A 2021 graduate of NCWU’s Music Production program, Plyler now serves full-time as the Worship Arts Minister at The Church at Sandhurst in Florence, South Carolina, where he also leads the church’s songwriting and music production team. His latest project reflects both his creative growth as a musician and his desire to inspire worship through imaginative storytelling.

“I’ve always been fascinated with science fiction, especially anything involving space travel,” Plyler shared. “Some of my favorite movies include Interstellar, Guardians of the Galaxy, and of course, Star Wars. I started wondering whether I could combine my love of sci-fi with my passion for writing worship music.”

That idea became the foundation for Psalms of the Spheres, an album inspired by biblical passages that celebrate God’s creation of the universe, including Psalm 8, Isaiah 40, and Psalm 147. The result is a collection of worship songs that explores the majesty of creation while pointing listeners toward the Creator.

Musically, the album ventures into new territory for Plyler. Featuring orchestral crescendos, ambient soundscapes, experimental synthesizers, and even an audio recording from the Apollo 8 moon mission woven into the opening track, the project embraces a cinematic sound unlike anything he has previously produced.

“Honestly, this is probably my favorite musical project I’ve ever produced,” he said. “The theme of science fiction inspired me to pursue musical avenues I haven’t explored before, and that has been an incredibly rewarding process.”

Among the album’s standout tracks is “IMAGE OF GOD,” a song inspired by the belief that every person possesses inherent dignity and worth.

“It breaks my heart when I see people who claim to love Jesus and yet mistreat those who are different than they are,” Plyler explained. “No matter what someone believes, what they look like, or where they come from, every human being is made in the image of God. The God who created the stars and galaxies is also the God who said each of us is worth dying for.”

The album concludes with “SUPERNATURAL,” a deeply personal reflection on worship as a source of healing and hope.

“I often say that writing worship songs is my therapy,” Plyler said. “When life becomes overwhelming, I sit down with an instrument and write. It’s how I process my thoughts and emotions before God. ‘SUPERNATURAL’ is really a love letter to that process finding peace, freedom, and refuge in the melodies that spill out.”

Plyler credits his time at 麻豆原创 with helping develop both the technical skills and creative confidence that continue to shape his career in music ministry.

As an alumnus of NCWU’s Music Production program, his success reflects the University’s commitment to preparing students to excel in creative industries while pursuing meaningful careers that make an impact in their communities.

Psalms of the Spheres will be released on July 17 and will be available on major streaming platforms.

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This new endowed scholarship reflects what NC Wesleyan is built upon: relationships, tradition, and the deep bonds that form within the Bishop community and last long after graduation.

The scholarship will support junior or senior students of any major, with preference given to students employed in the , who demonstrate academic achievement or financial need, and who exhibit strong personal character. Students may be domestic or international. Once the endowment reaches the University鈥檚 required minimum funding level, the scholarship will be awarded annually and is renewable in accordance with University guidelines.

鈥淭his scholarship is about more than financial support,鈥� said West. 鈥淚t鈥檚 about honoring people who made our lives better and remembering the moments that made Wesleyan feel like home.鈥�

A Homecoming Tradition 鈥淟ike No Other鈥�

The scholarship鈥檚 origin is rooted in a cherished NC Wesleyan Homecoming tradition shared by West and his close friends beginning in the early 1990s. Each year, West reunited with Marty Sarra and Brian Richardson for a weekend filled with Homecoming activities, camaraderie, and the University鈥檚 alumni golf tournament. A few years later, Phillip Boone ’70 joined the group, completing the foursome that would continue their tradition for nearly three decades.

One of their most meaningful stops each year wasn鈥檛 on the golf course 鈥� it was inside the .

On Saturday mornings during Homecoming, the friends made it a point to visit the bookstore, pick up new Wesleyan gear, and spend time catching up with 鈥淢iss Rachel.鈥� For them, it became one of the most special parts of the weekend.

