North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) is proud to announce it has been named a , earning the impressive #2 national ranking in the category of 鈥淧rivate Institutions Not Offering Doctorate Degrees.鈥 In addition, NCWU has been ranked #1 as a 2025-2026 鈥攁 testament to the University鈥檚 unwavering commitment to military-connected students and their families.
These prestigious designations reflect NCWU鈥檚 dedication to fostering an environment where veterans, active-duty service members, and their spouses can thrive academically, socially, and personally. Out of more than 1,800 participating institutions, only 830 earned special recognition for going above and beyond in serving military students. Rankings were determined through a combination of public data, proprietary surveys, and rigorous assessment criteria including student retention, graduation, job placement, and loan default rates鈥攕pecifically for military and veteran students.
鈥淎t 麻豆原创, we are deeply grateful for the service and sacrifices made by our nation鈥檚 veterans and their families,鈥 said Laura Brown, Associate Dean of Veteran Services. 鈥淭hese designations reaffirm our mission to support military-connected students through accessible education, dedicated resources, and a community that recognizes and honors their unique experiences.鈥
One such example of this support is Nicholas and Amelia Hosine, a Bishop couple and U.S. Army veterans who are now pursuing their degrees in Organizational Leadership at NCWU with plans to graduate in December 2025. Having transferred from Wake Tech Community College, they found the University鈥檚 flexible online programs and transfer-friendly pathways ideal for balancing academics and family life.
鈥淭he transition from military to college life was both challenging and rewarding,鈥 Nicholas shared. 鈥淣CWU provided a welcoming environment where I felt supported from the moment I applied. The advisors, faculty, and staff have gone above and beyond to ensure student veterans are set up for success.鈥
The Hosines highlight NCWU鈥檚 quarterly class schedule as a key benefit鈥攌eeping them focused, engaged, and moving steadily toward their goals. They credit their time in service with instilling discipline and leadership, while Wesleyan has sharpened their critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. 鈥淭he combination of military experience and a Wesleyan education is preparing us for impactful careers where we can lead, support others, and continue to grow,鈥 Nicholas added.
When asked what it meant to them to attend an institution that received these rankings, Nicholas responded 鈥淚 truly believe NCWU deserves this award and I am proud to be part of a school that values and supports military-affiliated students. the support I have received throughout the registration process and while working with advisors has been outstanding. Everyone has been helpful, understanding, and committed to student success, especially for veterans.鈥
The full list of recognized institutions will be published in the May and October issues of G.I. Jobs magazine and at .
Kayla Lopez, National Director of Military Partnerships at Military Friendly庐, stated, 鈥淚nstitutions that earn these distinctions show true commitment to the success of military students and their families. They set a benchmark for excellence and help raise the bar across higher education.鈥
Methodology, criteria, and weightings were determined by Viqtory with input from the Military Friendly 庐 Advisory Council of independent leaders in the higher education and military recruitment community. Final ratings were determined by combining the institution鈥檚 survey scores with the assessment of the institution鈥檚 ability to meet thresholds for Student Retention, Graduation, Job Placement, Loan Repayment, Persistence (Degree Advancement or Transfer) and Loan Default rates for all students and, specifically, for student veterans.
As NCWU prepares the next generation of leaders, it remains steadfast in its mission to meet students where they are鈥攚hether in a classroom, online, or transitioning from military service to civilian life.
鈥淢ilitary Friendly庐 is committed to transparency and providing consistent data-driven standards in our designation process. Our standards provide a benchmark that promotes positive outcomes and support services that better the educational landscape and provide opportunity for the Military Community. This creates a competitive atmosphere that encourages Institutions to evolve and invest in their programs consistently. Schools who achieve awards designation show true commitment in their efforts, going over and above that standard.鈥 – Kayla Lopez, National Director of Military Partnerships, Military Friendly. 庐
麻豆原创 Military Friendly 庐 Schools:
The Military Friendly庐 Schools list is created each year based on extensive research using public data sources from more than 8,800 schools nationwide, input from student veterans, and responses to the proprietary, data-driven Military Friendly庐 Schools survey from participating institutions. The survey questions, methodology, criteria and weighting were developed with the assistance of an independent research firm and an advisory council of educators and employers. The survey is administered for free and is open to all postsecondary schools that wish to participate. Criteria for consideration can be found at .
