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WCU Stories

Joseph Stankosky

A new home in Poland: Boren scholar speaks on time abroad

Be persistent. Be studious. Try, and keep trying. Such was the method of success for Western Carolina University student Joseph Stankosky, recipient of the esteemed David L. Boren Scholarship, who in December 2024 left Cullowhee for seven months of study in Warsaw, Poland.   

Catamount 10

Alumni spanning 50 years honored at Homecoming for achievements, service

A baker’s dozen Western Carolina University alumni whose graduating class years span nearly 50 years received accolades from their alma mater Saturday, Nov. 8, in recognition of their career accomplishments and contributions to their communities.  

Kristin Daiber and Anita Puerto

WCU to expand student support services for STEM students

Kristin Daiber, the director of the Office of Student Retention, recently received a TRIO grant from the Department of Education for $1.4 million.   

WCU football

GivingTuesday ’25 to focus on support for academic excellence, Catamount Club

Much like the holiday season, the annual GivingTuesday national day of philanthropy is fast approaching, and the folks at Western Carolina University will be seeking financial support for Catamount student-athletes and for excellence endowments that provide enhanced academic and extracurricular experiences for all students.   

Sarah Matesz

Student spotlight: ABSN student Sarah Matesz overcomes Helene’s challenges

Sarah Matesz’s heart rate rose about as fast as the flood water that submerged her feet. She was frantically moving her belongings to the second floor of her cabin, which was perched on the side of the mountain some 20 minutes away from Burnsville.  

Elizabeth with other UP members

Daughter’s experience in WCU inclusive ed program leads parents to create endowment

A Western Carolina University initiative that brings individuals with intellectual disabilities to campus for a living and learning experience has had such a positive impact on the life of one participant that her parents have created a fund to help more young adults like their daughter move toward independent living.  

Brent Kisner

The Carlyle Letters Online find new home at Hunter Library

Thomas and Jane Welsh Carlyle have been significant figures to several scholars throughout the last century and some change. Western Carolina University English professor Brent Kisner is no exception.  

Highlands couple

Power of Giving

A Highlands couple’s estate gift of $10 million will support global engagement, the School of Art and Design and the Honors College.  

Paws with the Shetland Ponies during the 2023 Shetland Day

WCU faculty, staff add their names to ‘Fill the Western Sky’ campaign donor list

A total of 365 members of the faculty and staff at Western Carolina University have added their names to the growing list of donors making philanthropic contributions to the institution as part of its ongoing “Fill the Western Sky” comprehensive fundraising campaign.  

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