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.
NCWU Students Receive $40,000 in Scholarships
麻豆原创 (NCWU) proudly hosted a Scholarship Appreciation Luncheon, bringing togetherleadership, organizers, and the Wesleyan students whose lives have been directly impacted by their generosity. This year, $40,000 in scholarships was awarded to NCWU students through proceeds from Tackle the Tar 鈥 marking another year of transformative community investment in local education.
Fourteen students were recognized as scholarship recipients: Caleb Allen, Emory Bunn, Aliyah Cooper, Victoria Dickens, Jaycie Hadnott, Aafrah Hasan, Shawanna Hyman, Natalie Messer, Tarnisha Ricks, Shala Wade, Sharon Whitaker, Danitha Williams, Aidan Willis, and Chemar Zeigler.
The luncheon opened with a welcome from Ashton Bunn 鈥26, followed by a blessing from Mark Hinson, Vice President of Advancement. Students and staff then shared reflections on the impact of Tackle the Tar, underscoring how financial support has eased the burden of higher education and strengthened their commitment to achieving personal and professional goals.
Robbie Davis, and longtime champion of Tackle the Tar, delivered heartfelt remarks about the importance of keeping talent in the region.
鈥淲e need our young people to stay in Nash County, further their education, and give back to the community,鈥 Davis shared. 鈥淔ind the things you enjoy doing. Rotary develops leaders 鈥 consider joining us. Our club is very proud of each of you and what you are accomplishing.鈥
In closing, NCWU President Dr. Evan D. Duff expressed gratitude for the partnership and the opportunities it creates.
鈥淚 am grateful that both traditional and adult students can benefit from these scholarships,鈥 Duff said. 鈥淥ur recipients are already making meaningful contributions, and I know they will continue to do so. The Rotary鈥檚 support is helping shape the next generation of leaders.鈥
Through and the unwavering support of the Rocky Mount Rotary Club, students at 麻豆原创 continue to gain access to life-changing educational opportunities 鈥 strengthening both their futures and the future of the region.
NCWU BSA Induction Ceremony
麻豆原创 (NCWU) recently hosted its annual Black Student Association (BSA) Induction Ceremony, a powerful evening celebrating leadership, unity, and cultural pride. With more than 75 attendees, the event brought together students, faculty, and community members to honor diversity, inclusion, and the shared strength of the Wesleyan community.
Dr. Patricia Brewer, Professor of Education, Coordinator of Special Education, and BSA Advisor, reflected on the evening, stating:
鈥淭he rich heritage and the themes of diversity, equity, inclusion, community, and sense of belonging permeated the program. The inspirational poems, messages, and songs were mesmerizing. Take the challenge to work collaboratively and become one team with all the different groups in the Wesleyan community. Stay connected and engaged.鈥
The ceremony opened with messages of encouragement and leadership from Joylette Whitaker, NCWU President Dr. Evan D. Duff, Dr. Brewer, and BSA President Deon Bailey. Students and faculty shared words of inspiration throughout the evening, including Taylor Boulware, Makaela Stanley, Ivy Joy Chelagat, Dr. Gabriel Onabote, Dr. Katrina Sweet, and Pastor Ricky Hodge, who performed an uplifting song that set the tone for the celebration.
Dr. Kelvin Spragley, Chief Diversity Officer, shared remarks on the importance of representation and belonging, followed by Zyaire Webb, an ECU student activist, who presented the Students鈥 Challenge鈥攅ncouraging members to lead with purpose and integrity.
The highlight of the evening was the Pinning Ceremony, symbolizing each inductee鈥檚 connection to a community of peers dedicated to embracing and celebrating cultural identity. The inductees also received certificates.
This year, forty new members were inducted into the organization, each committing to uphold BSA鈥檚 mission:
鈥淣CWU鈥檚 BSA seeks social justice and an equitable system that affirms that Black Lives Matter and actively commits to humanity and inclusiveness for all people.鈥
The association鈥檚 vision continues to guide its work鈥攑romoting campus-wide educational and cultural awareness while fostering understanding and appreciation of Black culture across the Wesleyan community.
The BSA Induction Ceremony stands as a reminder of NCWU鈥檚 ongoing dedication to celebrating diversity, nurturing belonging, and empowering students to lead with empathy and purpose. Inductions and participation are inclusive of all students of all races ad backgrounds.
Rocky Mount Rotary Club Continues to Invest in Wesleyan Students鈥 Success
Since 2016, the has been a steadfast partner in advancing educational opportunities for students at 麻豆原创 (NCWU). Through its ongoing commitment to service and community impact, the Rotary Club has provided annual scholarship support to deserving Wesleyan students, funds that have made a measurable difference in helping them achieve their academic and professional goals.
