UNC Pembroke News

Sayeed Kabir and Marijo Wilkes
May 09

Wilkes, Kabir Turn Graduation into a Launchpad for Medicine

Their journeys to the commencement stage at UNC Pembroke couldn’t have been more different. Still, Marijo Wilkes and Sayeed Kabir share a remarkable distinction: both soon-to-be graduates are set to continue their academic journeys at two of the nation’s most prestigious medical schools.

Don and Mason Schwenneker
May 07

Father and son share spotlight at Spring Commencement

Don “Big Weather” Schwenneker has delivered forecasts for decades — predicting storms, sunshine and everything in between. But there was one life milestone he couldn’t predict: graduating from college side-by-side with his son, Mason.

Josh Berenbaum on the court
May 06

Josh Berenbaum to represent Team USA at Maccabiah Games

UNC Pembroke basketball standout Josh Berenbaum has earned the honor of a lifetime — a spot on Team USA for the upcoming Maccabiah Games in Israel, a global showcase of the world's top Jewish athletes.

Ron Oxendine and his wife, Tina sit on a bench dedicated to their parents.
May 06 Chad Locklear

A Legacy of Love and Learning: UNCP Alumni Honor Their Parents With Memorial Bench and Endowed Scholarship

On a quiet path near the Thomas College of Business and Economics, a new bench invites students and visitors alike to pause, reflect and take in the surroundings. However, for Ron and Tina Oxendine, both proud alumni of UNC Pembroke, that bench is much more than a place to sit.

Gabe Blackwelder

Track Star Gabe Blackwelder Blazes a Trail as Scholar, Athlete

For college athletes, Media Day is one of the most exciting times of the year. They put on their UNCP gear, line up with props, and prepare to kick off the season. Behind the camera lens is Gabe Blackwelder — a humble and quiet track team member, many don’t realize is one of the most accomplished athletes on campus.

Presentation at the Women's Empowerment Summit
March 10

Annual Women’s Empowerment Summit Returns

UNC Pembroke is excited to host its annual Women’s Empowerment Summit, an inspiring event dedicated to fostering leadership, resilience and success among women across various fields.

Speaker at Founders' Day observance
March 07

Honoring Legacy: UNCP Marks 138th Founders’ Day

UNC Pembroke is celebrating 138 years of excellence as the university marks its annual Founders’ Day observance. The day serves as a tribute to the seven visionaries who established the institution in 1887, laying the groundwork for what has become a thriving university dedicated to education, empowerment and community impact.

Layth Allan and Nygell Verder share a laugh courtside
February 13

Beyond the Sidelines: How Layth Allan Inspires UNCP’s Basketball Team with Resilience and Heart

Before the first whistle blows — whether it’s game day or practice — Layth Allan is already on the court, ensuring everything runs seamlessly for The University of North Carolina at Pembroke’s men’s basketball team.

NC Supreme Court Justice and UNCP alumnus Trey Allen administers the oath of office to Chief George Earl Johnson as Johnson's mother, Ruby, and wife, Sonya, look on
January 10 Mark Locklear

George Earl Johnson Sworn in as Chief of Police

George Earl Johnson, a seasoned law enforcement veteran with nearly three decades of experience, was formally sworn in as the chief of police and public safety at The University of North Carolina at Pembroke during a ceremony on Thursday.