UMO Celebrates Over 175 Graduates and Honors Top Scholars

UMO Celebrates Over 175 Graduates and Honors Top Scholars

December 15, 2025 Amy Roux

MOUNT OLIVE –  The University of Mount Olive (UMO) celebrated more than 175 graduates during its December 2025 Commencement Ceremony held at Kornegay Arena. With family, friends, faculty, and University leaders in attendance, the ceremony marked a milestone moment for graduates stepping into the next chapter of their lives. It was an especially meaningful day for two students, Lara Stamereilers of Wardenburg, Germany, and Adrian McLean of Clinton, NC, who were honored with the prestigious Dr. Thomas R. Morris Award for Academic Excellence.

The ceremony opened with a stirring rendition of the National Anthem sung by UMO’s Carolina Sound, followed by a welcome and invocation from President Dr. H. Edward Croom. In his remarks, Dr. Croom encouraged graduates to reflect on the significance of their journeys and the promise that lies ahead. “This is a great day for you and the University of Mount Olive,” he said. “The future is bright with many doors of opportunity waiting to be opened. Lean on the relationships you have cultivated and the knowledge you have gained to navigate the paths of success before you.”

Throughout the program, the University recognized students who have served in the armed forces, applauding both graduates and audience members wearing red, white, and blue cords. Board of Trustees Chair Donnie Lassiter also brought greetings, celebrating the accomplishments of the graduates and reflecting on the University’s mission.

In his presidential address, Dr. Croom urged students to consider the deeper purpose behind life’s milestones. “Things don’t just happen,” he said, recalling the well-known story of Tim Tebow’s 2009 championship game and the remarkable series of “316” statistics that followed months later. “I encourage you to allow God to direct your life and see what interesting facts lie ahead.” He went on to remind graduates, “It is what it is, but it will become what you make it.”

A highlight of the ceremony came when Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Burt Lewis recognized the recipients of the Dr. Thomas R. Morris Student Achievement Award for Academic Excellence. Presented to one traditional undergraduate student and one adult online learner, the award honors exceptional academic achievement, leadership, and commitment to learning. Established in memory of the late Dr. Thomas R. Morris, a retired Goldsboro optometrist and native of Nahunta, the award named in his honor reflects his lifelong commitment to learning, service, and faith. 

The traditional student recipient, Lara Stamereilers, earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology. Widely regarded as one of the department’s top scholars, she completed a high-impact research project designed to strengthen student-athletes’ understanding of mental health needs. Stamereilers, herself an accomplished student-athlete, presented her work at UMO’s Research Symposiums as well as the Southeastern Psychological Association Conference in Atlanta. Faculty note her strong engagement in advanced coursework, including a directed study in Behavioral and Cognitive Neuroscience, where she built experimental tools and assisted with instructional demonstrations. She plans to pursue a medical doctorate. “Lara embodies what it means to be a scholar,” one faculty member noted. “Her curiosity, discipline, and desire to help others set her apart.”

The online student award was presented to Adrian McLean, who earned her Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education. Recognized for her dedication and resilience, McLean impressed faculty from the start of her program. In an early class discussion post she wrote, “By the grace of God, I will graduate and become a teacher.” Dr. Lewis shared, “We know God’s grace has been extended as she is here today, and we believe she will be an excellent teacher.” Her instructors describe her as the kind of student every professor hopes to teach: prepared, diligent, inquisitive, and deeply committed to making a difference in the lives of students.

Near the conclusion of the ceremony, Dr. Lewis invited graduates to rise for the symbolic turning of the tassels. “The turning of the tassel signifies not only your graduation, but your continued journey of personal and academic exploration,” he said. “You will be forever in the hearts of University alumni, faculty, and staff.”

Before the recessional, Dr. Croom offered a final blessing, encouraging graduates to embrace a purposeful life rooted in faith. Quoting Matthew 5:16, he said, “Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.”

Holiday “Booze It & Lose It” Campaign Targets Impaired Driving Across North Carolina

Holiday “Booze It & Lose It” Campaign Targets Impaired Driving Across North Carolina

December 15, 2025 Amy Roux

Local and state officials are intensifying efforts to keep North Carolina roadways safe during the busy holiday travel season with the launch of the Governor’s Highway Safety Program’s Holiday “Booze It & Lose It” campaign.

