WESmagazine Winter 2023

WINTER 2023 A Publication of North Carolina Wesleyan University Dr. Joseph Lane NEW PROVOST WELCOMED Deal of a Lifetime STUDENT RECEIVES A FREE CAR SHAW LEARNING CENTER NOW OPEN THE CAT’S OUT OF THE BAG! DR. EMILY WEBER ASSISTANT PROFESSOR OF BIOLOGY

Dear Wesleyan Family, Happy New Year! I hope you all had a wonderful holiday season full of quality time spent with family and friends. Now that we have settled into our new identity (as a University) here at Wesleyan, we are ready to sprint into 2023 for another year full of opportunity and promise. By now, I’m sure you have seen our updated campus signage, website, social media and advertising reflecting our new name. Although our name has changed, we remain dedicated to providing personal one-on-one mentoring opportunities, practical hands-on experiences, purpose-driven research opportunities for students and career exploration from day one. To demonstrate this, we recently launched our new Practical Skills Academy (PSA) that helps students discover their passion and learn about future career options by offering life and professional skills to students in areas not typically covered in traditional coursework. As part of the PSA, we also created a Resident Expert Program (WES-R.E.P.). Our first two experts provided a wealth of knowledge and hands-on learning with our students. This past fall, we had two experts offer their expertise: an HR professional with the NFL and an award-winning actress. You can read more about this exciting program later in this issue. As always, I am continually grateful to our loyal donors who remain committed to the intellectual, social and athletic growth of our students. Our Shaw Learning Center is now complete and in use by students and faculty. Some of the research that will take place in this new fully donor-funded facility includes student-directed cat cognition studies and behavioral endocrinology. In addition to this building, the funds received from the Nancy A. Shaw Trust allowed for the construction of the Shaw Environmental Center, which is currently under construction. This project consists of a pole barn and greenhouse located beside Bauer Field. Another exciting development that is currently underway is our second outdoor classroom, made possible by the generosity of the Barnes family with Family Fare Convenience Stores. Thank you to all of our donors who continue to help Wesleyan thrive! As we begin another semester, my hope is that we continue to pave the way for lifelong learning. As always, I invite you to keep up with the latest news on our website and by following us on our social media platforms. With gratitude, Dr. Evan D. Duff PRESIDENT A MESSAGE FROM THE OFFICE OF ADVANCEMENT Sr. Executive of Philanthropic Engagement Mark Hinson Director of Donor Engagement Tammy Robinson Project Manager & Special Assistant Donna Wheeler Alumni Relations Coordinator Caroline Little ’07 Coordinator of Donor Gifts and Information Melissa Good Executive Director, The Dunn Center Sheila Martin Box Office Manager, The Dunn Center Ruby Keeter Box Office Assistant, The Dunn Center Courtney Moss ’18 Technical Engineer, The Dunn Center Elic Gurganus Art Curator, The Dunn Center Greg Purcell MISSION STATEMENT North Carolina Wesleyan University, a private institution affiliated with the United Methodist Church, prepares students for professional advancement, lifelong learning and responsible participation in their communities. President Dr. Evan D. Duff Executive Editor Crystal Hill Assistant Editor Stephen Mann Designers Michael Frye Judie Taylor Contributors Mike Armbruster Aaron Denton Jessica Edwards Gabriel Guzman ’21 Dr. Jason Modlin Rachel Roy Elliott Smith Stephanie Stallings ’18 Donna Wheeler Photographers Dr. Carl Lewis ’00 Jordan Stone WESmagazine is published twice per year by the Office of Marketing & Communication at North Carolina Wesleyan University. ON THE COVER First endowed Nancy A. Shaw Assistant Professor of Biology, Dr. Emily Weber, holds a kitten in front of the new Shaw Learning Center. WINTER 2023

Winter 2023 | ncwc.edu | 3 WESmagazine You Can Go Home Again NCWU Receives Mentoring Grant Club Highlight - International Bishop Association One Lucky Student Receives Deal of a Lifetime NCWU Student Spotlight - Alex Mason STUDENT LIFE Shaw Learning Center Staff & Faculty Spotlight - Dr. Joseph Lane Beyond the Wall - Juana Baudrix Practical Skills Academy & Resident Expert Program Community College Partnerships Employer Partnerships Walk with the President Groundbreaking of the 2nd Outdoor Classroom Prospective Students Visit Campus for Open House ACADEMICS There’s No Place Like Homecoming Hall of Fame Athletics Starts New Career Development Program Under the Lights Bishop Athlete Spotlight - Mary Katherine Raynor Fall ’22 Sports Recap ATHLETICS Dreams Become Reality Thanks to Donors Relocated & Upgraded... Honors Program Gets A Facelift Alumni Champion Spotlight - Wayne Souza Recognizing the Lives of Inspiring Alumni A Meaningful Reconnection 2nd Annual Bishops Sporting Clays Classic Tackle the Tar 5K Race Rotary Awards Scholarships Alumni Class Notes In Memoriam Upcoming Events ALUMNI/ADVANCEMENT 4 12 18 24 Contents

4 | WESmagazine | Volume 4, Issue 1 Since its groundbreaking in March of 2022, the construction of the Shaw Learning Center has shown significant progress and is now ready for use by students and faculty this semester. This facility was made possible by funds the University received from the trust of Dr. Nancy A. Shaw, a successful physician with ties to Nash County. Her trust’s primary focus is to benefit the health and care of felines, which will significantly enhance learning opportunities for Bio-Medical students who specifically concentrate on the University’s Pre-Vet undergraduate program. The building is located behind the Welcome Center in the middle of campus and contains four classrooms, four offices and a cat lounge. The Shaw Learning Center is just one of the many exciting new additions to campus. It will provide students with unique learning opportunities, scientific initiatives and innovative ideas towards the care of felines. Shaw CENTER LEARNING Academics Dr. Nancy A. Shaw attended Brown University where she graduated magna cum laude and entered Brown University Medical School graduating in 1983. She completed her internship at Framingham Union Hospital (MA) in 1985. Her Residency in Internal Medicine was completed at the Hospital of St. Raphael (CT) in 1988. She became Board Certified in Internal Medicine in 1989. Dr. Shaw resided in North Carolina from 1992-2012. During that time, she established the Hospitalist Programs for both Cabarrus Memorial Hospital in Concord, and Boice-Willis Clinic in Rocky Mount.

Winter 2023 | ncwc.edu | 5 Academics Over the past 20-25 years, there’s been a huge explosion in canine cognition research (dog intelligence); however much less is understood about cats. There are only a small handful of cat cognition labs in existence. Therefore, the field is ripe for areas of investigation and contributions to animal research. Dr. Dimitri Blondel, NCWU Assistant Professor of Biology and an animal behaviorist, is interested in non-human animals, why they do the things they do and how they perceive their own world. In his second year at Wesleyan, he wants to find ways to expand into different exploration areas, such as human-cat interactions. He also aspires to sponsor student-directed research. Teaching an animal behavior class with a lab opens the door for him to hold labs in the new cat lounge. Some of the research that will take place includes studentdirected cat cognition studies. Studies such as these look at animal intelligence, how they receive information through their senses, learn and process the information. Can they understand speech and things like sense of fairness? Intelligence tests such as pointing exercises have shown that they can understand human pointing gestures. This means they have the potential for understanding other areas of cognition as well. Do they know their name, can they choose between a toy and food, how independent are they? All of which can help with training, owner interactions and the way we communicate with felines in general. Another type of research is behavioral endocrinology, which considers how hormones affect behavior. This is the use of fecal hormone assay to detect levels of stress hormones to determine if there is a connection between these hormones and their personalities. This research will allow NCWU students to determine cat IQs by studying how they learn and process information. Left: Dr. Dimitri Blondel, Assistant Professor of Biology

6 | WESmagazine | Volume 4, Issue 1 North Carolina Wesleyan University welcomed its new Provost, Dr. Joseph “Joe” Lane this past June. In his role as Provost, Dr. Lane serves as Chief Academic Officer overseeing academic and student affairs. This includes Student Life, Residence Life, academic programs, faculty, Registrar’s office, Elizabeth Braswell Pearsall Library and institutional research. Lane works with division chairs and faculty leaders to maintain appropriate and up-to-date academic programs and curricula. He also advises the President on all matters concerning University-wide planning, policy and operations, while establishing measures of institutional effectiveness and progress. Q: Tell us about your life outside of work. I am originally from northeast Tennessee (about one hour west of Boone, NC), and I have lived in Virginia, Massachusetts, West Virginia and Maine. I am married (28 years coming up) to Dr. Julie Wilson, a sociologist, and we have two girls – Grace (17) and Miriah (15). Q: Tell us about your educational background. I earned my B.A. in Classics and Political Science at Hampden-Sydney, and my Ph.D. in Political Science at Boston College. I completed a teaching fellow year in Massachusetts, and I have been a professor at Hampden-Sydney, Bowdoin College and Emory & Henry College. At Emory & Henry, I held the Hugh R. Hawthorne Chair, chaired the Department of Politics, Law and International Studies, and served as Founding Director of the College Honors Program. I spent five years as Provost, Dean of the Faculty, and the Sarah B. Cochran Chair of Politics and Philosophy at Bethany College. Q: What kind of student were you? I think the best way to describe me as a student was “always busy.” That was a good thing insofar as I pushed myself to take challenging classes and make good grades, but I always tended to push assignments to the last minute and to over-commit myself. Q: What attracted you to Wesleyan? I think that Wesleyan is a very interesting institution in that it is younger than any other institution where I have studied or taught, but Wesleyan has always been an innovator (not something you could say of some other institutions). I think it is fascinating that leaders in the area of Rocky Mount conceived and founded Wesleyan as a civic project and that Wesleyan has always exhibited a commitment to meet the needs of the community. Wesleyan started offering adult studies more than 40 years ago and has always had a sense of responsibility for generating new and innovative programs based on the needs of our surrounding community. In an era in which universities that innovate have opportunities to thrive but those that are stagnant are more likely to struggle, this entrepreneurial creativity made Wesleyan very intriguing as a next step. Furthermore, university-bound students are likely to be a growing demographic in North Carolina over the next 10 years while they are declining elsewhere. With its record of accomplishments and energetic faculty, I knew Wesleyan would be a very great opportunity. Q: What have you enjoyed the most so far at Wesleyan? I have enjoyed getting to know all the great people associated with the University and the opportunity to learn about their plans for their programs. Wesleyan Dr. Joseph Lane STAFF SPOTLIGHT & FACULTY Provost & Vice President of Academic Affairs Academics