鈥淥ur visits with Rachel were always memorable,鈥� West shared. 鈥淲e looked forward to seeing Rachel every year, and she looked forward to seeing us too, always welcoming us with open arms, and a big smile on her face.鈥�

Honoring Marty鈥檚 Commitment and Character

Marty Sarra鈥檚 dedication to this annual tradition was unmatched. In later years, he famously made the long drive from Canada each year to return to Rocky Mount and play in what many know today as the Wesleyan Cup Golf Tournament, simply because the weekend鈥攁nd the friendships tied to it鈥攎eant that much to him.

West said Marty鈥檚 presence brought something special to everyone around him.

鈥淢arty was a dear friend for life,鈥� West said. 鈥淎ll our lives were better because he came our way.鈥�

A Scholarship Rooted in Service and Memory

By centering the scholarship around students who work in the bookstore, West hopes to honor Rachel Dix鈥檚 spirit of kindness and connection, while also supporting today鈥檚 students who balance employment with academic responsibility.

The Martin A. Sarra Endowed Scholarship Fund in Honor of Rachel T. Dix will be invested as part of NCWU鈥檚 permanently restricted endowment and awarded in perpetuity. In accordance with University policy, the scholarship will be awarded once the fund meets the required minimum endowment level. Annual scholarship amounts will follow NC Wesleyan鈥檚 endowment payout guidelines.

A Call to Celebrate Bishop Friendships

NC Wesleyan hopes this scholarship will inspire alumni and friends to reflect on the people who shaped their college experience鈥攁nd to consider honoring those memories through giving.

This new scholarship serves as a reminder that the Wesleyan experience does not end at graduation. It continues through friendships, traditions, and the people who make the campus feel like home.

Those interested in contributing to the scholarship fund, or establishing an endowed scholarship of their own, are encouraged to contact the NC Wesleyan Office of Advancement.

To learn more about giving opportunities at NCWU, visit ncwu.edu/give.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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The gift represents the proceeds from 鈥淭he Big Chill,鈥� an annual alumni reunion rooted in the deep camaraderie of the former Alpha Delta Chi (螒螖围) Fraternity, Beta Chapter, founded at NCWU in 1965. What began decades ago as a small gathering of brothers has transformed into a spirited tradition celebrating fellowship, memories, and the powerful bonds formed on NC Wesleyan鈥檚 campus.

Known for his enthusiasm, humor, and dedication to bringing people together, Charlie organized the fraternity鈥檚 鈥淏ig Chill鈥� reunions for more than 40 years. What was intended to be the final 鈥淏ill Chill,鈥� hosted October 23鈥�26, evolved instead into an extended celebration of his life and his unparalleled commitment to keeping the Brotherhood connected.

The 螒螖围 alumni group, known for legendary stories that include rerouting Hwy 301 traffic through campus and frequenting local favorites like The Rainbow Club and Mack鈥檚, continues to channel its energy into giving back to today鈥檚 students. Their support of the Rogers Scholarship ensures that incoming freshmen from North Carolina, especially those pursuing theatre or with strong civic engagement, receive meaningful financial support as they begin their own Wesleyan journey.

This year鈥檚 contribution reflects both pride in the Brotherhood鈥檚 enduring legacy and a friendly, unspoken challenge: the alumni of Alpha Delta Chi hope their commitment to giving inspires others to match their dedication to the next generation of Bishops.

鈥淚n my lifetime, I have watched a ton of movies and a ton of football, and after a while, you can鈥檛 hardly list any that stick out, but what I can tell you is the list of people that have made a huge impact in my life,鈥� said Thompson. 鈥淥ne of the greatest hard lessons I have learned is to understand what is premeditated and understand what is and what isn鈥檛.鈥�

NC Wesleyan University extends heartfelt appreciation to the Alpha Delta Chi alumni for their ongoing generosity, loyalty, and example of what it means to uplift the Bishop community.

