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WCU Stories

Julian Manrique

WCU alumnus Julian Manrique shines as law school grad, attorney

After taking some challenging chemistry classes, Julian Manrique decided to reconsider his major. He was a biology major with a concentration in pre-dental, but following some thinking, the curious Western Carolina University student switched over to business administration and law.  

Forsyth Business

Justin Pace to lead WCU School of Accounting, Finance, Info Systems, Business Law

Justin Pace, assistant professor of business law at Western Carolina University, has been named director of the School of Accounting, Finance, Information Systems and Business Law in the College of Business.   

Kim Gorman

WCU scholars publish new book on mental illness stigma

A new book from two Western Carolina University scholars investigates the existence and impact of mental illness stigma on university campuses.   

David Joy

RASC 2025: David Joy and campus research presentations

Western Carolina University double alumnus and best-selling author David Joy will give the keynote address at the annual Research and Scholarship Conference at WCU on Wednesday, March 19 from 5 to 6 p.m. at the Ramsey Regional Activity Center.   

Wardell and Diane

Gift from alumnus establishes new scholarship fund to support WCU social work students

A first-generation college student who earned his bachelor's degree at Western Carolina University before embarking upon a 46-year career including several posts on Capitol Hill has created a new endowed scholarship fund to support social work students at his alma mater.  

Alex Gary

Alex Gary to resign after nearly five years as Athletics Director at WCU

Western Carolina University announced today that Alex Gary, Catamount Athletics director since May 2020, has resigned from his position.   

Mountain sunset

Restoring through research: WCU professors assist law enforcement and National Weather Service

In the days after Hurricane Helene devastated Western North Carolina, first responders and volunteers rushed to help their neighbors. Checking in on loved ones, restoring electricity to homes and businesses, and conducting search and rescue missions already looked like a daunting uphill battle.  

Wanda Herren works with high school students on computers at SMHS

Retired Jackson County educator endows scholarship for WCU math education students

Public school students in Western North Carolina’s eighth educational district who plan to major in mathematics education at Western Carolina University soon will be eligible for scholarship assistance thanks to a financial commitment from longtime math educator Wanda Stephens Herren of Cullowhee.  

Gretchen Dietz working with engineering students

WCU launches engineering discovery program with new director Gretchen Dietz

Upbeat music plays as students walk into an introductory engineering class with Western Carolina University faculty member Gretchen Dietz, who smiles as she checks in with students: “How’s everyone doing? Any fun facts to share? Today, we are 3D CAD modeling. Does anyone already know how? Let’s use this knowledge to help your classmates and learn from each other!”  

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