麻豆原创 (NCWU) is proud to announce that alumnus Jackson Nethercutt 鈥23 has released his latest single, 鈥淭hese Illustrations,鈥 which debuted March 28. The song is now available on Apple Music, Spotify, YouTube, and iTunes.
Following his graduation from Wesleyan in 2023, Nethercutt moved to Salt Lake City for a yearlong internship at the University of Utah. After completing the experience, he returned to North Carolina and began a new chapter as an elementary school music teacher near Wilmington in 2024. While the transition brought exciting opportunities, it also came with significant personal and professional adjustments.
鈥These Illustrations tells the story of how a relationship formed and blossomed from a friendship to a romance,鈥 said Nethercutt. 鈥淚t became an irreplicable interconnectedness created by shared hardship.鈥
Nethercutt shared that the first half of the song reflects his internal conflict about allowing love into his life during a time when he already felt emotionally overwhelmed. As the song progresses, it shifts toward the peace and warmth he found through the relationship, ultimately capturing the exhilaration of falling in love while navigating a difficult season of life.
In addition to its personal meaning, Nethercutt noted that the song was also his most challenging production project to date. With its extended length and complex structure, including key and time signature changes, the recording process required significant time and attention to detail. Nethercutt wrote, performed, recorded, and produced the track entirely on his own from his apartment studio.
鈥淚 did a lot of experimenting with things like unique vocal harmonies, layering eight different acoustic guitar parts in the chorus, and having two bass lines going back and forth at each other in the hook,鈥 he explained.
Nethercutt credits his experience in NCWU鈥檚 Music Production (MUP) program for preparing him to independently produce music at a professional level. He also expressed gratitude to Tony Sawyer, Assistant Professor of Music Production and Director of 301 North Records, who helped him develop key recording and mixing skills, as well as songwriting abilities through courses such as Music Theory and History of Popular Music.
鈥I gained a lot of skill and experience in the MUP program at Wesleyan that allows me to be able to do it all myself instead of having to pay someone else to do it for me,鈥 said Nethercutt.
鈥淭hese Illustrations鈥 is Nethercutt鈥檚 second release under his stage name Kneethercute, a nickname stemming from a mispronunciation of his last name that has followed him since high school. He has also released music collaboratively under the name Camp Runaway.
Looking ahead, Nethercutt is currently working on his next musical project, expected later this summer, as well as a new YouTube channel titled 鈥淎 Human Adventure,鈥 which will document his life and music in an authentic and personal way.
Fans can follow Nethercutt on social media to stay updated on future releases.
NCWU congratulates Jackson Nethercutt on this exciting new release and proudly celebrates the continued achievements of its alumni in the music and production industries.
NC Wesleyan Student Turns Pain into Purpose Through Published Memoir
麻豆原创 student Ella Quinn, currently pursuing a degree in Business Administration, is using her voice to inspire others through her newly released book, A Woman in Crisis Living on Broken Pieces.
Inspired by personal life experiences, including navigating an abusive relationship, Quinn says she felt called to share her story as a message of hope for others facing hardship.
鈥淭his book came from my personal life experiences,鈥 Quinn shared. 鈥淚 felt led to share my story to bring hope, healing, and encouragement to others who may be in this situation and think there is no way out, feel broken, and/or overlooked.鈥
Quinn described the writing process as both emotional and healing, requiring her to revisit painful moments while also reflecting on how far she has come.
鈥淭he writing process was both emotional and healing,鈥 she said. 鈥淚t required me to revisit painful moments, but it also allowed me to see how far God has brought me.鈥
In addition to writing the book, Quinn also learned the publishing process firsthand鈥攖aking on formatting, designing her own cover, and navigating distribution. She credits the experience with strengthening her confidence not only as an author, but as an entrepreneur. Quinn said the moment she realized she wanted to become an author was when she understood her story had purpose beyond herself.
鈥淚 realized I wanted to become an author when I understood that my story was not just for me; it was meant to help others,鈥 she said.
