Rocky Mount, NC 鈥 April 2, 2026 鈥 麻豆原创 proudly hosted its annual Honors Convocation, celebrating the exceptional achievements of its students. The event, held at the Dunn Center for the Performing Arts, recognized students who have demonstrated outstanding leadership, academic excellence, community service, and contributions to the university.
The ceremony included the presentation of various awards from each school within the university:
- School of Math and Sciences: Awards for outstanding achievements in disciplines such as Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science, and Mathematics.
- School of Business & Professional Studies: Recognized excellence in fields like Accounting, Marketing, Computer Information Systems, and Organizational and Sports Administration.
- School of Education and Social Sciences : Honored students who have demonstrated exceptional dedication and skill in teaching, educational leadership, History, Political Science, Psychology and Criminal Justice.
- School of Health Sciences: Recognized excellence in fields like Exercise Science, Nursing, Public Health, Sports Science and more.
- School of Humanities: Awards for outstanding achievements in disciplines such as Writing, Religious Studies, English and more.
Students were selected for these prestigious honors by a panel of faculty and staff, based on their leadership, academic achievement, community service, contributions to the university, and good citizenship. There is no doubt that these students will go on to accomplish great things.
Provost Dr. Joe Lane expressed his pride in the students’ accomplishments, stating, “Our awardees and honor society members have displayed outstanding contributions both inside and outside the classroom. Their dedication and hard work are truly commendable, and we are confident that they will continue to excel in their future endeavors.”
麻豆原创 remains committed to fostering an environment of academic excellence and leadership, and the Honors Convocation is a testament to the university’s dedication to recognizing and celebrating student achievements.
When you see these students, please take a moment to congratulate them.
To view entire 2026 honors list and photos from event, visit ncwu.edu/academics/academic-honors
NCWU Hosts 2026 Omnium Conference
麻豆原创 (NCWU) held the second annual Omnium Conference on Wednesday, March 25 at the Gateway Technology Center on campus. The event spotlighted undergraduate research and celebrated scholarly achievement across disciplines.
What is The Omnium Conference?
The Omnium Conference is a formal presentation of student research papers in affiliation with . Omniumis a Latin word meaning 鈥渆verything鈥, and the journal provides students with the opportunity to explore major genres of academic writing, join in scholarly conversations, share their ideas, perform original research, and see their work published in a professional venue. Now in its eighth year, Omnium was established in 2019 by Dr. Doreen Thierauf, Associate Professor of English and General Education Program Coordinator. Dr. Thierauf serves as the journal鈥檚 editor and as conference co-organizer, joined by Dr. Shane Thompson, Associate Professor of Bible and the Ancient Near East and Director of the Office of Undergraduate Research.
鈥Omnium provides a professional platform for students to engage in original research, participate in academic dialogue, and see their work published,鈥 said Dr. Thierauf. 鈥淚t also serves as a teaching tool for faculty at NCWU and other institutions, with articles reflecting the academic growth of students at every stage of their college careers from first-year composition essays to projects created in senior seminars and honors theses鈥.
2026 Conference Details
The 2026 conference featured six student presentations, organized into two thematic sessions followed by interactive panel discussions:
- Session 1: Writing, Filming, and Buying Identity
- Alastair Cannon (NC State U): 鈥淒isproving the Myth of Simplicity in Anatolian Hieroglyphs鈥
- Shafiq Nuijts: 鈥淲an Pipel: Identity, Tolerance, and Coexistence in Suriname鈥
- Session 2: Healing Our Communities
- Niana Gunther: 鈥Lessons Learned from Unexpected Results: Investigating Herbal Remedies and Probiotic Growth鈥
- Kayla Collins: 鈥淪tress, Sleep, and Mental Wellbeing among NCWU Students鈥
- Maya Dari: 鈥淏uilding Resilience: One Jenga Block at a Time鈥
- Maria Gabriela Salazar: 鈥淔actors Influencing the Development of Cultural Competence in Nurses鈥
This year鈥檚 keynote address was delivered by Dr. Lee Templeton, Professor of English and Chair of the School of Humanities. His presentation was titled 鈥淭he Dragons of Higher Education.鈥
The 2026 conference marked an ongoing collaboration between Dr. Thierauf and Dr. Shane Thompson. Together, they aim to expand mission to highlight the exceptional work being produced by NCWU undergraduates across all disciplines. The organizers were thrilled to feature a student from North Carolina State University, Alastair Cannon, in the conference lineup and hope to attract more students from regional campuses to the conference in the years to come.