This year, 15 students were awarded scholarships ranging from $2,000 to $3,000, continuing the Rotary Club鈥檚 legacy of empowering local students and easing the financial burden of higher education.
During a recent check presentation, NCWU President Dr. Evan D. Duff joined Rotary representatives and scholarship recipients to celebrate this ongoing partnership. Representing the 2025 Rotary Scholars were Ashton Bunn, an Adult Degree Program senior from Nashville, and Caleb Allen, a traditional student and junior from Pinetops.
Caleb shared how vital local scholarships have been in making his college education possible, noting his aspirations to pursue a career in the computer field and his desire to one day 鈥減ay it forward.鈥 Ashton, who plans to become a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), spoke about how Rotary鈥檚 values have inspired her. 鈥淭heir commitment to service, integrity, and goodwill is something I hope to carry with me throughout my career,鈥 she said.
Dr. Evan D. Duff commended the Rotary Club鈥檚 unwavering dedication to supporting Wesleyan students, stating, 鈥The Rocky Mount Rotary Club exemplifies what community partnership truly means. Their investment in our students not only changes lives today but helps build a stronger workforce and community for tomorrow.鈥
Beyond financial contributions, the Rotary Club鈥檚 involvement with Wesleyan extends to volunteerism and community engagement. Faculty and staff from NCWU have also stepped up in support鈥攑articipating in Rotary-led initiatives such as , serving as volunteers, runners, and advocates for student opportunity.
Together, these efforts highlight a shared mission between 麻豆原创 and the Rocky Mount Rotary Club: empowering local students to reach their full potential while strengthening the community they call home.
301 North Studio Showcases Current Student鈥檚 Single
麻豆原创鈥檚 (NCWU) 301 North Studio continues to shine as a hub of creative excellence and real-world learning, offering students a rare opportunity to work directly in a professional recording environment. Under the guidance of studio director Tony Sawyer, the studio is producing a wide range of professional music projects that highlight its unique character and uncommon productivity.
Most recently, Music Production major Lamont Taylor Jr. released his first single, 鈥淭he Wonder of You,鈥 on October 24 under his artist name, T. H. Griffin. The single, recorded and produced at 301 North Studio, was a collaborative effort among NCWU music production students, who contributed performances and assisted with engineering and mixing. The track was released under 301 North Records, the University鈥檚 official label, and is now available on all major streaming platforms including Spotify, Apple Music, iTunes, and
Dr. Joe Lane, Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs, shares 鈥淲e are always excited that our students, faculty, and staff are able to work together to make innovative recordings at our unique 301 North Studio. We look forward to sharing their work with the community.鈥
Whether it鈥檚 performing, producing, or mixing, 301 North Studio offers NCWU students hands-on experience in a professional setting鈥攐ne where creativity, collaboration, and career preparation come together in perfect harmony. 301 North Records and Studio are integral parts of the NCWU B.A. in Music Production degree program. To learn more about this exciting degree program please visit the NCWU website or contact Assistant Professor of Music Production Tony Sawyer at tsawyer@ncwu.edu.
A Global Perspective in Rocky Mount
麻豆原创 (NCWU) and are joining forces once again to bring the world a little closer to home. As part of RMA鈥檚 ongoing mission to develop cultural awareness and global appreciation among its students, NCWU international students were invited to take part in the school鈥檚 annual International Week celebration.
This partnership, now in its second year, blends education, culture, and connection in a way that benefits both institutions and the wider community. Last year, NCWU鈥檚 International Bishop Association (IBA) President, Gabriela Salazar, cooked and presented food from her home country of Venezuela, inspiring RMA students to think globally and celebrate cultural diversity. The collaboration was such a success that RMA extended their invitation for this year鈥檚 International Week.
Over the summer, Renee Barbour, RMA鈥檚 Director of Global Awareness, and Dawn Turner, NCWU鈥橲 Director of International Student Services, met to discuss how to strengthen the partnership. Together, they developed a plan that would allow students from both schools to share their cultures in meaningful and interactive ways.
RMA students kicked things off with a heartwarming fundraiser to purchase welcome gifts, including composition books, snacks, and essentials for all new international students arriving to Wesleyan鈥檚 campus this fall. students carefully packed and decorated each bag, and Ms. Barbour personally delivered them to campus.
