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.  

Learn More  

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.   

Optimizing Interprofessional Education in Health Care

Morgan Pillsbury, a current Doctor of Physical Therapy student, showcases research on "Optimizing Interprofessional Education in Health Care Professions” which highlights the importance of an educational session’s impact on interprofessional learning between Doctor of Physical Therapy and Physical Therapy Assistant students in Western NC.  

First-Generation Student, Kenyatta Fortune Prospers in Graduate School

In December, Kenyatta Fortune will become a three-time graduate of Western Carolina University. Doing so didn’t come without facing significant challenges. “The dynamics are different,” Fortune said. “While the professors provide guidance, encouragement and support, the student is given full autonomy in setting personal timelines, meeting agendas and maintaining contact with milestone updates on their thesis research.”  

See the story