Winter 2023 | ncwc.edu | 7 Juana Baudrix is an NCWU student from Argentina. When she was 10 years old, she started playing the guitar. She is also a very talented singer. She released two singles, These Years and Voy, in 2019. Her first album, Burns, came out in 2020 and contains five songs she wrote herself. Juana recently performed at the annual Lighting of Wesleyan as the musical entertainment for the night. At Wesleyan, Juana is an Environmental Science major. She completed an internship with the City of Wilson for the fall 2022 semester. THE WALL beyond JUANA BAUDRIX Scan the code to watch our full length interview with Juana. You can also listen to Juana Baudrix’s latest music on Spotify and YouTube. may be a small institution, but it is a complex system, and every day has been an adventure. Q: Do you plan to teach any classes in addition to your Provost duties? I do still like to teach, and I will be teaching American Government in the spring 2023 semester to both the traditional undergraduate and the APS populations. I am looking forward to it. Q: What do you like most about working in higher education? In my opinion, higher education is the very best field in which to live and work. I am very fortunate to work with the smartest and most creative people and to participate in the discussion about the most important ideas. I am a firm believer that thinking incisively is a habit we learn from practice, and I enjoy work that pushes me to reevaluate what I think I know every day. As a teacher, getting to see students grow in their understanding and progress in their professionalism is exciting work. In thirty years of higher education, I have been incredibly fortunate to play some role in educating a great many lawyers, doctors, educators, researchers, community leaders, journalists, elected legislators and government officials who are doing interesting things. Watching their work and celebrating their accomplishments is an honor. If I can say that I taught some of these folks key ideas or skills they needed to do great work in the world, I am quite certain that I can and should feel proud of the fruits of my labors. Q: What are your hobbies outside of work? I read a lot and write (essays on politics and culture, fiction and poetry) when I can. Writing is a great way to clarify my thinking and make me feel like I am still learning. I love riding my bike. My wife and I ride together at least a couple of times every week. An hour on the bike always rejuvenates me. I try to spend as much time as possible doing activities with my daughters. As teenagers, they sometimes have other plans, but just playing a game, watching a movie, or going for a walk with them is great.

EMPLOYER PARTNERSHIPS 1 On Thursday, June 23, leaders from North Carolina Wesleyan University and First Carolina Bank (FCB) met to establish a formal relationship between the two to expand educational opportunities for FCB employees. This partnership will allow employees to develop practical skills that they can apply to their careers through certificate, undergraduate and graduate degree programs. First Carolina Bank 2 On Monday, October 10, leaders from North Carolina Wesleyan University and Nash County Sheriff, Keith Stone, signed a partnership agreement offering educational opportunities to employees of the Nash County Sheriff’s Office (NCSO). The partnership allows employees and their immediate families to develop practical skills that they can apply to their careers through certificate, undergraduate and graduate degree programs at NCWU. Nash County Sheriff’s Office 8 | WESmagazine | Volume 4, Issue 1 Academics North Carolina Wesleyan University has instituted a new Practical Skills Academy (PSA) to offer life and professional skills to students in areas not typically covered in traditional coursework. Learning opportunities exist within the PSA, and are demonstrated in some curricula through applied learning assignments. Faculty and staff guide students as they develop practical skills that are broadly useful, fully transferable and applicable to any challenge or career. “At NC Wesleyan, we demonstrate what it means to be personal, practical and purpose-driven. Through our new Practical Skills Academy, we’re excited to offer students the chance to learn what it takes to be a well-rounded professional and world citizen. Upon graduation, they can be confident that what they’ve learned both inside and outside the classroom can be applied to their careers and lives,” stated President Dr. Evan D. Duff. The Practical Skills Academy also offers North Carolina Wesleyan University’s newly-developed Resident Expert Program (WES-R.E.P.). This program provides students with an opportunity to work directly with industry leaders through mentoring and workshops. Through on-site and virtual opportunities, these professionals connect with students to share their industry knowledge. Experts are chosen in a variety of fields including the fine arts, PRACTICAL SKILLS ACADEMY & business, education, healthcare, the sciences and specific professional fields. These high-profile experts are handselected by the President and the administrative team. The first resident expert was Dr. Constance Williams, Senior Vice President of Human Resources for the NFL. Williams joined Dr. Katrina Sweet’s Human Resources class (BUS 314) via Zoom on Friday, October 28 for a Q&A session that allowed students the opportunity to learn about the HR field. Williams is a seasoned executive with nearly 30 years of progressive human resource and business experience, having contributed to the success of several blue-chip firms in diversified industry sectors. Prior to her role with the NFL, she served as the Senior Vice President and Head of Human Resources, Americas of Sony Music Entertainment in New York, NY where she led Sony Music’s talent acquisition and talent management functions. “Constance possesses a wealth of knowledge about the world of human resources and organizational development, which she has obtained through her work with multiple top-tier corporations,” stated President Dr. Evan D. Duff. “She is a strong advocate for Wesleyan and I’m very excited our students received the wisdom she has to offer.” Dr. Constance Williams Sharon Lawrence

Winter 2023 | ncwc.edu | 9 3 Also, North Carolina Wesleyan University has partnered with Rocky Mount Preparatory School to offer educational opportunities to their employees who are pursuing a Teaching License with NCWU’s Teacher Education Program. This opportunity is available to those seeking teacher licensure as a Residency Student, as a bachelor’sonly student, those pursuing a second bachelor’s degree, or for those seeking tutoring support for licensure exam preparation. Rocky Mount Preparatory School 4 The last new partnership is with Wake Technical Community College. This partnership allows Wake Tech employees to receive exclusive tuition rates to attend NCWU. The dynamic programs allow Wake Tech employees to remain employed while attending classes online or one night per week. One-on-one advising support and mentoring will also be provided. Wake Technical Community College COMMUNITY COLLEGE PARTNERSHIPS On Monday, August 8, leaders from North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) and Wayne Community College (WCC) met at the Wayne Learning Center Atrium in Goldsboro to sign an Enhanced Institutional Partnership. The two schools have had a partnership agreement in place since 2017, allowing WCC students a seamless transfer to continue their education at NC Wesleyan following completion of their two-year degree at WCC. Earlier this summer, NCWU made the decision to relocate their Goldsboro Adult Studies location to the campus of Wayne Community College. In addition, the move allows NCWU to have dedicated space on the campus of WCC, offering a more convenient option for students at WCC to pursue a degree from NC Wesleyan. Also, during the spring 2022 semester, North Carolina Wesleyan University signed agreements to help qualified graduates of Stanly Community College and Southwestern Community College transfer to Wesleyan. These agreements aim to provide a seamless transfer for students who enroll at Wesleyan following completion of their two-year degree at these community colleges. In addition, NCWU also reauthorized agreements with Pamlico, Durham Technical and Beaufort County Community Colleges. L-R: President Dr. Patricia A. Pfeiffer, WCC; and President Dr. Evan D. Duff, NCWU Winter 2023 | ncwc.edu | 9 and learn from professionals in the industry. Whether at UNC Playmakers, summer stock, theme parks, outdoor dramas, regional theaters or the North Carolina Theater, Theater Raleigh and the countless film and TV productions shot here, our state has invested in its people by investing in the arts and entertainment business,” stated Lawrence. Another resident expert who offered her expertise to NCWU students was Sharon Lawrence. Ms. Lawrence visited the University’s Acting I class on Tuesday, November 15 to provide a workshop on auditioning and improv. This was not the first time that Lawrence had been to NC Wesleyan. After the COVID pandemic delayed her speaking at the University’s Spring 2020 Commencement, she returned to address the class of 2020 during the Winter 2020 Commencement. Lawrence is an award-winning stage and screen actor who can most recently be seen in the Paramount+ and Spectrum drama series, Joe Pickett. She also recently wrapped up the final season of the Dynasty remake as Laura Van Kirk. Her previous work includes NYPD Blue, One Tree Hill, Rizzoli and Isles, Shameless, Grey’s Anatomy and ABC’s Rebel. “One of the great advantages in my early experience as a student-performer was the opportunity to work alongside Academics Sharon Lawrence directs student during acting class.

10 | WESmagazine | Volume 4, Issue 1 listed above, providing a symmetrical look to the front of campus, and doubling the educational opportunities for students and faculty afforded by this type of environment. Groundbreaking for the second outdoor classroom occurred in August 2022, with completion scheduled for the spring of 2023. 10 The 2022-23 Walk with the President event with Dr. Evan D. Duff was held on Tuesday, October 25 on the University’s main campus. The purpose of this event was to recognize the importance of regular physical activity and to celebrate Exercise is Medicine® on Campus month. Many faculty, staff and students participated in the walk around campus. GROUNDBREAKING OF THE 2ND OUTDOOR CLASSROOM Academics What’s better than one outdoor classroom? Two outdoor classrooms! With the overwhelming success of the Marvin and Cynthia Barnes-Family Fare Convenience Stores Outdoor Classroom, the Barnes family has generously funded an additional $50,000 towards the construction of another outdoor classroom. This new addition will be located adjacent to the first, at the front of campus. Throughout 2022, the first outdoor classroom has provided students with a fun and innovative educational experience that expands their perspectives outside the walls of a normal class setting. It has also successfully been used as a space for worship, Bible studies and open mic nights hosted by NCWU’s Poetry Club. The original outdoor classroom is a three-row, brick amphitheater-style classroom which seats approximately 20-25 students and consists of lighting, power ports and the capability for an outdoor projector. Plans for the second outdoor classroom include the same features PRESIDENT WALK WITH THE