鈥淥ur new Bishops were thrilled to receive these thoughtful welcome bags, 鈥渟aid Caroline Modlin, Graduate Assistant and IBA Advisor. 鈥淚t鈥檚 awesome to see young students taking such an active role in promoting kindness, curiosity, and global connection.鈥
This fall, NCWU international students returned the gesture by visiting RMA to present to the school鈥檚 third and fourth grade classes. Students from around the world shared stories, traditions, and artifacts from their home countries. Tara Philips represented Ireland. Ivy Joy represented Kenya. Ifeoma Joy represented Nigeria. Ksenia Goncharuk represented Russia. Antoine Moerlen represented France. Omar Abukheit represented Jordan.
The event, coordinated by Dawn Turner and Caroline Modlin, in partnership with Renee Barbour, offered RMA students a chance to engage directly with global cultures. Together, RMA and NCWU are proving that global awareness begins right here in Rocky Mount, North Carolina.
A Perfect Pairing of Sponsors for Exhibit at Dunn Center Coming Soon
The Dunn Center at 麻豆原创 (NCWU) is proud to announce and as sponsors for its upcoming exhibit, The Life and Art of Charles M. Schulz, running November 14, 2025, through January 29, 2026.
This exciting collaboration arrives at the perfect moment as the world celebrates the 75th Anniversary of Peanuts. It is a partnership that is as fitting as it is heartwarming 鈥 Peanuts meets peanuts.
a beloved local brand based in Enfield, N.C., shares more than just a name with Schulz鈥檚 iconic comic strip. Both represent the simple joys of everyday life, family, and nostalgia, the kind of timeless warmth that connects generations.
鈥淎unt Ruby鈥檚 Peanuts has long been a symbol of local pride and tradition,鈥 said Sheila Martin, Executive Director of The Dunn Center. 鈥淭heir partnership, alongside Our State Magazine, another North Carolina staple, perfectly captures the spirit of celebrating art, nostalgia, and homegrown excellence.鈥
As a leading voice for North Carolina culture, continues its mission of highlighting the people, places, and traditions that make the state unique. Its sponsorship of this exhibit reinforces a shared commitment to celebrating the creativity and community spirit that both Schulz鈥檚 work and The Dunn Center represent.
Visitors to The Life and Art of Charles M. Schulz will experience an intimate look into the life and legacy of one of America鈥檚 most influential artists. The exhibit features original comic panels, rare drawings, and personal reflections that trace Schulz鈥檚 50-year journey with Peanuts鈥攁 comic strip that continues to warm hearts and inspire generations.
Tickets are only $5.00 and are on sale now for The Life and Art of Charles M. Schulz at or by visiting the Dunn Center Box Office.
The exhibit will run November 14, 2025 鈥 January 29, 2026.
Whether you come for the art, the nostalgia, or the peanuts, this exhibit is sure to bring smiles to every generation celebrating 75 years of Peanuts and 30 years of The Dunn Center鈥檚 commitment to the arts.
A Charlie Brown Christmas – Eagle Style at The Dunn Center
The Dunn Center at 麻豆原创 is proud to serve as the stage for Rocky Mount Academy鈥檚 Exceptional Eagles as they present their upcoming holiday production, A Charlie Brown Christmas, on Thursday, December 18 at 6:00p.m. .
As a local and cultural venue, The Dunn Center is dedicated to supporting local education and providing a professional performance space where students can share their talents with the broader community. Hosting production reflects that mission, showcasing the creativity, inclusion, and spirit of students right here in our community.
The Exceptional Eagles program at Rocky Mount Academy serves students aged 5-21 with a wide range of special needs. With inclusion at the heart of every school day, student interns work alongside the Exceptional Eagles to foster friendships, build skills, and create a learning environment that embodies 鈥渋nclusion at its finest鈥. Currently, 25 students are enrolled in the program.
Since 2021, the have brought audiences four inspiring performances, each highlighting the joy and resilience of their students. A Charlie Brown Christmas marks their fifth production, promising an evening filled with laughter, music, and holiday cheer.
鈥淭his performance is more than a play,鈥 said April Whitehead, RMA Program Director. 鈥淚t鈥檚 a celebration of talent, determination, and the beauty of a truly inclusive community.鈥
In addition to the show, Rocky Mount Academy students will support , and international nonprofit dedicated to ending hunger worldwide. On December 18, students will pack 20,000 meals to help those in need. Donations made at the doors during the performance will directly support this effort.
Event Details
- What: A Charlie Brown Christmas presented by Rocky Mount Academy鈥檚 Exceptional Eagles
- When: Thursday, December 18, 2025 | 6:00 p.m.