Photos from this event can be viewed:
Ensuring Opportunity Never Pauses: The Power of Philanthropy
Across higher education, recent federal developments have prompted important conversations鈥攑articularly among Minority Serving Institutions (MSIs). New guidance and decisions from the and the signal changes to how certain discretionary federal grant programs will operate moving forward. Many of these programs have historically provided mission-critical support to both MSIs and the students they serve.
For many colleges and universities, these shifts raise understandable questions. Federal funding has long played a role in helping institutions expand access, support students through challenges, and respond to workforce needs. When the funding landscape changes, institutions must take a step back and thoughtfully consider what comes next.
For 麻豆原创, a proud Minority Serving Institution, this moment reinforces the importance of planning ahead, diversifying support, and strengthening partnerships that ensure long-term stability for our students and our mission.
鈥淗igher education is constantly evolving, and moments like this remind us that adaptability and community support are essential,鈥 said Dr. Evan D. Duff, President of 麻豆原创. 鈥淥ur responsibility is to continue serving students with excellence, regardless of shifts in the external environment.鈥
Understanding the Broader Context
Two recent federal actions have contributed to growing discussion within the MSI community:
One involves increased federal scrutiny of certain programs that previously provided targeted support to Minority Serving Institutions. These changes leave many institutions facing questions about the future funding availability and compliance requirements. Another includes the Department of Education鈥檚 decision to discontinue specific discretionary grant programs tied to MSI designation.
While these decisions are rooted in legal and regulatory considerations, their ripple effects are being felt across higher education. Institutions that serve large numbers of first-generation students, adult learners, Pell Grant recipients, and students from rural or economically challenged regions must now plan amid greater uncertainty.
As leaders across the country reflect on these changes, a common question emerges: How do institutions continue to deliver opportunity and access when traditional funding streams become less predictable?
What This Means for Minority Serving Institutions
Minority Serving Institutions play a critical role in the higher education ecosystem. They often serve students with significant potential and determination, many of whom balance academics with work, family responsibilities, and financial constraints. Federal support has historically helped MSIs:
- Reduce financial barriers for first-generation students and students from economically challenged households
- Build and sustain academic programs
- Provide tutoring, mentoring, and career readiness resources
- Strengthen workforce pipelines in education, healthcare, business, and public service
When funding becomes less certain, institutions must work harder to preserve these supports. Program growth may slow, student services can feel stretched, and workforce pathways that communities rely on may face added pressure.
At the same time, institutions like NC Wesleyan remain deeply committed to innovation, student success, and regional impact even as they navigate these challenges.
NC Wesleyan鈥檚 Ongoing Commitment
麻豆原创 has long focused on providing a personalized, practical, and purpose-driven education, particularly for students from central and eastern North Carolina. As an MSI, the University places student potential at the center of everything it does, preparing graduates not only for careers but for lives of leadership and service.
鈥淥ur students come to us with ambition, resilience, and a desire to make a difference,鈥 said Dr. Joseph Lane, Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs. 鈥淥ur role is to meet them where they are, support their growth, and ensure they have access to the resources needed to succeed.鈥
Maintaining this level of support in a shifting funding environment calls for new approaches, thoughtful stewardship, and strong relationships beyond federal sources.
Why Private Support Matters More Than Ever
Private philanthropy, whether from individuals, foundations, corporations, or community partners, has always been an important part of NC Wesleyan鈥檚 story. Today, it plays an even more critical role.
Private support helps the University:
- Provide emergency and retention funding when students face unexpected challenges
- Create new academic programs and realign existing programs with evolving workforce needs and expectations
- Offer scholarships that reduce financial strain and increase access
- Strengthen career preparation, advising, and student success initiatives
Simply put, philanthropy helps ensure that opportunity does not pause when circumstances change.
In recent years, private philanthropy has played a stabilizing role for many institutions navigating change. Philanthropists such as MacKenzie Scott, who has made significant and and beyond, and which has invested nationally in strengthening nursing and healthcare education, illustrate how private support can reinforce institutional capacity. Similarly, historic gifts like the more than show how visionary donors can expand research, teaching, and student opportunity at scale across the higher education landscape.
