UNC Health Wayne Launches New Nursing Scholarship Program at UMO

UNC Health Wayne Launches New Nursing Scholarship Program at UMO

December 11, 2025 Amy Roux

MOUNT OLIVE – UNC Health Wayne has partnered with the University of Mount Olive (UMO) to launch a new Nursing Scholarship Program designed to ease the financial burden for aspiring nurses and strengthen the healthcare workforce in Wayne County and the surrounding region. At this time, UMO is the only institution with access to this unique scholarship opportunity.

“This scholarship partnership between UMO and UNC Health Wayne opens doors for our nursing students to pursue their education with less financial burden and empowers students to serve their communities with skills and compassion,” said UMO Division Chair of Nursing Kristin Mozingo.

The program is open to junior-level UMO nursing students who are working toward the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree. Applicants must be in good standing with a minimum 3.0 GPA. The $2,500 scholarship will be awarded beginning with the second semester of the junior year and may be renewed for up to three semesters, for a total award of up to $7,500 per student.  Approximately 10 scholarships will be awarded each year.  

 “At UNC Health Wayne, we are proud of our dedicated nursing team and the high standard of care they deliver every day,” said Dr. Jessie L Tucker, III, President of UNC Health Wayne. “This partnership with UMO helps ensure that well-prepared, compassionate nurses will continue to support our hospital and the communities we serve. By partnering with UMO, we are helping talented students stay local, learn local, and serve local.”

UMO President Dr. H. Edward Croom emphasized the importance of strategic partnerships in meeting regional workforce needs. “Collaborations like this one with UNC Health Wayne allow us to align education with the real needs of today’s healthcare system,” Croom said. “Together, we are preparing the next generation of highly skilled, compassionate nurses who will serve Wayne County and eastern North Carolina with excellence.”

Applications are open now for eligible UMO nursing students. Applicants will be required to submit a completed application, academic transcript, current FAFSA, a short video, and an essay as part of the selection process.  For more information or to apply, interested UMO nursing students should contact Nicole Balsamello at [email protected].

Wayne County Travel Advisor Selected to Attend Prestigious Travel Weekly Readers Choice Awards in New York City

Wayne County Travel Advisor Selected to Attend Prestigious Travel Weekly Readers Choice Awards in New York City

December 11, 2025 Amy Roux

Goldsboro, NC — Mallory Dumond, a professional travel advisor and concierge planner, was invited to attend the renowned Travel Weekly Readers Choice Awards held in Manhattan, New York City. This exclusive, industry-leading event recognized excellence across the global travel landscape, honoring the top destinations, suppliers, and travel professionals of the year.

Dumond received the distinguished invitation through her agency, Travelmation, in partnership with Globus, one of the world’s most trusted and innovative travel suppliers. The opportunity places her among a select group of advisors recognized for their dedication, production, and commitment to elevating the client travel experience.

“It was such an incredible honor to be invited to attend the Travel Weekly Readers Choice Awards,” said Dumond. “Travelmation and Globus have been extraordinary partners in my journey as a travel advisor. Being included in such an iconic industry event is both humbling and inspiring, and I am grateful for the opportunity to grow, connect, and bring even more value back to the clients I serve.”

Held annually in New York City, the Travel Weekly Readers Choice Awards celebrates outstanding achievements across tours, cruises, hotels, destinations, airlines, and travel services. Attendance at the awards offers advisors front-row insight into emerging trends, top-rated suppliers, and the future of the travel industry.

Dumond’s participation reflects her continued commitment to providing exceptional, personalized travel planning for individuals, families, and groups across Eastern, NC and the country. 

As a travel advisor with Travelmation, Mallory and her team specializes in full-service vacation design, concierge-level support, and memorable experiences tailored to each client. 

WCC, Montreat College Sign Transfer Agreement for Cybersecurity Program

WCC, Montreat College Sign Transfer Agreement for Cybersecurity Program

December 11, 2025 Amy Roux

GOLDSBORO, N.C. – Wayne Community College’s Cybersecurity graduates now have a direct transfer pathway to Montreat College.
WCC and Montreat College School of Adult and Graduate Studies (AGS) signed a transfer agreement that allows students who graduate from WCC with an Associate of Applied Science in Cybersecurity to pursue a Bachelor of Science degree through the Montreat Cybersecurity program.

