In a higher education landscape often dominated by rankings and test scores, 麻豆原创 (NCWU) is being recognized for what matters most: a transformative, student-centered undergraduate experience. For the 2025鈥2026 academic year, NCWU has been named a a prestigious designation awarded to institutions whose commitment to engaged learning, experiential education, and student success sets them apart.
This recognition is based on Colleges of Distinction鈥檚 unique evaluation framework known as the Four Distinctions: Engaged Students, Great Teaching, Vibrant Community, and Successful Outcomes. Through extensive research and in-depth interviews, Colleges of Distinction identifies colleges and universities that make a meaningful, measurable impact on students鈥 lives鈥攏ot those driven solely by rankings or prestige metrics.
鈥溌槎乖 has cultivated a campus culture where students are empowered to take ownership of their learning,鈥 said Tyson Schritter, Chief Operating Officer at Colleges of Distinction. 鈥淚ts programs reflect the innovation, intentionality, and personalized support that prepare students not just for graduation, but for life beyond college.鈥
Unlike traditional rankings, Colleges of Distinction highlights institutions that prioritize educational impact through high-impact practices such as first-year seminars, collaborative projects, undergraduate research, global learning, and internships. NCWU鈥檚 selection reflects its long-standing commitment to these practices and to providing individualized support throughout the student journey.
Business College of Distinction
In addition to its institutional recognition, NCWU has also been named a 2025鈥2026 Business College of Distinction, honoring the University鈥檚 undergraduate business programs for their balance of academic rigor and real-world application.
This distinction is awarded to schools that demonstrate accreditation, a well-rounded and multidisciplinary curriculum, applied learning opportunities, and a strong record of graduate outcomes.
鈥淣CWU understands that effective business education is about more than numbers鈥攊t鈥檚 about developing innovative, ethical leaders,鈥 Schritter said. 鈥淭hrough faculty mentorship, interdisciplinary coursework, and immersive learning experiences, students gain the skills and adaptability needed to thrive in a rapidly changing global economy.鈥
Colleges of Distinction highlighted NCWU鈥檚 School of Business for its:
- Stability and longevity, with a well-established program and consistent enrollment
- Multidisciplinary offerings, including majors and minors across multiple business disciplines
- Hands-on learning, such as internships, consulting projects, and networking opportunities
- Collaborative coursework, including case-method teaching and business plan competitions
- Strong emphasis on business ethics and social responsibility
- Dedicated academic and career advising
- High-impact educational practices, including capstones and service-based learning
- Robust industry connections that support internships and job placement
Graduates of NCWU鈥檚 School of Business leave with more than technical proficiency鈥攖hey develop leadership, critical thinking, and collaboration skills in environments that mirror the complexity of today鈥檚 marketplace.
Military Support College of Distinction
Further reinforcing its commitment to student success, NCWU was also named a Military Support College of Distinction, recognizing the University鈥檚 outstanding services and resources for veterans, active-duty service members, and military-affiliated students.
As more military students pursue higher education, Colleges of Distinction honors only select institutions that provide intentional, comprehensive support tailored to their unique needs.
鈥淩ather than viewing military students as a statistic, NCWU supports them as individuals鈥攅ach with their own goals, strengths, and challenges,鈥 Schritter said. 鈥淲e are proud to recognize institutions that go above and beyond to serve those who have served our country.鈥
Key elements of NCWU鈥檚 military support include:
- Comprehensive educational benefits, including participation in federal tuition assistance and training programs
- A dedicated Military and Veterans Affairs team to assist with enrollment, benefits, transition support, and career services
- Flexible academic options, such as online programs, flexible enrollment, and credit for military service
- Intentional campus community support, including dedicated spaces, student organizations, and counselors trained in areas such as PTSD and suicide prevention
鈥淎s a Military Support College of Distinction, NCWU has proven itself as a place where military-affiliated students aren鈥檛 just welcomed鈥攖hey鈥檙e championed,鈥 Schritter added.
Dr. Joseph Lane, NCWU Provost and Senior VP for academic affairs shares, 鈥淣orth Carolina Wesleyan takes pride in offering students degree pathways that fulfill our promise of a personal, practical, and purpose-driven education. We appreciate that Colleges of Distinction recognizes our superior educational outcomes and commitment to student success.鈥 聽
麻豆原创 Colleges of Distinction
Since 2000, Colleges of Distinction has been committed to recognizing schools across the United States for their exceptional contributions to higher education. Member institutions within the Colleges of Distinction consortium distinguish themselves through their unwavering focus on providing an outstanding undergraduate experience. Their website offers dynamic college profiles, customized tools, and valuable resources for students, parents, and high school counselors. For more information and to discover how to become a College of Distinction, visit .
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.
NCWU Receives Highest U.S. News & World Report Ranking in Over a Decade
麻豆原创 (NCWU) is celebrating one of its strongest showings in more than a decade, climbing 12 spots in the . Released Tuesday, September 23, the report evaluated over 1,700 institutions nationwide on 17 measures of academic quality.