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The project, produced under 301 North Records, features an impressive lineup of former members of NCWU鈥檚 performance ensemble Spectrum, including:

• Joshua Strausser 鈥�20
• Will Plyler 鈥�21
• Justin Long 鈥�21
• Madison Barbour 鈥�21
• Jackson Nethercutt 鈥�23
• Colby Whaley 鈥�23

The single was officially released on Friday, November 28th, and is now streaming on all major digital platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube Music.

Tony Sawyer, Assistant Professor of Music Production and Director of 301 North Records, shared his excitement about the project: 鈥淚t was wonderful to work in collaboration with our alumni on this musical project. It is my hope that we can have more such alumni collaborations in the near future.鈥�

NCWU continues to celebrate the success of its graduates and the growth of its innovative Music Production program. This release showcases not only the skill and creativity fostered at Wesleyan, but also the lasting connections formed through its close-knit artistic community.

For more information about the Music Production program or 301 North Records, visit here.

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麻豆原创 (NCWU) is proud to announce that alumnus Will Plyler 鈥�21 has released his latest album, 鈥淲ild and Free,鈥� on November 7 through NCWU鈥檚 own 301 North Records label.

鈥淲ild and Free鈥� marks Plyler鈥檚 third album produced in partnership with 301 North Records, continuing his growth and impact as a contemporary Christian artist. A graduate of NCWU鈥檚 B.A. in Music Production program, Plyler attributes much of his creative development to the hands-on training and mentorship he received at Wesleyan.

Plyler currently serves as the Worship and Music Director at Church at Sandhurst in Florence, South Carolina, where he lives with his wife, Kaitlyn, also an NCWU alumna, and their son, Toby.

Listeners can enjoy 鈥淲ild and Free鈥� on , including Spotify, YouTube Music, Apple Music, and iTunes.

NCWU congratulates Will on this exciting new release and celebrates the continued achievements of its alumni in the music and production industries.

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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 >

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At 麻豆原创 (NCWU), employees aren鈥檛 just shaping student success鈥攖hey鈥檙e living it. Through the University鈥檚 generous tuition discount program, eligible employees, their spouses, and their dependent children can pursue undergraduate degrees tuition-free. This 100% tuition discount opens doors for families to grow academically together, while also inspiring a culture of lifelong learning across campus. For those looking to advance even further, discounts are also available for graduate coursework, making it easier than ever for staff and faculty to sharpen their skills, earn advanced credentials, or pivot into new fields. At NC Wesleyan, education is not just a benefit鈥攊t鈥檚 a shared journey.

We interviewed just a few who have taken advantage of this benefit and the results are telling.

Meet Wayne Sears, Director of Campus Safety. Mr. Sears has worked at Wesleyan for nine years and in May 2023 received a Master of Science in Criminal Justice, due to his desire of “wanting the option to teach in the field of Criminal Justice and wanting to understand what the educational environment is like for our NCWU student family”.

What advice do you have for people considering Wesleyan graduate school while working?

Don’t put off post-graduate work. A Master鈥檚 Degree now separates educational accomplishment and knowledge in the workforce. Wesleyan’s Criminal Justice Program is a structured progressive program from beginning to end.

How would you describe your relationships with your professors?

Great! I could text, email, or call them often on their cell phones. Which I did, and they always responded. I am friends with several of them to this day.

Was there a moment you felt especially proud of your accomplishment?

Having been in the Criminal Justice field since I was twenty years old gave me a complex that I had to do exceptionally well. That was a personal challenge to me. I was awarded the Outstanding MSCJ Student award backed with a perfect 4.0 GPA and that was extremely satisfying!

Describe your graduate school journey in 3 words.

Well. Worth It.

Teikisha Anderson, Controller and employee of over eleven years, is currently obtaining a Master of Strategic Leadership Degree and plans to graduate in May 2025. Her motivation was enhanced once receiving a promotion into a leadership position on campus and feels that this degree will equip her with the essential skills necessary to become an innovative and effective leader.

What advice do you have for people considering Wesleyan graduate school while working?

Do it! The Graduate Programs are designed and structured to meet the needs of the average working adult. With effective time management and dedication, they can successfully balance home, work, and academic responsibilities. While some temporary sacrifices may be necessary, the overall achievements and benefits will be worth it.