Students must have at least a 2.0 grade point average and earn at least a “C” in their WCC Cybersecurity courses. Up to 64 semester hours of credit will transfer to Montreat College AGS.

The agreement between the two schools begins in the spring 2026 semester.

As part of Montreat College AGS’s Corporate Advantage Program, WCC’s Cybersecurity graduates can attend Montreat College with a tuition discount of 50% on their first term and a 10% discount for the remainder of the program, saving both time and money in earning their bachelor’s degree.

“We are so excited to offer our Cybersecurity students an additional pathway for those who wish to further their education through this agreement with Montreat College,” said WCC Information Systems Technology Department Chair Jennifer Tyndall. “We’re proud to give our graduates choices, whether they step directly into the workforce or pursue higher education to support their long-term career plans.”

Both WCC and Montreat College have been designated as National Centers of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense by the National Security Agency (NSA) and Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

WCC’s Cybersecurity program gives students hands-on experience with technologies that require them to plan and carry out security measures to protect organizations’ information technology (IT) networks.

Ronald Glenn Bass

Ronald Glenn Bass

December 11, 2025 Shaun Johnson

December 9, 2025, 87, Kenly — Ronald Glenn Bass, 87, entered eternal rest on Tuesday, December 9, 2025. Born on May 20, 1938 in Johnston County, he was son to the late Guvon Bass and Nannie Bridgers Bass.

Ronald was a man who found his greatest joy in the outdoors. Whether walking through the woods, spending quiet moments in nature, or heading out on a hunt, he felt most at home beneath an open sky. He especially loved running his dogs, a pastime that brought him both excitement and peace.

Ronald treasured the time he spent with his family and friends. His presence brought warmth, laughter, and companionship to every gathering, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

He was a faithful member of Center Ridge Presbyterian Church, where he enjoyed fellowship and found strength in his faith. Ronald’s legacy will live on in the memories of those who shared life’s moments with him—out in the fields, in the woods, and around the people he loved most.

Ronald is survived by his sister, Carol Avera; his sister-in-law, Shyrell Crocker and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Ronald was preceded in death by his wife of 61 years, Judy Stone Bass; his sister, Joan Langley; and his brothers, Alfred Bass, Lonnie Bass, and J.E. Bass.

The family will receive friends for a time of visitation from 1:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, December 11, 2025 at Kenly Funeral Service. A service to honor his life will be held at 2:00 p.m. in the chapel with Pastor Ross Renfrow officiating. Entombment will conclude at the Kenly Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given in Ronald’s honor to Center Ridge Presbyterian Church, 2712 Glendale Rd, Kenly, NC 27542.

Services have been entrusted to Kenly Funeral Service.

George Patrick “Pat” Foster

George Patrick “Pat” Foster

December 11, 2025 Shaun Johnson

December 9, 2025, 86, Kenly — George Patrick “Pat” Foster, 86, passed away at Springbrook Rehabilitation & Nursing Center in Clayton on December 9, 2025. Born in Johnston County on October 24, 1939, he was the son of the late George Foster and Grace Rose Foster.

In addition to his parents, Pat is preceded in death by his son-in-law, Jim Tart; and brother-in-law, Jerry Little. Pat is also preceded in death by several other family members whom he loved.

Pat is survived by his children, Beth Tart, Mark Foster and wife, Cynthia, Jeffery Foster and wife, Heather, and Travis Foster and wife, Chasney; grandchildren, Ashley Tart, Allison Taylor and husband, Jordan, Tyson Foster, Grayden Foster, Carter Foster, and Tayten Foster; great-grandchildren, Elias Taylor, Layton Edgerton, Salem Taylor, Maddox Edgerton, and Alistair Taylor; sister, Carolyn Little; and special friend, Poncho.

Pat spent his life doing what he loved most—driving trucks. From an early age, he was on the open road, and he dedicated his entire career to being a proud and hardworking truck driver. Even when he wasn’t behind the wheel, Pat could often be found working on trucks, tinkering, fixing, and enjoying every moment spent under the hood.

Pat was an avid Duke basketball fan and rarely missed a game, cheering on the Blue Devils with passion and pride. He also cherished time spent at home, where his greatest joy came from being with his family. He loved having everyone gather together, and he especially enjoyed cooking for his loved ones—filling the house with good food, laughter, and memories.