NCWU proudly ranked No. 33 in Regional Colleges South, the University鈥檚 highest position in more than ten years, and earned recognition as No. 14 in Best Value Schools. In addition, NCWU was ranked No. 9 Best Colleges for Veterans and recognized in the Social Mobility category for enrolling and graduating large numbers of first-generation and Pell Grant students.
These distinctions build on recent accolades, including being named a 2025鈥2026 Military Friendly庐 Gold Top 10 School with an impressive #2 national ranking among private institutions not offering doctorate degrees, and earning the designation of #1 Military Spouse Friendly庐 School.
鈥淯.S. News鈥 Best Colleges remains a reliable resource for prospective students and their families as they navigate the college selection process,鈥 said LaMont Jones, Ed.D., managing editor for Education at U.S. News. 鈥淲ith over half of the ranking factors dedicated to student outcomes, the rankings and editorial content provide vital data, college advice and informed reporting to every student pursuing higher education.鈥
鈥淥ur dedication to students and the community is reflected in our consistency of being recognized by U.S. News & World Report year after year. The personal, practical, and purpose-driven education that we provide our students is something that I鈥檓 proud of; in addition, our faculty and staff do an exceptional job of ensuring a quality experience for these future leaders,鈥 shared NCWU President Dr. Evan D. Duff.
For another consecutive year, NC Wesleyan has held a spot in the top 50 Best Regional Colleges (South), reaffirming its position as the hometown university of choice for students seeking high-quality, affordable education.
To view the full list of 2026 U.S. News & World Report rankings, visit: .
麻豆原创 U.S. News & World Report
U.S. News & World Report is the global leader in quality rankings that empower consumers, business leaders and policy officials to make better, more informed decisions about important issues affecting their lives and communities. A multifaceted digital media company with Education, Health, Money, Travel, Cars, Real Estate, News and 360 Reviews platforms, U.S. News provides rankings, independent reporting, data journalism, consumer advice and U.S. News Live events. More than 40 million people visit USNews.com each month for research and guidance. Founded in 1933, U.S. News is headquartered in Washington, D.C.
NCWU聽Earns #1 and #2 Honors as 2025-26聽Military Friendly庐聽Institution
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) is proud to announce it has been named a , earning the impressive #2 national ranking in the category of 鈥淧rivate Institutions Not Offering Doctorate Degrees.鈥 In addition, NCWU has been ranked #1 as a 2025-2026 鈥攁 testament to the University鈥檚 unwavering commitment to military-connected students and their families.
These prestigious designations reflect NCWU鈥檚 dedication to fostering an environment where veterans, active-duty service members, and their spouses can thrive academically, socially, and personally. Out of more than 1,800 participating institutions, only 830 earned special recognition for going above and beyond in serving military students. Rankings were determined through a combination of public data, proprietary surveys, and rigorous assessment criteria including student retention, graduation, job placement, and loan default rates鈥攕pecifically for military and veteran students.
鈥淎t 麻豆原创, we are deeply grateful for the service and sacrifices made by our nation鈥檚 veterans and their families,鈥 said Laura Brown, Associate Dean of Veteran Services. 鈥淭hese designations reaffirm our mission to support military-connected students through accessible education, dedicated resources, and a community that recognizes and honors their unique experiences.鈥
One such example of this support is Nicholas and Amelia Hosine, a Bishop couple and U.S. Army veterans who are now pursuing their degrees in Organizational Leadership at NCWU with plans to graduate in December 2025. Having transferred from Wake Tech Community College, they found the University鈥檚 flexible online programs and transfer-friendly pathways ideal for balancing academics and family life.
鈥淭he transition from military to college life was both challenging and rewarding,鈥 Nicholas shared. 鈥淣CWU provided a welcoming environment where I felt supported from the moment I applied. The advisors, faculty, and staff have gone above and beyond to ensure student veterans are set up for success.鈥
The Hosines highlight NCWU鈥檚 quarterly class schedule as a key benefit鈥攌eeping them focused, engaged, and moving steadily toward their goals. They credit their time in service with instilling discipline and leadership, while Wesleyan has sharpened their critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. 鈥淭he combination of military experience and a Wesleyan education is preparing us for impactful careers where we can lead, support others, and continue to grow,鈥 Nicholas added.
When asked what it meant to them to attend an institution that received these rankings, Nicholas responded 鈥淚 truly believe NCWU deserves this award and I am proud to be part of a school that values and supports military-affiliated students. the support I have received throughout the registration process and while working with advisors has been outstanding. Everyone has been helpful, understanding, and committed to student success, especially for veterans.鈥
The full list of recognized institutions will be published in the May and October issues of G.I. Jobs magazine and at .
Kayla Lopez, National Director of Military Partnerships at Military Friendly庐, stated, 鈥淚nstitutions that earn these distinctions show true commitment to the success of military students and their families. They set a benchmark for excellence and help raise the bar across higher education.鈥
Methodology, criteria, and weightings were determined by Viqtory with input from the Military Friendly 庐 Advisory Council of independent leaders in the higher education and military recruitment community. Final ratings were determined by combining the institution鈥檚 survey scores with the assessment of the institution鈥檚 ability to meet thresholds for Student Retention, Graduation, Job Placement, Loan Repayment, Persistence (Degree Advancement or Transfer) and Loan Default rates for all students and, specifically, for student veterans.
