麻豆原创 alumnus Will Plyler (’21) is taking listeners on a journey where faith and science fiction collide with the release of his newest album, Psalms of the Spheres, available July 17.
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.
NCWU Expands Global Reach Through New Philippines Partnership
麻豆原创 (NCWU) has strengthened its commitment to global education through a newly established international partnership with in the Philippines. The two institutions recently formalized their collaboration by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that will foster academic cooperation, research, cultural exchange, and international learning opportunities.
The agreement establishes a framework for collaboration in academics, research, skills development, and other initiatives designed to enhance the educational experience for students, faculty, and researchers at both universities. Through the partnership, NCWU and BSU will explore opportunities for faculty, researcher, and student exchanges, as well as the sharing of academic resources through both in-person and virtual formats.
NCWU President Dr. Evan Duff, a signatory to the agreement, was represented at the signing ceremony by Dr. Tim Dornemann, Associate Professor of Exercise Science. During the visit, Dr. Dornemann met with BSU President Dr. Kenneth Alip Laruan to discuss future initiatives that extend beyond the provisions of the MOU, reinforcing both institutions’ shared vision for meaningful international collaboration.
“Our partnership with Benguet State University represents an exciting opportunity to expand the global experiences available to our students and faculty,” said Dr. Duff. “By working together across cultures and disciplines, we can create meaningful educational opportunities, strengthen research collaborations, and prepare our students to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.”
The discussions provided university leaders with the opportunity to learn more about each institution’s academic programs, strategic priorities, and ongoing developments. The exchange highlighted a mutual commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and international engagement while identifying areas where collaboration can create lasting benefits for both universities.
Through this partnership, NCWU and BSU will combine their expertise and resources to develop collaborative programs that enrich teaching, research, and student learning. The agreement is expected to support joint research projects, academic exchanges, professional development opportunities, and initiatives that promote intercultural understanding and global citizenship.
As 麻豆原创 continues to expand its international partnerships, the collaboration with Benguet State University reflects the University’s dedication to providing students with transformative educational experiences that extend beyond the classroom and across the globe.
NCWU Announces New Board Members and Reappointment
麻豆原创 (NCWU) is pleased to announce the appointment of five new members to its Board of Trustees, along with the reappointment of a current member, following a vote held during the Board meeting on Friday, May 29, 2026.
The newly elected board members include:
- Mr. Chuck Braswell
- Dr. LaWanda V. Peace (returning)
- Mr. Danijel Velicki
- Mrs. Sheila Wallace
- Dr. Quinton White, 鈥68
Mr. Paul Bauer 鈥86, Board of Trustees Chair, has been reappointed to continue his service on the Board.
All appointments and the reappointment will take effect for a four-year term from June 1, 2026, through May 31, 2030.
鈥淲e are excited to welcome this exceptional group of leaders to our Board of Trustees,鈥 said NCWU President, Dr. Evan D. Duff. 鈥淓ach of these individuals brings a wealth of experience, perspective, and dedication that will help advance our mission and serve our community with excellence.鈥
麻豆原创 the New Board Members
Chuck Braswell
Chuck Braswell is the president and owner of continuing his family鈥檚 third-generation legacy in the business. Under his leadership, the company has expanded into commercial radiator and HVAC repair for trucks and buses. A dedicated community supporter, Braswell is involved with Dortches Baptist Church, the Nash Rocky Mount Rotary, and the CiTi High School Board, and he has also served as a state championship softball coach.
Dr. LaWanda V. Peace
Dr. LaWanda V. Peace is an accomplished higher education leader and retired Associate Dean at , where she served from 1999 to 2016. She holds a Ph.D. in Organizational Communication and has extensive experience in student services, enrollment management, STEM program development, and outreach initiatives. Throughout her career, she has led multimillion-dollar programs and worked to expand opportunities for underrepresented students in science and engineering fields. She has served two terms from June 1, 2017, to May 31, 2025.
