From Graduate Student to Project Engineer

Martin Schmedt MCM ’18, project engineer for WCU’s Apodaca Science Building, spent hours drawing plans for dream houses as a child. “After drawing so many, I began to envision building them for my friends and family,” Schmedt said.  

Alumni explores historical, cultural, political and personal connections that cross tribal designations

Frankie Bauer came to Western Carolina University in 2016 to pursue a master’s degree in history. A member of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma, Bauer concentrated on Cherokee Studies, defending his thesis and earning his degree in fall 2018.  

Master of Project Management puts IT employee on a path of upward trajectory

A few years back, Western Carolina University’s Division of Information Technology added a project management office. Because IT employee Dawn Brown worked closely with the project office, she thought it might be beneficial to learn more about project management. She enrolled in WCU’s Master of Project Management (MPM) Program. Not only has it proven to be helpful in her IT role, but Brown said she now has a complete understanding of the entire project management process.  

WCU ranked by US News and World Report for online undergraduate, graduate programs

WCU has been ranked among the top providers of online programs by U.S. News and World Report in numerous categories for 2021.  

Care, concern shown from WCU Nurse Anesthesia graduate

Ann Crosby, a certified registered nurse anesthetist found inspiration for her career during a difficult time and Western Carolina University helped provide the means for her goals.  

WCU graduate student receives Fullerton Medical Scholarship Award

Sarah Carpenter is a firm believer in paying it forward, which is why she and her husband make it point to always give back to their community. So, when Carpenter recently learned she was the recipient of the Fullerton Medical Scholarship Award, the Western Carolina University nurse practitioner graduate student said it was a result of her commitment to giving.   

As we learn from 2020, the case for furthering your education in 2021

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics routinely publishes data showing that an individual’s earning power is increased with additional education – not to mention the possibility of more stable employment. As we enter 2021, professionals in and around the Asheville area will be finding ways to further skills and talents, update their credentials, and stand out among peers in a competitive job market through continued learning and graduate programs.  

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Restoring the Roan

How Red Spruce Responds to Forest Canopy Openings at Roan Mountain, NC. Thomas Hennessey, a current Master of Science in Biology student, was awarded first place in the 2020 Three Minute Thesis Competition for his presentation.   

Social and Emotional Learning Built into Morning Meetings

Amy Childers, a current student in the Specialist in School Psychology program research "Social and Emotional Learning Built into an Elementary School Morning Meeting,” modified social and emotional learning lessons to fit in the morning meeting time in order to provide more consistent instruction in these areas. The goal is that this regular time of social and emotional learning instruction will lead to higher academic achievement, fewer behavioral issues, and an increase in classroom community and cohesion.