Winter 2023 | ncwc.edu | 11 ANNUAL FALL OPEN HOUSE PROSPECTIVE STUDENTS VISIT NCWU CAMPUS FOR Academics On Saturday, November 5, North Carolina Wesleyan University held its annual Fall Open House. Twenty-nine future Battling Bishops were warmly welcomed to Bishop Nation and given the opportunity to ask questions during a panel discussion with key department heads before being taken on a campus tour by Student Ambassadors and Tour Directors. The event ended with an Academic & Student Life showcase, where students and their families were able to meet with faculty members for each major offered, as well as, other departments on campus. Out of the 29 students, eight made the exciting decision to enroll as a Battling Bishop while at Open House! One of those eight students completed their application at the Academic & Student Life showcase, was accepted with a scholarship opportunity and submitted their enrollment deposit before they left the event. Another student, Jennifer Q., even stated that she “decided to stop applying to other schools because she knew where her heart was, and that was with NC Wesleyan.” The participation at the Fall Open House was beyond expectations and ultimately a successful event for the University. J O I N U S F O R W I N T E R OPEN HOUSE SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2023 REGISTER TODAY AT NCWC.EDU/OPENHOUSE Office of Admissions | 252.985.5200 | ncwc.edu/admissions |

12 | WESmagazine | Volume 4, Issue 1 Student Life In his posthumously published novel, North Carolina author Thomas Wolfe said in the same-titled work, “you can’t go home again.” North Carolina Wesleyan alumni Monet Somerville ’06 and Gabriel Guzman ’21 would beg to differ. Coming back to the place that had such an impact on their lives, Somerville and Guzman returned to the University this fall to serve as Area Coordinators in the Residence Life program. Wolfe’s statement was intended to convey the reality that our past experiences in a particular place are past. They cannot be relived. There is always something different about a place when we return. While that would be true in many respects for NCWU since Somerville and Guzman left, one trait about Wesleyan that remains the same is the very one that drew them back – NCWU is a family. As students, both Monet and Gabriel quickly realized that they were more than just a number. Coming all the way from Venezuela as an international student, Gabriel found adjustment somewhat difficult. Fortunately, he encountered what he called a “big supportive community” that helped him integrate into campus life in ways he never thought possible. During his time at NCWU, Gabriel was a member of many clubs and organizations, including the International Bishop Association and National Society for Leadership and Success (NSLS) where he was President for two years. He also served in the Office of International Student Services, providing transition support for new international students. Monet’s journey to NCWU was a bit shorter. A native of Fayetteville, NC, she chose Wesleyan primarily because it offered the best scholarship package. While the financial assistance led her to attend, she noted that “the people here made me stay.” Monet was also active in campus life, pledging membership in Zeta Phi Beta Sorority and serving as a Resident Advisor in the Residence Life program, a position which helped to prepare her for her current role. A week after graduating, Monet moved to New Orleans, LA. She worked in various roles supporting children and families, eventually earning her master’s degree in Psychology. When asked why she decided to return to NCWU, she stated, “I never wanted to leave!” The opportunity to return home, be near family and give HOME AGAIN YOU GO Can

Winter 2023 | ncwc.edu | 13 Student Life back to students were primary factors in her decision. Following graduation in May 2021, Gabriel attended Hult International Business School in Cambridge, MA where he earned his master’s degree in International Business. While there, he also served as a graduate Resident Advisor. He noted that returning to Wesleyan was a logical choice, as he wanted to return to North Carolina. Being able to do so while serving the school that gave him so much was an added bonus. When you accept a live-in position in residence life at a small university, you are truly ‘all-in’. Being a professional residence life staff member is not for the faint of heart. Handling late night crises, fire alarms, roommate conflicts and the usual adolescent behavior, which we all are prone to exhibit at that time of our life, marks the duties of a live-in professional. However, living on campus also affords many opportunities to develop mentoring relationships with students and have a positive impact on their lives that cannot be matched in other areas of campus. As a former international student, Gabriel has found opportunities to translate his experience as a student into teaching moments for current students. He has formed many one-on-one mentoring relationships since returning. “Being in a position to help students and provide the support that was given to me while I was a student is something that I appreciate.” In addition to mentoring, Gabriel also stepped in to serve as the advisor for the International Bishop Association. This organization, open to all NCWU students, helps provide cultural programming and raise cultural awareness across campus. Gabriel’s background and experiences make him uniquely qualified to lead this organization. Monet has also found many opportunities to impact student lives. As the Area Coordinator in the freshman female residence hall, she is positioned to help students as they transition from high school to college. During her first semester, she started hosting nurture groups. Nurture groups are activity-based events that teach students basic relationship skills and allow them to practice the skills in a fun, controlled environment. Drawing on her counseling and mental health background, she uses an evidencebased program called Trust-Based Relational Intervention to help prepare the nurture group activities. She noted that “having a trauma-informed background allows me to help students think through their options and find the best outcomes for their situation.” Currently enrolled in a doctoral program at Capella University for developmental psychology, Monet hopes to one day teach at NCWU. Her desire is to be the same supportive, nurturing influence for other students that she found in her professors. Gabriel’s long-term plan is still uncertain. While he wants to have a role in business, he has also found a love for higher education and the impact it has on students’ lives. He noted that, “if we can change one person’s life, that is satisfaction.” We welcome these two back home to their Bishop family! Monet Somerville Gabriel Guzman

14 | WESmagazine | Volume 4, Issue 1 The NCICU iBelong Male Mentoring Program provides funding to implement strategies designed to increase the retention and graduation rates of minority males at member campuses through mentoring, life coaching and educational forums. NC Wesleyan University joins 13 other NCICU campuses with an iBelong Male Mentoring Program. Dr. Kelvin Spragley, Director of Teacher Education and Coordinator of Diversity and Inclusion Programming, is providing leadership for this initiative. The iBelong Male Mentoring Program at NC Wesleyan University is working through Black Men Winning, a recently created student organization devoted to uplifting and assisting African-American males in a holistic manner. The grant will be utilized to create opportunities for black male students to engage in a variety of activities that offer academic learning, emotional support, job readiness preparation, and cultural experiences such as field trips, movie nights, and counseling sessions. The Black Men Winning student organization has already scheduled activities for the spring 2023 term, including a field trip to the National Museum of African American History and Culture, Motivational Speaker Forums, Interview Workshops, STEM Forum Participation, and a Policing and the Black Community Forum. Currently, the iBelong Male Mentoring Program has 21 participants. For more information about the program, including how to partner with the University in this initiative, please contact Dr. Spragley at [email protected]. Student Life Mentoring programs for college and university students have been proven effective at increasing engagement, as well as persistence and completion rates for participants. This is especially true for male students of color. Studies have shown that AfricanAmerican students have very different experiences than their majority colleagues, among these are feelings of isolation and lower levels of campus engagement. In an effort to help address these issues, North Carolina Wesleyan University applied for, and was the grateful recipient of, a grant through the NC Independent Colleges and Universities (NCICU) association to help fund the iBelong Male Mentoring Program.℠ MENTORING GRANT NCWU RECEIVES University Merch Now Available! Shop our newest apparel online or on campus at the Rachel T. Dix Bookstore. Ace the Apparel Test SHOP NOW! Khalil Robertson ’23 speaks to a group in the iBelong Male Mentoring Program.

Winter 2023 | ncwc.edu | 15 Student Life “Think globally, act locally.” This long-standing and oft-repeated slogan is alive and well at North Carolina Wesleyan University. NCWU is proud to bring the nations to Rocky Mount with over 43 countries represented in our student population. International students bring a wealth of cultural diversity to our campus which enhances the learning experience for all students. By virtue of being an international student, they are all members of the International Bishop Association (IBA). In addition to international students, many domestic students are also members of IBA. This year’s IBA is advised by Gabriel Guzman ’21, a former international student at NCWU. The IBA’s mission is to increase knowledge and awareness of cultural and international affairs for all students. In so doing, the University community is challenged to think about how our actions here can affect the entire world. IBA helps raise cultural and global awareness by offering educational opportunities throughout the academic year. In partnership with the International Student Services Office, IBA supports and promotes International Education month each November. Additionally, IBA stages two primary events each year - Fall Ball and Global WesFest. Fall Ball is typically held as part of homecoming week. A cultural celebration, Fall Ball allows international and domestic students to join together to experience music, dance and other art forms from different cultures. Held on the Southern Bank Green, the event draws over INTERNATIONAL BISHOP ASSOCIATION CLUB HIGHLIGHT: 100 student participants, many whose curiosity simply got the best of them and decided to check it out. This year’s Fall Ball featured an exciting twist. International students were asked about what food items reminded them of home. Then, working with the Student Activities team, these food items were procured and offered to participants during the ball. Our international students were excited to get a taste of home and eager to share these foods with their peers. A sampling of the foods shared included Crodino (Italian drink), Yorkshire tea (United Kingdom), and Alfajores (South American cookie with dulce de leche). There was a strong sense of cultural pride as they shared the food items and explained the cultural significance of each. Andrea ‘Andy’ Rizzo ’24 shared a dulce de leche chocolate spread from her native Argentina. She described it as a sort of “Argentinian Nutella” that is arguably one of the most popular desserts in Argentina. “Being able to share some foods of my country with the Wesleyan community was an incredibly special moment because I consider the NCWU community to be home away from home. It was definitely an event I will never forget!” Global WesFest is held each spring and is a showcase of international cultures. Students exhibit their culture by singing, dancing or other presentations. Often, a fashion and talent show are also offered. This event also provides an opportunity for the International Student Services team to recognize our graduating international students and thank them for their contributions to campus life. This event is well-attended by both international and domestic students. In keeping with IBA’s focus on cross-cultural exchange within the local community, the most recent Global WesFest was hosted by Larema Coffee House in downtown Rocky Mount. Freshman, Kusum Shrestha from Nepal