Danijel Velicki
Danijel Velicki is an entrepreneur and financial educator and the founder of Opus Wealth Strategies and , a financial education platform designed to help individuals build long-term financial stability. Originally from Croatia, he immigrated to the United States and built a successful career in business while pursuing continued studies in innovation and strategy at Oxford University. Mr. Velicki was our 2025 Commencement Speaker.
Sheila Wallace
Sheila Wallace serves as Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources & Federal Programs for and brings nearly 30 years of experience in public education. Her career spans roles from teacher to executive leadership, and she is deeply committed to student achievement, equity, and community service.
Dr. Quinton White, Jr. 鈥68
Dr. Quinton White is a distinguished marine scientist, educator, and administrator. A graduate of North Carolina Wesleyan College, he went on to serve as Professor and Executive Director of the Marine Science Research Institute at His career includes decades of leadership in environmental research, higher education administration, and community engagement.
Reappointed Board Member
Paul Bauer, 鈥86
Mr. Bauer continues his service on the Board through his reappointment, providing ongoing leadership and continuity to support the organization鈥檚 mission.
As fiduciary stewards of the institution, members of the Board of Trustees provide strategic oversight, support the University’s mission, and help ensure NCWU remains positioned to serve students and the region for generations to come.
The addition of these distinguished leaders reflects NCWU’s ongoing commitment to strong governance, community engagement, and institutional excellence as the University continues to grow and evolve.
NC Wesleyan Track Star Kamiyah Wooten Earns No. 1 Seed Heading into NCAA Division III 200m Finals
麻豆原创 is celebrating another historic milestone from standout student-athlete who has earned the No. 1 seed in the 200-meter dash heading into the NCAA Division III National Championship finals on Saturday, May 23, in Wisconsin.
Wooten鈥檚 journey to the top has been fueled by determination, discipline, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
鈥淚f it was easy, everyone would be doing it,鈥 said Wooten.
What began as a freshman-year goal to become First Team All-Conference quickly evolved into a decorated collegiate career filled with championships and national recognition. After conversations with her coaches, Wooten set her sights even higher: becoming an NCAA Division III All-American.
Mission accomplished.
搁别蝉耻尘茅
Now a five-time All-American, Wooten has built one of the most accomplished r茅sum茅s in program history, earning:
- Six NCAA Division III First Team All-American honors
- Six NCAA Division III Second Team All-American honors
- NCAA Division III Athlete of the Week honors
- Two NCAA USTFCCCA South Region Athlete of the Year awards
- Four USA South Conference Female Athlete of the Year awards
- Two 麻豆原创 Female Athlete of the Year honors
Currently ranked No. 1 nationally in Division III in the 200m, Wooten credits her success to a combination of hard work, mental strength, and the support system around her.
Her Inspiration
鈥淢y inspiration came from a mix of personal goals and the people around me who believed in my potential,鈥 Wooten shared. 鈥淚鈥檝e always wanted to push past my limits and prove to myself what I鈥檓 capable of. Seeing other elite athletes perform at a high level motivated me to elevate my own performance.鈥
She emphasized that reaching the top required consistency, trust in her coaches, and attention to every detail of her performance.
鈥淕etting to number one didn鈥檛 happen overnight,鈥 she said. 鈥淚t took consistent training, staying disciplined, and focusing on the small details like my start, transition, and finish. I also had to stay mentally strong and confident, especially during tough races and practices.鈥
Competing at an elite level in track and field requires more than talent alone, according to Wooten.
鈥淐ompeting at a high level takes a combination of physical ability, mental toughness, and discipline,鈥 she said. 鈥淵ou have to be committed every day, not just at meets, but in practice, recovery, nutrition, and even rest.鈥
Her latest All-American honor came after another demanding season that tested both her physical and mental endurance.
鈥淎 major role in becoming All-American this season was consistency and staying locked in on my goals,鈥 Wooten said. 鈥淚t wasn鈥檛 easy. There were challenges, tough workouts, and moments where I had to push through fatigue and doubt. But staying disciplined and believing in the process helped me reach that goal.鈥
Wooten was also recently named NCAA USTFCCCA South Region Athlete of the Year for the second time in her career, an honor she says carries deep meaning.