麻豆原创 Viqtory:
Founded in 2001, VIQTORY is a service-disabled, veteran-owned small business (SDVOSB) that connects the military community to civilian employment, educational and entrepreneurial opportunities through its G.I. Jobs庐 and Military Friendly庐 brands. VIQTORY and its brands are not a part of or endorsed by the U.S. Dept of Defense or any federal government entity. Learn more about VIQTORY at .
NCWU Hosts Omnium Conference
麻豆原创 (NCWU) held its inaugural Omnium Conference on Wednesday, April 9 at the Gateway Technology Center on campus. The event spotlighted undergraduate research and celebrated scholarly achievement across disciplines.
The Omnium Conference is a formal presentation of student research papers in affiliation with . Omnium is a Latin word meaning 鈥渆verything鈥, and the journal provides students with the opportunity to explore major genres of academic writing, join in scholarly conversations, share their ideas, perform original research, and see their work published in a professional venue. Now in its sixth volume, Omnium was established in 2019 by Dr. Doreen Thierauf, Associate Professor of English and General Education Program Coordinator. Dr. Thierauf serves as the journal鈥檚 sole editor and Dr. Shane Thompson, Assistant Professor of Bible and the Ancient Near East, is a co-founder of the conference which is poised to become an annual event.
鈥Omnium provides a professional platform for students to engage in original research, participate in academic dialogue, and see their work published,鈥 said Dr. Thierauf. 鈥淚t also serves as a teaching tool for faculty at NCWU and other institutions, with articles reflecting the academic growth of students at every stage of their college careers from first-year composition essays to projects created in senior seminars and honors theses鈥.
The 2025 conference featured nine student presentations, organized into three thematic sessions followed by interactive panel discussions:
- Session 1: From Fact to Fiction, From Fiction to Fact
- Natalie Messer – 鈥Exodus: The Unknown Apocalyptic Text鈥
- Clarence Alexander Sanderford – 鈥淒oomsday on Screen: How Apocalyptic Films Reflect Society鈥檚 Fears鈥
- Maxima Iglesias – 鈥淭he Illusion of Achieving Happiness Without Effort鈥
- Session 2: Challenging Harmful Cultures
- Kya Alston – 鈥淓bonics: Putting Respect to Black Sound鈥
- Shafiq Nuijts – 鈥淲hose Independence? Challenging the Netherlands鈥 Commemorative Culture鈥
- Layali Kasem – 鈥淲eathering the Heights of Withering Critics & Whittling at the Global Theory Industry鈥
- Session 3: Healing Our Communities
- Christian Van Norden – 鈥淩acism in Healthcare: Dissolving Barriers and Seeking Justice鈥
- Anna Hamilton – 鈥淭he Porn Problem: How Widespread Accessibility Harms Mental Health and Social Norms鈥
- Jolyna Sundbom – 鈥淔arm to Fork in Your Community: The Advantages of Sustainable Agriculture鈥
This year鈥檚 keynote address was delivered by Dr. Shannon Crowley, Associate Professor of Public Health and Director of Public Health Program. Her presentation explored the psychological and physiological impacts of movement and exercise.
The 2025 conference marked a new collaboration between Dr. Thierauf and Dr. Shane Thompson, Director of the Office of Undergraduate Research. Together, they aim to expand mission to highlight the exceptional work being produced by NCWU undergraduates across all disciplines.
The Spring 2025 conference also served as a proof-of-concept for future interdisciplinary research showcases, reinforcing NCWU鈥檚 ongoing commitment to undergraduate academic excellence.
NCWU Celebrates an Open House Ceremony for New Nursing Facility
麻豆原创 (NCWU) proudly celebrated the upcoming launch of its new Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Program, set to welcome its first cohort in Fall 2025. To mark this milestone, the University hosted a private Open House and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony on Thursday, April 10, 2025, on its Rocky Mount campus.
