麻豆原创 will welcome competitors from across the region as it hosts a round of the Spi, a premier tournament in the sport of disc golf. The event will take place Friday through Sunday, March 20鈥22, 2026, with NC Wesleyan serving as one of the featured courses during the competition weekend.
The tournament is an A-Tier sanctioned event by the and is presented by with support from . The championship is expected to draw players from across the United States and the Mid-Atlantic region.
The NC Wesleyan round will take place Saturday morning at 10:00 a.m., when amateur division players compete on the university鈥檚 scenic course located along a two-mile loop on campus. The round will feature a shotgun start, meaning players will begin simultaneously from multiple holes throughout the course.
Overall, the tournament features both professional and amateur divisions competing across three days at multiple courses in the area, including and Professional competitors, currently totaling more than 50 registered players, will compete across three rounds over three days. The amateur field, which includes players from across North Carolina as well as Virginia, West Virginia, and Washington, D.C., will compete in multiple rounds throughout the weekend, including the Saturday morning competition at NC Wesleyan.
Notable competitors include professional players , , , and , among others.
The tournament is organized by tournament director of Spike Hyzer Disc Golf.
鈥淚 am looking forward to partnering with Chuck to present our course on the stage of one of his tournaments,鈥 said Marcus Rich of 麻豆原创. 鈥淭his is the first year we have had the opportunity to present NC Wesleyan鈥檚 course in one of his tournaments, and this goes much further than just a round of disc golf. With this tournament, it expands our reach as more players set foot on campus and witness all that 麻豆原创 has to offer. We have a great course on a beautiful campus, and sharing this gem with the local community and beyond is a true honor.鈥
Spectators and members of the community are welcome to attend and experience the action as players navigate the university鈥檚 course.
More information about the tournament, including registration and schedules, can be found .
Meet NCWU’s 2026 Commencement Speaker: Jessica Harrison ’10
麻豆原创 (NCWU) will proudly celebrate its 62nd Spring Commencement Ceremony on Saturday, May 2, 2026, honoring the academic achievements of more than 330 graduates as they complete their Wesleyan journeys and prepare for lives of leadership, service, and purpose.
The ceremony will bring together graduates, families, faculty, staff, alumni, and community members for one of the University鈥檚 most meaningful traditions. Commencement serves as both a celebration of student accomplishment and a reflection of NCWU鈥檚 commitment to personalized education, mentorship, and community engagement.
鈥淭his moment represents years of perseverance, growth, and hard work by our students,鈥 said Dr. Evan D. Duff, President of 麻豆原创. 鈥淐ommencement is not only a milestone for our graduates, but also a celebration for the families, faculty, and mentors who supported them along the way. We are incredibly proud of the Class of 2026 and excited to see the impact they will make in their communities and professions.鈥
Meet the Speaker
This year鈥檚 keynote address will be delivered by 鈥10, a dedicated public servant, civic leader, and proud NCWU alumna. Harrison currently serves as Mayor of the Town of Zebulon, North Carolina, making history as the first woman elected to the role. She was initially appointed to the Town鈥檚 Board of Commissioners in February 2022 and later elected by the community in November 2023 as commissioner before being elected mayor in November 2025.
As mayor, Harrison is recognized for her strategic leadership, commitment to inclusive governance, and advocacy for initiatives that strengthen families, promote economic development, and engage youth. Her leadership extends beyond local government through her service as Regional Director for the National Black Caucus of Local Elected Officials and Assistant Secretary for the North Carolina Black Elected Municipal Officials. In 2024, she was honored with the 40 Under Impact Award by the National League of Cities.
Harrison is also the Founder and CEO of , an organization focused on empowering women to recognize their potential, overcome stereotypes, and actively engage in their communities. Alongside her husband, she owns and operates The Harrison Institution, Inc., a nonprofit leadership development firm. Together, they also serve as Care Pastors at Life Worship Center in Raleigh.
A graduate of 麻豆原创, Harrison earned her bachelor鈥檚 degree in psychology before completing a Master of Education in Educational Leadership at Concordia University. She is a proud member of , and considers her greatest roles to be wife to Tory and mother to TJ, Tyler, and Jordyn. Guided by her faith and the scripture Matthew 7:12, Harrison approaches leadership with integrity, compassion, and commitment to building strong, resilient communities.