鈥淚t means a lot to me mentally, physically, and emotionally,鈥 she said. 鈥淚t鈥檚 a reminder that all the hard work I鈥檝e put in is paying off. Being recognized as the best in the region builds my confidence and motivates me even more.鈥
As she prepares to compete on the national stage once again, the entire Wesleyan community will be cheering her on as she races for another championship title.
NC Wesleyan Earns Clean Fifth-Year Accreditation Review from SACSCOC
What is SACSCOC?
麻豆原创 (NCWU) is proud to announce it has successfully completed its Fifth-Year Interim Committee Review, receiving a completely clean audit, full compliance across all reviewed standards with no follow-up reports, no referrals, and no additional monitoring required. It will formally go to the SACSCOC Board of Trustees in June for approval.
The is a rigorous evaluation that takes place midway through an institution鈥檚 10-year accreditation cycle. The review assesses continued compliance with key accreditation standards and evaluates the progress and effectiveness of the institution鈥檚 Quality Enhancement Plan (QEP), a long-term initiative designed to improve student learning and success.
During the review, SACSCOC evaluated NCWU鈥檚 compliance with 22 specific core requirements and standards, including areas such as faculty qualifications and adequacy, student achievement, academic program quality, student support services, distance education policies, transparency, and institutional effectiveness.
In addition, NCWU submitted its Quality Enhancement Plan Impact Report, which was reviewed and accepted by the SACSCOC committee. 鈥Dr. Daniel Elias (Associate Professor of Environmental Science/Program Coordinator, Environmental Science) provided extraordinary leadership in preparing NCWU’s Quality Enhancement Plan,鈥 said Dr. Joe Lane, Provost and Senior Vice President of Academic Affairs.
Contributions & Recognitions
鈥淭his is an extraordinary milestone for 麻豆原创,鈥 said Dr. Evan D. Duff, President of NCWU. 鈥淪uccessfully completing the SACSCOC Fifth-Year Interim Review with a completely clean audit is a tremendous accomplishment and a powerful affirmation of the quality, integrity, and dedication that defines Wesleyan. Our faculty and staff don鈥檛 simply prepare for accreditation, they live our standards every day, ensuring our students receive an exceptional educational experience.鈥
A clean Fifth-Year Interim Review is an achievement reached by only a small percentage of institutions, making the outcome a significant validation of NCWU鈥檚 commitment to excellence and continuous improvement.
The successful review reflects the work of the University鈥檚 Institutional Effectiveness team, along with strong collaboration across academic and administrative departments.
Dr. Duff specifically recognized the leadership of Dr. Jarrod Kelly, Associate Provost for Institutional Effectiveness and Accreditation, and Scott Marsigli, Institutional Effectiveness Analyst and Administrative Assessment Coordinator, who played key roles in coordinating the review process and preparing the comprehensive report submitted to SACSCOC. The Provost鈥檚 Office was also acknowledged for its coordination and oversight to ensure academic programs and student outcomes were thoroughly documented and aligned with accreditation expectations.
In reflection, Dr. Jarrod Kelly shares, 鈥淗aving the SACSCOC Review Committee raise zero questions or concerns about our report speaks to the dedication and commitment of faculty and staff, particularly the team who spent over a year working on the report. To my knowledge, NCWU has never had a completely clean review with no committee findings. I believe that this reflects positively on our approach since our last reaffirmation to better educate and inform the campus community about the goals and importance of accreditation processes for maintaining quality and building a culture of continuous improvement.”
鈥淭his accomplishment is a reflection of the collective excellence of our entire campus community,鈥 Dr. Duff added. 鈥淚t reinforces that 麻豆原创 is not only meeting expectations, but we are exceeding them. We are on strong footing as we continue toward our next full reaffirmation, and I could not be prouder of the team that makes this institution so special.鈥
NC Wesleyan remains committed to providing a high-quality educational experience that supports student success, strengthens academic programs, and serves the broader community with integrity and purpose.