The event welcomed generous donors, University leadership, and community partners for an exclusive preview of the state-of-the-art nursing facilities. This was only possible with generous partnerships such as: , , , , Daniel and Brenda Crocker, Paul and Leslie Bauer, , , , , Gerald and Melia Cox, and . Attendees had the opportunity to tour newly designed classrooms, faculty offices, simulation labs, study areas, and break rooms鈥攁ll tailored to support the next generation of nursing professionals.
Special remarks were shared by NCWU President Dr. Evan D. Duff, who noted, 鈥淔ive years ago we started making plans to launch a BSN Program and we were able to bring those plans to fruition with important hires, and the support of our community and dedicated donors.鈥 underscoring the impact and importance of this new program to the region. He shared how the facility began as bank facility, was then donated to Wesleyan, and has since then been utilized for other purposes. It was decided that it would become Wesleyan鈥檚 mission to 鈥渇ocus all energy on converting this building to a state-of-the- art Nursing Education Facility鈥.
The ceremony concluded with an official ribbon cutting, symbolizing the beginning of an exciting new chapter in NCWU鈥檚 commitment to advancing healthcare education and serving the needs of eastern North Carolina.
A second Open House will be held on Wednesday, April 16, for faculty, staff, and other invited guests to view the facilities and learn more about the BSN program.
For more information about the Bachelor of Science in Nursing at NCWU, please visit /academics/majors-minors/nursing/.
University Celebrates 2025 Honors Convocation
Rocky Mount, NC聽鈥 April 3, 2025 鈥 麻豆原创 proudly hosted its annual Honors Convocation, celebrating the exceptional achievements of its students. The event, held at the Dunn Center for the Performing Arts, recognized students who have demonstrated outstanding leadership, academic excellence, community service, and contributions to the university.
The ceremony included the presentation of various awards from each school within the university:
- School of Math and Sciences:聽Awards for outstanding achievements in disciplines such as Biology, Chemistry, Exercise Science, Environmental Science, Public Health, and Mathematics.
- School of Business:聽Recognized excellence in fields like Accounting, Marketing, Computer Information Systems, and Organizational and Sports Administration.
- School of Education and Social Sciences :聽Honored students who have demonstrated exceptional dedication and skill in teaching, educational leadership, History, Political Science, Psychology and Criminal Justice.
- School of Humanities: Awards for outstanding achievements in disciplines such as Writing, Religious Studies, English and more.
Students were selected for these prestigious honors by a panel of faculty and staff, based on their leadership, academic achievement, community service, contributions to the university, and good citizenship. There is no doubt that these students will go on to accomplish great things.
Provost Dr. Joe Lane expressed his pride in the students’ accomplishments, stating, “Our awardees and honor society members have displayed outstanding contributions both inside and outside the classroom. Their dedication and hard work are truly commendable, and we are confident that they will continue to excel in their future endeavors.”
麻豆原创 remains committed to fostering an environment of academic excellence and leadership, and the Honors Convocation is a testament to the university’s dedication to recognizing and celebrating student achievements.
When you see these students, please take a moment to congratulate them.
To See entire list and photos from event, visit ncwu.edu/academics/academic-honors
NCWU Celebrates 10th Anniversary of an Award-Winning Afterschool Program
麻豆原创 (NCWU) hosted a special celebration on Saturday, March 29, to mark the 10th Anniversary of its Award-Winning Afterschool Program. The event, held on the Southern Bank Green at the heart of campus, brought together community members, faculty, students, and program supporters to recognize a decade of impact in education.
The celebration featured an invocation, greetings, and reflections from esteemed speakers, including Deon Bailey, Joylette Whitaker, Dr. Chad Ross, Sarah Turner, Dr. Patricia Brewer, and Dr. Kelvin Spragley. In addition to the esteemed speakers were testimonials from the students and their parents, covering their challenges and successes in the program. Attendees also enjoyed games, activities, and a parade to conclude the event.
The Afterschool Tutorial Initiative was launched in February 2015 through NCWU鈥檚 Teacher Education Program in collaboration with the . The initiative was created in response to the growing need for intensive, specialized services for K-12 students with learning differences. Through strong partnerships with parents, Nash and Edgecombe County Schools, and ALDH, the program quickly became a vital resource for students and their families.