Through her book, Quinn hopes readers recognize that healing is possible鈥攅ven in the most difficult circumstances.
鈥淚 want readers to know that no matter how broken their situation may seem, they are not beyond restoration,鈥 she said. 鈥淭here is healing, there is purpose, and there is still life after crisis.鈥
Quinn also shared how her experience at NC Wesleyan has supported her growth as she balances academics and personal goals.
鈥淢y time at NCWU has strengthened my leadership skills, discipline, and confidence,鈥 she said. 鈥淭he program has helped me grow both personally and professionally, giving me the structure and encouragement needed to pursue my goals, including becoming a published author.鈥
For students who may dream of writing or publishing a book, Quinn encourages them to begin now rather than waiting for the 鈥減erfect moment.鈥
鈥淪tart writing and don鈥檛 wait,鈥 she said. 鈥淵our story matters, and someone needs to hear what you have to say. Stay consistent, be willing to learn the process step-by-step, and believe in your voice.鈥
Quinn says her greatest accomplishment is having the courage to share her truth.
鈥淭his book represents healing, strength, and obedience to what I believe God placed in my heart to do,鈥 she said.
Her book, A Woman in Crisis Living on Broken Pieces, is available for purchase on Amazon and through her website at
Looking ahead, Quinn plans to continue growing her author brand, 鈥淗er Voice His Glory,鈥 while expanding her speaking and ministry platform. She is also preparing future writing projects, including a workbook and a new book titled Your Brokenness Was Necessary.
First Year to Doctoral Success
One of life鈥檚 most challenging questions is, 鈥What do I want to be when I grow up?鈥 For many, the answer is not only about choosing a path, but also understanding the steps, time, and dedication required to achieve it鈥攚hile still finding joy in the journey and a community that supports you along the way.
At 麻豆原创 (NCWU), that sense of community is at the heart of the student experience. From the first campus visit to graduation and beyond, students are surrounded by mentors, faculty, and peers who are deeply invested in their success鈥攑ersonally and professionally.
For Dr. Caitlin Brabblerose 鈥18, that support system proved transformative. A double major graduate in Biology and Environmental Science, Brabblerose recently reached a significant milestone: successfully defending her doctoral dissertation. Her journey is a testament to the power of personalized education and meaningful mentorship.
鈥淲esleyan provided me with such a unique undergraduate experience that prepared me in ways I never anticipated for graduate school,鈥 said Brabblerose.
Post-Undergrad Applied Learning Experience
After graduating in 2018, Brabblerose began her career as a Laboratory Technologist with , working in Genomics and Toxicology. She later pursued her Master of Science in Biology at the , eventually continuing into the Ph.D. program, where she spent more than five years studying the biological rhythms of intertidal organisms.
Her dissertation, Entrainment of Biological Rhythms in Fiddler Crab Embryos and Larvae, explored the complex internal clocks that guide these organisms, including circadian and circatidal rhythms. Through behavioral, molecular, and chemical research, her work contributes to a longstanding body of scientific knowledge dating back more than a century.
Reflection and Relationships
While her research is impressive, Brabblerose credits much of her success to the foundation built at Wesleyan. She explained that the small class sizes created high expectations, and her professors consistently pushed her to work harder and achieve more. The writing鈥慽ntensive courses prepared her for the reality that science involves communication as much as discovery.
She encourages students to take advantage of small class sizes and to get to know their professors, noting that they are the ones who will advocate for students, write recommendation letters, and continue to offer support long after graduation.
Her experience in the Taylor-Crocker Honors Program further mirrored the demands of graduate school, culminating in an undergraduate thesis defense that foreshadowed her doctoral journey.
That support came full circle when several of her former professors attended her dissertation defense鈥攁 moment Brabblerose describes as both meaningful and surreal. She shared that having the same professors who supported her honors thesis being present at her Ph.D. completion made the experience feel complete, as though everything had come full circle.
What’s next?