Rock the Mount at NC Wesleyan University
麻豆原创 (NCWU) is excited to announce the return of its annual Rock the Mount celebration, an honored tradition that marks the official start of the academic year and warmly welcomes incoming students to campus and the local community. Sponsored this year by First Carolina Bank, the event will take place from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Monday, August 17 – the day before fall classes begin.
Held each fall, Rock the Mount is a vibrant, high-energy event featuring local businesses, nonprofits, churches, and campus partners who line the heart of campus with booths, giveaways, and smiles. It鈥檚 a chance to showcase community offerings while connecting with students who are new to the area and eager to get involved.
Maxie T. Coker, Jr, Senior Commercial Banking Officer, and Elizabeth Overton, Team Support Specialist for First Carolina Bank, share, 鈥淔irst Carolina Bank greatly values our relationship with 麻豆原创 and looks forward to continuing this partnership for many years to come. Rock the Mount is a fantastic event that connects the local community with the university鈥檚 students and creates a meaningful shared experience for everyone involved. We鈥檙e excited to make 2026 the best year yet!鈥
What to Expect:
The day begins with a signature Wesleyan tradition: the Bishop Tunnel. Hundreds of new students take part in this spirited rite of passage as they walk through a tunnel of applause, cheers, and encouragement from returning students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community members. At the end of the tunnel, they鈥檙e greeted personally by President Dr. Evan D. Duff and his wife, Marcy, then proceed toward a vibrant festival of tents, music, and engagement opportunities.
Vendor spaces are in high demand, with limited spots available. If you wish to have your spot secured for this event, contact Elliott now! Local restaurants, coffee shops, service providers, churches, and nonprofits are encouraged to participate. Whether you’re an automotive shop (freshmen can have cars on campus!), a local caf茅, or a church seeking new connections, this is a unique chance to reach a new audience of potential customers, volunteers, interns, or even future employees.
This year鈥檚 entertainment will include DJ 3two1, along with a variety of food trucks offering local flavor, including:
- Three Boys Catering (Alumni Owned)
- Minnie’s Food and Thingz
- Sweet P’s Galaxy Lemonade
- CPS Catering
- Shawarmalicious
- Fairy Tale Concessions
- Carolina Icee
- Taquria La Lupita
Vendor Information:
- NCWU will provide a 6-foot table.
- Vendors should bring a tablecloth.
- Tents (up to 10鈥檟10鈥) are optional but recommended for shade.
- Giveaways are not required but encouraged to boost engagement.
- Participation is free, but space is limited.
Registration Deadline: Friday, July 31. Early registration is encouraged.
Sign Up Here:
Join us in making a memorable first impression and welcoming the NCWU Class of 2030 in style! For more information, contact Elliott Smith at esmith@ncwu.edu.
A Legacy of Friendship: New NCWU Endowed Scholarship
麻豆原创 (NCWU) is proud to announce the establishment of the Martin A. Sarra Endowed Scholarship Fund in Honor of Rachel T. Dix, a permanently restricted endowment created by alumnus Daulton West, Jr. 鈥72 (listed in official paperwork as Henry D. West, Jr.). The scholarship honors the life and legacy of Martin 鈥淢arty鈥 Sarra 鈥68, while also recognizing the lasting impact of beloved campus figure Rachel T. Dix, longtime namesake of the University bookstore.
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.
NC Wesleyan Esports Levels Up with Brightspeed鈥檚 Support
麻豆原创鈥檚 esports program continues to grow and create new opportunities for students as expands its commitment to strengthening STEM education and esports initiatives across North Carolina through a major statewide investment.
Brightspeed recently announced a $580,000 investment in STEM and esports programs designed to enhance digital learning, support competitive gaming opportunities, and build stronger technology ecosystems throughout the region. The funding supports a wide range of initiatives, including tournament sponsorships, technology lab development, and direct support for school and university esports programs. NC Wesleyan received $15,000.
As part of this statewide effort, 麻豆原创 esports received funding support for scholarships, equipment upgrades, and travel opportunities, further strengthening the University鈥檚 competitive gaming presence and expanding student access to high-quality esports experiences.