Over the years, the program has evolved into an integrated clinical lab, utilizing research-based practices in math and reading. NCWU students enrolled in the Introduction to Exceptional Children (SPE 300) course work directly with K-12 students, providing individualized training and resources to enhance learning outcomes. These pre-service educators gain valuable experience by applying social learning strategies, tracking progress, conducting parent-student conferences, and developing accommodations tailored to each child鈥檚 educational plan.
Dr. Patricia Brewer, Executive Director of the Afterschool Program, plays a crucial role in coordinating instruction and providing advocacy training for parents. These advocacy sessions equip families with tools and strategies to support their children鈥檚 academic success, including simulated parent conferences and specialized training modules.
Since its inception, the program has celebrated numerous student achievements. Two high school graduates have already launched successful career paths鈥攐ne securing employment at Amazon in Cary, N.C., and another completing welding training at Wayne Community College in Goldsboro, N.C. Additionally, many participating students have earned local, state, and national recognition for their academic, social, and emotional growth. In April 2024, the Award-Winning Program was featured in the national newspaper Education Week, addressing educator preparation programs on parent and family engagement.
The Afterschool Program was designated as an award-winning initiative by the National Education Association and the NC Student Association of Educators in 2016. Over the past decade, 31 students have participated in the program, with seven publications showcasing its impact.
NCWU remains committed to fostering student success through innovative and inclusive educational programs. The University is proud to celebrate this milestone and looks forward to continuing to make a difference in the lives of students for years to come.
NCWU鈥檚 Dr. Tim Dornemann Expands Global Impact in Sports Science Education
麻豆原创 (NCWU) is committed to fostering global engagement among its faculty and staff, encouraging them to share their expertise and passion beyond campus. Dr. Tim Dornemann, Ed.D., CES, PES, CSCS, CPSS OS Pro., Associate Professor of Exercise Science and Director of the MS-HSPSS Program, exemplifies this commitment through his international contributions to sports science education.
While preparing to launch NCWU鈥檚 new Master of Science in Human Performance & Sports Science (MS-HSPSS) Program in Fall 2025, Dr. Dornemann is currently sharing his knowledge in India . He spent a few days at the , a premier institution dedicated to advancing sports education. During his time there, he co-hosted clinics engaging 400 participants. He then led a specialized clinic for in Kolkata, reaching an additional 200 in-person attendees, as well as online participants from across the country.
These global initiatives often serve as the foundation for future dual enrollment opportunities between N.C. Wesleyan and international institutions, fostering cross-cultural learning and collaboration. Dr. Dornemann鈥 s dedication to global engagement is further demonstrated though his recent work worldwide. Last summer, he joined The Board of Directors for The Christian Society of Kinesiology and Leisure Studies (CSKLS) in Longview , conducted both a corrective exercise clinic at and a strength and exercise workshop in the Philippines, and worked with athletes and soccer coaches at N.C. Wesleyan is proud of Dr. Dornemann鈥 s contributions to the field of sports science and his efforts to expand the university鈥檚 global reach. His work reinforces the university鈥檚 commitment to academic excellence and international collaboration.
NCWU Generates Over $209 Million in Economic Impact
麻豆原创 (NCWU) continues to be a vital economic driver in Central and Eastern North Carolina, contributing $209.3 million to the regional economy in fiscal year 2022-23, according to a recent economic impact study performed by Lightcast.
The report highlights NCWU鈥檚 role in job creation, business development, and workforce readiness, supporting 2,316 jobs across Edgecombe, Franklin, Halifax, Johnston, Nash, Pitt, and Wilson counties. The university employs 244 faculty and staff, with payroll expenditures of $16.3 million circulating throughout the local economy. Additionally, NCWU serves as both an employer and buyer of goods for its day-to-day and construction operations.
NCWU鈥檚 commitment to innovation and entrepreneurship is evident in its spin-off companies, which include MBM Corporation, FullSTEAM, Taylor Financials and Stroud Company CPA, generating $18.1 million in regional income. These companies, founded and nurtured by university programs, faculty, and alumni, have strong ties to NCWU and continue to create economic opportunities in the region.
