Contact: Brooke Turner
Marketing & Communications Manager
252-955-6380
tfassnacht@ncwu.edu

Come Rock the Mount at NC Wesleyan University

ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) is excited to announce the return of its annual Rock the Mount celebration, an honored tradition that marks the official start of the academic year and warmly welcomes incoming students to campus and the local community. Sponsored this year by First Carolina Bank, the event will take place from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Monday, August 17 - the day before fall classes begin.

Held each fall, Rock the Mount is a vibrant, high-energy event featuring local businesses, nonprofits, churches, and campus partners who line the heart of campus with booths, giveaways, and smiles. It’s a chance to showcase community offerings while connecting with students who are new to the area and eager to get involved.

Maxie T. Coker, Jr, Senior Commercial Banking Officer, and Elizabeth Overton, Team Support Specialist for First Carolina Bank, share, “First Carolina Bank greatly values our relationship with North Carolina Wesleyan University and looks forward to continuing this partnership for many years to come. Rock the Mount is a fantastic event that connects the local community with the university’s students and creates a meaningful shared experience for everyone involved. We’re excited to make 2026 the best year yet!”

The day begins with a signature Wesleyan tradition: the Bishop Tunnel. Hundreds of new students take part in this spirited rite of passage as they walk through a tunnel of applause, cheers, and encouragement from returning students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community members. At the end of the tunnel, they’re greeted personally by President Dr. Evan D. Duff and his wife, Marcy, then proceed toward a vibrant festival of tents, music, and engagement opportunities.

Vendor spaces are in high demand, with limited spots available. If you wish to have your spot secured for this event, contact Elliott now! Local restaurants, coffee shops, service providers, churches, and nonprofits are encouraged to participate. Whether you're an automotive shop (freshmen can have cars on campus!), a local café, or a church seeking new connections, this is a unique chance to reach a new audience of potential customers, volunteers, interns, or even future employees.

This year’s entertainment will include DJ 3two1, along with a variety of food trucks offering local flavor, including:

• Taquria La Lupita
• Three Boys Catering (Alumni Owned)
• Minnie's Food and Thingz
• Sweet P's Galaxy Lemonade
• CPS Catering
• Shawarmalicious
• Fairy Tale Concessions
• Carolina Icee

Vendor Information:

• NCWU will provide a 6-foot table.
• Vendors should bring a tablecloth.
• Tents (up to 10’x10’) are optional but recommended for shade.
• Giveaways are not required but encouraged to boost engagement.
• Participation is free, but space is limited.

Registration Deadline: Friday, July 31. Early registration is encouraged.
Sign Up Here: Rock the Mount Vendor Link

Join us in making a memorable first impression and welcoming the NCWU Class of 2030 in style! For more information, contact Elliott Smith at esmith@ncwu.edu.

About North Carolina Wesleyan University

North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) is a small, private Methodist-affiliated institution with a liberal arts-based core curriculum that prepares students for professional advancement, life-long learning and responsible participation in their communities. NCWU offers liberal arts, professional and graduate degree programs for traditional, transfer and working-adult students.

NCWU offers a best-in-class value and a personally tailored private higher education experience. We invest in each and every student we accept by providing individualized awards, scholarships and grants. Wesleyan is YOUR hometown University that is Personal. Practical, and Purpose-Driven. With students from all over the United States and more than 40 different countries, the University has immense cultural diversity. In addition to its educational mission, NCWU serves as a vital economic engine for the region, contributing over $209 million to the local economy.

To learn more, visit ncwu.edu and follow on Facebook, LinkedIn, TikTok and Instagram.