University news

MOUNT OLIVE — The University of Mount Olive (UMO) has once again earned the distinction of being the Safest College Campus in North Carolina according to Niche’s 2025 Safest College Campuses rankings. This marks the fourth consecutive year that UMO has held the top spot in the state. Additionally, UMO was named the 9th safest campus in America, reflecting the university’s unwavering commitment to student safety and well-being.

MOUNT OLIVE — The Tillman School of Business Department of Accounting and CIS will officially launch the 2024 Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program on Feb. 12, led by Dr. Tanya Smith, CPA, and Assistant Dean of the Tillman School of Business Waylon Woodall, CPA.

MOUNT OLIVE — The University of Mount Olive (UMO) celebrated the remarkable achievements of two students by presenting them with the prestigious Dr. Thomas R. Morris Award during its December Commencement. The recipients, Axel Engren and David Matthew Morris, were recognized for their outstanding academic excellence and were each awarded $1,500.

MOUNT OLIVE — The University of Mount Olive will graduate approximately 285 students on Friday, Dec. 13, at 10 a.m. in George & Annie Dail Kornegay Arena.

MOUNT OLIVE — Joanna Rackley, a veterinary bioscience major and chemistry minor at the University of Mount Olive (UMO), recently completed an internship with Dr. Martin’s Mobile Veterinary Clinic. Through hands-on experience, Rackley deepened her knowledge of veterinary care while reaffirming her lifelong aspiration to become a veterinarian.

MOUNT OLIVE — University of Mount Olive (UMO) nursing student India Faison of Kenansville is living out her passion for service by pursuing a career in healthcare. Enrolled in UMO’s bachelor of science in nursing program, Faison plans to graduate in May 2026, ultimately aiming to become a wound care nurse. At 25, she reflects on her journey, sharing what has led her to pursue her nursing dreams.

University of Mount Olive launched its 2024-25 Conference Carolinas basketball campaign with a doubleheader split against newcomer Shorter (Georgia) University on Saturday afternoon.

MOUNT OLIVE — The University of Mount Olive (UMO) has awarded senior accounting major Macy Parkhurst the prestigious 2024 Founders Leadership Award. This honor, presented each year during the Founders Day service, is awarded in memory of the late Dr. W. Burkette Raper, who served as President of Mount Olive College from 1954 to 1995. The scholarship, given to a senior in the traditional undergraduate program, recognizes a student who exemplifies outstanding character and leadership qualities, aligning with the founders’ vision of a Christian higher education institution. Parkhurst, known for her exemplary leadership, dedication, and service to the UMO community, was chosen by a committee comprising faculty, student, and staff representatives.

GOLDSBORO — A dream is now reality.

Humble and modest, three outstanding — and diverse — athletes, along with a history-making team, comprised the latest University of Mount Olive Athletics Hall of Fame inductee class Saturday afternoon.