As NCWU prepares the next generation of leaders, it remains steadfast in its mission to meet students where they are鈥攚hether in a classroom, online, or transitioning from military service to civilian life.
鈥淢ilitary Friendly庐 is committed to transparency and providing consistent data-driven standards in our designation process. Our standards provide a benchmark that promotes positive outcomes and support services that better the educational landscape and provide opportunity for the Military Community. This creates a competitive atmosphere that encourages Institutions to evolve and invest in their programs consistently. Schools who achieve awards designation show true commitment in their efforts, going over and above that standard.鈥 – Kayla Lopez, National Director of Military Partnerships, Military Friendly. 庐
麻豆原创 Military Friendly 庐 Schools:
The Military Friendly庐 Schools list is created each year based on extensive research using public data sources from more than 8,800 schools nationwide, input from student veterans, and responses to the proprietary, data-driven Military Friendly庐 Schools survey from participating institutions. The survey questions, methodology, criteria and weighting were developed with the assistance of an independent research firm and an advisory council of educators and employers. The survey is administered for free and is open to all postsecondary schools that wish to participate. Criteria for consideration can be found at .
麻豆原创 Viqtory:
Founded in 2001, VIQTORY is a service-disabled, veteran-owned small business (SDVOSB) that connects the military community to civilian employment, educational and entrepreneurial opportunities through its G.I. Jobs庐 and Military Friendly庐 brands. VIQTORY and its brands are not a part of or endorsed by the U.S. Dept of Defense or any federal government entity. Learn more about VIQTORY at .
NCWU Earns 2023-2024 Military Friendly庐 School Gold Designation
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA 鈥 麻豆原创 announced today that it has earned the 2023-2024 Military Friendly庐 School Gold designation.
Institutions earning the Military Friendly庐 School designation were evaluated using both public data sources and responses from a proprietary survey. More than 1,800 schools participated in the 2023-2024 survey with 665 earning special awards for going above the standard.
The 2023-2024 Military Friendly庐 Schools list will be published in the May and October issue of G.I. Jobs magazine and can be found at .
Methodology, criteria, and weightings were determined by Viqtory with input from the Military Friendly庐 Advisory Council of independent leaders in the higher education and military recruitment community. Final ratings were determined by combining the institution鈥檚 survey scores with the assessment of the institution鈥檚 ability to meet thresholds for Student Retention, Graduation, Job Placement, Loan Repayment, Persistence (Degree Advancement or Transfer) and Loan Default rates for all students and, specifically, for student veterans.
鈥淚 am excited that 麻豆原创 has received the Military Friendly Gold designation once again this year. At NCWU, we understand the sacrifices that veterans and their families make for our great Country and recognize the difficulties that come with transitioning into civilian life. Receiving the Military Friendly Gold designation demonstrates our commitment to continuously assist military-connected students by increasing support and offering acknowledgement at every opportunity,鈥 stated Laura Brown Brown, Associate Dean of Veteran Services.
鈥淢ilitary Friendly庐 is committed to transparency and providing consistent data-driven standards in our designation process. Our standards provide a benchmark that promotes positive outcomes and support services that better the educational landscape and provide opportunity for the Military Community. This creates a competitive atmosphere that encourages colleges to evolve and invest in their programs consistently. Schools who achieve awards designation show true commitment in their efforts, going over and above that standard.鈥 – Kayla Lopez, National Director of Military Partnerships, Military Friendly庐
NC Wesleyan offers a 10% discount on tuition to all active-duty military students, veterans and their spouses. To learn more about the educational resources available to active duty personnel, veterans and those related to veterans or active duty personnel, visit ncwu.edu/veterans.
麻豆原创 Military Friendly庐 Schools:
The Military Friendly庐 Schools list is created each year based on extensive research using public data sources from more than 8,800 schools nationwide, input from student veterans, and responses to the proprietary, data-driven Military Friendly庐 Schools survey from participating institutions. The survey questions, methodology, criteria and weighting were developed with the assistance of an independent research firm and an advisory council of educators and employers. The survey is administered for free and is open to all postsecondary schools that wish to participate. Criteria for consideration can be found at .
麻豆原创 Viqtory:
Founded in 2001, VIQTORY is a service-disabled, veteran-owned small business (SDVOSB) that connects the military community to civilian employment, educational and entrepreneurial
opportunities through its G.I. Jobs庐 and Military Friendly庐 brands. VIQTORY and its brands are not a part of or endorsed by the U.S. Dept of Defense or any federal government entity. Learn more about VIQTORY at www.viqtory.com.
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. The skills cultivated by faculty and built into the curriculum include critical thinking and reflection, communication, collaboration, and information technology. 麻豆原创 delivers education that is personal, practical and purpose-driven. Personal鈥hrough mentoring and the connections that are provided. Practical鈥y helping students develop lifelong skills. Purpose-driven鈥y helping them fulfill their purpose in life. With students from all over the United States and more than 40 different countries, the University has immense cultural diversity. To learn more, visit ncwu.edu and follow on , , , and .