Where Philanthropy Makes a Difference
Support for NC Wesleyan can take many forms, each with meaningful impact:
- Scholarships and endowed funds for first-generation students, adult learners, and career changers
- Program innovation that opens new academic pathways and created opportunities for hands-on learning
- Student success initiatives including enhanced advising, mentorship programs, internships, and practica to foster career readiness
- Community partnerships that strengthen regional education, healthcare, and workforce development
These investments don鈥檛 just support individual students, they strengthen families, employers, and communities throughout the region.
Looking Ahead, Together
Federal policy changes serve as a reminder that higher education thrives best when it is supported by a broad and engaged community. For NC Wesleyan, this moment is both a challenge and an opportunity: a chance to deepen partnerships, invite new voices into the conversation, and ensure the University remains strong for generations to come.
鈥淥ur mission has always been about opening doors,鈥 Tammy Robinson, Director of Donor Engagement, shared. 鈥淲ith the support of our partners and supporters, we will continue to do just that, creating pathways to success for students and strengthening the communities we serve.鈥
NC Wesleyan鈥檚 students are ready to lead. With stability, opportunity, and shared investment, they will continue to do so鈥攁cross North Carolina and beyond.
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.
New Partnership Expands NCWU Careers…
麻豆原创 (NCWU) is pleased to announce a new partnership with , an innovative biotechnology company committed to advancing agricultural and environmental solutions. This collaboration will significantly expand career development opportunities for NCWU students, particularly those pursuing studies in the sciences.
Through this partnership, NCWU students will gain enhanced access to real-world learning experiences, including guided tours of Innatrix鈥檚 laboratory facilities, professional engagement with industry experts, and exposure to biotechnology and agriscience career pathways. The partnership will create new avenues for students to participate in job shadowing, internships, mentorship opportunities, and discussions led by Innatrix professionals on topics ranging from industry trends to workplace professionalism.
will also take part in academic events at NCWU, such as the University鈥檚 annual Science Symposium, further strengthening the connection between classroom learning and industry application.
Partnership Details
A highlight of this collaboration will be Dr. Li Jiarui, CEO of Innatrix, serving as a featured speaker at NCWU鈥檚 annual Student Symposium in April. This event provides students in environmental sciences and other majors with a platform to present their research across a wide range of academic fields. The Symposium has become a showcase for undergraduate scholarships, with many students achieving remarkable outcomes. For example, every student who completed the BIO325 Environmental Science course at NCWU in Spring 2022, 2023, and 2024 has had their research published, demonstrating the University鈥檚 commitment to rigorous, hands-on scientific research. Their work includes studies on the effects of pharmaceuticals and microplastics on freshwater snails, several of which have appeared or will soon appear in peer-reviewed scientific journals.
鈥淭his partnership represents a meaningful step forward for our students,鈥 said NCWU Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Joe Lane. 鈥淏y connecting academic study with hands-on experience in a cutting-edge industry, we are helping prepare our graduates for the demands of an evolving workforce.鈥
NCWU will continue to highlight Innatrix鈥檚 involvement through coordinated communications and collaborative initiatives, reinforcing the shared commitment to developing the next generation of scientific talent within the region.
鈥淲e鈥檙e excited about this partnership. Our scientists are committed to mentoring the next generation, giving them hands-on experience to develop solutions to the world鈥檚 pressing challenges,鈥 said Innatrix CEO and President, Dr. Jiarui Li. 鈥淭ogether, we can make a greater impact on improving public health and feeding a growing population.鈥
Together, NCWU and Innatrix look forward to building a partnership that enriches student learning, strengthens the local workforce, and supports innovation in North Carolina鈥檚 growing biotechnology sector.
麻豆原创 Innatrix Inc.
Innatrix, Inc. (Research Triangle Park, NC) is redefining crop protection with a patented, target-based platform and over $4M in secured capital. Our environmentally friendly biologicals reach market faster, cut costs by up to 95% versus chemical pesticides, and reduce carbon footprint by 80鈥90%. By precisely targeting pathogens, we eliminate harmful off-target effects.
NC Wesleyan Marks Historic 100% edTPA Success
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) is proud to announce a major achievement within its Teacher Education program: every NCWU student who submitted the this semester earned a passing score, marking a 100% pass rate on one of the most rigorous teacher preparation assessments in the nation.
