 Brice said. 鈥淭his regional is expected to be highly competitive, and the victorious team will undoubtedly receive a prestigious accolade to enhance its program鈥檚 illustrious history.鈥
鈥淣orth Carolina Wesleyan is proud to welcome NCAA postseason competition to our campus,鈥 said Dr. Evan D. Duff, President of 麻豆原创. 鈥淗osting the NCAA Division III Men鈥檚 Tennis Championship Preliminary Rounds reflects the excellence of our athletic programs and the dedication of our coaches, staff, and student-athletes. We invite the community to join us in celebrating this exciting opportunity and supporting our Battling Bishops.鈥
Fans are encouraged to attend matches and help create an energetic environment as NC Wesleyan takes the national stage in NCAA postseason play.
鈥淎ttending matches, creating an energetic and respectful environment, and helping us showcase the hospitality NC Wesleyan is known for all go a long way,鈥 Morrison added.
Championship Schedule (All Times Eastern)
Friday, May 8
10:00 a.m. 鈥 Stevens vs. Penn State Harrisburg (Match 1)
2:00 p.m. 鈥 NC Wesleyan vs. Albright (Match 2)
Saturday, May 9
10:00 a.m. 鈥 Emory vs. Winner of Match 1 (Match 3)
2:00 p.m. 鈥 Johns Hopkins vs. Winner of Match 2 (Match 4)
Sunday, May 11
12:00 p.m. 鈥 Winner of Match 3 vs. Winner of Match 4 (Match 5)
Event Details
Event: NCAA Division III Men鈥檚 Tennis Championship Preliminary Rounds (First, Second, Third Rounds)
Location: 麻豆原创 (Rocky Mount, N.C.)
Dates: May 8鈥11, 2026
Teams Competing: NC Wesleyan, Albright, Stevens, Penn State Harrisburg, Emory, Johns Hopkins
Format: Team competition including singles and doubles matches
Other Bishops Competing
In addition to hosting the NCAA Men鈥檚 Tennis preliminary rounds, NC Wesleyan Women鈥檚 Tennis will begin NCAA Tournament play on Thursday, May 7, traveling to Emory University for a first-round matchup against Asbury University at 10:00 a.m. The NC Wesleyan Softball team will also continue postseason competition this weekend, competing in the USA South Conference Championship Series beginning Friday at 1:00 p.m. at Pfeiffer University.
All matches and games will be streamed live through the NC Wesleyan athletics website at ncwsports.com
NC Wesleyan MPH Gains CEPH Applicant Status
麻豆原创 (NCWU) is pleased to announce that its Master of Public Health (MPH) program has received approval of its initial application for accreditation from the the nationally recognized accrediting body for schools and programs of public health.
The application was reviewed and approved during CEPH鈥檚 April meeting, granting the NCWU MPH program official applicant status. This designation authorizes the program to advance to the next stage of the accreditation process, which includes completion of a comprehensive self-study aligned with CEPH accreditation criteria.
CEPH accreditation is widely recognized as a national mark of quality and serves as an assurance that public health programs meet rigorous educational and professional standards. Receiving applicant status represents an important milestone toward full accreditation and reflects the program鈥檚 progress in meeting CEPH eligibility requirements and demonstrating readiness for comprehensive evaluation.
鈥淭his is an exciting step forward for our MPH program and for 麻豆原创,鈥 said Dr. Shannon Crowley, Professor of Public Health and MPH Program Director. 鈥淎chieving CEPH applicant status demonstrates the strength of our program and our commitment to preparing future public health professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to make a difference in their communities.鈥
NCWU鈥檚 Master of Public Health program is designed to equip students with a strong foundation in public health principles, leadership, research, and applied practice. The program offers specialized concentrations in Physical Activity and Health and Social Epidemiology, distinguishing NCWU as the only institution in North Carolina to offer these MPH focus areas,Accreditationand aligns with the university鈥檚 mission to address critical health challenges through high鈥憅uality, community鈥慺ocused graduate education.
The MPH program will now begin the formal self-study process and continue progressing through CEPH鈥檚 multi-step accreditation pathway.
For more information about NCWU鈥檚 Master of Public Health program, visit /academics/graduate-programs/master-of-public-health/.
OnlineMasters.com Ranks 麻豆原创 Among Best in the U.S.
a trusted resource for accredited online graduate education, has recognized 麻豆原创 (NCWU) in its annual rankings, naming the University among the Best Online Master鈥檚 in Criminal Justice Programs for 2026.
This distinction reflects NCWU鈥檚 commitment to delivering high-quality, career-focused graduate education, particularly for adult learners balancing work, family, and personal responsibilities while pursuing advanced degrees.