How would you describe your relationships with your professors?

Working at NC Wesleyan has allowed me to connect with some of my professors on a professional level. However, as a staff member, I do not receive any preferential treatment regarding my classes or expectations. While I am familiar with some professors, many of them are adjuncts whom I have never met personally. Regardless, my experiences with my professors have been overwhelmingly positive. They communicate effectively and respond to my questions and concerns. Even in taking all online classes, the smaller class sizes allow professors to address any issues, confusion, or concerns promptly, which I can truly appreciate.

Was there a moment you felt especially proud of your accomplishment?

My proudest moment will be walking across that stage wearing that hooded regalia but that has yet to come; however, for now, I am proud of myself for pushing forward every day and maintaining a 4.0 GPA. As a self-proclaimed perfectionist, I am slightly obsessed with and committed to doing my absolute best in all that I do. I am committed to this academic journey and that in itself is my proudest accomplishment.

Describe your graduate school journey in 3 words.

God’s Got Me!

Entering his sixth year at Wesleyan, Bayden Collins is Wesleyan’s Sports Information Director. He received his Master of Business Administration Degree in December 2024. Collins was self-motivated to obtain a Master鈥檚 Degree from a very early age and feels that it will greatly help him in his career of administration in collegiate athletics.

What advice do you have for people considering Wesleyan graduate school while working?

I would highly recommend the Graduate Program while working at NCWU because there is no better place that you can obtain a degree in one year online while working at the same time. I am extremely blessed to say I earned my MBA at the age of 22 and Wesleyan afforded me that opportunity.

How would you describe your relationships with your professors?

While I was online, I still felt a very close relationship with my professors. Whenever I needed something, I could call or email them at any time if I ever needed anything. Also, each professor would do a beginning-of-the-week video/lecture where you felt like you were in the classroom which led to an awesome learning experience!

Was there a moment you felt especially proud of your accomplishment?

I was especially proud at the hooding ceremony when I saw Coach Denton, Mr. Mike Armbruster, and Coach Thompson outside the Dunn Center waiting to congratulate me. It meant a lot, and I am glad to work with such great people!

Describe your graduate school journey in 3 words.

Rewarding, Challenging, Enlightening

DeOnna Wilson worked at Wesleyan in the Business Office for four years before she accepted her current role as an Accounts Payable Specialist. She completed her Master of Business Administration in 2023 with the support of her family and “work family”. Wilson learned that it was essential to never be afraid of asking questions, as “seeking help can lead to growth and understanding”.

What advice do you have for people considering Wesleyan graduate school while working?

For those pursuing Graduate School while working, mastering time management and establishing a realistic schedule is essential. Prioritize your tasks and confidently seek clarification from professors whenever necessary鈥攖hey are there to support you. Don鈥檛 forget to include breaks in your schedule; maintaining a healthy balance between work and study is crucial for your success.

How would you describe your relationships with your professors?

I had varied relationships with my professors during my studies. With the professors I connected with, I fI had varied relationships with my professors during my studies. I found myself emailing some professors almost every other day to clarify assignments or projects. They were incredibly supportive and always willing to go the extra mile to assist me. Whenever they were on campus, they would take the time to meet with me, walking me through my mistakes and helping me understand the material better. I appreciated their pride in my efforts to learn, and their quick responses to my emails made it even easier to seek help. It truly made a difference in my learning experience.

Was there a moment you felt especially proud of your accomplishment?

The moment I felt a wave of pride for my accomplishment was when I walked across that stage to receive my diploma. Seeing all my family and work family there, beaming with smiles as I crossed that stage, made the achievement even more special. I completed my Master鈥檚 Degree despite the doubts I faced at the beginning and the many nights filled with tears questioning whether I could pull it off. In the end, it was all worth it, as I not only passed all my classes but also got to celebrate this significant milestone with my loved ones.

Describe your graduate school journey in 3 words.

Determined. Nervous. Time Management.

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