University news

MOUNT OLIVE — The University of Mount Olive (UMO) has announced that Don Lassiter, a retired fintech entrepreneur and long-time supporter of the University, has been named Chair of the UMO Board of Trustees. Lassiter brings decades of leadership, business acumen, and a deep commitment to the University’s mission.

MOUNT OLIVE — The University of Mount Olive (UMO) will host the Vivian B. Harrison Memorial Lecture on Tuesday, Oct. 8, in Rodgers Chapel. Dr. Grant Wacker, the Gilbert T. Rowe Distinguished Professor Emeritus of Christian History at Duke University, will be the guest lecturer. He will speak on the life, character, and legacy of Billy Graham in three parts.

The University of Mount Olive recently honored members of the university’s board and trustees. Pictured are Kim Quinn, retiring trustee; Don Lassiter, UMO board chair; Dr. H. Edward Croom, UMO president; and Earl Worley, retiring UMO board chair.

MOUNT OLIVE — Kali Kasulis, a recent University of Mount Olive (UMO) graduate, is taking the next step toward fulfilling her dream of becoming a veterinarian. With a Bachelor of Science degree in Veterinary BioScience and minors in Chemistry and Biology, Kasulis is attending North Carolina State University (NCSU) College of Veterinary Medicine this fall. Her journey is a testament to dedication, community involvement, and an unwavering passion for animal welfare.

MOUNT OLIVE — The University of Mount Olive Academy Program is committed to fostering educational advancement and career readiness among high school students. Launched in 2016 at the Northeast Regional School of Biotechnology and Agriscience (NERSBA), the University’s Academy Program aims to cultivate students’ aspirations for post-secondary education and guide them toward well-defined career goals.

MOUNT OLIVE — Mikia Parks, a 32-year-old mother of two, has overcome significant personal challenges to pursue her educational and professional goals. Her decision to return to college was sparked by a moment of introspection while working in the Emergency Department at UNC Wayne.

MOUNT OLIVE — Sports Attorney Richard Ford will speak at The University of Mount Olive on Sept. 26 at 12:30 p.m. in Southern Bank Auditorium.

MOUNT OLIVE — The University of Mount Olive (UMO) has received $21,000 from the estate of Carl Franklin Kennedy. Kennedy, a lifelong resident of Deep Run, passed away on July 1, 2022, at Kitty Askins Hospice in Goldsboro. His posthumous contribution to UMO celebrates his legacy of quiet dedication and diverse interests, reflecting his commitment to his denomination and community.

MOUNT OLIVE — In honor of the late George H. Futrelle, a scholarship endowment has been established to continue his leadership, mentorship, and service legacy in aviation and the local community. The George H. Futrelle Scholarship Endowment will support the University of Mount Olive’s Aviation Program students, prioritizing those with an advanced Instrument Rating and Commercial License status.

What an exciting opportunity to watch a child grow into a young adult and start a new chapter of their life at college. There are so many new experiences and relationships to consider as students have the chance to break out from under the supervision of the adults in their lives and make their own identities and choices independently. For some, this will be an easy and positive transition, but for many, it will be filled with anxiety, fear, and doubt. Of course, students will feel those emotions too, but what about the parents? Students get to embark on a fresh start, but many parents have great difficulty dealing with this time of separation and relocation. Parents need to recognize their own fears and sadness as they drop off their college freshman for the first time. When dealing with the anxiety of bringing your freshman or transfer student to school for the first weekend, the acronym RELAX may be helpful.