Unlike traditional ranking systems, uses a data-driven methodology designed to provide prospective graduate students with practical insights into academic quality, affordability, graduation outcomes, and student support. Institutions are evaluated using a proprietary scoring model that incorporates national data sources such as the U.S. Department of Education, College Scorecard, NCES College Navigator, the Bureau of Labor Statistics, College Board, and institutional disclosures, as well as benchmarking indicators from organizations including U.S. News & World Report.
NCWU鈥檚 Criminal Justice program stands out for its accessibility, flexibility, and emphasis on real-world preparation. The program is designed with the adult learner in mind, providing a supportive, engaging online environment that allows students to advance professionally while continuing to meet the demands of everyday life.
鈥淎t North Carolina Wesleyan, we understand that many of our graduate students are working professionals already serving in their communities,鈥 said Katie Farrell, Dean of Adult & Professional Studies. 鈥淥ur online programs are built to meet students where they are, providing flexibility, individualized support, and coursework that directly connects to career advancement in the criminal justice field.鈥
NCWU鈥檚 Master of Criminal Justice program equips students with advanced knowledge in criminal justice leadership, policy, ethics, and contemporary challenges in law enforcement and public safety. Graduates leave the program prepared to pursue higher-level roles in corrections, law enforcement administration, investigative services, homeland security, and other related fields.
鈥淥ur goal is to ensure students are not only earning a degree, but also gaining the confidence and expertise needed to take the next step in their careers,鈥 said Dr. Gail Marsal, Associate Professor of Criminal Justice and Program Coordinator. 鈥淭his program supports students as they transition into leadership roles and expand their impact within the criminal justice system.鈥
OnlineMasters.com鈥檚 rankings are focused exclusively on accredited, nonprofit institutions offering online and hybrid master鈥檚 programs. Each school is assigned an Online Master鈥檚 Score ranging from 0 to 100, measuring overall performance across the criteria most predictive of graduate student success.
NCWU鈥檚 recognition in the 2026 rankings reinforces the University鈥檚 growing reputation for providing adult learners with innovative graduate opportunities that lead to meaningful career outcomes.
To view the complete ranking, visit:
麻豆原创 麻豆原创
麻豆原创 (NCWU) is a small, private Methodist-affiliated institution with a liberal arts-based core curriculum that prepares students for professional advancement, life-long learning and responsible participation in their communities. NCWU offers liberal arts, professional and graduate degree programs for traditional, transfer and working-adult students.
NCWU offers a best-in-class value and a personally tailored private higher education experience. We invest in each and every student we accept by providing individualized awards, scholarships and grants. Wesleyan is YOUR hometown University that is Personal. Practical, and Purpose-Driven. With students from all over the United States and more than 40 different countries, the University has immense cultural diversity. In addition to its educational mission, NCWU serves as a vital economic engine for the region, contributing over $209 million to the local economy.
To learn more, visit ncwu.edu and follow on , , and .
麻豆原创 ONLINEMASTERS.COM
OnlineMasters.com is an independent higher education research platform dedicated to helping students identify high-quality online master鈥檚 programs. Led by a team of data analysts and higher education researchers, the organization operates separately from editorial and marketing functions to preserve objectivity and methodological integrity.
Using verified federal education data, aggregated third-party rankings including U.S. News & World Report, and labor market research from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, OnlineMasters.com produces transparent, research-driven rankings that evaluate academic quality, affordability, return on investment, and student support. Its mission is to provide clear, unbiased insights that empower prospective graduate students to make confident, informed decisions about advanced education.
To learn more, visit https://www.onlinemasters.com.
Dr. Katrina Sweet Awarded Jefferson-Pilot Award
麻豆原创 (NCWU) is proud to announce that Dr. Katrina Sweet has been selected as the 2025鈥2026 recipient of the Jefferson-Pilot Professorship, the University鈥檚 highest and most distinguished faculty honor. The award recognizes exceptional achievement in scholarship, teaching excellence, and dedicated service to both the campus and the greater community.
Established in 1981 through the generosity of the Jefferson-Pilot Life Insurance Company, the Jefferson-Pilot Professorship is an endowed award granted annually to a tenured faculty member who exemplifies the highest standards of professional excellence. The recipient is nominated by a committee of faculty and appointed by NC Wesleyan President Dr. Evan D. Duff. Honorees are recognized not only for mastery of their discipline and contributions to academic knowledge, but also for their unwavering commitment to student development and meaningful engagement in the life of the University.