The statewide initiative focuses on reducing drunk and drug-impaired driving through heightened law enforcement and public awareness. From now through Jan. 4, law enforcement agencies in all 100 North Carolina counties will increase patrols and conduct sobriety checkpoints to identify impaired drivers and prevent crashes before they occur.

“Far too often, people make poor decisions that have serious and sometimes deadly consequences,” said Mark Ezzell, director of the North Carolina Governor’s Highway Safety Program.

Impaired driving continues to claim lives across the state. According to state data, 361 people were killed in more than 11,000 alcohol-related crashes in North Carolina last year.

Officials warn the risk increases during the holiday season, when celebrations and alcohol consumption are more common. The Booze It & Lose It campaign aims to deter impaired driving by reminding motorists that enforcement will be visible, aggressive, and widespread throughout the holidays.

Safety leaders encourage drivers to plan ahead by designating a sober driver, using a taxi or rideshare service, or arranging another safe ride home when alcohol is involved.

Mount Olive Rallies Late to Top North Greenville, 84–80

Mount Olive Rallies Late to Top North Greenville, 84–80

December 15, 2025 Amy Roux

IGERVILLE, S.C. — The University of Mount Olive men’s basketball team showcased poise and resilience Saturday afternoon, rallying from a double-digit deficit to earn an 84–80 Conference Carolinas road victory over North Greenville at Hayes Gymnasium.

The Trojans weathered a tightly contested first half that included seven lead changes and three ties. Mount Olive leaned on efficiency at the free-throw line, knocking down 16-of-18 attempts in the opening 20 minutes to stay within striking distance and trail just 40–39 at the break.

Momentum swung in Mount Olive’s favor after halftime. The Trojans outscored the Crusaders 45–40 in the second half, shooting better than 53 percent from the field and draining five three-pointers to keep pressure on the home team.

Jaevian Alston led all scorers with 21 points, repeatedly attacking the basket and converting 10-of-11 free-throw attempts. Christian Ananaba added 17 points on an efficient 6-of-10 shooting performance, while Shane Peterson provided a spark off the bench with nine points, three assists, and three rebounds.

Mount Olive erased a deficit that grew to as many as 12 points behind a decisive late surge. Alston fueled a 12–2 run over the final five minutes, scoring five points at the line, finishing a layup, and coming up with a key steal to pull the Trojans within two.

With 1:51 remaining, a drive-and-kick from Peterson set up Alston at the top of the key, where he calmly buried a three-pointer to give Mount Olive an 80–79 lead. North Greenville responded with a free throw to tie the game moments later.

In the final minute, Alston delivered again, driving into the lane and converting a right-handed hook shot to put the Trojans ahead for good, 82–80. A strong defensive stand followed, capped by Ananaba securing the rebound after a contested jumper.

Alston sealed the win at the free-throw line with 13 seconds remaining, converting both attempts to secure the 84–80 victory.

Depth and discipline proved decisive for Mount Olive, which held a 31–15 advantage in bench points, collected 13 second-chance points, and finished an impressive 26-of-30 from the foul line.

With the win, the Trojans improve to 5–5 overall and 2–1 in Conference Carolinas play. Mount Olive returns to action Wednesday night, traveling to Wilson to face in-state rival Barton at 7 p.m.

Goldsboro Man Charged With Multiple Sexual Offenses Following Multi-Victim Investigation

Goldsboro Man Charged With Multiple Sexual Offenses Following Multi-Victim Investigation

December 14, 2025 Amy Roux

GOLDSBORO, N.C. — A Goldsboro man is facing numerous felony charges following an investigation into allegations of sexual crimes involving multiple victims, including juveniles.

According to investigators, a report of indecent liberties with a child was filed on Aug. 11, 2025. During the course of the investigation, Demias Ashuan Williams-Turnage was identified as a suspect, and authorities later determined that multiple victims were involved.

On Dec. 12, 2025, Williams-Turnage, 21, was apprehended by the Smithfield Police Department and transported to Wayne County, where he was formally charged with a wide range of offenses. These include statutory sexual offense with a child under 15, first-degree kidnapping, two counts of indecent liberties with a child, multiple counts of soliciting a child by computer, crimes against nature, first- and third-degree sexual exploitation of a minor, aggravated sexual extortion, disseminating obscenities, and three counts of sexual battery.

