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.
NC Wesleyan Champions Silver Status at NCICU Ethics Bowl
麻豆原创鈥檚 Ethics Bowl team earned second place out of 17 participating institutions at the , marking the strongest finish in the University’s history.
The competition was held at the North Carolina State Legislative Complex and brought together undergraduate teams from North Carolina鈥檚 independent colleges and universities to engage in thoughtful, moderated discussions on complex ethical issues.
鈥淲e are deeply proud of this team,鈥 said Dr. Joe Lane, Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs at 麻豆原创. 鈥淭hey demonstrated great devotion, teamwork, and understanding throughout the competition.鈥
NCWU advanced through the regular rounds with an undefeated 4鈥0 record, securing wins against Catawba College, Salem College, Barton College, and Mars Hill University. The team then earned a victory over Wingate University in the semifinal round before falling to Johnson C. Smith University in the final round to claim second place overall. The final decision was closely contested.
鈥淭his was the most fun team I鈥檝e ever been on,鈥 said Niana Gunter, senior and team member. 鈥淚 learned a lot about formulating an argument in conjunction with other people.鈥
Senior team member Shafiq Jair Nuijts reflected on the experience, adding, 鈥淕oing into this bowl, I was nervous considering the tremendous amount of work my teammates and I put into this. Seeing the results of our efforts pay off in this manner was an unforgettable experience.鈥
This year鈥檚 finish represents a milestone for NCWU, surpassing the team鈥檚 previous best performance of third place at the 2020 Ethics Bowl.
The award was presented by Dr. A. Hope Williams, President of the North Carolina Independent Colleges and Universities (NCICU).
Competition Highlights
Throughout the day, NCWU students addressed a range of contemporary ethical topics, including corporate responsibility, international relations in global sporting events, the ethics of weapons of mass destruction, public education reform, civil-military leadership, and funding public schools during financial crises.
Team Members
Pictured (left to right; students in bold):
- Deon Bailey, Sophomore
- Dr. Jarrod Kelly
- Jolyna Sundbom, Junior
- Dr. Shane Thompson
- Dr. A. Hope Williams, President, NCICU
- Shafiq Nuijts, Senior
- Niana Gunter, Senior
- Dr. Jason Buel
- Maxima Iglesias, Senior
Not pictured: Dunya Salem, Senior, who is a member of the team but was unable to attend the competition.
Participating Institutions
The included teams from:
Barton College, Campbell University, Catawba College, Gardner-Webb University, High Point University, Johnson C. Smith University, Livingstone College, Mars Hill University, Methodist University, Montreat College, Pfeiffer University, Queens University, Salem College, University of Mount Olive, William Peace University, Wingate University, and 麻豆原创.
The promotes civil discourse, ethical reasoning, and collaborative problem-solving鈥攕kills central to 麻豆原创鈥檚 commitment to academic excellence and student development.
NC Wesleyan & ARTLAB Forge New Science Path!
麻豆原创 (NCWU) is proud to announce a groundbreaking academic partnership with the world鈥檚 largest IVF training center. This opens the door to one of the few undergraduate-level pathways in reproductive laboratory science in the United States.
This collaboration brings together NC Wesleyan鈥檚 student-centered academic experience and ARTLAB鈥檚 globally recognized laboratory expertise to create a new, hands-on educational opportunity in the rapidly growing field of assisted reproductive technology (ART). For students interested in science, healthcare, and life-changing innovation, this partnership represents a pathway few universities can offer.
Together, NCWU and ARTLAB are developing a series of credit-bearing academic and professional learning opportunities designed to prepare students for careers in reproductive science laboratories. While program details are still being finalized, the partnership is focused on delivering high-impact, experiential learning aligned with workforce needs and industry standards.
鈥淲e are excited to collaborate with 麻豆原创 on an initiative that expands access to formal education in reproductive science,鈥 said MS, PhD, Founder of ARTLAB. 鈥淏y combining academic instruction with immersive laboratory exposure, we are creating a pathway that is both accessible and exceptional鈥攐ne that reflects the future of this field.鈥
ARTLAB brings decades of applied experience training professionals in embryology and andrology, offering students exposure to real-world laboratory environments and techniques rarely available at the undergraduate level.
鈥淭his partnership reflects exactly what we strive to offer at NC Wesleyan鈥personal, practical, purpose-driven education,鈥 said Dr. Joe Lane, Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs. 鈥淚t creates new possibilities for students interested in science and healthcare while positioning the University at the forefront of an emerging and highly specialized field.鈥
Additional information regarding program structure, admissions, and enrollment timelines will be shared in the coming months.
NCWU Announces Transformative Enhancements for 2026
As 麻豆原创 prepares to welcome a new year, the University is proud to announce a wide range of exciting updates, expanded programs, and student-centered initiatives designed to meet the evolving needs of today鈥檚 learners, whether they are recent high school graduates, working professionals, or global scholars. With a renewed commitment to accessibility, innovation, and lifelong learning, Wesleyan is positioning itself as the region鈥檚 premier institution for flexible, affordable, and high-impact education.