Out-of-region visitors attracted to North Carolina activities at Wesleyan brought new dollars to the economy through their spending at restaurants, gas stations, and other regional businesses. Visitor spending from university events contributed an additional $413,000, while student spending added $4.9 million. Around 47% of students attending Wesleyan originated from outside the region. In addition, some retained students would have left the Central and Eastern NC for other educational opportunities if not for NCWU. These relocated and retained students spent money on groceries, rent payments, and other living expenses at regional businesses.
NCWU鈥檚 alumni play a significant role in the regional economy. Former students currently in the workforce generate $156.8 million in added income, supporting approximately 1,640 jobs. Whether the impact is evident once in a lifetime or a million times a day, it is a lasting impact.
Students experience a strong return on investment, gaining an estimated $4.90 in higher future earnings for every dollar invested in their education. In return for their investment, students will receive a stream of higher future earnings that will continue to grow throughout their working lives. For example, the average NCWU bachelor鈥檚 degree graduate from FY 2022-23 will see annual earnings that are $29,900 higher than a person with a high school diploma or equivalent working in North Carolina.
The university鈥檚 presence also provides substantial benefits to North Carolina taxpayers, generating $48.5 million in increased tax revenues and reducing demand for government-funded services. Over the course of students鈥 careers, NCWU鈥檚 contributions to the state economy are projected to reach $461.1 million, yielding a social return of $38.4 million in social savings.
Beyond economic contributions, the education provided by NCWU leads to significant social savings in areas such as healthcare, the justice system, and income assistance. A more educated workforce results in lower healthcare costs, reduced crime rates, and decreased reliance on government supported programs, yielding an estimated $38.4 million in social savings.
Overall, the social benefits of NCWU amount to a present value of $499.5 million, encompassing $294.3 million in added student income, $135.5 million in additional business income, $31.5 million from university activities, and $38.4 million in social savings.
NCWU President Dr. Evan D. Duff emphasized the university鈥檚 impact, stating 鈥淭his study reaffirms NCWU鈥檚 role as a catalyst for regional economic growth, workforce development, and social mobility. We are proud to contribute to the prosperity of North Carolina and remain committed to providing high-quality education that fuels individual and community success.鈥
Wesleyan continues to create value by equipping students with the skills necessary for career success and economic mobility. The university鈥檚 influence extends beyond its classrooms, shaping the lives of its students and strengthening the broader regional economy. It offers a best-in-class value and a personally tailored private higher education experience. Wesleyan invests in each and every student by providing individualized experiences that are Personal, Practical, and Purpose-Driven.
To read more about this report, click here!
Wesleyan Hosts GLF Scholarship Luncheon
麻豆原创 (NCWU) proudly hosted the Annual Luncheon on March 13 at The Dunn Center, celebrating the strong partnership between the two institutions. The event honored both past scholarship graduates and new recipients, highlighting the impact of the Golden LEAF Foundation (GLF) on student success.
The luncheon opened with a warm welcome from Mark Hinson, NCWU鈥檚 Vice President of Advancement, who expressed gratitude for the Foundation鈥檚 continued support. He emphasized the significant role GLF plays in providing educational opportunities for NCWU students and strengthening the university鈥檚 mission.
Alumni Speaker and NCWU graduate, Nadia Simmons, reflected on her time at Wesleyan, sharing how her experience was profoundly shaped by the scholarship. During her time as a student, she interned with GLF鈥攁n opportunity that led to her current role post-graduation. She credited the Foundation not only for her academic success but also for the meaningful relationships and shared values it fostered among students from small towns who aspire to make a big impact.
Leah Hill, NCWU鈥檚 Director of Financial Aid, recognized and introduced the scholarship recipients, personally thanking GLF members for their generosity. As a token of appreciation, the university presented gifts to the Foundation鈥檚 representatives. Five scholarship recipients were in attendance to celebrate this milestone: Benjamin Sellers, Finnegan Allen, Joseph Cooper, Nyasia Jones, and Alexis Whitfield.