鈥淓sports is about far more than gaming,鈥 said Chantoni Grant, Director of Esports at NCWU. 鈥淚t provides students with opportunities to develop leadership, teamwork, strategy, communication, and technical skills that align with today鈥檚 workforce. This investment helps ensure our students have the resources to compete and succeed at a higher level.鈥
Student Spotlight: Doors Open for NC Wesleyan Competitors
For students like Lamont Taylor, an NC Wesleyan esports competitor from Princeton, North Carolina, the program has provided opportunities far beyond the screen. Taylor said the program has opened doors both in competition and in career development.
鈥淭his program has changed what I thought was possible for me,鈥 Taylor said. 鈥淲e鈥檝e been able to compete at a higher level and represent our university on bigger stages. It鈥檚 not just about gaming. It鈥檚 about learning technology, teamwork and skills that will help us in our future careers.鈥
Taylor鈥檚 experience reflects the growing role esports plays in higher education, helping students gain hands-on experience in communication, collaboration, problem-solving, and technical skill development all while building confidence and representing their institution.
Esports Growth Meets Workforce Development
Brightspeed鈥檚 investment reflects a growing recognition of esports as an academic and career-building platform, particularly when paired with STEM education. Across the state, funding is supporting initiatives such as:
- Sponsorship of major esports competitions including the Coca-Cola All Stars Golden Ticket Contest, Formula STEM Esports Cup, and Players League Madden NFL Tournament
- Technology lab support for high schools across North Carolina
- Community-based tournament series and youth esports development opportunities
At 麻豆原创, this support strengthens the Bishop Gaming Association and provides students with expanded competitive and professional development opportunities.
Esports participation at NC Wesleyan offers students the chance to build skills in areas such as broadcasting, content creation, event production, analytics, digital marketing, and information technology 鈥 all while representing the University through competitive play.
Get Involved with NC Wesleyan Esports
麻豆原创 encourages students, alumni, and community partners to support the University鈥檚 growing esports efforts.
Those interested in learning more about the esports program, partnership opportunities, or student involvement can visit ncwu.edu or follow NC Wesleyan on social media for updates, team highlights, and upcoming competitions.
NC Wesleyan Music Production Program Releases First EP, 鈥淚ndie Rock鈥
麻豆原创 (NCWU) is proud to announce the release of the first-ever music Extended Play (EP) produced through its Music Production degree program. The four-song cover EP, titled 鈥淚ndie Rock,鈥 is now available on Spotify, iTunes, Apple Music, and other major streaming platforms.
Released on April 10, 2026, the Extended Play represents a major milestone for the growing Music Production program and showcases the hands-on learning experiences offered to students at NCWU. The project was a collaborative effort between two music production courses during the Fall 2025 semester, providing students with real-world experience in multiple stages of professional music creation.
Throughout the project, students applied key skills developed through the program, including music analysis, live performance preparation, studio recording techniques, mixing, and mastering, culminating in a polished final production distributed through the University鈥檚 official record label, .
Students involved in the project include:
- Noah Jacques 鈥 production
- Elly Luna 鈥 production, vocals
- Dakota Lynch 鈥 production, vocals, guitars
- Edgar Ortiz-Morales 鈥 production, bass
- Adrian Parson 鈥 production
- Lamont Taylor Jr. 鈥 production, vocals, keyboards
Also contributing to the project was Elic Gurganus, Technical Director of the Dunn Center at NCWU, who served as a guest vocalist on the EP. The project鈥檚 Executive Producer was Tony Sawyer, Assistant Professor of Music Production, who also performed all drums and percussion for the recordings.
The 鈥淚ndie Rock鈥 EP features covers of four well-known songs from prominent indie artists: Hozier (鈥淭oo Sweet鈥), Djo (鈥淓nd of Beginning鈥), Tame Impala (鈥淓lephant鈥), and Peter Bjorn and John (鈥淵oung Folks鈥).
With this release, NCWU continues expanding creative opportunities for students through experiential learning and professional-level production experiences. The EP stands as a strong example of the University鈥檚 commitment to preparing students for careers in the music and entertainment industries.