Now, as she looks ahead, Brabblerose plans to continue her journey in academia, pursuing postdoctoral opportunities with the long-term goal of becoming a principal investigator. She hopes to combine her passions for research, teaching, and outreach to inspire future generations. Caitlin’s goal is to give back to students the same way her professors gave and to share her story as a powerful reminder that success is not achieved alone鈥攊t is built through community, mentorship, and the willingness to embrace every step of the journey.
At NCWU, that journey doesn鈥檛 end at graduation. It continues to be shaped by relationships, fueled by opportunity, and celebrated through the accomplishments of its alumni.
Teacher Education Wesleyan Experience
麻豆原创 (NCWU) continues to prepare the next generation of educators through its dedicated Teacher Education program, where students gain the knowledge, mentorship, and real-world experience needed to make an impact in the classroom.
Recently, two pre-service teachers in the program 鈥 Kathlene 鈥淏rooke鈥 Rose and Kayden Comerford 鈥 shared their experiences studying Elementary Education at Wesleyan and reflected on how the University is helping prepare them for their future careers as licensed teachers.
Rose, a native of Nash County who recently transferred from East Carolina University, says she quickly found a sense of belonging on campus.
鈥淲esleyan feels like home,鈥 Rose shared. 鈥淭here is nowhere I would rather be as I learn to become a practicing licensed teacher.鈥
Comerford, who is originally from Apex, North Carolina and previously lived in Loudoun County, Virginia, emphasized the supportive learning environment that defines the Wesleyan community.
鈥淲esleyan is a tightknit community where I feel that all parties want the other to succeed,鈥 said Comerford.
According to Dr. Kelvin Spragley, Director of Teacher Education at NCWU, the program is designed to equip students with both the academic foundation and hands-on classroom experience needed to succeed as educators.
鈥淧reparing effective teachers requires more than coursework,鈥 said Spragley. 鈥淥ur students engage in meaningful field experiences and mentorship opportunities that allow them to build confidence, develop instructional skills, and understand the real needs of today鈥檚 classrooms.鈥
Wesleyan鈥檚 Teacher Education program prepares students for licensure in elementary education while emphasizing leadership, service, and community engagement. Through close faculty mentorship and partnerships with local schools, students graduate ready to step into classrooms and make a difference in the lives of their students.
As future educators like Rose and Comerford continue their journeys, Wesleyan remains committed to supporting students who feel called to teach and inspire the next generation.
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.
NCWU Grad Hits Home Run with Internship Mentorship!
麻豆原创 (NCWU) continues to highlight the power of experiential learning and alumni engagement through a unique internship opportunity connecting a current student-athlete with a Bishop alumna working in professional sports.
NC Wesleyan student Brooklynn Covic, a communications major and member of the Bishops Volleyball team, gained hands-on experience this past summer as a Creative Video Intern with the the High-A affiliate of the Pittsburgh Pirates. Covic鈥檚 internship was guided by Callie Cline, a North Carolina Wesleyan alumna and the Grasshoppers鈥 Manager of Social Media and Media Services.
Covic鈥檚 journey began on campus, where she works as a student assistant with NC Wesleyan Athletics, creating social media content and graphics to promote Bishop athletic programs. That foundational experience helped prepare her for the professional sports environment she now navigates daily.
鈥淚 really hope to bring these skills back to our athletic department to continue capturing and celebrating our student-athletes,鈥 Covic said. 鈥淭his internship has allowed me to grow creatively and professionally while seeing how the skills I鈥檝e learned at NC Wesleyan translate to the real world.鈥
For Cline, the opportunity to mentor a current Bishop is both personal and purposeful. As a former NC Wesleyan volleyball student-athlete and multimedia intern, she understands the impact early professional experience can have on a student鈥檚 career trajectory.
鈥淚 wish I would have started sooner and prioritized internships and experience earlier,鈥 Cline said. 鈥淏eing able to give back and help a current student see what鈥檚 possible is incredibly rewarding. NC Wesleyan helped lay the foundation for my career, and it鈥檚 exciting to be part of that process for someone else.鈥
This internship reflects NC Wesleyan鈥檚 commitment to hands-on learning, career readiness, and fostering meaningful alumni connections. By creating opportunities that extend beyond the classroom, the university continues to prepare students for success in competitive professional fields.