16 | WESmagazine | Volume 4, Issue 1 Student Life student had to show how the car would assist them in furthering their educational journey. Second, to be eligible for the drawing students had to be in good academic and conduct standing. During September and October, students, staff and faculty submitted nominations for students they felt needed and deserved a new car. Over 400 nominations were submitted. After the nominations were vetted, all valid nominations were put into a drawing where one lucky name was selected. On the night of the Homecoming Bonfire, you could feel the anticipation building. Everyone present was keenly aware that one person’s life would change dramatically. The name was drawn, and Cierra Gamble ’23 was the winner! Cierra is a senior from Durham, NC majoring in Business Administration and a member of the Cheer and Dance squad. For the past four years, Cierra and her parents have shared one vehicle. During the summers, her parents would take the bus to work so Cierra could use the car as she pursued internships and job opportunities. However, during the academic year she could not participate in such opportunities. In disbelief that her name was called, she knew her life, as well as that of her family, would be changed for the better. Like Cierra, her parents could not believe that she had won the car. Her mother, Erika Gamble said, “we were not in a position to buy our daughter a car and we were working to figure out what Cierra would do when she graduated. This car is the blessing we needed; it will provide her with many opportunities, and we are very grateful she could win it.” When asked why he was giving away a car, Joey Griffin said, “someone gave me a chance when I was young, and now I have a successful business. I hope that the person who wins this car can look back years down the road and say that this car helped propel them forward in their lives, that it becomes that ‘chance’ [the] person needed to be successful.” In the end, this was more than a car giveaway— it was the opportunity Cierra Gamble needed to help her jumpstart her career. It was also a chance for the community and University to partner in support of students. North Carolina Wesleyan University is On November 4, as the fire from the annual Homecoming Bonfire burned into the night, over 300 people crowded around to hear their name called. They were eagerly anticipating the Deal of a Lifetime – the chance to win a free car that would transform their educational experience! As part of their educational journey, many of our students desire to participate in off-campus internships and work opportunities, but cannot for lack of a vehicle. This is very limiting to many students. Students often share a similar story of being unable to fully participate in these types of important learning opportunities due to a lack of transportation. This year, the Homecoming Committee decided to rewrite that narrative for one deserving student. The University reached out to Joey Griffin Kia, a local car dealership, to see how we might partner with them to address this issue. “We met with them hoping to get a used car, something reliable that could get a person from point A to point B. We were shocked when they started discussing giving away a new car,” said Elliott Smith, Director of Student Activities and Homecoming Committee member. Owner Joey Griffin stated, “Every time you see people giving away a car, it is either a basic or unreliable car. I felt we needed to give away a car that a young person would enjoy driving and that would be reliable.” In the midst of a challenging vehicle market due to supply chain issues, Joey Griffin Kia went above and beyond to provide the Deal of a Lifetime— a brand new 2022 Kia Rio for the University to award during halftime at the Homecoming game. Students vying for the new car had to meet certain criteria. First, there had to be a demonstrated need. The DEAL OF A LIFETIME ONE LUCKY STUDENT RECEIVES 1 2

Winter 2023 | ncwc.edu | 17 Student Life North Carolina Wesleyan University Esports has won its first-ever championship! Esports player and NCWU freshman, Alex Mason, is the Eastern College Athletic Conference (ECAC) NBA 2K Fall Champion! Alex, a History major from Rocky Mount, NC, swept the best-of-five championship series 3-0, defeating John Bolton of Augustana College. Alex went 7-1 in the regular season and was the number 1 overall seed for the post-season conference tournament. Alex swept all four of his playoff series, defeating players from USC Aiken, Radford University, Long Island University and Augustana College on his way to the University’s first-ever Esports Championship. Chantoni Grant, head coach for NCWU’s Esports Alex Mason NCWU SPOTLIGHT STUDENT extremely grateful to Joey Griffin Kia for their partnership and support of our students. When students come to NCWU, they have not only the support of the University, but the support of the Rocky Mount community. When we all work together, we really do change people’s lives. team said, “Alex put in the work it takes to be successful at Esports. He trained, practiced and perfected his craft to become the best 2K player he could be, and his best was a championship win!” Alex said of his win, “I didn’t think I was very good at 2K before the season started, but I listened to what my coach said, practiced and got a lot better throughout the season. It paid off and I still can’t believe I won!” As with traditional sports, Esports provides students with opportunities to develop many skillsets through regular practices and game preparation activities. Esports students develop skills such as critical thinking, time management, strategizing and networking. NCWU competes in the ECAC Esports League which offers competitive intercollegiate gaming for over 130 Division I, II, and III colleges and universities in 14 different games and divisions. NCWU’s 13-member Esports team is competing this year across four different games – NFL Madden, NBA 2K ’23, Super Smash Brothers and Overwatch. This spring, the team is also competing in Fortnite and FIFA. Students interested in becoming part of the Esports team should contact Esports Coach, Chantoni Grant, at [email protected]. 3 Joey Griffin, Cierra Gamble ’23 and Clarence Harris, General Manager of Joey Griffin Kia Joey Griffin, Owner of Joey Griffin Kia, hands Cierra Gamble ’23 the keys to her new 2022 Kia Rio. Cierra Gamble ’23 and her parents, Christopher and Erika Gamble 1 2 3

18 | WESmagazine | Volume 4, Issue 1 Athletics

Winter 2023 | ncwc.edu | 19 Athletics Chili cook-offs, a BBQ, the return of a fraternity, alumni games and hospitality abounded at Homecoming 2022. The 4th Annual NCWU Homecoming Chili Cook-Off was truly a melting pot of people, ideas and spice. Previous years included entries from staff and faculty, but this year comprised entries from executive administration, the parents of a football player and a cheerleader dad. This “breaking of bread” together was a visceral representation of the cohesive vision of the University to integrate our campus at every level and to extend our Wesleyan family to the families of our students. A path of red tents formed a walkway to the new turf field that every visitor passed on their way into the Homecoming game. It was a path full of great chilies varying from a traditional red to two brisket, one of which took home the trophy for Judges Choice. Comradery, community and commitment to excellence at every level ruled the day and even though it was warm enough for one chili contestant to be wearing shorts, it was a day to remember and the making of future traditions for Wesleyan Homecoming. Nu Gamma Phi fraternity staked claim to the hospitality turf with a large BBQ meal under a big tent with games, lots of people and fun. Roger ’70 and Gaile Taylor, representing the fraternity in their reboot, flipped the coin for the Homecoming football game. The Wesleyan Society, newly formed Bishops Backyard members and other donors enjoyed hospitality in the south end zone creating a true on-campus college football experience for fans, alumni and students alike. Athletic alumni from volleyball, football, women’s basketball and men’s basketball returned for competitive, but friendly, alumni games to relive some of their past glory on the field and court. NCWU Athletic Director, Aaron Denton, shared, “We are thankful for so many who have invested in creating this experience for our University. We are equally excited that what we saw this year is the foundation of future gameday experiences. The goal will be to continue to build an atmosphere that creates lasting memories and loyalties for students, alumni, fans and student-athletes alike.” omeCOMING THERE’S NO PLACE LIKE H

20 | WESmagazine | Volume 4, Issue 1 Athletics WesPros is a new program by Wesleyan’s Department of Athletics that focuses on career development, professionalism and preparation. It includes a variety of sessions and modes of communication such as resume writing, etiquette, internships, interviewing, networking and more. On Monday, September 26, the first session was held in The Dunn Center’s Minges Auditorium. A panel discussion included Retired Brigadier General Arnold GordonBray, a member of NCWU’s Board of Trustees, along with four Wesleyan graduates – Dave Gruver ’87 (Men’s Basketball), Suzanne Brackett ’87 (Cheerleading), Roger Taylor ’70 (Men’s Basketball), and Quinderra Spellman ’09 (Football). They discussed their career paths, what they look for in hiring and promotion, and what it means to be a professional. Nearly 400 student-athletes were in attendance for the forum. The value of first impressions, internships and volunteering, being willing to take on any job – no matter how big, or how small – and being prepared are just a few examples of topics the panel touched on. North Carolina Wesleyan Director of Athletics Aaron Denton commented on the program saying, “WesPros is the perfect intersection between our coaches’ desire to develop studentathletes, the University’s focus on developing practical skills, and our students looking for opportunities to learn. I’d like to thank Coach John Thompson for keeping our athletic program and University at the forefront of creative programs carefully planned to support the education of our students.” Wesleyan Head Men’s Basketball Coach John Thompson, the architect of WesPros, said, “There is such a tremendous opportunity here for our student-athletes to learn and grow, to network and build relationships, and to better understand the world that they will be entering after earning their degree.” WesPros is designed for freshmen through senior student-athletes to help them prepare for, and transition into, professional life, regardless of their chosen field. WesPros also works in concert with NCWU’s Office of Career Development & Leadership. “The first WesPros event was a remarkable success. Our studentathletes and many of their coaches were in attendance, and the panel offered remarkable insights into their professional journeys. I know many of the students were excited to learn more about how they can enhance their sense of leadership, professionalism and self-discipline during their college careers, and I look forward to watching them put what they have learned into action,” observed Dr. Joe Lane, Provost. Jeremy Stewart was an integral member of Wesleyan’s 1999 National Championship roster. Amassing 78 hits for the 1998-99 season, he was named Most Valuable Player and selected as a First Team All-Conference performer. He was named All-American in his freshman season and tabbed as a 1997 First Team All-Conference member. Jeremy ranks #1 in Wesleyan Baseball history with 63 career doubles, placing him in the top ten nationally. He is the Wesleyan record holder for all-time RBIs with 194. Jeremy’s driving force for excellence puts him at #4 in the history of the program with 182 games played. NCWU recently welcomed two new members into the NC Wesleyan Hall of Fame. These individuals exemplify competitive greatness & stand as pillars of excellence in Bishop Baseball history. FAME HALL OF Jamie Whiting is one of only fifteen individuals in the storied history of Bishop Athletics to have his jersey retired, and one of seven in a baseball program that has won two College World Series titles. Ranking in the top five in several categories in the Wesleyan Baseball record book, Jamie sits at #2 in total at bats with 728 (sixth nationally), #1 in total runs scored with 222 (sixth nationally), #4 in career assists with 441, and tied with Jeremy Stewart at #3 in total career hits with 247. Jamie sits third all-time in walks drawn with 123 and fifth in program history for career triples. He earned two First Team All-Conference selections; one during his freshman season (1993-94) and again for the 1996-1997 season. Ultimately, Jamie was selected for Wesleyan’s Outstanding Male Athlete of the Year Award. JEREMY STEWART JAMIE WHITING NEW CAREER DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM ATHLETICS STARTS WESPROS