The EP is now available on all major streaming services.
NC Wesleyan Teacher Education Program Maintains 100% edTPA Pass Rate
麻豆原创 (NCWU) is proud to announce that its Teacher Education program has once again achieved a 100% pass rate on the , a nationally scored and required evaluation used by accredited teacher preparation programs across the country.
A total of 13 NCWU students have successfully submitted and passed the edTPA since the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction required that the item be used as the singular portfolio option for accredited Teacher Education programs beginning Fall 2025. Most recently, three additional students received passing scores, including one traditional student and two Adult and Professional Study (APS) students.
Quotes from NCWU Faculty & Staff
鈥淭his is a tremendous accomplishment for our students and our faculty,鈥 said Kelvin L. Spragley, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Education and Director of Teacher Education. 鈥淭he edTPA is a rigorous assessment that requires significant preparation, support, and dedication. To maintain a 100% pass rate reflects the strength of our program and the commitment of our instructors to student success.鈥
Spragley also recognized the work of the program鈥檚 faculty, specifically highlighting Dr. Hart and Dr. Collins for their leadership and support of students throughout the semester in EDU 415.
鈥淭he guidance and encouragement provided in EDU 415 played an essential role in helping our teacher candidates complete this important milestone as they finalize their North Carolina teaching licenses,鈥 Spragley said. 鈥淎nd it鈥檚 important to note teachers are licensed, not certified.鈥
Dr. Joseph H. Lane, Jr., Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs, praised the Teacher Education program for its continued success and commitment to preparing highly qualified educators.
鈥淢aintaining a 100% pass rate on a nationally scored assessment like the edTPA is a remarkable achievement,鈥 Lane said. 鈥淚t reflects the academic excellence of our Teacher Education program and the dedication of our faculty to ensuring that NC Wesleyan graduates are fully prepared to serve and lead in today鈥檚 classrooms. We are incredibly proud of our students and the faculty members who support them.鈥
The Student Experience
One of the students who recently passed the edTPA is Emily Mason, an Elementary Education major in the Fall 2026 graduating class. Mason said the process strengthened her ability to create meaningful lessons that support every learner.
鈥淭he edTPA experience taught me about the importance of planning your lessons and using knowledge of students to create the best possible lessons so that every student can learn,鈥 Mason said. 鈥淚t taught me to look at my students and figure out how to plan my lessons to fit and meet all my students鈥 needs.鈥
Mason added that completing the portfolio is an exciting step toward her future career in education.
鈥淐ompleting this licensure requirement makes me feel excited for what鈥檚 to come in my student teaching and beyond,鈥 she said. 鈥淚t also allows me to breathe a bit easier. I feel a lot more relaxed and prepared for what is to come.鈥
As she looks ahead, Mason said her goal is to create a classroom environment where students feel supported emotionally and academically.
鈥淚 want to make sure that every student who walks in my room feels heard and understood,鈥 she said. 鈥淚 want to make sure to meet my students where they are emotionally and academically.鈥
Mason also offered encouragement to future teacher candidates preparing for the edTPA.
鈥淭ake your time and manage your time,鈥 she said. 鈥淟ook at your handbooks and listen to the feedback provided by your professor. Most of all鈥攜ou鈥檝e got this!鈥
Why it matters…
Maintaining state and regional accreditation standards, while also preparing students to succeed on licensure assessments such as edTPA, requires extensive faculty effort and resources. Spragley emphasized that achieving these results within a small liberal arts institution makes the accomplishment even more significant.
鈥淭o maintain high pass rates on licensure tests and performance portfolios as a small program within a small liberal arts university is a juggernaut of a task,鈥 he said. 鈥淲hile we may not have the resources that many larger institutions possess, we continue to meet the challenge and achieve exceptional outcomes.鈥
NCWU鈥檚 Teacher Education program continues to prepare future educators through rigorous coursework, hands-on field experiences, and strong faculty mentorship ensuring graduates are equipped to lead and succeed in today鈥檚 classrooms.