For more information about internship opportunities and experiential learning at 麻豆原创, visit ncwu.edu.
Wesleyan Donors Provide “Heaven Sent” Initiative
In the spirit of compassion, generosity, and belief in second chances, 麻豆原创 (NCWU) is proud to share the profound impact of a new Angel Donor Initiative supporting adult learners through the University鈥檚 Adult Professional Studies (APS) Scholarship Fund.
Over the past two weeks, the initiative, sparked by the generosity of NCWU supporters, has helped 13 adult students overcome financial barriers that threatened to derail their education. These timely gifts allowed students to pay current or future balances, register for upcoming courses, and remain on track toward graduation.
Over the past two weeks, the initiative, sparked by the generosity of NCWU supporters, has helped 13 adult students overcome financial barriers that threatened to derail their education. These timely gifts allowed students to pay current or future balances, register for upcoming courses, and remain on track toward graduation.
For many recipients, this support arrived at a critical moment. More than 75% of the students who were assisted had exhausted their federal financial aid eligibility due to life interruptions, prior enrollment attempts, or unforeseen hardships. Others were navigating deeply personal crises, including homelessness, the loss of a parent, recovery from a massive stroke, or job loss tied to a government shutdown.
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.
First in the Family: Wesleyan Students Breaking Barriers
When Matthew Tiller walked across the stage at 麻豆原创鈥檚 commencement in May 2025, he carried more than his own dreams. As a first-generation college student, he carried the hopes of his entire family.
鈥淏eing the first in my family to attend college means breaking a barrier and opening a door that was never there before, 鈥淭iller shared. 鈥淚t feels like I鈥檝e paved a new way for my family, not just for myself.鈥
Tiler, who double-majored in English and Psychology, admitted that the journey was not easy. His family, though proud, did not know how to help navigate applications, deadlines, or financial aid. 鈥淗onestly, they didn鈥檛 really know how to support me, so college became a learning environment for both me and my family,鈥 he said.
He isn鈥檛 alone. For fellow first-generation student Tamiya Rooks, a Biomedical Science major with a focus in Pre-Veterinary Medicine, the experience has also been about perseverance. 鈥淔or me, being a first-generation college student means that I have managed to beat the odds,鈥 Rooks said. 鈥淭o my parents, it means that they did an amazing job with raising their children and get to see her grow more. Making them immensely proud.鈥
At Wesleyan, Tiller found mentors who guided him through. Professors in the English program offered academic and personal support, while supervisors in the Financial Aid office helped him grow into a leader. 鈥淲orking there was more than a paycheck, it was mentorship,鈥 he said. 鈥業 know I would not be the leader I am without their guidance.鈥
Rooks echoed that feeling of support. 鈥淏eing the first in my family to go to college, I wanted a community that believed in my potential and would give me the resources to succeed, and Wesleyan offered that,鈥 she said.
Faculty and staff play a vital role in this culture. Paige Wells, Director of the Campus Experience, knows the challenges first-generation students face because she lived them herself. 鈥淎s someone who was a first-generation college student, I fully believe my personal experiences have uniquely equipped me to support students from similar backgrounds with greater empathy and intentionality,鈥 she said. 鈥淭o me, this work is more than just a job鈥攊t鈥檚 a personal mission.鈥 Wells also notes that misconceptions about the financial side of college often discourage families. 鈥淚t鈥檚 not because they don鈥檛 care鈥攊t鈥檚 simply a lack of information and familiarity with the process. That鈥檚 why it鈥檚 so important to create welcoming spaces where students and families feel safe asking questions and getting honest guidance.鈥
That sense of belonging doesn鈥檛 end with graduation. Wesley Mercer, now a Helpdesk Technician at NCWU, once stood where today鈥檚 first-generation students do. 鈥淚 feel like a lot of people are overwhelmed or scared of the idea of going to college. When I first started as a student, the staff and faculty were much more helpful than I originally thought,鈥 he reflected.
