UNC Pembroke News

Ahelayous Oxouzidis speaks with James Deutsch
May 09

REACH Fellows Present Research at National Public History Conference in Montreal

A group of REACH Fellows at UNC Pembroke recently traveled to Montreal, Canada, to attend the 2024–2025 National Council on Public History (NCPH) Conference.

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.

Chancellor Robin G. Cummings and auctioneer Brian Calabria
May 06 Chad Locklear

Record-Breaking Cash Bash Raises Nearly $190K for UNCP Student-Athletes

UNC Pembroke’s 2025 Braves Club Cash Bash, presented by Scotland Health, delivered a night of celebration, community, and giving — shattering records and reaffirming the strength of BraveNation.

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.

Josh Deese (center) with his father Ronnie, sister Myra, and mother Rogena, at Ranger School graduation.
April 29

Honoring a Hero: UNC Pembroke Community Remembers 1Lt. Joshua Deese with Memorial 5K

It’s been nearly 20 years since Army 1Lt. Joshua Deese gave his life in Iraq, but to those who knew him — his family, friends and fellow cadets from the Army ROTC program at his alma mater, UNC Pembroke, — his presence is still felt every day.

UNCP recently honored 25 retirees during a luncheon at the University Center Annex. Pictured are 14 of the total retirees who attended a Retiree Celebration on April 15, 2025.
April 28

UNCP Recognizes 25 Retirees Who Helped Shape the University’s Future

The UNC Pembroke community came together recently to celebrate the careers and contributions of 25 dedicated employees whose combined decades of service helped shape the institution’s growth and success.

ROTC students sitting in a classroom at UNCP
April 25

UNCP Earns Top Rankings in 2025-2026 Military Friendly School Designations

UNC Pembroke continues to build on its commitment to supporting military service members, veterans and their families, earning top honors in the newly released 2025-2026 Military Friendly rankings.

Dr. Laura Gerald
April 25

Dr. Laura Gerald Named Spring Commencement Speaker

Dr. Laura Gerald, president of the Kate B. Reynolds Charitable Trust, will be the keynote speaker for UNC Pembroke’s Spring Commencement ceremonies on May 9 and May 10.

Gabe Blackwelder
April 25

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.