Empowering Adult Learners Through Expanded APS Offerings
Many working adults don鈥檛 realize just how many pathways exist at Wesleyan to elevate their careers, switch industries, or complete a long-term educational goal. Through our Adult Professional Studies (APS) programs, students can choose from 10 flexible degree options, including Nursing (RN to BSN), Business, Education, Leadership, Supply Chain Management, Psychology, Criminal Justice, and more鈥攅ach designed specifically for busy adults balancing work, family, and life.
Wesleyan also offers career-boosting certificates that can make an immediate difference in earning potential and workplace advancement. With as few as six courses, certificate completers can gain industry-relevant skills without committing to an additional full degree. These certificate credits can also be applied toward formal undergraduate or graduate degree programs, offering students a flexible pathway to continue their education if they choose. Additionally, the learning outcomes from select certificates may qualify students to apply or test for specific professional certifications not administered by 麻豆原创.
鈥淢any adults assume they need to start over,鈥 said Katie Farrell, Dean of Adult and Professional Studies. 鈥淏ut at Wesleyan, you can upgrade your skills, gain confidence, and increase your value in the workplace in months, not years.鈥
Affordability: More Possible Than Ever
Another major misconception is that further education is financially out of reach. Wesleyan is committed to breaking that barrier. With scholarships, financial aid, employer partnerships, and personalized financial counseling, most students discover that earning their next credential is far more affordable than they imagined.
New this year is Wesleyan鈥檚 Refer-A-Friend Tiered Scholarship Program strictly for Adult and Graduate programs, offering up to $500 per referral with no limit to the number of referrals:
- Completed Application: $50
- Enrolled Student:
- 1st referral: $100 scholarship
- 2nd referral: $250 scholarship
- 3rd referral and beyond: $500 each in scholarship
This program not only rewards current students but also empowers them to actively support friends, colleagues, and family members looking to advance their careers.
Wesleyan Works: A Seamless Pathway from Community Colleges
Wesleyan continues to strengthen its partnerships across North Carolina with the Wesleyan Works Program, offering guaranteed admission for community college students who complete their associate degree. Participants enjoy Wesleyan benefits from day one, including transfer credit maximization, academic advising, and affordability support – making the transition to a bachelor鈥檚 degree smoother and more cost-effective than ever.
Reimagining Student Success for Traditional Students: Introducing the COMPASS Center
In addition to the enhancements for adult and professional students, Wesleyan is elevating the on-campus experience for traditional students by rebranding and relocating the Student Success Center to the Career and Opportunity Mentorship for Personal, Academic, and Student Success (COMPASS) Center.
The COMPASS Center marks a modern, holistic approach to student development. Integrating academic advising, first-year transition programs, leadership training, career readiness, and inclusive learning support, COMPASS equips students not just to succeed in the classroom but to design meaningful, purpose-driven lives.
鈥淥ur mission is simple,鈥 Anne Aichele, Program Director, shared. 鈥淲e want every student to explore, define, and design their academic, personal, and professional journey with confidence.鈥
Students will gain familiarity with this change when they return in January, but a full launch will take place for the 2026-2027 academic year.
Advancing Global Education: International Services Realigned for Excellence
To strengthen support for Wesleyan鈥檚 growing international community, International Student Services will now transition under the leadership of Dr. Oscar Rodriguez. Dr. Rodriguez鈥檚 extensive experience with PDSO/DSO operations, along with his bilingual fluency and deep commitment to compliance and cultural care, positions him as an exceptional advocate for global students.
鈥淭hese enhancements demonstrate our dedication to positioning each department for maximum impact,鈥 said University leadership. 鈥淥ur priority is always student success – from local adult learners to students joining us from around the world.鈥
A Call to the Community
As Wesleyan continues to grow, innovate, and serve its region, the University invites local professionals, employers, adult learners, and community members to explore how Wesleyan can support their next chapter. Whether you want to advance in your career, change fields, finish a degree, or simply open new doors, there鈥檚 a place for you at Wesleyan鈥攁nd we鈥檙e ready to help you begin.
In return, we welcome our community to partner with us in shaping the next generation of talent. Local businesses and organizations can make a powerful impact by offering internships, job-shadowing experiences, course-based project collaborations, mentoring opportunities, guest speaking, and other forms of professional engagement. These partnerships not only strengthen Wesleyan students鈥 real-world readiness, but also help employers build strong pipelines of skilled, motivated graduates who are eager to contribute to the regional workforce.
Together, we can build a stronger, more connected community鈥攐ne where education and opportunity thrive side by side.
Whether you want to advance in your career, change fields, finish a degree, or simply open new doors, there鈥檚 a place for you at Wesleyan, and we鈥檙e ready to help you begin.
Interested in learning more?
Visit our website or contact our admissions team to explore programs, certificates, scholarship opportunities, and upcoming enrollment dates.
NCWU Hosts Veterans鈥 Day Salute
麻豆原创 (NCWU) proudly hosted its annual Veterans Day Celebration in the heart of campus on November 11, honoring the brave men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces. The ceremony was a moving tribute filled with gratitude, reflection, and unity.
