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.
NCWU Walks & Talks with Twin-County Partners
麻豆原创 (NCWU) proudly participated in the Education and Business Leaders鈥 Summit held Thursday morning at partner . The annual event was convened by representatives from local businesses, K-12, schools, and higher education to strengthen collaboration between education and industry.
The summit featured three dynamic panel discussions, each addressing critical topics on workforce development and preparing students for success. Conversations highlighted the importance of creating awareness of opportunities early and equipping young people with essential soft skills that make them more qualified and adaptable in the workplace.
Dr. Evan D. Duff, President of NC Wesleyan University, served on the panel 鈥How Our Colleges Are Keeping Pace with Employer Demand.鈥 He spoke on the University鈥檚 commitment to aligning programs with workforce needs, specifically spotlighting the recent demand for more healthcare professionals in the region. Dr. Duff emphasized NCWU鈥檚 new Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program as a direct response to that need.
鈥淎s the hometown university in our community鈥檚 backyard, we are committed to meeting employer demand while providing students with a strong investment,鈥 said Dr. Duff. 鈥淥ur BSN program is one example of how NCWU is responding to the needs of our region while equipping students for long-term success.鈥
Mary Cat Weloff 鈥21 & 鈥23, Coordinator of Gifts & Information at NCWU, also represented the University on the panel 鈥Return on Engagement: Why Investing in Youth Talent Pays Off.鈥 Speaking on the value of listening to and learning from the incoming generation, Weloff encouraged employers to remain open-minded.
鈥淲hen young professionals bring in new perspectives, it doesn鈥檛 mean they are trying to change everything,鈥 Weloff shared. 鈥淚t鈥檚 about embracing fresh ideas that can make organizations stronger and more adaptable.鈥
By engaging in this important dialogue, NC Wesleyan University reaffirmed its role as a collaborative partner in the Twin Counties, working alongside businesses, schools, and community leaders to ensure that local students are prepared to thrive.
Wesleyan Emerging as a Destination Disc Golf with Upcoming Weekend Tournament
麻豆原创 (NCWU) will once again highlight its role as a regional destination for disc golf this weekend as it welcomes players from across the community and beyond for a series of tournaments on campus. The University鈥檚 course, which has drawn growing praise from amateur and professional players alike, will host three events in just two days, underscoring Wesleyan鈥檚 expanding reputation as a hub for the sport.
What began as a single, one-round Disc Golf event has grown into a weekend attraction featuring:
- Friday, Sept. 12 at 5:00 p.m. 鈥 Dangerous Doubles 2 presented by . National disc golf representative Tyler Searle will return with his Latitude 64 mobile store, parked along U.S. 301 at hole 16.
- Saturday, Sept. 13 at 9:00 a.m. 鈥 Climo Challenge. A three-disc challenge featuring a shotgun start with 34 players, including several NCWU students, competing across the course.
- Saturday, Sept. 13 at 12:00 p.m. 鈥 Throw What You Know Challenge. The weekend鈥檚 main PDGA tournament, featuring nearly 40 players, also in shotgun format.
The growth of Wesleyan鈥檚 Disc Golf reflects both community enthusiasm and the University鈥檚 commitment to offering versatile event space. With four sanctioned tournaments already held this year, and two more planned by December, including one during Homecoming. The Wesleyan course continues to attract players from across North Carolina and beyond, including Georgia, South Carolina, Virginia, West Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Tennessee.
鈥淭his weekend has snowballed into a Rocky Mount disc golf attraction,鈥 said tournament organizer Marcus Rich. 鈥淭he course and the campus together have become a draw not only for local players, but also for visitors traveling from out of state. Events like these bring people to Wesleyan who one day may become part of our campus community.鈥
As disc golf continues to grow nationwide, Wesleyan has positioned itself as a premier destination in eastern North Carolina, serving both students and the wider community. The University鈥檚 course offers a unique blend of competitive play and collegiate spirit, making it a valuable resource for tournaments, community recreation, and campus life.
First in the Family: Wesleyan Students Breaking Barriers
When Matthew Tiller walked across the stage at 麻豆原创鈥檚 commencement in May 2025, he carried more than his own dreams. As a first-generation college student, he carried the hopes of his entire family.
鈥淏eing the first in my family to attend college means breaking a barrier and opening a door that was never there before, 鈥淭iller shared. 鈥淚t feels like I鈥檝e paved a new way for my family, not just for myself.鈥
Tiler, who double-majored in English and Psychology, admitted that the journey was not easy. His family, though proud, did not know how to help navigate applications, deadlines, or financial aid. 鈥淗onestly, they didn鈥檛 really know how to support me, so college became a learning environment for both me and my family,鈥 he said.