Dr. Sweet, a respected educator and leader within the Wesleyan community, has consistently demonstrated the values embodied by this award through her work in the classroom, her scholarship, and her ongoing service initiatives.
鈥淚 was honored to be selected as the 2025鈥2026 Jefferson Pilot Faculty Member,鈥 said Dr. Sweet. 鈥淭his recognition made me proud to be a Bishop and grateful for the work I am called to do鈥攑reparing students to lead, serve, and transform their communities.鈥
For Dr. Sweet, the recognition is also deeply personal. She reflected on the influence of her family and the foundation they instilled in her long before she stepped into higher education.
鈥淚 could not help but think of my grandmother and grandfather,鈥 she shared. 鈥淚 believe I am a blend of the two of them. My grandmother was a nurturer鈥ull of quiet strength. My grandfather was an entrepreneur and a visionary. Their legacy still lives in me, and receiving this award makes me honor who they were and what they meant to my life. Their love, their resilience, and their example guide the way I teach, lead, and serve my students and community.鈥
Throughout her time at NC Wesleyan, Dr. Sweet has become known for her ability to create an environment where students are both challenged and supported鈥攁n educator who not only teaches content, but also inspires confidence, purpose, and personal growth.
When asked what moments have been most meaningful during her time at Wesleyan, Dr. Sweet pointed directly to the students who have shaped her journey as much as she has shaped theirs.
鈥淚f I had to choose what has meant the most, it would be the way my students have poured into my life and believed in me,鈥 she said. 鈥淚 have had students speak prophetically over my life and see the best in me even in seasons when I struggled to see it myself鈥 I realized that God did not just place me here for my students, but He also placed my students here for me.鈥
Her approach to teaching is grounded in purpose and service, principles she hopes students carry with them long after graduation.
鈥淚 want my students to remember that service is important,鈥 said Dr. Sweet. 鈥淪erving and giving beyond oneself is something I try to model both in the classroom and in the community. Service shapes character, builds compassion, and reminds us that leadership is not about position, it is about impact.鈥
Dr. Sweet teaches Human Resource Management and has played a key role in strengthening student interest in the field. She shared that one of the clearest moments of realizing her impact came when students began shaping their career paths based on what they experienced in her courses.
鈥淚 absolutely enjoy teaching Human Resource Management because HR is truly the glue that holds an organization together,鈥 she said. 鈥淚 first realized the impact of my teaching when students who enrolled in my HR courses began sharing that they wanted to minor in HR and pursue careers in the field after graduation. Over time, I noticed a trend鈥攕tudents were entering the HR profession and then reaching back out to share their experiences, seek guidance, and continue the mentorship we built in the classroom.鈥
That continued connection with alumni is a reflection of Dr. Sweet鈥檚 commitment to long-term student success, and her belief that the Wesleyan experience extends far beyond the classroom.
鈥淚 get to blend my work as a practitioner with my role as an educator,鈥 she said. 鈥淭he field is evolving quickly, and bringing real world experience into the classroom helps students see how business concepts come alive in practice.鈥
As part of the Jefferson-Pilot Professorship, Dr. Sweet will deliver a public lecture on Thursday, April 9, focused on nonprofit sustainability and community engagement. The lecture will highlight her work in building community partnerships, developing long-term organizational impact, and connecting students to hands-on learning experiences rooted in NC Wesleyan鈥檚 three pillars: Personal, Practical, and Purpose-Driven.
Those interested in attending are encouraged to contact the University to confirm attendance and event details.
鈥淎ttendees can expect an engaging and insightful lecture focused on nonprofit sustainability and community engagement,鈥 Dr. Sweet said. 鈥淚 will share the work I have done in the community, the partnerships I have built, and the practical strategies that support long term organizational impact. I will also highlight how my students have been connected to this work and how these experiences have shaped their learning through our three pillars: Personal, Practical, and Purpose Driven.鈥
Dr. Sweet emphasized that the topic is especially relevant today, as students and communities alike seek meaningful solutions to real-world challenges.
鈥淭his topic matters to me because nonprofit sustainability and community engagement are at the heart of who I am as an educator, practitioner, and servant leader,鈥 she said. 鈥淚 believe deeply in the power of organizations that exist to uplift people, strengthen communities, and create long term impact. My work in this space allows me to live out my values while also giving my students real opportunities to learn, serve, and grow.鈥
Dr. Sweet鈥檚 selection as the 2025鈥2026 Jefferson-Pilot Professor reflects her exceptional contributions to the University and the lasting impact she continues to make on students, colleagues, and the broader community. Her work exemplifies the mission of 麻豆原创鈥攑reparing students for lives of leadership, service, and purpose.