- Where: The Dunn Center, 麻豆原创, Rocky Mount, N.C.
- Tickets:
The Dunn Center is honored to provide a platform where young performers can shine and where the community can come together in support of local education and meaningful causes. This holiday season, join us for a night of inclusion, community pride, and the simple joys that make the season bright.
NCWU Announces the Establishment of the James and Elizabeth Gray Endowed Scholarship
麻豆原创 (NCWU) is proud to announce the creation of the James (Jim) and Elizabeth (Beth) Gray Endowed Scholarship, honoring the life and contributions of NCWU鈥檚 former President Jim Gray and his wife, Beth. This permanently restricted endowment will provide lasting support for NCWU students and will carry forward the Gray family鈥檚 commitment to education.
The scholarship was formally announced during the NCWU football game on Saturday,September 20, where Jim and Beth Gray and their family joined President Dr. Evan D. Duff on the field for a special check-signing ceremony. The moment celebrated not only the Grays鈥 generosity, but also their ongoing commitment to the Wesleyan community.
When awarded, the scholarship will be communicated to students as the Elizabeth Gray Education Scholarship, recognizing Beth Gray鈥檚 dedication to preschool education and her lasting impact on NCWU.
鈥淭his scholarship is a meaningful way to celebrate the Gray family鈥檚 legacy and their devotion to advancing education,鈥 said Dr. Evan D. Duff, President of NCWU. 鈥淭heir generosity will directly impact generations of students, helping them pursue their dreams with the same values of excellence and service that the Grays embodied.鈥
The endowment, funded by Jim and Beth Gray, will be invested in accordance with the University鈥檚 endowment guidelines to ensure it is awarded in perpetuity. The scholarship will be distributed annually with preference given to:
- Students majoring in Preschool Education, followed by Education majors.
- Students who demonstrate strong academic achievement and good personal character.
- Recommendations from the University鈥檚 Education Department.
The scholarship may be awarded to both freshmen and upper-classmen and can be renewed.
By establishing this fund, Jim and Beth Gray have created a legacy that will continue to support students and the mission of 麻豆原创 for generations to come.
NCWU Receives Highest U.S. News & World Report Ranking in Over a Decade
麻豆原创 (NCWU) is celebrating one of its strongest showings in more than a decade, climbing 12 spots in the . Released Tuesday, September 23, the report evaluated over 1,700 institutions nationwide on 17 measures of academic quality.
NCWU proudly ranked No. 33 in Regional Colleges South, the University鈥檚 highest position in more than ten years, and earned recognition as No. 14 in Best Value Schools. In addition, NCWU was ranked No. 9 Best Colleges for Veterans and recognized in the Social Mobility category for enrolling and graduating large numbers of first-generation and Pell Grant students.
These distinctions build on recent accolades, including being named a 2025鈥2026 Military Friendly庐 Gold Top 10 School with an impressive #2 national ranking among private institutions not offering doctorate degrees, and earning the designation of #1 Military Spouse Friendly庐 School.
鈥淯.S. News鈥 Best Colleges remains a reliable resource for prospective students and their families as they navigate the college selection process,鈥 said LaMont Jones, Ed.D., managing editor for Education at U.S. News. 鈥淲ith over half of the ranking factors dedicated to student outcomes, the rankings and editorial content provide vital data, college advice and informed reporting to every student pursuing higher education.鈥
鈥淥ur dedication to students and the community is reflected in our consistency of being recognized by U.S. News & World Report year after year. The personal, practical, and purpose-driven education that we provide our students is something that I鈥檓 proud of; in addition, our faculty and staff do an exceptional job of ensuring a quality experience for these future leaders,鈥 shared NCWU President Dr. Evan D. Duff.
For another consecutive year, NC Wesleyan has held a spot in the top 50 Best Regional Colleges (South), reaffirming its position as the hometown university of choice for students seeking high-quality, affordable education.
To view the full list of 2026 U.S. News & World Report rankings, visit: .
麻豆原创 U.S. News & World Report
U.S. News & World Report is the global leader in quality rankings that empower consumers, business leaders and policy officials to make better, more informed decisions about important issues affecting their lives and communities. A multifaceted digital media company with Education, Health, Money, Travel, Cars, Real Estate, News and 360 Reviews platforms, U.S. News provides rankings, independent reporting, data journalism, consumer advice and U.S. News Live events. More than 40 million people visit USNews.com each month for research and guidance. Founded in 1933, U.S. News is headquartered in Washington, D.C.