Winter 2023 | ncwc.edu | 21 Athletics A senior catcher from Pink Hill, North Carolina, has proven WhyD3 is successful not only for athletics, but academics alike. Involved with various organizations on campus, including National Society of Leaderships and Success and Fellowship of Christian Athletes, she spends her spare time leading her team in weekly Bible study. She’s also a student teacher and tutor who plans to graduate early.  “MK is honest, confident and a natural leader. The other girls follow her and she leads a good example on and off the field. She holds her teammates accountable, but she is also compassionate and serves as a good teammate to lean on in times of need,” said Coach Meredith Booth. She received the 2022 Scholar Athlete Award, Most Valuable Player Award in both 2021 and 2022, and is a two-time recipient of the President’s Honor List. Mary Katherine Raynor BISHOP SPOTLIGHT ATHLETE Q: Why did you choose D3? I wanted to continue my softball career, however I did not want it to consume my time in college. My education is very important to me and I knew that in order for me to succeed in both academics and athletics I would need the time to manage both. I chose Wesleyan because as soon as I stepped foot on campus, I felt like it was where the Lord wanted me to be. The coaches and players (now teammates) made it an extremely easy decision to make NCWU my home away from home. Clifton remarked, “to be able to schedule practices and games without worrying about daylight is a game changer for the program. It has been a dream of many baseball alumni for years and to see them up now is truly amazing. I cannot wait to see the stands full on a Friday and Saturday night for Bishop Baseball!” Graduate Senior Zach Lyon stated “It’s a dream come true to get lights. It opens up so many more opportunities for us to enjoy the game.” Sophomore Collin Scoggins agreed, adding “We’re counting the days until the first pitch under the lights, which will bring a whole new level of energy.” Junior Blake Scott echoed those sentiments, saying “Having new lights not only gives us the ability to play later games, but also to be able to host a regional. At the end of the day, every baseball player has dreamed of stepping onto a lit-up college baseball field surrounded by screaming fans. I look forward to living out this dream as a Battling Bishop.” Bishop Baseball will hold its first night game on Wednesday, March 22, 2023 against Christopher Newport! With the completion of baseball lights, the attention now turns to softball. If you have a desire to contribute to the lighting of Edge Field, please reach out to Mike Armbruster at [email protected]. UNDER THE LIGHTS The night of August 18, 2022 Head Baseball Coach Greg Clifton flipped the switch, and the skies above Bauer Field lit up for the first time ever thanks to eight new light poles. The Flip the Switch fundraising campaign was completely donor-funded, with over forty individuals helping make the lights a reality. Lloyd ’67 and Elliott ’66 Nelson, along with Joe Shearin ’78, helped kickstart the project. A major catalyst to the overall success of the campaign was John Alden’s ’64 large matching gift. Finally, an anonymous gift in honor of former pitcher Jim Pittman ’92 significantly moved the needle and pushed us over the top.

22 | WESmagazine | Volume 4, Issue 1 Athletics The 2022 women’s soccer team fought hard and competed well against both out-of-conference and in-conference opponents. This earned them a sixthplace finish in the USA South, and a conference tournament berth. Key victories throughout the course of the season included wins over Johnson & Wales, Brevard, Meredith, Pfeiffer and Salem. On October 29, the Battling Bishops honored 11 graduating seniors and graduate student-athletes. The positive impact this class made on the pitch, and across Wesleyan’s campus, will be greatly missed. In all, women’s soccer had three players garner end of season awards; two freshmen midfielders, Samantha Dell from Falls Church, VA, and Eden Whiteside from Jeffersonton, VA, were named to the All-Conference Second Team. Finally, senior Sophia Sweeney from Wake Forest, NC represented the Battling Bishops on the Conference’s All-Sportsmanship Team. WOMEN’S SOCCER The Mark Bowman era kicked off as he took over as head coach of the men’s soccer program. They played an extremely competitive non-conference schedule to prepare for the USA South Conference, coming out of it a seasoned group. The Bishops’ high level in-conference production did not miss a beat, winning the regularseason USA South Crown, posting a 6-1 league record and earning the #1 seed in the conference tournament. First-time Head Coach Bowman was tabbed as the USA South Conference Coach of the Year, and five Bishop student-athletes were selected to All-Conference Teams. Sophomore midfielder, Felipe Garcia, was selected as a First Team member, while freshman forward, Leho Le Louarn, freshman defender, Mika Lommers, sophomore defender, Kfir Peretz, and sophomore goalkeeper, Fred Rogers all earned Second Team All-Conference honors. MEN’S SOCCER The men’s and women’s cross country programs at Wesleyan competed in five cross country meets, one of which was the 2022 USA South Conference Cross Country Championship. This was the Bishops’ third straight year hosting the conference championship meet. USA South Athletic Conference Commissioner Dr. Tom Hart commented “the course just keeps getting better.” Senior, Philly Barungi, paced the men’s program at the championship meet with a time of 29:12.1 for the 8k race, while freshman, Maxima Iglesias, led the Bishop women with a time of 28:54.6 over the 6k race. Wesleyan placed two runners to the All-Sportsmanship Team— on the men’s side, sophomore Ayden Harper was selected, and on the women’s side, freshman Maxima Iglesias was selected. Maxima is a two-sport athlete who is also a member of the Battling Bishops women’s basketball program. CROSS COUNTRY The fall semester for the Bishop men’s golf program featured multiple highlights, none brighter than hosting the Don Scalf Memorial at Belmont Lake Golf Club. Wesleyan finished second out of eight teams, and freshman, Guido Guevara, was voted USA South Rookie of the Week for his performance over the two-day tournament. Guevara would garner that award again later in the fall, setting up high expectations for his spring semester tournaments. The Battling Bishops followed up their strong performance in the Scalf Memorial tournament with a winning performance at the NCWU & Chowan Invite at the Beachwood Country Club. Junior, Santiago Larumbe, won the event, with sophomore, Myles Patterson, and Guevara finishing second and third, respectively. MEN’S GOLF SPORTS RECAP FALL ’22

Winter 2023 | ncwc.edu | 23 Athletics The 2022 Bishop football program battled through injury and adversity throughout the season, notching a sixth-place finish in the USA South Conference. They posted wins over Southern Virginia, LaGrange, and a solid season-ending win over in-state rival Greensboro. Senior Day coincided with Homecoming due to tropical storm-like weather earlier in the season, and saw the Battling Bishops honor 15 graduating seniors prior to the final home game against Huntingdon College. Desmond Barnes, the sophomore offensive lineman from Rocky Mount, garnered First Team All-Conference honors, while his teammates Anthony Byrd, a running back, and Benyon Williams, a cornerback, both were voted to the USA South Second Team. Outside linebacker, Charles Sias, made his presence felt on defense and special teams, and was recognized as the Bishops’ selection for the Conference’s All-Sportsmanship Team. FOOTBALL Wesleyan’s volleyball program jumped out to a quick 2-1 start in 2022 at the LaGrange Volleyball Invitational, and competed fiercely throughout the fall to earn themselves a spot in the USA South Volleyball Conference Tournament. Coach Vicky Gentile’s squad posted conference wins over Pfeiffer, Mary Baldwin, Brevard and in-state rival Methodist. The team had an outstanding performance in the classroom, highlighted by graduating six seniors, and two graduate studentathletes. Junior setter, Sloan Martin, recorded her 1,000th career assist this past season, while leading the team in assists with 609. Freshman utility player, Amber Pierce, from Lexington, NC was selected for the USA South All-Sportsmanship Team for her contributions to the Bishop volleyball program. VOLLEYBALL Battling Bishop tennis had an amazing opportunity this fall to play host to the South Intercollegiate Tennis Association (ITA) Fall Regionals for the first time in school history. In addition to multiple Wesleyan studentathletes, the event featured players from a number of prominent programs, including Sewanee: University of the South, BirminghamSouthern College, Millsaps College, Rhodes College, and Emory University. The men’s and women’s programs completed a grueling fall schedule, with matches at the Methodist Fall Invite, Grizzly Open in Atlanta, Belmont Abbey Invitational, UNC Wilmington Invitational and the Christopher Newport Invitational. TENNIS

24 | WESmagazine | Volume 4, Issue 1 The phrase “it’s nice to put a face to a name” came true for scholarship donors and recipients on Thursday, October 20, 2022 at a Scholarship Appreciation Dinner. The banquet provided an opportunity for student beneficiaries of educational investments to meet and thank their scholarship donor in person. The evening guest speaker was Kelly Joyner Lee, Program Officer for the North Carolina Community Foundation. Perhaps the biggest impression on the crowd though was left by NCWU Student Speaker, Margaret Bentley. A Golden LEAF Scholar and Lettie Pate Whitehead Scholar, Margaret represented all scholarship recipients by sharing her personal story. The soft-spoken student began, “My name is Margaret Bentley and around six weeks from now I will officially be the first person in my family to have graduated high school and college! Even if the latter did take me well into my 4th decade of life. Better late than never!” Born in Florida with an identical twin, Margaret at the age of 2, moved with her family to the mountains of Virginia. “Rather than simple platitudes tonight, I’m going to tell you all a short story. The story of a young girl from the Appalachian Mountains. The place may vary, but there was a lot just like this little girl here at NC Wesleyan.” Margaret grew up dirt poor, the daughter of a coal miner, World War II veteran and a kind, hardworking homemaker. Her father was able to go to school until he was 12 years old before having to drop out so he could go to work. The year was 1936. Her mother made it to the 7th grade before she, too, had to drop out. The summer Margaret turned 11 years old, she lived outside. “Some folks call it homeless, but I prefer to think of that time as an adventure.” She lived in a world of books because it was far superior to parts of her reality. Margaret adventured with Huck Finn and traveled with David Copperfield. She practiced apologetics with C.S. Lewis, even before she knew what the word apologetics meant, and battled Herman Melville’s great white whale. You see, Margaret’s friends were books. Never in her life did Margaret think there would come a time just for her to learn, think deeply and be educated. “After all, it was something that could never fade or be removed from me as material possessions had been.” She graduated from Castlewood High School in Castlewood, Virginia in 1994 and soon after, married her high school sweetheart Johnnie Bentley. Margaret attended Dental Assisting School at the Washington County Adult Skills Center in Abingdon, Virginia. She graduated at the top of her class and received all certifications in dental chair-side assisting and radiography for the state of Virginia. Margaret left the workforce in 2003 to assume a fulltime role caring for her ailing mother-in-law until she passed away. After learning she was pregnant and giving birth to her beautiful daughter, Mary, in 2005, Margaret chose to stay home as a full-time wife and mother. Eventually, Margaret began a small private business that includes landscape design and management, raised bed gardening, housecleaning, holiday decorating and garage and attic organization. But the longing to learn never faded. So, one day in January of 2015, Margaret braved the parking lot full of teenagers at Nash Community College and signed up for one class. “That class cost just over $500 including textbooks. I had to clean a lot of houses for that much money, but it was worth every penny.” She continued taking classes at the Community College as she was able, sometimes only one class at a time since she was still operating her business. Then one day, Nash Community College held a college fair in their library— Margaret’s favorite room in the whole place. She never really imagined she’d get to go to a four-year college. How Margaret Bentley ’22, NCWU Student Speaker Advancement reams THANKS TO DONORS DBECOME REALITY