Williams-Turnage, of Goldsboro, is being held without bond.

Authorities report the victims include two juvenile females from Goldsboro and Dudley, as well as an 18-year-old female from Snow Hill. The investigation remains ongoing.

Leadership Wayne Class Partners with Blessing Box, GOLDsboro to Fight Food Insecurity in Wayne County

Leadership Wayne Class Partners with Blessing Box, GOLDsboro to Fight Food Insecurity in Wayne County

December 14, 2025 Amy Roux

Goldsboro, N.C. — The Leadership Wayne Class of 2025–2026 proudly announces its partnership with the Blessing Box, GOLDsboro as this year’s community impact project.  This initiative focuses on combating food insecurity and supporting families throughout Wayne County. 

Founded in 2017, the Blessing Box, GOLDsboro provides free, easily accessible food and personal care items to community members in need. With multiple boxes located throughout the county, the organization operates on a simple yet powerful principle: “Take what you need, leave what you can.”

“Leadership Wayne is honored to partner with such a worthy and impactful organization,” the class shared. “The Blessing Box , GOLDsboro continues to make a meaningful difference in the lives of families across our community, and we are excited to contribute to their mission.”

As part of this initiative, Leadership Wayne will host a series of fundraisers and community-wide food collection events over the coming months. These efforts will help ensure each Blessing Box location remains consistently stocked and accessible, especially during periods of high need.

The class will also work alongside the Blessing Box team to support sustainability efforts, increase community engagement, and enhance long-term impact.

Residents, local businesses, civic groups and community partners who wish to contribute or learn more about upcoming events or how to donate are encouraged to follow the Wayne County Chamber of Commerce’s social media platforms for updates, donation opportunities and announcements.

Together, the Leadership Wayne Class and the Blessing Box, GOLDsboro are committed to building a stronger, more connected, and more supported community—one donation at a time.

New Health Plan Aims to Lower Health Care Costs for Wayne County Small Businesses

New Health Plan Aims to Lower Health Care Costs for Wayne County Small Businesses

December 14, 2025 Amy Roux

WAYNE COUNTY, N.C. — Small businesses in Wayne County now have access to a new, more affordable health insurance option through a partnership between the NC Chamber and Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina (Blue Cross NC).

The plan, called Carolina HealthWorks, is available to small businesses with 2 to 50 employees that are members of the Wayne County Chamber of Commerce or other participating chambers. The program uses a multiple employer welfare arrangement (MEWA) model, allowing small businesses to pool resources and access health care rates and benefits typically available only to larger employers.

Todd Walker, president and CEO of the Wayne County Chamber of Commerce, said the initiative is designed to support the local economy by easing the burden of rising health care costs on small businesses and their employees.

Carolina HealthWorks becomes available starting November 1 and is administered by Blue Cross NC, providing participants access to the insurer’s broad statewide network. Businesses may enroll throughout the year and can work with their existing Blue Cross NC agents, or enroll directly through Blue Cross NC.

State and business leaders say the program addresses a critical challenge for small employers, as health insurance costs often represent a larger share of payroll compared to larger companies. Blue Cross NC and the NC Chamber describe Carolina HealthWorks as a collaborative, long-term solution to help small businesses remain competitive while supporting their workforce.

More information about Carolina HealthWorks is available through the NC Chamber and Blue Cross NC websites.

Wayne County Woman Pleads Guilty to Defrauding $102,000 in SNAP Benefits

Wayne County Woman Pleads Guilty to Defrauding $102,000 in SNAP Benefits

December 14, 2025 Amy Roux

WILMINGTON, N.C. — A Wayne County woman has pleaded guilty in federal court to stealing more than $100,000 in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of North Carolina.

Shermeca McCrary, 46, admitted to theft of government property for her role in a multi-year fraud scheme involving SNAP benefits administered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and managed in North Carolina by the Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Social Services. McCrary faces a maximum sentence of up to 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine when she is sentenced later this year. She will also be ordered to forfeit $102,000.

Federal prosecutors say McCrary abused her position as a North Carolina Department of Social Services caseworker to unlawfully access SNAP accounts belonging to eligible recipients. Court documents show that between January 2021 and January 2024, she diverted approximately $102,000 in government funds for her personal use.

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.

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