The event concluded with remarks from Arlena Dongilli, GLF Scholarship Program Manager, and NCWU President Dr. Evan D. Duff, who reaffirmed the university鈥檚 gratitude for this life-changing partnership.
Through this ongoing collaboration, NCWU and the Golden LEAF Foundation continue to empower students, foster academic achievement, and invest in the future of North Carolina鈥檚 workforce.
Bishops Explore Exergaming
Students at 麻豆原创 are taking an innovative approach to understanding physical activity behavior in Dr. Shannon Crowley鈥檚 Exercise Psychology class. In this class, Dr. Crowley, Associate Professor of Public Health and Director of the MPH program, leads Public Health, Exercise Science, and Psychology students in exploring psychological theories that help predict and influence health-oriented physical activity behaviors. The course also introduces cutting-edge strategies to promote physical activity, particularly among populations that may struggle with traditional exercise routines. This is particularly important, considering that less than half of U.S. adults meet the minimum physical activity recommendations for health.
One of the most popular and engaging topics in the course is Exergaming鈥攁 dynamic concept that integrates physical activity into interactive gameplay. This method offers an exciting alternative for individuals who may not enjoy conventional workouts while still reaping the benefits of movement and exercise.
Beyond theoretical discussions, students actively participate in Exergaming sessions using virtual reality headsets, adding an experiential learning component to the class. These hands-on sessions are made possible through a partnership with Dr. Ayra Sundbom, Visiting Assistant Professor of Education and Director of Instructional Technology, further reinforcing the University鈥檚 commitment to incorporating technology-driven learning experiences into the curriculum.
By merging psychology, technology, and exercise, Dr. Crowley鈥檚 students are gaining firsthand insight into how innovation can reshape the future of fitness and health behavior interventions.
NCWU Biology Students are Published
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) proudly celebrates the continued success of its Biology Department students, who are gaining recognition in the scientific community through published research. Every student who completed BIO325 in Spring 2022, 2023, and 2024 has been published or is under review for publication, showcasing their hands-on experience in experimental design and scientific writing. This practical approach equips students with real-world research skills and prepares them for future scientific endeavors.
鈥淥ur new undergraduate coauthors have achieved remarkable success, and we鈥檙e excited to see what they do next,鈥 said Dr. Joe Lane, Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs. 鈥淯ndergraduate research is a cornerstone of the Wesleyan experience, and our faculty are among the best at guiding students to produce meaningful work.鈥
Most recently, seven students coauthored two studies on the effects of pharmaceuticals and microplastics on Physella acuta, a freshwater snail. These studies were conducted in the BIO325 Environmental Science Lab:
- 鈥 Published in Frontiers. Authors: El铆as, D., Ramirez Vieytez, J., Funoy Sayar, M., Loaisiga, J., Harper, A., and Doll, J.
- Impact of Acetaminophen and Microplastic Exposure on Physa acuta 鈥 To be published in Biologia. Authors: Elias, D., Lynch, C., Minchew, K., Van Norden, C., and Doll, J.
鈥淲atching students grow into published researchers is incredibly rewarding,鈥 said Dr. Daniel Elias, Associate Professor and Program Coordinator of Environmental Science. 鈥淓very group since 2022 has contributed valuable insights to the field.鈥
For the students, this experience is more than just an academic achievement鈥攊t鈥檚 an opportunity to make a lasting impact.
鈥淭his paper being published means a lot for my future career and my passion for understanding possible human risks from environmental contaminants,鈥 said Morena Funoy Sayar, a 2025 graduate. 鈥淚 hope this article inspires other scientists to continue researching the effects of microplastics and pharmaceuticals on both the environment and human health.鈥
Chloe Lynch, a 2026 graduate, echoed this sentiment: 鈥淭he most rewarding part of this project was having the opportunity to grow as a researcher and contribute to science. Getting my work published was validation of all the time and effort we put into it. It鈥檚 exciting to know our research could spark further discussions and future studies.鈥
These publications reflect NCWU鈥檚 unwavering commitment to fostering scientific discovery and empowering students to achieve meaningful success in research and beyond.