This milestone follows a 10-month institutional transition to a nationally benchmarked performance assessment used to evaluate teacher readiness. Despite the challenges of implementing a new system, both traditional and Adult & Professional Studies (APS) students excelled鈥攄emonstrating the strength, resilience, and adaptability of Wesleyan鈥檚 future educators.
鈥淥ur students met an incredibly high standard, and they did it with determination, professionalism, and heart,鈥 said Dr. Kelvin L. Spragley, Associate Professor of Education and Director of Teacher Education. 鈥淭his accomplishment reaffirms that NC Wesleyan鈥檚 Teacher Education program is equipped to meet the needs of all learners and to prepare exceptional teachers for North Carolina鈥檚 classrooms.鈥
Dr. Joe Lane, Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs, emphasized the broader impact of this achievement on the region and state:
鈥淥ur Education faculty and students are truly building an extraordinary record. 麻豆原创 is committed to filling the much-publicized teacher shortage in our region鈥檚 public schools with inspiring and fully credentialed teachers who will raise the bar for classroom instruction in North Carolina.鈥
For some students, passing edTPA brings them one step closer to earning a clear North Carolina teaching license; for others鈥攊ncluding Samantha Winstead, Grant Harrell, and Geovanni Dixon鈥攊t represents the completion of their final licensure requirement.
Dr. Spragley also recognized the collective effort behind the success, praising faculty and staff across departments who supported students throughout the demanding assessment process鈥攆rom academic mentoring to technical assistance and data coordination.
Dr. Spragley praised not only the students鈥 perseverance but also the collaborative effort of faculty and staff who supported them throughout this demanding semester. He acknowledged:
- Dr. Hart for designing the internal edTPA infrastructure and supporting a dual-responsibility student;
- Drs. Brewer and Collins for guiding the first cohort, including APS students and those completing the Special Education portfolio;
- Dr. Gary and Mrs. Credle for serving as portfolio readers;
- Dr. Sundbom, Ms. McKinney, and Allen Meszaros from IT for hands-on assistance during the submission process鈥攖wice;
- Mrs. Lamm for her stewardship of edTPA data and communications.
鈥淭his semester stretched all of us,鈥 Spragley noted. 鈥淏ut our shared commitment to excellence carried us through. As we celebrate this accomplishment, we also look ahead to next semester with optimism and a continued dedication to preparing great teachers.鈥
NC Wesleyan University congratulates its students, faculty, and staff on this exceptional achievement鈥攁 powerful testament to the University鈥檚 growing reputation for academic rigor, professional preparation, and student success.
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.
Why Wesleyan Still Matters
In a world that is changing faster than ever, one thing remains constant: the importance of education that is personal, purposeful, and practical. For nearly seven decades, 麻豆原创 (NCWU) has stood as a cornerstone of opportunity in our community, offering students of all backgrounds a chance to learn, grow, and build brighter futures right here at home.
As Wesleyan celebrates its 69th year, we are reminded that being a university isn鈥檛 just about classrooms and degrees, it鈥檚 about people. It is about helping each student find their place, their passion, and their purpose. At NCWU, we pride ourselves on offering a personalized, holistic experience that meets students where they are, whether that means starting with a short-term certificate, pursuing a professional enhancement program, or committing to a four-year degree. Every student鈥檚 journey looks different, and we believe that is something to celebrate.
We are also proud to be leaving a legacy of lifelong learning. From first-generation students to adult learners returning to finish their degrees, Wesleyan continues to be the hometown hub for education, one that grows and evolves with the needs of our community.
Growth and Adaptation
And wow do we continue to grow! With the launch of programs like our Bachelor of Science in Nursing and the School of Health Sciences, Wesleyan is answering the call to prepare the next generation of healthcare professionals. Our commitment to excellence is being recognized. Our recent U.S. News and World Report rankings are the highest they have been in a decade, and initiatives like the Bishop Mentoring Alliance are helping students connect their education to real-world guidance and mentorship.
As times evolve, so do we. Wesleyan is committed to progressing with the ever-changing world, equipping students with the knowledge and tools they need to succeed in today鈥檚 workforce. From integrating artificial intelligence (AI) and digital literacy into our curriculum to offering real-world learning experiences through internships and innovation-driven programs, we are preparing our graduates to thrive in a technology-focused and globally connected society.
