The holiday season brings all things merry and bright with family gatherings, the spirit of giving, and setting intentions for the new year to come. The holidays can also be an opportune time to reflect on the year, how things are different from this time last year, and all the things you have to be thankful for.
At North Central University, we are so blessed by all of the growth that has happened over the course of 2018 and we are excited for what the future holds. We asked students and staff about their favorite moments of 2018, and here is our top 10 list!
Top 10 NCU Moments of 2018
(In no particular order)
NCCAA Men’s Championship
The North Central men’s soccer team won a 3-0 victory over Kentucky Christian University to clinch the National Christian College Athletic Association (NCCAA) national championship. The win represents the Rams’ first NCCAA Men’s Soccer National Championship in school history.
Robyn and Rich Wilkerson
President Scott Hagan and the North Central University Board of Regents have announced the appointment of Rev. Rich and Dr. Robyn Wilkerson as University Chancellors. Additionally, NCU’s College of Church Leadership will be renamed to the Rich and Robyn Wilkerson College of Church Leadership. We are excited to have them as a part of the NCU family!
NCBrew
NCBrew is the new coffee cart on campus at North Central University! NCBrew features Starbucks coffee and opened spring 2018 in the Lindquist Chapel atrium and has been keeping students, staff, and faculty caffeinated ever since! The cart was donated by Pioneer food services, and named by the North Central community.
NCU Block Party
At the beginning of the fall semester, students gathered on Elliot Avenue to kick off a new school year and catch up with friends. With food trucks, a rock climbing wall, and the band Yam Haus singing in the new semester the block party was a huge success and will forever go down in history.
Watch the block party recap
Reggie Dabbs
Reggie Dabbs was this year’s Spiritual Life Days guest speaker. From his timely messages to his saxophone solos, the students were captivated and the energy on campus was electric! Reggie spoke a compelling message about being a “tag changer” to encourage the students to transform the world and lives of people around them.
Listen to more chapel message recordings.
Clay Commons remodel
Clay Commons got a much needed face lift this year with the help of our generous donors! With the new remodel, more seating has been added to accommodate the growing student body. Students use this space to collaborate on projects, study for exams, and stay up too late hanging out with friends.
Watch the before and after video
Pho Bar in the cafeteria
As North Central continues to refine their cafeteria offerings, a popular new item was introduced in Fall 2018! The pho bar appears in the cafeteria multiple times a week, and is a huge hit with students. Pho is a traditional Vietnamese soup and can be made to order right on the spot! Students choose from noodles, veggies, protein, and stock options to create a delicious (and healthy) meal!
Partners for Progress
Alumni and donors of North Central University gathered together at the IMS center for a wonderful night all in the spirit of raising funds for student scholarships. The night consisted of alumni awards, panels, a word from President Scott and Karen Hagan, and good company.
Watch the event recap
Fully launching an online masters program
North Central University officially launched the online Master’s program this year which was a huge step in the advancement of online courses!
Learn more about the Master of Arts in Strategic Leadership.
Breaking retention records
For the second year in a row, North Central has posted record-high retention, according to Erin White, M.A., Dean of Student Advocacy. For any university, retention rates serve as a temperature check for the wellness of the university and an indicator of student success.
Blessings to you in 2019!
This year has been a good one. We are so thankful for everyone who plays a part in making North Central University a great place to learn, work, and create life long relationships. From the NCU family to yours, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
