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WCU Stories

David Moore and Darren Whatley

Highlands couple pledges estate legacy gift in excess of $10M to WCU

David Moore and Darren Whatley place a lot of value on public education, having both attended public universities. Moore is an alumnus of the University of South Alabama and began his graduate studies at the University of Tübingen, Germany, while Whatley attended Louisiana State University and the University of Texas.   

Wardell and Diane

Gift from alumnus establishes new scholarship fund to support WCU social work students

A first-generation college student who earned his bachelor's degree at Western Carolina University before embarking upon a 46-year career including several posts on Capitol Hill has created a new endowed scholarship fund to support social work students at his alma mater.  

Wanda Herren works with high school students on computers at SMHS

Retired Jackson County educator endows scholarship for WCU math education students

Public school students in Western North Carolina’s eighth educational district who plan to major in mathematics education at Western Carolina University soon will be eligible for scholarship assistance thanks to a financial commitment from longtime math educator Wanda Stephens Herren of Cullowhee.  

Coach Wike with WCU men's golf team in 2002

Wike Scholarship to aid WCU football players, golfers seeking careers in education

A scholarship fund honoring the memories of a longtime Western Carolina University coach and his spouse, also a lifelong educator, will soon provide financial assistance to Catamount student-athletes on the football and men’s and women’s golf teams.  

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.  

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.  

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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