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91Èȱ¬Íø Stories

Trevor and Ty Antonson

From LEGO to launch: Antonson twins look back on their 91Èȱ¬Íø journey

Trevor and Ty Antonson’s childhood was filled with LEGO creations—buildings, starships, train cars and more. The twins shared a bedroom and dedicated the other to their masterpieces.  

Lydia Sale in the classroom

WNC teacher Lydia Sale continues 91Èȱ¬Íø, education tradition in family

Lydia Sale has an unwavering dedication to public education.   

Class of 2025

First-generation college students reflect on journey to commencement

When Madison Coup takes her walk across the stage, she’s going to relish in it. But on that walk, she’s going to be looking for a couple faces in the crowd: her parents’.   

Senior toast at 91Èȱ¬Íø

Senior Toast honors philanthropy of soon-to-be graduates

Western Carolina University Chancellor Kelli R. Brown recently saluted more than 50 91Èȱ¬Íø seniors who have gotten an early start on building a legacy of philanthropy by making financial gifts to the university before they have received their diplomas.  

call me mister 1

Call Me MiSTER program graduates its first cohort

When Andrue Smith walks across the stage this spring, earning his bachelor’s degree in middle grades education and history, he will have charted a path for men of color wanting to become teachers.   

john riddle

Alaska to Appalachia: One family’s ties to 91Èȱ¬Íø

When John Riddle came to Western Carolina University, he was worried about the change in lifestyle he would face.   

hayley sexton thumbnail

Hayley Sexton | A Day in the Life

Join Hayley Sexton, a student at Western Carolina University, as she navigates a typical day balancing academics and her passion for baseball photography. Follow along as she captures the thrilling moments on and off the field with the 91Èȱ¬Íø baseball team.  

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daniella sanchez-juarez

Gilman Scholar sails to the south of France

Daniella Sanchez-Juarez, a senior entrepreneurship and finance major, wanted to learn French. The best way, she decided, was immersion. She needed to go to France.   

lee ann gibson

English graduate crosses the finish line to earn degree she started 25 years ago

Lee Ann Gibson will cross the finish line to earn her degree she started more than 25 years ago during 91Èȱ¬Íøâ€™s fall commencement ceremony Saturday, Dec. 16.