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WCU Stories

Aerial shot of Apodaca science building

The Many Facets of Science

The newest jewel to adorn the campus of Western Carolina University is the cutting-edge, futuristic, uniquely organic Apodaca Science Building. Housing programs ranging from biology and chemistry to physics and forensic science, the building replaces the aging Natural Science Building which was built in the 1970s.  

Flags on campus

Reflecting on Sept. 11

On September 11, 2001, America changed. Thousands of people lost their lives on that fateful day inside the Twin Towers in New York City, the Pentagon in Washington, D.C., and on a plane in Shanksville, Pa., due to terrorist attacks. In remembrance of the 2,977 lives lost, students and staff from the Center for Community Engagement and Service Learning displayed American flags commemorating those who were lost. Students also reflected on 9/11 and its impact on their lives.  

masterpeace

Professors and local students create a ‘masterpeace’

It’s sometimes hard to express oneself, especially during the past year. The pandemic turned many worlds upside down and students of Western North Carolina public schools were not immune to the pressure.  

Bryant Kinney

Bryant Kinney leaves leadership post confident in WCU’s strength to lead region

From high school drum major to Duke Energy to owner of his own company and chair of the Western Carolina University Board of Trustees — plus a few stops in between — Bryant Kinney has led a life of sheer leadership, no ifs, ands or buts about it.   

Al Kopak and Alexa Singer

Professors hope data encourages empathetic approach to treating jail inmates with addiction issues

Two Western Carolina University professors with interests in jail populations and addiction issues collaborated with one regional county government to better understand the recovery needs of its jail inmates with substance use disorder.  

Chancellor Kelli R. Brown

WCU chancellor included in Business NC magazine’s leadership power list

Business North Carolina counts Chancellor Kelli R. Brown among its Power List 2021, a recently published compilation of the state’s most influential leaders.   

Pride of the Mountains

Marching On

New Pride of the Mountains leader looks to build on an already great tradition. Jack Eaddy Jr. is all about pushing the envelope. Pushing the envelope is one reason Western Carolina University’s Pride of the Mountains Marching Band has become one of the most renowned collegiate bands in the country.  

faculty and staff awards

Faculty and Staff Excellence Awards return

After being canceled in 2020 because of the global COVID-19 pandemic, WCU’s Faculty and Staff Excellence Awards resumed, albeit in a limited capacity form.  

David Dorondo

David Dorondo participates in NATO hybrid warfare research

David Dorondo, an associate professor of history, has found himself lately a part of espionage, international diplomacy and a shadow world of geopolitical intrigue.   

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