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Belmont Abbey College Announces New Visual and Performing Arts Center Site and Conceptual Design Plans

Belmont Abbey College Announces New Visual and Performing Arts Center Site and Conceptual Design Plans

Belmont, N.C. (September 15, 2025) – Belmont Abbey College, in collaboration with Little Diversified Architectural Consulting (Little), announces significant progress in the development of its new Visual and Performing Arts Center. Key milestones include the selection of a strategic site, the release of conceptual renderings and architectural designs, and an updated project cost estimate of $60 million for the state-of-the-art facility designed to serve both the college and community needs.

The new center will offer a vibrant venue for theater, dance, visual and performing arts, exhibitions, and a wide variety of educational and cultural events. Designed to be both beautiful and functional, the facility will feature versatile performance spaces carefully designed to enhance audience experience and support a wide range of artistic disciplines.

The site for the new center has been strategically selected along Abbey Lane—Belmont Abbey College’s main campus thoroughfare—between the Science Building and Stowe Hall. The site was chosen based on several criteria, including accessibility, parking, traffic flow, utility access, and environmental considerations. This location also reinforces the college’s commitment to integrating the arts into campus life and enabling strong community engagement.

Conceptual renderings released by Little showcase a design that honors Belmont Abbey College’s Catholic heritage and Benedictine values, blending traditional Gothic architectural elements with a modern aesthetic. The result is a welcoming, inspiring space designed to elevate artistic expression and community connection.

“The Visual and Performing Arts Center will be a vibrant embodiment of the Benedictine values of hospitality, community, and tradition, providing a dynamic space that nurtures creativity and growth,” said Adam Caruthers, Studio Principal at Little. “Designed to inspire both students and the greater public, it will serve as a lasting resource that strengthens bonds and reflects Belmont Abbey’s commitment to tradition and fostering a vibrant community.”

The $60 million project cost reflects the full scope of the ideal center, which includes a 1,000-seat theater, a full stage with backstage areas, control and mixing rooms, coverable rehearsal space, storage, a loading dock, and a workshop. Additional features include a dance studio, secondary rehearsal space, and an art gallery. 

“This performing arts center is not only a transformative addition to the college, but also a vital cultural resource for the greater Gaston County community,” said Phil Brach, Vice President of College Relations at Belmont Abbey College and a representative of the Community Leaders’ Advisory Committee. “Our vision is a shared one—by dedicating over 50% of the facility’s use to community groups, we’re creating a space that will truly serve and enrich the entire community.”

The Gaston County Arts Advisory Committee—comprising more than 40 local leaders and college representatives—has played a vital role in the planning process. Their extensive research, including surveys and site visits to other performing arts centers, has ensured the new facility reflects the needs and aspirations of the broader community.

A wide range of community organizations are eager to utilize the new Visual and Performing Arts Center (VPAC), including Gaston Dance, which plans to host its three annual performances at the venue, while the Charlotte Symphony hopes to bring its first-ever concerts to the county. With over 75 members, the Gaston Symphonic Band aims to present its annual concert series at the VPAC, and the Gaston County Art Guild plans exhibitions in the gallery. Holy Angels anticipates hosting art shows and its annual resident talent show. Many other community groups plan to use the VPAC’s auditorium and event spaces—highlighting strong local demand for this new cultural resource.

Belmont Abbey College’s commitment includes hosting the facility on its main campus, operational costs, fundraising, and a pledge to make the facility accessible to local organizations and residents. The project is being funded through North Carolina state grants, private donations, and community partnerships.

Belmont Abbey College, in partnership with Little, presented plans for its new facility to community leaders and local supporters on Friday, September 15. The presentation featured remarks from Adam Caruthers of Little, along with several distinguished guests, including:

  • Representative John Torbett, North Carolina General Assembly
  • Chuck Stowe, retired theatre educator in Gaston County and professional actor
  • Donny Hovis, Director, Gaston County Economic Development
  • Reeves McGlohon, representative, Gaston County Arts Advisory Committee
  • Vincent Ginski, Director of Workforce Development, NC Chamber Foundation
  • Phil Brach, Vice President of College Relations, Belmont Abbey College

As plans move forward, Belmont Abbey and Little will continue working closely with community leaders to finalize designs and begin construction. The new Visual and Performing Arts Center is poised to become a cornerstone of artistic excellence, enriching the cultural life of the region and beyond. 