Winter 2023 | ncwc.edu | 25 in the world would she ever be able to afford that? That day, Margaret ran into a lady from North Carolina Wesleyan named Dr. Angela Foster. Dr. Foster took her information and before Margaret knew it, she had an inbox full of applications for different scholarships. One of those was the Golden LEAF Foundation Scholarship. She thought “what the heck…what have I got to lose?” “Well, you know the Lord works in mysterious ways. Because guess what? I got it! As a matter of fact, I got more than I’d ever dreamed between transfer scholarships and ones given to me because of my grades and the Golden LEAF! And now all these years later, I am getting ready to graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Accounting!” Margaret explained, “This little Appalachian girl never gave up you see, and she also never got a single B! I never gave up because for the first time in my life someone else believed in me.” She continued, “Thank you for the thoughtful difference you continue to make in so many lives just like mine. Thank you, Golden LEAF Foundation and others, for making our dreams a reality! Thank you for believing in us! Thank you for changing our lives for the better and helping us to help ourselves! May God bless you all as profoundly as you’ve blessed us. Because of you, now the only toilets this little Appalachian girl will clean are her own!” Thanks to her scholarships, Margaret Bentley graduated from NCWU in December 2022 with her BS in Accounting and is now employed as a staff accountant for a business in Nashville, NC. A nonprofit organization, the Golden LEAF Foundation has worked for over 20 years to increase economic opportunity in rural and tobacco-dependent communities in North Carolina through leadership in grantmaking, collaboration, innovation and stewardship. One of the Foundation’s strongest and most long-standing pillars of contribution is to the Golden LEAF Scholarship. Golden LEAF’s goal is for scholarship recipients to gain the talent, knowledge and skills needed to help their communities thrive. The scholarship provides leadership development opportunities, exposes scholars to career experiences and promises a lifetime connection to Golden LEAF Scholars across North Carolina. Since the first Golden LEAF Scholarship was awarded in 1999, over 25,000 scholarships totaling $55.2 million have been awarded. A total of 47 NC Wesleyan students have received the Golden LEAF Scholarship since 2008. Current Golden LEAF Scholars at North Carolina Wesleyan University are Benjamin Sellers, Mackenzie Nobles, Margaret Bentley and Nadia Simmons. The Golden LEAF Scholarship is open to high school seniors and community college transfer students who reside in a qualifying rural, economically distressed, tobacco-dependent North Carolina county and are planning to enroll full-time in a participating public or private college or university located in North Carolina. Applications for the 2023-2024 school year opened in early January 2023. For more information, visit ncwc.edu/scholarships. 2022-23 NCWU Golden LEAF Scholars: (L-R) Benjamin Sellers; Mackenzie Nobles; Arlena Ratliff, Scholarship Program Manager at Golden LEAF Foundation; Margaret Bentley; and Nadia Simmons COMING MARCH 28 2023 GI ING DAY As part of the foundation that NC Wesleyan is built upon, your support is needed now more than ever. Donations make it possible for NCWU to offer a unique Wesleyan experience and assist our current students across all fields of study. As a member of the Bishop Nation, show your pride by supporting our 4th annual A Day for Wesleyan. Follow us on social media for further details. #GI EONDFW YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE.

26 | WESmagazine | Volume 4, Issue 1 The Taylor and Crocker families recently provided funds to refurnish the Taylor-Crocker Honors Program Lounge at NCWU and purchased Honors Jackets for all 50 students in the Program. The lounge was relocated to a larger space on campus receiving new carpet, paint and furniture, along with cupboards stocked with snacks and drinks for students to enjoy. “The recent changes and updates to the Honors Lounge are simply amazing! On behalf of the program, I personally want to express my sincerest thanks to the Taylors and HONORS PROGRAM GETS A FACELIFT RELOCATED & UPGRADED... Crockers. Their efforts will ensure the lounge is a special place for Honors Program students now and for years to come,” stated Dr. Bill Yankosky, Director of the TaylorCrocker Honors Program. “We are very appreciative of the support these two families have given to the program and look forward to strengthening that relationship in the years to come.” Originally established in 1988 under the leadership of former English Professor, Dr. Steve Ferebee, the program was renamed in 2009 when Roger G. Taylor, class of 1970, and his wife, Gaile, met with former President James A. Gray III. The funding that was provided for The Roger G. and Gaile Davenport Taylor Honors Program covered memberships and attendance to Honors Association Conferences, Honors Project supplies and thesis binding, guest speakers, social events for team building, professional development, Honors symposiums and travel. In 2014, NCWU Board Chair, Dr. Dan Crocker and wife Brenda, came alongside the Taylors to support the initiative and a $100,000 pledge was made to fund the Taylor-Crocker Honors Program. The Crockers also established the Dr. James Durant Melton Outward Bound Scholarship that supports Honors Students who participate in the NC Outward Bound Program which offers challenging outdoor adventure programs. “The Taylors and Crockers have been avid supporters of North Carolina Wesleyan University and their investment in the Honors Program has definitely been impactful for our students,” stated Tammy Robinson, Director of Donor Engagement. “The newly furnished Honors Lounge is a beautiful and welcoming space for our Honors students. It’s a comfortable, dedicated space just for them, equipped with snacks to relax, study, read or socialize. We are so grateful for the generosity of the Taylors, the Crockers and all those who have given to the Honors Program.” Incoming students with a combined score of at least 1170 on the Critical Reading and Mathematics sections of the SAT (or equivalent ACT scores) and a high school GPA of 3.5 or higher are invited to apply to the Taylor-Crocker Honors Program.

Winter 2023 | ncwc.edu | 27 Advancement From his days as a student fifty years ago, to his successful law career and now CEO of a thriving bicycle retailer, Wayne Souza has truly excelled in life. His academic and career accomplishments are quite impressive. Q: Why did you choose NC Wesleyan? Wesleyan offered a fantastic student-faculty ratio (I couldn’t hide in the back of the class) and several majors to choose from to set myself up for an opportunity to succeed post-Wesleyan. So, for me, Wesleyan “ticked all the boxes.” Q: What are your favorite memories at Wesleyan? The people I met from virtually all over the country, faculty who were personable, knew you by name and really cared, but most importantly, my fraternity brothers of Nu Gamma Phi. Q: What impact has Nu Gamma Phi brotherhood had on your life? The brotherhood provided me with an environment to learn how to get along with a multitude of personalities, views and positions while still formulating and achieving consensus to move things along and get things done. We often disagreed, but in the end, we demonstrated we were stronger together than apart. Q: How did you get into the bicycle business? In 2014, a friend acquired his family’s interests (dating back to 1957) in a retail bicycle shop in Virginia. I believed he could take the “local bike shop” to new heights. Agreeing with my assessment over “a drink or two,” we formed Conte Bicycle Group. From that one store, the company grew to a 19-store retail chain with locations from Boston to Ft. Lauderdale. In 2018, I “retired” from the active practice of law to join the Company full time. Recently, Bicycle Retailer and Industry News ranked our Company among the Top 10 biggest bicycle retailers in the US. Q: When you came back to campus, how long had it been since you were here? Almost 50 years (I am ashamed to admit). Q: What was your impression of NCWU’s progress? Holy cow! The progress on campus is astonishing, the sports programs have blossomed; international resident students are thankfully an integral part of the on-campus family; yet the intimacy of the campus remains with its towering pines, the everpresent fountain and the serpentine wall. Q: What impressed you the most? There appears to be a laser focus on enhancing the on-campus student life and academic experiences. Q: What would you tell other alumni about NCWU? First, you MUST come back and see the place… you won’t be disappointed. Second, the current University administration is leaning “all in” to enhance student experiences (academically and lifestyle), so let’s now step up, join this lead and do our part too. Q: Why do you support NCWU? It’s the right thing to do for all of the right reasons. Also, a little goes a long way at NCWU, which cannot be said for the other universities I have attended where a little “gets lost” among the masses. Wayne Souza ’73 ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT CHAMPION