The 2026 Spring Commencement Ceremony promises to be a meaningful celebration of achievement, reflection, and new beginnings, honoring the Class of 2026 as they step forward to shape the future.
NC Wesleyan Champions Silver Status at NCICU Ethics Bowl
麻豆原创鈥檚 Ethics Bowl team earned second place out of 17 participating institutions at the , marking the strongest finish in the University’s history.
The competition was held at the North Carolina State Legislative Complex and brought together undergraduate teams from North Carolina鈥檚 independent colleges and universities to engage in thoughtful, moderated discussions on complex ethical issues.
鈥淲e are deeply proud of this team,鈥 said Dr. Joe Lane, Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs at 麻豆原创. 鈥淭hey demonstrated great devotion, teamwork, and understanding throughout the competition.鈥
NCWU advanced through the regular rounds with an undefeated 4鈥0 record, securing wins against Catawba College, Salem College, Barton College, and Mars Hill University. The team then earned a victory over Wingate University in the semifinal round before falling to Johnson C. Smith University in the final round to claim second place overall. The final decision was closely contested.
鈥淭his was the most fun team I鈥檝e ever been on,鈥 said Niana Gunter, senior and team member. 鈥淚 learned a lot about formulating an argument in conjunction with other people.鈥
Senior team member Shafiq Jair Nuijts reflected on the experience, adding, 鈥淕oing into this bowl, I was nervous considering the tremendous amount of work my teammates and I put into this. Seeing the results of our efforts pay off in this manner was an unforgettable experience.鈥
This year鈥檚 finish represents a milestone for NCWU, surpassing the team鈥檚 previous best performance of third place at the 2020 Ethics Bowl.
The award was presented by Dr. A. Hope Williams, President of the North Carolina Independent Colleges and Universities (NCICU).
Competition Highlights
Throughout the day, NCWU students addressed a range of contemporary ethical topics, including corporate responsibility, international relations in global sporting events, the ethics of weapons of mass destruction, public education reform, civil-military leadership, and funding public schools during financial crises.
Team Members
Pictured (left to right; students in bold):
- Deon Bailey, Sophomore
- Dr. Jarrod Kelly
- Jolyna Sundbom, Junior
- Dr. Shane Thompson
- Dr. A. Hope Williams, President, NCICU
- Shafiq Nuijts, Senior
- Niana Gunter, Senior
- Dr. Jason Buel
- Maxima Iglesias, Senior
Not pictured: Dunya Salem, Senior, who is a member of the team but was unable to attend the competition.
Participating Institutions
The included teams from:
Barton College, Campbell University, Catawba College, Gardner-Webb University, High Point University, Johnson C. Smith University, Livingstone College, Mars Hill University, Methodist University, Montreat College, Pfeiffer University, Queens University, Salem College, University of Mount Olive, William Peace University, Wingate University, and 麻豆原创.
The promotes civil discourse, ethical reasoning, and collaborative problem-solving鈥攕kills central to 麻豆原创鈥檚 commitment to academic excellence and student development.
Elevating Teacher Preparation: NC Wesleyan鈥檚 Education Program Earns National Distinction
The impact of a great teacher lasts a lifetime, and at 麻豆原创 (NCWU), aspiring educators are gaining the experience, knowledge, and values to make that impact from day one. Colleges of Distinction has honored NCWU with the 2025-2026 award, recognizing its proven ability to graduate confident, compassionate, and classroom-ready teachers.
鈥淚n a field where the stakes are high and the landscape constantly evolving, NCWU has built a program that blends strong academic foundations with real-world practice,鈥 said Tyson Schritter, Chief Operating Officer at Colleges of Distinction. 鈥淭hey鈥檙e equipping future educators with the tools and heart to lead diverse classrooms with care.鈥
This national recognition is based on the institution鈥檚 demonstrated excellence in key areas, including:
- Stability 鈥 The School of Education has a longstanding presence, operating for at least 10 years with consistent enrollment and an established number of degrees awarded annually.
