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WCU Stories

Dennis and Kelli Brown

WCU chancellor, ‘first dude’ back the ‘Fill the Western Sky’ campaign with a $4 million estate gift

When Western Carolina University Chancellor Kelli R. Brown unveiled plans for a comprehensive fundraising campaign shortly after her arrival in 2019, she prioritized seeking philanthropic support for enhancements to the overall student experience, including academics, athletics, and community and global engagement.  

Aaron Speyer

Young alumni spotlight: Speyer reaching for the stars as systems engineer

Western Carolina University alumnus Aaron Speyer doesn’t remember much about his trip to the NASA Wallops Flight Facility in Virginia when he was six years old — but he remembers that initial fascination with space.  

Current cat eyes design

The hills have eyes

A fresh set of eyes finds a new generation of Catamounts. More than 30 years after Paws’ billboard debut, designers at Western Carolina University continue to update the much beloved symbol off U.S. 23.   

Reg and Judy Moody

WCU grieves the loss of longtime friend, supporter, community leader Reg Moody

The Western Carolina University community is grieving the loss of longtime friend, benefactor and volunteer Reginald “Reg” E. Moody Sr., a Jackson County businessman and civic leader who died Monday, Feb. 17, at the age of 89 after a period of declining health.  

Photo of salamander

Students engage in undergraduate research across disciplines

Western Carolina University has many opportunities for students to conduct undergraduate research across various disciplines. Students are able to engage in projects that deepen their understanding of course material and build essential skills for future endeavors.  

aerial shot of campus

WCU ranked No. 3 on Forbes’ America’s Best Midsize Employers list

For many, Western Carolina University is a beloved spot. It’s a special place to learn, a special place to grow — and a special place to work.   

WCU Campus

WCU ranked No. 3 in Forbes’ America’s Best Midsize Employers list

For many, Western Carolina University is a beloved spot. It’s a special place to learn, a special place to grow — and a special place to work.  

Ashlyn Hannon

New Thompson Scholar program supports study-abroad for WCU Honors College students

A life-changing study-abroad opportunity in France for a shy undergraduate student with limited international travel experience helped spark a newfound sense of self-confidence and a successful business career, which inspired a financial contribution that is helping Western Carolina University students follow in his globe-trotting footsteps.  

Brinson Honors College

WCU mourns passing of Honors College benefactor Greg Thompson

Members of the Western Carolina University community are mourning the loss of friend and donor Greg Thompson, known as a generous supporter of WCU’s Brinson Honors College and a passionate advocate for the life-changing experience of studying internationally.  

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