28 | WESmagazine | Volume 4, Issue 1 Advancement North Carolina Wesleyan University celebrated its 66th Founding Anniversary this past October. President Dr. Evan D. Duff stated, “This is a unique Founders’ Day because it is the first time in our institution’s history that we will be celebrating as a University. With our new identity ushering in our 66th year, I’m excited for NC Wesleyan to continue offering a personal, practical and purpose-driven approach to learning.” Three Alumni Awards were presented during the 66th Founders’ Day Celebration to recognize and honor outstanding alumni. Caroline H. Little ’07, Alumni Relations Coordinator, presented the awards on behalf of the University and the Office of Advancement. The Distinguished Alumni Award is presented to alumni with more than 10 years of alumni status who meet one or more of the following criteria: Outstanding service to the University over a period of years; personal accomplishments that enhance the prestige of the University; and/or distinguished service or accomplishment in their field (business, industry, science, or profession, etc.). The 2022 Distinguished Alumni Award was presented to Maxie T. Coker, Jr. Maxie graduated in 1986 with a degree in Business Administration and quickly established what would become an extensive career in banking with more than 35 years in the industry. He is currently employed with First Carolina Bank as a member of executive management, and has actively used his time and talents over the last few decades to give back to his alma mater by being on the Board of Visitors, assisting the University with financial campaigns, and actively participating in community activities as a representative of Wesleyan. The Alumni Achievement Award is presented to a recent graduate of not more than 10 years of alumni status who has already made a significant achievement in society. The 2022 Alumni Achievement Award was presented to Ricky Ciuffetelli ’15. Ricky, an international student originally from Caracas, Venezuela, graduated from NC Wesleyan with a degree in Business Administration. As a result of an INSPIRING ALUMNI RECOGNIZING THE LIVES OF internship he had while at Wesleyan, Ricky was introduced to the supply chain industry and pharmaceutical world. He was recently promoted to Senior Supply Chain Manager at Mayne Pharmaceuticals. As an alumnus, Ricky has been consistently involved with the Alumni Association, and has continued to show stewardship through regular donations and other forms of engagement like volunteering at Homecoming and Commencement, as well as speaking to classrooms about his experiences in Supply Chain Management. The Wesleyan Family Award honors one family that has demonstrated special loyalty to the University over more than one generation. Examples of such loyalty might include: mothers, fathers, sons, daughters, or other family members attending Wesleyan; families who have been excellent financial supporters of the University over more than one generation; or a combination of the above. The 2022 Wesleyan Family Award was presented to the Ipock family. Adam, a 1991 graduate and Cathy, a 1992 graduate, met and fell in love at Wesleyan. After getting married, the two settled down in Rocky Mount and had two sons, Nicholas and Chris. Like their parents, both have followed in their parents’ footsteps by contributing to the University in some way or another. Nick, a 2018 alumnus graduated with a degree in Computer Information Systems. Chris, although not an alumnus, is the electrical foreman for the University’s Shaw Learning Center project, a new science and pre-vet building on campus. Adam and Cathy Ipock have selflessly been engaged with the University over the last two decades in various ways, including helping organize and support financial campaigns, being social media ambassadors, participating in classroom speaking engagements, initiating matching gift campaigns, connecting outside donors to the University and serving on the Board of Visitors. The Ipocks have also established the Adam F. and Catherine B. Ipock Endowed Scholarship to help current and future students achieve their education goals. 1 2 3 Ricky Ciuffetelli ’15, 2022 Alumni Achievement Award Winner Maxie T. Coker, Jr. ’86 receives the Distinguished Alumni Award from Caroline H. Little ’07 Adam Ipock ’91 and Cathy Ipock ’92 accept the Wesleyan Family Award from Caroline H. Little ’07 1 2 3

Winter 2023 | ncwc.edu | 29 Advancement Have You Considered Putting North Carolina Wesleyan University in Your Estate Plans? When you choose to include a gift to NCWU as part of your legacy, you are continuing a tradition that has existed since Wesleyan’s founding in 1956: a tradition to educate young men and women to serve others and follow the Golden Rule itself: Do unto others as you would have them do unto you. You Want to Leave. For more information about giving a life income gift to NCWU, contact our Office of Advancement or visit us online at ncwc.edu/planned-gifts. 252.985.5266 | [email protected] Plan the Legacy James “Jim” Gray recently reconnected with NC Wesleyan in a meaningful way. The sixth President of North Carolina Wesleyan, James A. Gray III and his wife, Elizabeth, have decided to include a planned gift listing Wesleyan as beneficiary as part of their legacy. In honor of the life and contributions of the former President and his wife, the Grays have also established the James and Elizabeth Gray Endowed Scholarship in addition to their planned gift. Gray served as President of the College from 2009 to 2014 and includes the hiring of Dr. Evan D. Duff to run the adult education program, establishing the Southern Bank Green, reviving a cheerleading squad and bringing on campus Beth “Momma Prez” Gray as some of his major accomplishments while at NCW. A MEANINGFUL RECONNECTION In September 2021, “I came back for President Duff’s inauguration and Founders’ Day, and it just felt right to reengage. I saw how much progress the current administration is making. The trigger for me was the college becoming a university, which was on my wish list but just not feasible since graduate programs were only a dream back in my term.” “We set up the endowment to show our support of those studying to be teachers and of Wesleyan’s current leadership that has the university on a very good track.” The Elizabeth Gray Education Scholarship honors “my wife, Beth, who was a preschool teacher early in our married life and was known fondly on campus as ‘Momma Prez’.” Elizabeth Gray and James Gray

30 | WESmagazine | Volume 4, Issue 1 ®Bob Ross name and images are registered trademarks of Bob Ross Inc. ©Bob Ross Inc. Used with permission. North Carolina Wesleyan University was recently awarded $30,000 by the Rotary Club of Rocky Mount from proceeds raised at their annual Tackle the Tar 5K Race held Saturday, May 14, 2022. The Rotary Club raised a record breaking $90,000 at this year’s event. Tackle the Tar is a unique 5K obstacle course race and family fun day that raises scholarship money for students attending Edgecombe Community College, Nash Community College and North Carolina Wesleyan University. Since the event began in 2017, a total of $135,000 in Rotary scholarships have been awarded to 39 NCWU students. Recipients for 2022-2023 are Emmanuel Chibuzo Agoh, Anna McKenzie Brake, Lakeitia Monique Dowdy, Felix L. Jenkins, Gavin L. Harrell, Daniel Roberto Mayorido-Alvarez, Ty Thomas Peele, Chance Matoskah Savage, Phylicia Mae Thomas, Shanice R. Tillery and Jessica Yolanda Williams. To show our support and commitment to the Tackle the Tar, Wesleyan has been represented each year by a strong contingent of faculty, staff, family and friends to run, walk or volunteer. The Wesleyan team has won the College Heat every year and hopes to continue this tradition. The next Tackle the Tar is scheduled for Saturday, May 20, 2023. ROTARY AWARDS SCHOLARSHIPS TACKLE THE TAR 5K RACE Advancement It was a BLAST! at the 2nd Annual Sporting Clays Classic, PULL! for Wesleyan. This year’s event was hosted on Wednesday, October 26, 2022 and once again held at the beautiful Rose Hill Farm Sporting Clays and Hunting Preserve in Nashville, NC, one of the finest clays shooting courses in the state. Proceeds from this annual fundraising event will support various efforts to help Wesleyan students in 2ND ANNUAL BISHOPS SPORTING CLAYS CLASSIC The Nash County Sheriff’s Office team won first place for the second year in a row. their journey of lifelong learning and achievement as they prepare to make a difference in the communities where they will live and serve. Corporate sponsors took advantage of the opportunity to enjoy a day of fun while entertaining special clients, vendors and employees in a unique atmosphere. The event also included a silent auction and raffle. The 3rd Annual PULL! for Wesleyan is scheduled for Thursday, October 12, 2023. For more details and sponsorship information, visit ncwc.edu/pullforwesleyan. 2022-23 Rotary Scholarship Recipients: (L-R) Chance Savage, Phylicia Thomas, Felix Jenkins, Shanice Tillery, Emmanuel Agoh, Anna Brake, Ty Peele and Jessica Williams Not Pictured: Lakeitia Dowdy, Gavin Harrell and Daniel Mayorido-Alvarez

For upcoming events at The Dunn Center, visit ncwc.edu/dunn. Winter 2023 | ncwc.edu | 31 FANTASTIC LITTLE PAINTINGS COMING NOVEMBER 4, 2023 ®Bob Ross name and images are registered trademarks of Bob Ross Inc. ©Bob Ross Inc. Used with permission. PURCHASE YOUR TICKETS TODAY! Get ready to experience the world’s largest Bob Ross Painting Exhibition ever seen under one roof, here at NC Wesleyan.

32 | WESmagazine | Volume 4, Issue 1 Note: Submissions may be edited for print publication. Want to see your class notes in the next edition? Keep Wesleyan and your fellow alumni informed of recent engagements, CLASS marriages, births, new jobs, awards, promotions and other activities. NOTES Stay in Touch with Submit your updates online at ncwc.edu/alumni-contact-form or by emailing [email protected] 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Advancement ALUMNI CLASS NOTES 1990s 2000s Courtney Tucker ’07 was recently named the head softball coach at Salem College in Winston-Salem, NC. Prior to joining Salem, Tucker was an assistant coach at William Peace University, graduate assistant at Averett and assistant softball coach at NCWU from 2010-2018. Eddie Moore ’09 attended the Police Executive Research Forum’s (PERF) Senior Management Institute for Police (SMIP) in Boston, MA. He is a Major with the Nash County Sheriff’s Office. Craig J. “CJ” Rummler ’99 was recently selected as the new Principal of Hiwassee Dam Elementary Middle School in Murphy, NC. He has teaching experience in Elementary, Middle and High School, with 8 years in Nash County and 16 years in Cherokee County. 1 2 2010s Justin Griffith ’12 recently joined the coaching staff at Presbyterian College in Clinton, SC as assistant basketball coach. Prior to joining Presbyterian, Justin was an assistant basketball coach at NCWU. Laurie Middleswarth ’16, an award-winning weightlifter, was recently classified as a professional Strongwoman after finishing third in a national championship in Erie, PA. In March 2023, she will compete in a sports festival in Columbus, OH that Arnold Schwarzenegger helped create. Middleswarth is a sergeant with the Rocky Mount Police Department. 3 4 Antwan Brown ’17 has been named Emergency Services Director for Edgecombe County, North Carolina. A 14-year employee of Edgecombe County, Antwan previously served as EMS paramedic supervisor for the county. G. Allen Chesser ’19 recently won the North Carolina District 25 state House of Representatives seat. He joined the U.S. Army at age 17 and completed more than 100 combat missions in the Iraq War. He has also served as a police officer in the Nags Head and Raleigh Police Departments. He is currently the state chairman for the NC Republican Liberty Caucus. 6 2020s Hannah Thrasher ’20 was hired as an Assistant Coach for the Schreiner University Volleyball program in Kerrville, TX. Ali Cucinotta ’21 was named the Assistant Director of Athletic Communications at Arcadia University, Glenside, PA. Prior to joining Arcadia, Cucinotta spent two summers as a Mentor and Social Media Lead for Beyond Sports Tours in Playa Flamingo, Costa Rica. Kelley Ann Brandon ’21 represented the NC DPS – Prisons at the 2022 International Law Enforcement Torch Run Conference for Special Olympics held in Round Rock, Texas. Kelley, along with 30 other Police/Sheriff departments from North Carolina participated in the two-mile run to support Special Olympics. Kelley works for NC DPS – Prisons as the Facility Compliance Manager for Pender Correctional Institution and New Hanover Correctional Center. 7 8 5