- Accreditation 鈥 The NCWU Education Programs holds regional accreditation from AAQEP, or the Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation. Additionally, the NCWU Teacher Education Program is accredited by the state of North Carolina
- Multidisciplinarity 鈥 The Education Program offers students the opportunity to specialize in three or more distinct disciplines (Specifically, students can earn a license to teach in one of the following content areas: Elementary Education, K-6; Middle Grades, 6-9 (Math, Science, Social Studies, or English/Language Arts), Secondary, 9-12 (Math, Biology Social Studies, English), and Special Education, K-12).
- Practical Experience 鈥 Starting from the first year, students in the Education Program engage in real-world teaching experiences, including urban and rural settings, diverse socioeconomic backgrounds, and different school sizes.
- Non-Education Specialization 鈥 The Education Program requires students to graduate with a minor, emphasis, specialization, or related credential in a subject they intend to teach professionally.
- Dedicated Advising and Counseling 鈥 The Education Program provides high-quality academic advising, major-specific advising, and career advising tailored to Education majors.
- High-Impact Practices 鈥 Students in the Education Program enhance their undergraduate studies through high-impact practices such as common intellectual experiences in methodology and content, undergraduate research, diverse learning opportunities in and out of the classroom, common first-year experiences such as seminar attendance and field placement experiences of at least 30 hours in a respective school, writing-intensive courses, collaborative assignments and projects, service-/community-based learning like tutoring in our Award Winning After School Program, living-learning communities, internships, and capstone courses and projects.
- Industry Connections 鈥 Students enrolled in the Education Program have numerous opportunities to establish professional connections in their field through job placement, internships, co-op opportunities, advisory councils, and networking activities.
Dr. Kelvin Spragley, NCWU Director of Teacher Education and Chief Diversity Officer, states 鈥淭he NCWU Teacher Education program has consistently proven that the personal and professional relationships developed between faculty and students are our formula for success. It is with this model in mind that we will continue our efforts at producing the next generation of quality, licensed teacher鈥.
Through these program elements, students are learning how to inspire, adapt, and lead. The Education Program at NCWU reflects the core belief that teaching is both a profession and a calling.
To learn more about NCWU鈥檚 award-winning programs, visit .
麻豆原创 Colleges of Distinction
Since 2000, Colleges of Distinction has been committed to recognizing schools across the United States for their exceptional contributions to higher education. Member institutions within the Colleges of Distinction consortium distinguish themselves through their unwavering focus on providing an outstanding undergraduate experience. Their website offers dynamic college profiles, customized tools, and valuable resources for students, parents, and high school counselors. For more information and to discover how to become a College of Distinction, visit .
Heroes Served Here: NC Wesleyan Acclaimed鈥
In a higher education landscape often dominated by rankings and test scores, 麻豆原创 (NCWU) is being recognized for what matters most: a transformative, student-centered undergraduate experience. For the 2025鈥2026 academic year, NCWU has been named a a prestigious designation awarded to institutions whose commitment to engaged learning, experiential education, and student success sets them apart.
This recognition is based on Colleges of Distinction鈥檚 unique evaluation framework known as the Four Distinctions: Engaged Students, Great Teaching, Vibrant Community, and Successful Outcomes. Through extensive research and in-depth interviews, Colleges of Distinction identifies colleges and universities that make a meaningful, measurable impact on students鈥 lives鈥攏ot those driven solely by rankings or prestige metrics.
鈥溌槎乖 has cultivated a campus culture where students are empowered to take ownership of their learning,鈥 said Tyson Schritter, Chief Operating Officer at Colleges of Distinction. 鈥淚ts programs reflect the innovation, intentionality, and personalized support that prepare students not just for graduation, but for life beyond college.鈥
Unlike traditional rankings, Colleges of Distinction highlights institutions that prioritize educational impact through high-impact practices such as first-year seminars, collaborative projects, undergraduate research, global learning, and internships. NCWU鈥檚 selection reflects its long-standing commitment to these practices and to providing individualized support throughout the student journey.
Business College of Distinction
In addition to its institutional recognition, NCWU has also been named a 2025鈥2026 Business College of Distinction, honoring the University鈥檚 undergraduate business programs for their balance of academic rigor and real-world application.
