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WCU Stories

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.  

Photo of salamander

Students engage in undergraduate research across disciplines

Western Carolina University has many opportunities for students to conduct undergraduate research across various disciplines. Students are able to engage in projects that deepen their understanding of course material and build essential skills for future endeavors.  

aerial shot of campus

WCU ranked No. 3 on Forbes’ America’s Best Midsize Employers list

For many, Western Carolina University is a beloved spot. It’s a special place to learn, a special place to grow — and a special place to work.   

WCU Campus

WCU ranked No. 3 in Forbes’ America’s Best Midsize Employers list

For many, Western Carolina University is a beloved spot. It’s a special place to learn, a special place to grow — and a special place to work.  

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.  

Wallace and Jeanette Hyde

WCU mourns loss of former Trustee Jeanette Wallace Hyde

A statement from Western Carolina University Chancellor Kelli R. Brown on the death of former U.S. Ambassador Jeanette W. Hyde, who previously served on the WCU Board of Trustees and who is the namesake of an endowed professorship in gerontological social work.  

Blue Ridge Parkway mountain range

Restoring through research: WCU professors help rebuild after Helene

Hurricane Helene stormed into North Carolina on Friday, Sept. 27 and wreaked unprecedented havoc over the following three days. Thousands of homes and miles of roadways were swept away by the floodwaters. Tens of thousands more homes were damaged, displacing families. Waterways became clogged with debris and structures such as bridges, levees, and culverts sustained heavy damage. Updated estimates indicate the hurricane caused $59.6 billion in damage.   

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