UNC Pembroke News

Brandon and Madison Swallow attend Commencement
May 10

Graduates Celebrate Strength Resilience and New Beginnings

All his life, Brandon Swallow has refused to let his disabilities define him. He was born with cerebral palsy, hemiplegic dysplasia, and scoliosis and has a condition known as optic nerve hypoplasia, meaning he has low vision.

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.

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

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.

Bravestation Bookstore
March 27

Barnes & Noble College selected as new campus bookstore partner

UNC Pembroke has selected Barnes & Noble College as its new campus bookstore provider, marking the start of an exciting new chapter for the UNCP Bookstore. The transition will take effect in July 2025.

Debbie Antonelli speaks with broadcasting students
March 07

Sports Analyst Debbie Antonelli Inspires, Empowers Broadcasting Students

For UNC Pembroke broadcasting students, learning from one of the industry’s most recognizable stars doesn’t come every day. But when legendary sports analyst Debbie Antonelli stepped onto campus, she delivered more than career advice — she ignited ambition and possibility.

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.

placeholder
March 07

Aramark Selected as New Campus Dining Provider

UNC Pembroke has announced that Aramark will serve as the university’s new campus dining provider, beginning in summer 2025. Following a comprehensive six-month selection process, Aramark was chosen to oversee all on-campus dining, catering and athletic concessions.

Darcey Meus and her daughter, Esther
December 10

Grateful to Walk Across That Stage Cancer Survivor Earns MBA

For Darcey Meus, crossing the stage at The University of North Carolina at Pembroke on Friday will be a powerful moment of triumph. After a grueling battle with cancer, earning her MBA is a testament to her faith, resilience, and love.