Today, Mercer is proud to be part of the institution that helped him succeed. 鈥淚 am excited that I get to be a 鈥榩iece of the pie鈥 that is Wesleyan. It is amazing to be on the other side of the institution that meant so much to me as a student. It is almost surreal to see things from the other side.鈥
For Mercer, the highlight of his journey remains graduation. 鈥淜nowing that I finally did it is still my proudest moment,鈥 he said. 鈥淓ven as a staff member, I always really enjoy getting to go to graduation and seeing students get their diplomas.鈥
Both Tiller and Rooks admit the challenges were real. For Tiller, it meant forging ahead without a roadmap. For Rooks, it meant leaving home and stepping into the unknown. 鈥淎pplying to college was the easy part really, but preparing for it was the most difficult,鈥 she reflected. 鈥淚t鈥檚 never easy to leave your home and family to go to a new place, even if it is for your benefit.鈥
Despite the obstacles, each points to proud milestones. Tiller cites leadership awards and internships. Rooks highlights completing her first year and joining the lacrosse team, something she had dreamed of for years. 鈥淚鈥檝e made so many new friends who are really like family to me now, and that means so much,鈥 she said.
Nearly 45% of Wesleyan鈥檚 student population are first-generation college students. Many faculty and staff were once first-generation themselves, making them uniquely able to mentor students like Tiller and Rooks. Wells notes that one of the biggest barriers is simply understanding the process. 鈥淥ne of the biggest misconceptions about college is the financial aspect, especially from the perspective of families who haven鈥檛 navigated the process before,鈥 she said. 鈥淢any families don鈥檛 fully understand the true cost of attendance or know what questions to ask when comparing schools, which can unintentionally limit the options they consider. It鈥檚 not because they don鈥檛 care, it鈥檚 simply a lack of information and familiarity with the process. For any student, especially a first-generation student, the process can be overwhelming, and that鈥檚 why it鈥檚 so important to create welcoming spaces where students and their families feel comfortable and safe asking questions and getting honest, clear guidance.鈥
Looking ahead, Rooks hopes to become a veterinarian, serving her community by protecting and healing animals. 鈥淚 want to show my family that dreams can be reached with dedication, and I hope to make them proud by turning my passion into a way to help others,鈥 she said.
Supporting first-generation students is not just part of Wesleyan鈥檚 mission. It is woven into the fabric of who the university is. With nearly half its students blazing new trails, every diploma represents resilience, mentorship, and opportunity.
As Tiller puts it: 鈥淭ake that leap! Do it! Be brave! The challenges are worth it, and you will always come out on top.鈥
NCWU Attracts Graduate Student from California Through Forbes Recognition
麻豆原创 (NCWU) is proud to highlight the inspiring journey of Jill Griffith, a Master of Science in Strategic Leadership (MSSL) student who discovered Wesleyan more than 2,500 miles away in California.
Jill, who works in Strategy and Transformation division as a Sales Leader, sought to deepen her leadership skills with a structured and formal graduate program. With support from 笔别辫蝉颈颁辞鈥檚 education reimbursement program, she began researching accredited, affordable, and career-aligned master鈥檚 degrees. Her search led to a Forbes article highlighting top accredited graduate programs, where NC Wesleyan鈥檚 MSSL program stood out.
鈥淭he course outline and program requirements were accessible, and the online resources gave me a confidence that the MSSL program matched both my interests and professional needs,鈥 Griffith shared. 鈥淲hat truly made the experience personal was the exceptional support I received from Jennifer Phipps, Admissions and Advising Coordinator, who made the admissions process smooth and welcoming.鈥
While on a business trip to Winston-Salem, Jill made the three-hour drive to Rocky Mount to see NC Wesleyan鈥檚 main campus in person. She met with faculty, including University President and MSSL professor Dr. Evan Duff, and was welcomed by several staff members with personalized hospitality from parking instructions and workspace accommodations to a guided campus tour.