If you would like more information or are interested in supporting this project, please contact Debra Windley at debrawindley@bac.edu or 704-461-6691.

About Belmont Abbey College: Founded in 1876, Belmont Abbey College is a private, Catholic baccalaureate and liberal arts institution. Our mission is to educate students in the liberal arts and sciences so that in all things God may be glorified. Guided by the Catholic intellectual tradition and the Benedictine spirit of prayer and learning, we welcome a diverse body of students and provide them with an education that will enable them to lead lives of integrity, to succeed professionally, to become responsible citizens, and to be a blessing to themselves and to others. Our beautiful and historic campus is conveniently located just 10 miles west of Charlotte, N.C., and is currently home to more than 1500 students. For more information, visit belmontabbeycollege.edu.

About Little Diversified Architectural Consulting

Little is a national design firm recognized for crafting exceptional solutions that elevate client performance in the community, retail, workplace and healthcare industries. With more than 440 professionals across the U.S., the firm combines expertise in traditional architectural services (architecture, engineering, interior architecture) with proficiency in additional architectural consulting services (planning, sustainability, site design, brand consulting, digital visualization and smart building technologies). Visit littleonline.com.

For Immediate Release

Contact: Sarah Bolton

P: 704-461-7016 E: sarahbolton@bac.edu

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Belmont Abbey College Launches New Major in Writing & Media for Fall 2025

Belmont Abbey College Launches New Major in Writing & Media for Fall 2025

Belmont, N.C. (September 12, 2025) – Belmont Abbey College is excited to announce a new major in Writing & Media, launching in Fall 2025. This innovative program equips students to meet a growing need in today’s world: writing well across different settings, responding to complex rhetorical situations, and navigating digital platforms with clarity and purpose.

Rooted in the Catholic, Benedictine liberal arts tradition, the Writing & Media program blends writing, media, and literary studies. Courses will explore rhetorical strategy, digital communication, audience engagement, and literature in light of the Western intellectual tradition. The program emphasizes creativity, critical thinking, and strong communication skills—preparing graduates for careers in journalism, public relations, marketing, and more.

“We are excited to introduce this new major, which reflect Belmont Abbey’s commitment to providing students with relevant and impactful educational opportunities,” said Dr. Hannah Zdansky, Chair of this program for Belmont Abbey College. “The Writing & Media program will not only enhance our academic offerings but also empower students to become effective communicators in today’s digital landscape.”

In addition to the college’s core liberal arts curriculum, students in the program will take courses such as Writing for Social Media, Business Communications, Foundations of Language, and Editing & Writing for Publication. These offerings will help students develop flexible writing and communication strategies, sharpen their critical thinking, and produce professional and creative work that reflects their unique voice.

Belmont Abbey College invites prospective students to explore the new Writing & Media program and discover how it can help them achieve their academic and career goals. With a focus on experiential learning and a supportive academic environment, students will be well-prepared to navigate the challenges and opportunities of the modern media landscape.

For more information about Belmont Abbey College and its programs, visit www.belmontabbeycollege.edu.

About Belmont Abbey College: Founded in 1876, Belmont Abbey College is a private, Catholic baccalaureate and liberal arts institution. Our mission is to educate students in the liberal arts and sciences so that in all things God may be glorified. Guided by the Catholic intellectual tradition and the Benedictine spirit of prayer and learning, we welcome a diverse body of students and provide them with an education that will enable them to lead lives of integrity, to succeed professionally, to become responsible citizens, and to be a blessing to themselves and to others. Our beautiful and historic campus is conveniently located just 10 miles west of Charlotte, N.C., and is currently home to more than 1500 students. For more information, visit https://belmontabbeycollege.edu/.