This distinction is awarded to schools that demonstrate accreditation, a well-rounded and multidisciplinary curriculum, applied learning opportunities, and a strong record of graduate outcomes.
鈥淣CWU understands that effective business education is about more than numbers鈥攊t鈥檚 about developing innovative, ethical leaders,鈥 Schritter said. 鈥淭hrough faculty mentorship, interdisciplinary coursework, and immersive learning experiences, students gain the skills and adaptability needed to thrive in a rapidly changing global economy.鈥
Colleges of Distinction highlighted NCWU鈥檚 School of Business for its:
- Stability and longevity, with a well-established program and consistent enrollment
- Multidisciplinary offerings, including majors and minors across multiple business disciplines
- Hands-on learning, such as internships, consulting projects, and networking opportunities
- Collaborative coursework, including case-method teaching and business plan competitions
- Strong emphasis on business ethics and social responsibility
- Dedicated academic and career advising
- High-impact educational practices, including capstones and service-based learning
- Robust industry connections that support internships and job placement
Graduates of NCWU鈥檚 School of Business leave with more than technical proficiency鈥攖hey develop leadership, critical thinking, and collaboration skills in environments that mirror the complexity of today鈥檚 marketplace.
Military Support College of Distinction
Further reinforcing its commitment to student success, NCWU was also named a Military Support College of Distinction, recognizing the University鈥檚 outstanding services and resources for veterans, active-duty service members, and military-affiliated students.
As more military students pursue higher education, Colleges of Distinction honors only select institutions that provide intentional, comprehensive support tailored to their unique needs.
鈥淩ather than viewing military students as a statistic, NCWU supports them as individuals鈥攅ach with their own goals, strengths, and challenges,鈥 Schritter said. 鈥淲e are proud to recognize institutions that go above and beyond to serve those who have served our country.鈥
Key elements of NCWU鈥檚 military support include:
- Comprehensive educational benefits, including participation in federal tuition assistance and training programs
- A dedicated Military and Veterans Affairs team to assist with enrollment, benefits, transition support, and career services
- Flexible academic options, such as online programs, flexible enrollment, and credit for military service
- Intentional campus community support, including dedicated spaces, student organizations, and counselors trained in areas such as PTSD and suicide prevention
鈥淎s a Military Support College of Distinction, NCWU has proven itself as a place where military-affiliated students aren鈥檛 just welcomed鈥攖hey鈥檙e championed,鈥 Schritter added.
Dr. Joseph Lane, NCWU Provost and Senior VP for academic affairs shares, 鈥淣orth Carolina Wesleyan takes pride in offering students degree pathways that fulfill our promise of a personal, practical, and purpose-driven education. We appreciate that Colleges of Distinction recognizes our superior educational outcomes and commitment to student success.鈥 聽
麻豆原创 Colleges of Distinction
Since 2000, Colleges of Distinction has been committed to recognizing schools across the United States for their exceptional contributions to higher education. Member institutions within the Colleges of Distinction consortium distinguish themselves through their unwavering focus on providing an outstanding undergraduate experience. Their website offers dynamic college profiles, customized tools, and valuable resources for students, parents, and high school counselors. For more information and to discover how to become a College of Distinction, visit .
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.
NCWU Grad Hits Home Run with Internship Mentorship!
麻豆原创 (NCWU) continues to highlight the power of experiential learning and alumni engagement through a unique internship opportunity connecting a current student-athlete with a Bishop alumna working in professional sports.
NC Wesleyan student Brooklynn Covic, a communications major and member of the Bishops Volleyball team, gained hands-on experience this past summer as a Creative Video Intern with the the High-A affiliate of the Pittsburgh Pirates. Covic鈥檚 internship was guided by Callie Cline, a North Carolina Wesleyan alumna and the Grasshoppers鈥 Manager of Social Media and Media Services.
Covic鈥檚 journey began on campus, where she works as a student assistant with NC Wesleyan Athletics, creating social media content and graphics to promote Bishop athletic programs. That foundational experience helped prepare her for the professional sports environment she now navigates daily.