Winter 2023 | ncwc.edu | 33 JoAnne Hodgin Scalf was a dedicated and supportive wife to her husband, legendary Wesleyan coach and administrator, Don Scalf. Her instrumental support helped lay the foundation for the success of the NC Wesleyan Athletics Department. Cynthia Dale Joyner ’14 enjoyed cheering on her Bishops through the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. Dale always tailgated at home football games, giving away baked potatoes and whatever she had to students & alumni. Soloman Ray Brown was a valued member of the North Carolina Wesleyan Facilities team for ten years. Ray brought much joy and energy to the Wesleyan family. Dr. David A. Jones, Faculty Emeriti, passed away on Sunday, September 4, 2022. He began his teaching career at North Carolina Wesleyan in the fall of 1971. He taught courses on U.S. history and religion at Wesleyan for 27 years, engaging students in the life of the mind, challenging them to read and consider new perspectives, often using sports to lure them in. He published some articles, but never wrote an academic book because he spent his time on writings important to the people around him. His writings included lectures, presentations, prepared book reviews and discussion notes. He wrote poems and hymns, including the North Carolina Wesleyan Alma Mater. Scott Harmon wrote “Since stepping onto the campus of North Carolina Wesleyan College in the fall of 1971, David Jones has encouraged, as well as led us all to strive for excellence in whatever we aspire to do. The commitment, work ethic and dedication displayed by him will continue to challenge his students to work at a similar character.” The David A. Jones Scholarship Fund was established in 1998 through the generosity of faculty, staff, family and friends to honor Dr. David A. Jones upon his retirement. The scholarship provides financial assistance to students with academic promise, financial need and a declared interest in studying history. Donations may be made to the David A. Jones Scholarship Fund at ncwc.edu/donate by indicating David A. Jones Scholarship under “Other.” To notify us of a recently deceased classmate, faculty or staff member, email the name and obituary to [email protected]. Donations can also be made to NC Wesleyan University in memory of a fallen Bishop at ncwc.edu/donate. IN MEMORIAM Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of our Bishop community members who are no longer with us. Listed are those the University has been made aware of who have recently passed. Advancement 1960s Janet Fountain Blocker Carol Brown Wyatt ’66 Harry Thomas “Tom” Moore ’68 1970s Barbara S. Taylor ’70 Charles A. Roach Jr. ’71 Paula Dunn Hodge John Joseph Allsbrook Keith Lynn Marsden ’74 Ira Brantley Newton ’75 Sarah Kornblau Kittner ’78 1980s Candy Hardin Jewett ’80 Darlor Pridgen Baker Marvin Lee Meadows ’81 Richard Thomas Johnson ’84 Connie Annette Hardee ’87 Warren Wilder Gold ’88 1990s Donald Wayne Martin, Sr. ’90 Deliah “Dee” Hooker Threatt ’91 Delois Ashe High ’91 Claudia Hudson-Sims 2000s Thomas Edward Burke III ’07 Sureka D. Barnes ’08 2010s Paquita Ann Taylor ’11 Cynthia Dale Joyner ’14 Lori Alston FACULTY & STAFF Eleanor Easley Barnes Soloman Ray Brown Dr. Frances Bell Exum Dr. David A. Jones John E. “Jack” Killeen FRIENDS Jean Davenport Nelson JoAnne Hodgin Scalf William S. Shrago ALUMNI

34 | WESmagazine | Volume 4, Issue 1 North Carolina Wesleyan University is an exceptional event location situated on 200 acres convenient to Interstate 95 and Interstate 64. Wesleyan’s facilities are complete with technology that fits the everyday work need and are designed for meeting spaces, concerts, conferences, camps and entertaining. EVENT AT WESLEYAN PLAN YOUR NEXT VENUE RENTALS Learn more about our campus, rental spaces and the services we provide when planning your next event. For more information, visit ncwc.edu/event-venue-rentals. • The Bellemonte House • The Dunn Center • BB&T Room • Board of Trustees Room • Academic Classrooms • Hartness Student Center • Gateway Technology Center • Elizabeth Braswell Pearsall Library • Taylor Recreation Center • Leon Russell Chapel • Indoor Sports & Education Facility Available Rental Spaces Reserve Today! Garner Lobby at The Dunn Center Taylor Recreation Center Indoor Sports & Education Facility

Winter 2023 | ncwc.edu | 35 JANUARY 2023 DELAYNA ROBBINS ART SHOWING Thursday, January 19 | 5:00 PM Reception Mims Gallery @ The Dunn Center Delayna Robbins “A Colorful Chaos” explores the symbolism of self healing, divine love and self acceptance through a range of artwork. Friday, January 20 | 7:30 PM Minges Auditorium @ The Dunn Center “We love country music and we’ll never let it die” is the sentiment of the Reid cousins, who are more like brothers. It is talent that comes naturally and continues the family tradition of their fathers. Saturday, February 4 | 9:00 AM The Dunn Center @ NCWU Parents and prospective students can receive information on scholarships and financial aid, speak with faculty and students, learn more about the Admissions process and take a campus tour. Accepting on-site admissions, as well as granting university awards. Friday, February 10 | 7:30 PM Minges Auditorium @ The Dunn Center Relive the magic as Rumors - The Ultimate Fleetwood Mac Tribute band, takes the stage with costumes, equipment and characterizations that spare no detail. To purchase tickets, call 252.985.5197 or visit dunncenter.com. Thursday, May 4 | 5:00 PM Reception Mims Gallery @ The Dunn Center Mark Cole’s “Just Imagine,” reveals the expressive elements of light, texture and colors, which results in expressed emotions, rather than a realistic interpretation of the subject matter. SPRING ATHLETICS This spring, we invite you to join us on campus to cheer on our Bishops Baseball, Softball, Tennis, Basketball, Golf, Lacrosse and Track & Field. For schedules and more information, visit us at ncwcsports.com. 19 FEBRUARY 2023 MAY 2023 20 WILSON FAIRCHILD 4 WINTER OPEN HOUSE 10 RUMOURS: FLEETWOOD MAC TRIBUTE SHOW 4 MARK COLE ART SHOWING 20 WILSON FAIRCHILD Friday, February 24 | 7:30 PM Minges Auditorium @ The Dunn Center Calling all bluegrass fans, come see Balsam Range as they head to Rocky Mount for an awesome return engagement. 24 BALSAM RANGE Thursday, March 16 | 5:00 PM Reception Mims Gallery @ The Dunn Center As a painter, Wes Day has taken his love of “Action Paintings” to create joyful self-expressions captured on canvas, embracing the fun and the failures, the mistakes and the masterpieces. MARCH 2023 16 WES DAY ART SHOWING Friday, March 31 | 7:30 PM Minges Auditorium @ The Dunn Center Renowned band and vocalists from the Canadian-based group Jeans ‘n Classics return to perform with the Tar River Orchestra and Chorus for an unforgettable evening of music from the iconic band Queen. 31 THE MUSIC OF QUEEN CONCERT Saturday, May 6 | 10:00 AM Rocky Mount Event Center North Carolina Wesleyan University will celebrate the newest class of alumni at this year’s 2023 commencement ceremony. 6 2023 COMMENCEMENT CEREMONY Times and events are subject to change. For more information, visit ncwc.edu/event-calendar. Thursday, April 20 | 11:00 AM Belmont Lake Golf Club NCWU alumni and Wesleyan community come together for a day of fun and fellowship on the golf course. All proceeds from our annual Wesleyan Cup Golf Tournament support The Wesleyan Fund. For sponsorship interest or to participate, call the Office of Advancement at 252.985.5266. APRIL 2023 20 WESLEYAN CUP GOLF TOURNAMENT Advancement UPCOMING EVENTS See what’s happening at NC Wesleyan University!

Non-Profit Org U.S. Postage PAID Permit No. 217 Rocky Mount, NC Office of Advancement 3400 N. Wesleyan Blvd. Rocky Mount, NC 27804 First Name, Last name Address City, State, Zip 3400 N. Wesleyan Blvd. | Rocky Mount, NC 27804 | 252.985.5200 | ncwc.edu | TELL US WHAT YOU THINK OF THE MAGAZINE! Summer 2022 A Publication of North Carolina Wesleyan University Coach John Thompson CELEBRATING 400 WINS Vernon T. Bradley, Jr. Sports Stadium PHASE TWO INTRODUCING EASTERN NC’S NEWEST UNIVERSITY The Start of A New Era WESmagazine Winter 2022 A Publication of North Carolina Wesleyan College Founders’ Day CELEBRATING OUR 65TH Sports Stadium Kicks O PHASE ONE Inauguration of our eighth President Dr. Evan D. Du WESmagazine Summer 2021 A Publication of North Carolina Wesleyan College NEW PARTNERSHIP WITH ActOne Group Celebrating 65 Years (1956-2021) Forming Our Future. Honoring Our History. WESmagazine Summer 2020 A Publication of North Carolina Wesleyan College COVID-19 COMES CALLING THE NEW INDOOR SPORTS & EDUCATION FACILITY #WesleyanWise WESmagazine Winter 2021 A Publication of North Carolina Wesleyan College Wesleyan Wise, Wesleyan Strong WE DID IT! #WesleyanStrong Despite COVID-19, Commencement Convenes FIRST MBA COHORT GRADUATES WESmagazine Winter 2020 A Publication of North Carolina Wesleyan College HOMECOMING 2019 FIRST-EVER GAME ON CAMPUS NEW RN TO BSN TO LAUNCH CAMPUS & COMMUNITY COME TOGETHER Your Feedback Matters. We value your opinion here at NC Wesleyan University. Tell us what you like most about WESmagazine. What do you want to see more of? Share your input with our brief survey! Visit ncwc.edu/wesmag or scan the QR code below. To view the digital edition, visit us at ncwc.edu/publications. You can also submit a class note or view past issues.