For Immediate Release

Contact: Sarah Bolton

P: 704-461-7016 E: sarahbolton@bac.edu

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Belmont Abbey College Celebrates Record-Breaking Enrollment for Fall 2025

Belmont Abbey College Celebrates Record-Breaking Enrollment for Fall 2025

Belmont, N.C. (September 9, 2025) – Belmont Abbey College announces the highest total enrollment in its history, marking a significant milestone in the institution’s continued growth and academic expansion. For the Fall 2025 semester, the college has welcomed its second-largest incoming class of new students, making a new record of total enrollment of 1,741 students—an unprecedented milestone that represents a 3.2% increase over last year.

The total enrollment includes students from a variety of academic tracks: traditional undergraduate, online undergraduate, dual-enrolled, non-degree seeking, and graduate programs. Among the 1,741 enrolled, 741 are new admissions—a strong indicator of the growing interest in the college’s Benedictine liberal arts tradition and superior academic offerings—with students representing 48 states and 26 countries.

“We are gratified to see so many students and families connecting with our academic, student, and faith experiences,” said Dr. Jesse Dorman, Vice Provost of Enrollment at Belmont Abbey College. “We are thrilled to welcome this highly engaged incoming class, with their unique talents, skills, and abilities that will enrich the Belmont Abbey College community and extend far beyond our campus.”

A key contributor to this growth is the record number of 134 graduate students—the highest in Belmont Abbey’s history—enrolled across eight graduate programs. This surge is driven in part by the launch of two new graduate degrees: the Master of Arts in Motorsport Management and the Master of Sport Management, both of which began this fall.

The MA in Motorsport Management is especially groundbreaking—it is the first program of its kind in the United States, establishing Belmont Abbey as a national leader in motorsports education. With Charlotte and Concord serving as hubs of NASCAR and other motorsports industries, the college is uniquely positioned to offer students direct access to internship opportunities, industry leaders, and real-world experiences in a dynamic, fast-growing field.

The college also recently redesigned its Master of Science in Nursing to address the growing need of educators in the healthcare industry. The new MSN—Educator program enables experienced nursing to pass on their expertise to the next generation of caregivers.

Interim President Dr. Joseph Wysocki attributed this year’s success to the dedication of the entire Belmont Abbey community. “This community—so passionately committed to the College’s mission and so dedicated to fulfilling the Abbey promise to our students—is the reason we’ve come this far. Congratulations to every one of our faculty, staff, and the monks who work every day to make the promise of the Abbey a reality for our students.”

While many regional and rural colleges are facing demographic pressures and enrollment declines, Belmont Abbey continues to grow while remaining true to its Catholic mission of forming students in mind, body, and spirit. As Belmont Abbey looks to the future, it remains committed to cultivating a community where academic excellence, faith, and service intersect.

For more information about Belmont Abbey College and its programs, visit www.belmontabbeycollege.edu.

About Belmont Abbey College: Founded in 1876, Belmont Abbey College is a private, Catholic baccalaureate and liberal arts institution. Our mission is to educate students in the liberal arts and sciences so that in all things God may be glorified. Guided by the Catholic intellectual tradition and the Benedictine spirit of prayer and learning, we welcome a diverse body of students and provide them with an education that will enable them to lead lives of integrity, to succeed professionally, to become responsible citizens, and to be a blessing to themselves and to others. Our beautiful and historic campus is conveniently located just 10 miles west of Charlotte, N.C., and is currently home to more than 1500 students. For more information, visit https://belmontabbeycollege.edu/.

For Immediate Release

Contact: Sarah Bolton

P: 704-461-7016 E: sarahbolton@bac.edu

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Remembering Humpy Wheeler, Jr.

Belmont Abbey College Remembers Humpy Wheeler, Jr., Racing Icon and Beloved Alumnus

Belmont Abbey College expresses deep sorrow over the passing of Howard “Humpy” Wheeler, Jr., a devoted supporter and beloved friend of the college. A native of Belmont and alumnus of the Abbey’s Preparatory School, Wheeler played a pivotal role in founding the college’s renowned Motorsport Management program in 2007.

Wheeler’s contributions to Belmont Abbey were multifaceted. He served two terms on the Board of Trustees, offering invaluable leadership and insight. In recognition of his outstanding service, the Abbey awarded him both the Grace Award and the Sport at the Service of the Spirit Award. In 2008, the college inducted him into the Alumni Wall of Fame. He received an honorary degree from the college in 2019 in recognition of his outstanding contributions. Throughout his life and career, Wheeler’s deep connection to Belmont Abbey and the Benedictine tradition remained evident—not only through his own unfailing service but also through the legacy of two of his children, who followed in his footsteps as Abbey alumni.