He isn鈥檛 alone. For fellow first-generation student Tamiya Rooks, a Biomedical Science major with a focus in Pre-Veterinary Medicine, the experience has also been about perseverance. 鈥淔or me, being a first-generation college student means that I have managed to beat the odds,鈥 Rooks said. 鈥淭o my parents, it means that they did an amazing job with raising their children and get to see her grow more. Making them immensely proud.鈥
At Wesleyan, Tiller found mentors who guided him through. Professors in the English program offered academic and personal support, while supervisors in the Financial Aid office helped him grow into a leader. 鈥淲orking there was more than a paycheck, it was mentorship,鈥 he said. 鈥業 know I would not be the leader I am without their guidance.鈥
Rooks echoed that feeling of support. 鈥淏eing the first in my family to go to college, I wanted a community that believed in my potential and would give me the resources to succeed, and Wesleyan offered that,鈥 she said.
Faculty and staff play a vital role in this culture. Paige Wells, Director of the Campus Experience, knows the challenges first-generation students face because she lived them herself. 鈥淎s someone who was a first-generation college student, I fully believe my personal experiences have uniquely equipped me to support students from similar backgrounds with greater empathy and intentionality,鈥 she said. 鈥淭o me, this work is more than just a job鈥攊t鈥檚 a personal mission.鈥 Wells also notes that misconceptions about the financial side of college often discourage families. 鈥淚t鈥檚 not because they don鈥檛 care鈥攊t鈥檚 simply a lack of information and familiarity with the process. That鈥檚 why it鈥檚 so important to create welcoming spaces where students and families feel safe asking questions and getting honest guidance.鈥
That sense of belonging doesn鈥檛 end with graduation. Wesley Mercer, now a Helpdesk Technician at NCWU, once stood where today鈥檚 first-generation students do. 鈥淚 feel like a lot of people are overwhelmed or scared of the idea of going to college. When I first started as a student, the staff and faculty were much more helpful than I originally thought,鈥 he reflected.
Today, Mercer is proud to be part of the institution that helped him succeed. 鈥淚 am excited that I get to be a 鈥榩iece of the pie鈥 that is Wesleyan. It is amazing to be on the other side of the institution that meant so much to me as a student. It is almost surreal to see things from the other side.鈥
For Mercer, the highlight of his journey remains graduation. 鈥淜nowing that I finally did it is still my proudest moment,鈥 he said. 鈥淓ven as a staff member, I always really enjoy getting to go to graduation and seeing students get their diplomas.鈥
Both Tiller and Rooks admit the challenges were real. For Tiller, it meant forging ahead without a roadmap. For Rooks, it meant leaving home and stepping into the unknown. 鈥淎pplying to college was the easy part really, but preparing for it was the most difficult,鈥 she reflected. 鈥淚t鈥檚 never easy to leave your home and family to go to a new place, even if it is for your benefit.鈥
Despite the obstacles, each points to proud milestones. Tiller cites leadership awards and internships. Rooks highlights completing her first year and joining the lacrosse team, something she had dreamed of for years. 鈥淚鈥檝e made so many new friends who are really like family to me now, and that means so much,鈥 she said.
Nearly 45% of Wesleyan鈥檚 student population are first-generation college students. Many faculty and staff were once first-generation themselves, making them uniquely able to mentor students like Tiller and Rooks. Wells notes that one of the biggest barriers is simply understanding the process. 鈥淥ne of the biggest misconceptions about college is the financial aspect, especially from the perspective of families who haven鈥檛 navigated the process before,鈥 she said. 鈥淢any families don鈥檛 fully understand the true cost of attendance or know what questions to ask when comparing schools, which can unintentionally limit the options they consider. It鈥檚 not because they don鈥檛 care, it鈥檚 simply a lack of information and familiarity with the process. For any student, especially a first-generation student, the process can be overwhelming, and that鈥檚 why it鈥檚 so important to create welcoming spaces where students and their families feel comfortable and safe asking questions and getting honest, clear guidance.鈥
Looking ahead, Rooks hopes to become a veterinarian, serving her community by protecting and healing animals. 鈥淚 want to show my family that dreams can be reached with dedication, and I hope to make them proud by turning my passion into a way to help others,鈥 she said.
Supporting first-generation students is not just part of Wesleyan鈥檚 mission. It is woven into the fabric of who the university is. With nearly half its students blazing new trails, every diploma represents resilience, mentorship, and opportunity.
As Tiller puts it: 鈥淭ake that leap! Do it! Be brave! The challenges are worth it, and you will always come out on top.鈥