The event began with a Flag Ceremony conducted by the followed by NCWU student and military dependent, Steven Fiscante, who led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance. NCWU student, MarQuayla Garrett, delivered a stunning rendition of the National Anthem, setting the tone for a morning of reverence and pride.
Rev. Edwin Ferguson, NCWU Chaplain, led attendees in a heartfelt prayer, followed by welcoming remarks from Aaron Pait, U.S. Marine Corps veteran and NCWU student. Pait reminded the audience of the deeper meaning of the day, sharing, 鈥淢emorial Day is when we pause to honor those who died in service. Today we honor the service itself, and everyone who answered the call. Today makes room for the whole person, not just the uniform.鈥
He encouraged those in attendance to truly engage with the day, saying, 鈥淒on鈥檛 just observe today 鈥 engage with it. Sit down with a veteran. Ask what service meant to them and what it still means. And then ask yourself: what does it take to remain worth defending?鈥
Christopher S. Cash Memorial Scholarship Recipients
During the ceremony, Leah Hill, NCWU Director of Financial Aid, recognized the Christopher S. Cash Memorial Scholarship recipients, Samuel Church and Anthony Conner. This scholarship honors the legacy of NCWU alumnus Captain Christopher S. Cash (鈥93), who was mortally wounded while leading his platoon in Iraq. His memory continues to inspire future generations of Wesleyan students to lead with courage and compassion.
Guest Speaker – Dr. Kelvin Spragley
The program concluded with remarks from Dr. Kelvin Spragley, NCWU鈥檚 Director of Teacher Education and Chief Diversity Officer, and a veteran of the United States Army. In his stirring address, Dr. Spragley reminded all in attendance that the service of veterans extends beyond the battlefield鈥攊t is rooted in the defense of our nation鈥檚 ideals.
He reflected, 鈥淰eterans do not swear an oath to defend a person, a party, or a policy. They take an oath to defend the Constitution of the United States. Their loyalty is to the principles that form the foundation of our democracy 鈥 liberty, justice, equality, and the rule of law.鈥
Dr. Spragley emphasized that true patriotism is not blind obedience, but 鈥渃ourageous love 鈥 love that tells the truth and seeks to correct what is wrong while preserving what is right.鈥 He concluded by calling on all Americans to honor veterans not only with words, but with action:
鈥淰eterans have done their part to defend that 鈥榳e鈥 in 鈥榃e the People.鈥 Now it鈥檚 our turn to make sure that 鈥榳e鈥 truly means everyone. So today, let us say not only 鈥榯hank you for your service,鈥 but also 鈥榳e will continue your mission.鈥 We will stand for justice, for freedom, and for the principles that define this great but imperfect nation.鈥
麻豆原创 remains committed to supporting veterans, active-duty service members, and military-affiliated students as a proud Gold Top 10 School. The Veterans Day Ceremony reflects Wesleyan鈥檚 dedication to recognizing service and fostering a campus community rooted in gratitude and respect.
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 >
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
Omnium Issue 8 Out Now!
Check out the new issue of , released in August 2025. Omnium collects written work by promising undergraduate scholars.
This year鈥檚 issue has a strong focus on revisiting older ways of 鈥渄oing society鈥濃攆rom questioning the impact of social media and internet pornography on mental health and social relationships to exploring daring new trends in animal conservation and to formulating guidelines for responsible business leaders. During a year of declining trust in corporate leaders, especially those in the technology sector, this issue of Omnium features six essays focusing on ethical business practices, including a special section of articles created by NCWU graduate students in the business and leadership master鈥檚 programs. We hope that readers will be as excited about these new essays as their reviewers and editor are.
Omnium would not exist without the many expert teachers and scholars at NCWU who donate their time to this project. A very warm thank-you to the faculty judges for reading this year鈥檚 submissions in record time: Drs. Maria Gil, Meredith Gringle, Jarrod Kelly, Margaret Love, Chad Ross, Rachel Roy, Mark Sursavage, Lee Templeton, Shane Thompson, and Emily Weber.
We invite our readers to enjoy and learn from the new essays collected here, and also encourage teachers in any discipline to use them as models in their own courses. Please use attribution when you do so.
OUR MISSION. Omnium, housed in the English Department at NCWU, provides our undergraduate students with the opportunity to explore the major genres of academic writing, join in scholarly conversations, share their ideas, perform original research, and see their work published in a professional venue. Omnium also serves as a teaching resource for NCWU faculty鈥攁nd faculty at other institutions鈥攁s the essays and research articles published here reflect the skill and knowledge of real students at various stages of their academic careers, from first-year composition essays to projects created in senior seminars and honors theses. The materials lend themselves well to in-class discussion, analysis, and emulation, and we hope that students will be energized when they realize that there is no single arcane secret to writing well. All it takes is practice, motivation, and direction.
For questions about Omnium, please contact the editor, Dr. Doreen Thierauf.