Accesible and Affordable
What makes Wesleyan truly special, though, is our promise to make education accessible and affordable. We believe quality learning should never be out of reach, and through scholarships, flexible learning options, and dedicated support systems, we are making that belief a reality every day.
So why does Wesleyan still matter? Because we are more than a university, we are your local pathway to success, your partner in growth, and your neighbor in lifetime learning. Whether you are earning your first degree, changing careers, or simply exploring a passion, Wesleyan is here for you, rooted in tradition, ready for the future, and committed to helping you reach your goals.
NCWU Students Receive $40,000 in Scholarships
麻豆原创 (NCWU) proudly hosted a Scholarship Appreciation Luncheon, bringing togetherleadership, organizers, and the Wesleyan students whose lives have been directly impacted by their generosity. This year, $40,000 in scholarships was awarded to NCWU students through proceeds from Tackle the Tar 鈥 marking another year of transformative community investment in local education.
Fourteen students were recognized as scholarship recipients: Caleb Allen, Emory Bunn, Aliyah Cooper, Victoria Dickens, Jaycie Hadnott, Aafrah Hasan, Shawanna Hyman, Natalie Messer, Tarnisha Ricks, Shala Wade, Sharon Whitaker, Danitha Williams, Aidan Willis, and Chemar Zeigler.
The luncheon opened with a welcome from Ashton Bunn 鈥26, followed by a blessing from Mark Hinson, Vice President of Advancement. Students and staff then shared reflections on the impact of Tackle the Tar, underscoring how financial support has eased the burden of higher education and strengthened their commitment to achieving personal and professional goals.
Robbie Davis, and longtime champion of Tackle the Tar, delivered heartfelt remarks about the importance of keeping talent in the region.
鈥淲e need our young people to stay in Nash County, further their education, and give back to the community,鈥 Davis shared. 鈥淔ind the things you enjoy doing. Rotary develops leaders 鈥 consider joining us. Our club is very proud of each of you and what you are accomplishing.鈥
In closing, NCWU President Dr. Evan D. Duff expressed gratitude for the partnership and the opportunities it creates.
鈥淚 am grateful that both traditional and adult students can benefit from these scholarships,鈥 Duff said. 鈥淥ur recipients are already making meaningful contributions, and I know they will continue to do so. The Rotary鈥檚 support is helping shape the next generation of leaders.鈥
Through and the unwavering support of the Rocky Mount Rotary Club, students at 麻豆原创 continue to gain access to life-changing educational opportunities 鈥 strengthening both their futures and the future of the region.
NCWU Announces the Establishment of the James and Elizabeth Gray Endowed Scholarship
麻豆原创 (NCWU) is proud to announce the creation of the James (Jim) and Elizabeth (Beth) Gray Endowed Scholarship, honoring the life and contributions of NCWU鈥檚 former President Jim Gray and his wife, Beth. This permanently restricted endowment will provide lasting support for NCWU students and will carry forward the Gray family鈥檚 commitment to education.
The scholarship was formally announced during the NCWU football game on Saturday,September 20, where Jim and Beth Gray and their family joined President Dr. Evan D. Duff on the field for a special check-signing ceremony. The moment celebrated not only the Grays鈥 generosity, but also their ongoing commitment to the Wesleyan community.
When awarded, the scholarship will be communicated to students as the Elizabeth Gray Education Scholarship, recognizing Beth Gray鈥檚 dedication to preschool education and her lasting impact on NCWU.
鈥淭his scholarship is a meaningful way to celebrate the Gray family鈥檚 legacy and their devotion to advancing education,鈥 said Dr. Evan D. Duff, President of NCWU. 鈥淭heir generosity will directly impact generations of students, helping them pursue their dreams with the same values of excellence and service that the Grays embodied.鈥
The endowment, funded by Jim and Beth Gray, will be invested in accordance with the University鈥檚 endowment guidelines to ensure it is awarded in perpetuity. The scholarship will be distributed annually with preference given to:
- Students majoring in Preschool Education, followed by Education majors.
- Students who demonstrate strong academic achievement and good personal character.
- Recommendations from the University鈥檚 Education Department.
The scholarship may be awarded to both freshmen and upper-classmen and can be renewed.
By establishing this fund, Jim and Beth Gray have created a legacy that will continue to support students and the mission of 麻豆原创 for generations to come.
