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WCU Stories

Aerial Shot of Campus with

A Decade in Review

The past ten years at Western Carolina University have been transformational, to say the least. Our student population has consistently grown; our campus has evolved to support the future, and all members of our Catamount family have experienced many life-changing moments here at WCU. After taking a moment to reflect back, we now look to the future. Not only for our university but also for our students, faculty, staff, and community that call Western Carolina University home.  

Paws at the residence in front of a Christmas tree

Happy Holidays

This holiday season Western Carolina University First Gentleman Dennis Brown solicited the assistance of Paws and a group of WCU students to help decorate the Chancellor’s Residence and surprise Chancellor Kelli R. Brown for the couple’s first holiday on campus.  

Tuyen Tram

Accomplished First-Generation Student says Scholarships Changed her Life

She was first influenced as a child by television pictures of 15th-century temples in China's Forbidden City and elaborate, ornate churches in Europe, beautifully designed structures, all of which left an indelible mark on a little Chinese girl growing up in Vietnam.  

Dan Robinson

In the Trenches

They were a little older, a little wiser and most liked to play poker. And with nicknames including Pee Wee, Buffalo and Pinball, you knew they were going to make something happen — and they did. Welcome to the 1949 football team at Western Carolina Teachers College, which 70 years ago this fall won the North State Conference championship — the only championship a Catamount football team has ever won.  

Chancellor Brown, First-Gentleman Dennis, Paws and students in front of the Chancellors Residence

Countdown to Cullowhee: 1 Day

Move-in day is one of the most exciting days on campus every year…new Catamounts and their parents are buzzing with anticipation for the opening of a new chapter. And upperclassmen return to continue their studies. Now that Chancellor Kelli R. Brown and her husband Dennis are all moved-in, they can’t wait for our students to arrive and begin another incredible academic year!  

Students on Campus

Countdown to Cullowhee: 2 Days

A familiar face, a friendly smile, an excited wave… As students return home Cullowhee, campus is filled with vibrant life once again. It’s time to gather with friends, catch-up, and kick off a new year school year full of opportunity.  

Student with an alarm

Countdown to Cullowhee: 3 Days

What about… Hit snooze once or twice… maybe three times, but be ready to hit the ground running. New professors and classes promise exciting opportunities to try something different, pick up a new skill, or get to understand the world from another view. Wake up, get out there, and decide to succeed as you chase after your future.  

Student in a hammock on campus

Countdown to Cullowhee: 4 Days

A morning breeze, a good book, sunshine coming through the trees, and the fountain splashing in the distance…If you’re looking for a moment of relaxation on campus or need somewhere to catch-up on your studies, tie up a hammock, sit back, and take it all in. Beauty and tranquility surround you.  

Band performer

Countdown to Cullowhee: 5 Days

The Cullowhee Valley is once again filling with the sounds of the Baddest Band in the Land. As the award-winning Pride of the Mountains marching band prepares for their return to the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, you can bet you’ll hear the tick of a metronome and beating drums anywhere you turn.  

Cullowhee Countdown!  

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