鈥淚 had seen photos of the campus online, but visiting in person was such a pleasant surprise,鈥 said Griffith. 鈥淭he historic buildings were beautifully maintained, and the welcoming atmosphere was evident from banners promoting patience, accountability, and respect, to spaces like volleyball courts and hammocks. I simply felt like this was my school.鈥
Since beginning the program, Jill has completed eight courses and already sees a direct impact on her work with PepsiCo. The MSSL program has provided her with new tools to communicate strategy, improve execution, and inspire collaborative problem-solving.
鈥淲ith my experience at , the program gave me a framework to better understand the building blocks of strategy and its evolving role in driving success,鈥 she explained. 鈥淪ome of the most exciting insights came from case studies and real-world examples that gave me the language to move ideas forward with greater impact.鈥
Griffith also values the broader ripple effect of online learning: 鈥淲hether it鈥檚 your partner, kids, friends, or colleagues, the excitement from learning often sparks meaningful conversations beyond the classroom. When you are authentic about your experience, it can bring value beyond what you expected.鈥
Her journey underscores N.C. Wesleyan鈥檚 national reach, offering high-quality, affordable programs that resonate with professionals across the country. Jill looks forward to completing her degree in the coming year and hopes to serve as a mentor for Wesleyan鈥檚 undergraduate students, continuing tradition of impactful mentorship.
鈥淛ill鈥檚 story is a powerful example of how N.C. Wesleyan鈥檚 mission to prepare students for leadership extends beyond state lines,鈥 says President Dr. Duff. 鈥淗er dedication reflects the type of scholar-practitioner we strive to develop, leaders who apply classroom knowledge directly to their professions and communities.鈥
Through the support of PepsiCo and the accessible, personalized experience offered at NCWU, Jill has reignited her passion for learning, proving that growth thrives when opportunity meets curiosity.
NCWU Graduate to Ph.D. at Texas A&M University
Andy Rizzo, a standout graduate of 麻豆原创鈥檚 Class of 2025, has dual-earned Bachelor of Science degrees in Biology and Environmental Science. Hailing from Buenos Aires, Argentina, Andy chose NCWU for its small, welcoming campus and strong support for international students.
鈥淚 felt it would make my transition as an international student easier,鈥 Andy said. 鈥淏ut what made me stay was the community 鈥 the friends, faculty, and staff who made my college journey truly amazing.鈥
Andy鈥檚 time at Wesleyan was marked by involvement and leadership. She served as RA and Head RA, led both the Student Entertainment & Activities Team (S.E.A.T.) and the International Bishop Association, and was active in multiple honor societies and student organizations. Her dedication was recognized with several awards, including the Algernon Sydney Sullivan Award, Environmental Science Award, Internship Award for her work at , and being crowned Homecoming Princess in 2023 and Homecoming Queen in 2024.
One of her biggest academic influences was Dr. Daniel Elias, under whom Andy conducted research on environmental pollutants. Dr. Elias reflected, 鈥淲atching Andy grow as a researcher has been one of the most rewarding parts of my work. Through her leadership on projects studying PFAS, salinity, microplastics, and predatory cues in Physa acuta, her presentations at multiple conferences, and her mentorship through the , Andy showed true academic growth, resilience, and responsibility. Beyond the lab, she also helped lead outreach efforts, native planting projects, and citizen science initiatives. I could not be prouder of her journey and everything still ahead.鈥
Now, Andy is heading to to pursue her Ph.D. in , backed by a teaching assistantship with Dr. Seemann. She鈥檒l be researching the effects of environmental pollutants on fish 鈥 continuing the meaningful work she started at Wesleyan.
鈥淚鈥檓 very grateful for my journey at Wesleyan,鈥 she said. 鈥淣one of my accomplishments would have been possible without the support of my parents, my friends from home and at Wesleyan, Mrs. Dawn Turner, and Dr. Daniel Elias.鈥