鈥淚 really hope to bring these skills back to our athletic department to continue capturing and celebrating our student-athletes,鈥 Covic said. 鈥淭his internship has allowed me to grow creatively and professionally while seeing how the skills I鈥檝e learned at NC Wesleyan translate to the real world.鈥
For Cline, the opportunity to mentor a current Bishop is both personal and purposeful. As a former NC Wesleyan volleyball student-athlete and multimedia intern, she understands the impact early professional experience can have on a student鈥檚 career trajectory.
鈥淚 wish I would have started sooner and prioritized internships and experience earlier,鈥 Cline said. 鈥淏eing able to give back and help a current student see what鈥檚 possible is incredibly rewarding. NC Wesleyan helped lay the foundation for my career, and it鈥檚 exciting to be part of that process for someone else.鈥
This internship reflects NC Wesleyan鈥檚 commitment to hands-on learning, career readiness, and fostering meaningful alumni connections. By creating opportunities that extend beyond the classroom, the university continues to prepare students for success in competitive professional fields.
For more information about internship opportunities and experiential learning at 麻豆原创, visit ncwu.edu.
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.
Wesleyan Donors Provide “Heaven Sent” Initiative
In the spirit of compassion, generosity, and belief in second chances, 麻豆原创 (NCWU) is proud to share the profound impact of a new Angel Donor Initiative supporting adult learners through the University鈥檚 Adult Professional Studies (APS) Scholarship Fund.
Over the past two weeks, the initiative, sparked by the generosity of NCWU supporters, has helped 13 adult students overcome financial barriers that threatened to derail their education. These timely gifts allowed students to pay current or future balances, register for upcoming courses, and remain on track toward graduation.
Over the past two weeks, the initiative, sparked by the generosity of NCWU supporters, has helped 13 adult students overcome financial barriers that threatened to derail their education. These timely gifts allowed students to pay current or future balances, register for upcoming courses, and remain on track toward graduation.
For many recipients, this support arrived at a critical moment. More than 75% of the students who were assisted had exhausted their federal financial aid eligibility due to life interruptions, prior enrollment attempts, or unforeseen hardships. Others were navigating deeply personal crises, including homelessness, the loss of a parent, recovery from a massive stroke, or job loss tied to a government shutdown.
鈥淭hese gifts were not just scholarships; they were lifelines,鈥 said Katie Farrell, Dean of Adult and Professional Studies. 鈥淭hey met students where they were and provided exactly what was needed at exactly the right time.鈥
Turning Deferred Dreams into Degrees
The immediate outcomes of the Angel Donor initiative are powerful and measurable:
- A Healthcare Administration student described the support as 鈥淗eaven-sent,鈥 allowing her to complete the final course needed to graduate in May 2026.
- Multiple Educational Studies and Leadership students were able to overcome financial barriers. This funding not only prevented delays but also accelerated degree completion and career trajectories, allowing future educators to enter the classroom sooner, helping address critical workforce gaps in education across the region.
Stability During Life鈥檚 Hardest Moments
Some stories speak not only to academic persistence, but to human resilience:
- A Leadership student, also a retired grandmother, unexpectedly assumed custody of three grandchildren and experienced temporary homelessness. She used the funds to secure housing, cover tuition, meet basic needs, and create a modest holiday for her family.
- A Criminal Justice student experiencing homelessness was able to remain enrolled and complete her final credits.
- A police officer finishing a Criminal Justice degree received support during the loss of his father.
- A Leadership student, a recently elected Town Commissioner recovering from a massive stroke, was able to continue his education while focusing on recovery and community service.
While this summary highlights selected stories shared with permission, additional funds continue to be distributed to other deserving students whose privacy is being respectfully protected.
A Season of Hope
The Angel Donor initiative affirms NC Wesleyan鈥檚 unwavering commitment to adult learners, students who balance education with work, family, and life鈥檚 unexpected challenges. Through strategic, compassionate support, the University is proving that persistence paired with opportunity can change lives.
As the holiday season approaches, these gifts stand as a reminder that generosity can be transformational, not someday, but today.
NC Wesleyan extends its deepest gratitude to the Angel Donors whose belief in students made these life-altering moments possible.