Pat will be remembered for his big heart, strong work ethic, and the love he poured into his family and friends. His presence will be deeply missed but forever treasured by all who knew him.

A funeral service to celebrate Pat’s life will be held on Friday, December 12, 2025 at 12 p.m. at Kenly Funeral Service with Pastor Aubrey Williamson presiding. The family will receive friends at the funeral home prior to the service, from 11 a.m. until 12 p.m. Pat will be laid to rest at the Kenly Cemetery following the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to the Free Will Baptist Children’s Home at 7907 Buck Deans Rd, Middlesex, NC 27557 in memory of Pat.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Kenly Funeral Service.

Larry Donell Ingram

Larry Donell Ingram

December 11, 2025 Shaun Johnson

December 10, 2025, 73, Fremont — Mr. Larry Donell Ingram, age 73, crossed over on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 into to a world of love, where peace has no end, and joy knows no bounds. Mr. Ingram passed at his residence surrounded by his loving family.

The arrangements are incomplete at this time.

We extend our deepest condolences to the family and please continue to keep the family in your prayers during their time of bereavement.

Sarah Nannie Waters Phillips

Sarah Nannie Waters Phillips

December 11, 2025 Shaun Johnson

December 9, 2025, 92, Goldsboro — Ms. Sarah Nannie Waters Phillips, 92, completed her earthly journey and transitioned from labor to reward, Tuesday, December 9, 2025 at Kitty Askins Hospice Center.

Please remember her family during their time of bereavement.

The Celebration of Life will be, Saturday, December 20, 2025 at 12:00 PM at Woods Chapel UAFWB Church, 928 New Hope Road, Goldsboro, NC 27534. There will be a viewing from 11:00-11:50 AM.

She will be laid to rest at Wayne Memorial Park, 2925 US Hwy 117 South, Dudley, NC 28333.

Clifton Earl Barnes

Clifton Earl Barnes

December 11, 2025 Shaun Johnson

December 8, 2025, 76, Goldsboro — Mr. Clifton Earl Barnes, 76, completed his earthly journey and transitioned from labor to reward, Monday, December 8, 2025.

Please remember his family in prayer during their time of bereavement.

The arrangements are currently incomplete.

Janell Nicole Baker

Janell Nicole Baker

December 11, 2025 Shaun Johnson

December 5, 2025, 48, Goldsboro — Ms. Janell Nicole Baker, 48, completed her earthly journey and transitioned from labor to reward, Friday, December 5, 2025 at home.

Please remember her family during their time of bereavement.

The arrangements are currently incomplete.

Robert Bass

Robert Bass

December 11, 2025 Shaun Johnson

December 4, 2025, 80, Fremont — Robert Bass, 80, of Fremont passed away Thursday, December 4, 2025 at his home surrounded by his family.

Funeral service will be held Sunday, December 7, 2025 at 2 p.m. in the chapel of Shackleford-Howell Funeral Home in Fremont. Interment will follow at Elmwood Cemetery in Fremont. The family will receive friends Sunday from 1 p.m. until 1:45 p.m. at the funeral home. The family request that everyone in attendance, if possible, wear Duke or the New York Yankees attire or colors in his memory.

Robert was born in Wayne County to the late Edward Bass Jr. and Rachel Worley Bass on August 28, 1945. In his early years, you could find Robert working on the family fields putting in tobacco. He loved and cherished his family and friends dearly. He was an avid sports lover. Especially his Duke Blue Devils, New York Yankees and the Dallas Cowboys. In his spare time, you could find him sitting with that big smile at the Fast Break!

Robert is survived by his wife of 55 years, Sandra Williams Bass; his daughters, Penny Ortega and husband, Gilbert and Carrie Matthews and husband, Derek; his grandchildren, Hunter, Christlynne, Cyleigh and Cadie. He is also survived by his sisters, Pat Alford and Tammie Beasley; several brother and sister in laws, nieces, nephews and cousins.

In addition to his parents, Robert was preceded in death by his sister, Janice Cooke and son-in-law, Dean Bass.

Professional services entrusted and in the care of Shackleford-Howell Funeral Home, 102 North Pine Street in Fremont.

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