Dr. Joseph Wysocki, Belmont Abbey’s Interim President, remarked, “Humpy Wheeler’s visionary leadership and unwavering commitment have left an indelible mark on our college community. As an alumnus, trustee, and generous benefactor, he demonstrated an enduring commitment to the Abbey and its mission. His leadership helped shape the direction of the college, and his support opened doors for countless students. Humpy believed in forming not just professionals, but principled leaders—and his impact will continue to be felt through the lives of the alumni and students he championed so passionately.”

In 2007, Wheeler encouraged the then-President of Belmont Abbey College, Dr. Bill Thierfelder, to begin a Motorsport Management program. Patti Wheeler ‘86, his daughter, and Humpy guided the development of the program, which has remained at the forefront of motorsport education, blending academic rigor with strong industry connections. For nearly two decades, it has been one of the few programs in the nation, producing accomplished alumni who now hold key positions in racing at organizations such as NASCAR, numerous racing teams, tracks, and racing support organizations. In Fall 2025, the college expanded the program’s impact by launching the nation’s only Master of Arts in Motorsport Management, further strengthening its leadership in the field.

Dr. Trey Cunningham, Chair of the Motorsport Management program, highlighted Wheeler’s impact: “Humpy was instrumental in shaping the lives of young adults aspiring to enter the motorsport industry. His vision was to create a pathway for students to turn their passion for racing into a profession, and that vision has become a reality for so many. Through his industry insight, storytelling, and unwavering support, Humpy inspired confidence and ambition in everyone he met. His legacy is the foundation of our program, and it will continue to drive our students forward for generations to come.”

Wheeler’s legacy extends well beyond Belmont Abbey College. As the former president and general manager of Charlotte Motor Speedway, he was renowned for his innovative promotions and contributions to the motorsports industry. His efforts earned him inductions into the North Carolina Sports Hall of Fame in 2004 and the International Motorsports Hall of Fame in 2006. In January 2026, he will be honored with the Landmark Award for Outstanding Contributions to NASCAR during the induction of the NASCAR Hall of Fame Class of 2026.

Abbot Placid Solari, O.S.B., reflected on Wheeler’s lasting relationship with the Abbey, “Humpy and Pat Wheeler have been personal friends as well as generous benefactors of Belmont Abbey and Belmont Abbey College and many other worthy causes. Humpy grew up on the abbey campus and always remembered his roots here. He enjoyed an amazing and happy life and was blessed with a beautiful marriage and family. He was the entrepreneur’s entrepreneur. I can imagine he is advising God about some new extravaganza to liven up heaven!”

Belmont Abbey College has been blessed by Humpy Wheeler’s enduring support and guidance. His legacy will continue to inspire generations of students, faculty, and alumni.

The funeral is scheduled for Tuesday, August 26, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Gabriel Catholic Church. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested memorial donations be made in Wheeler’s name to the Belmont Abbey College Motorsports Management Program. Visit bac.edu/futurestars to learn about how you can make a memorial gift in remembrance of Humpy.

For the official statement from the Charlotte Motor Speedway, please click here.

Humpy Wheeler
Students on Abbey Lane with Humpy Wheeler
ABBEY HOMECOMING - Humpy Wheeler
Humpy Wheeler
Humpy Wheeler

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Belmont Abbey College to Launch New Online Hospitality Management Minor

Belmont Abbey College to Launch New Online Hospitality Management Minor

Belmont, N.C. (July 15, 2025) – Belmont Abbey College is excited to announce the launch of a new online hospitality management minor, set to begin in the fall 2025 semester. This innovative program features industry faculty like Michael Matthews, Hotel General Manager with Strand Hospitality Services at Hampton Inn Charlotte-Belmont at Montcross, and is designed to equip students with the essential skills and knowledge needed to thrive in the dynamic hospitality industry.

The hospitality management minor will provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the various sectors within the industry, including hotel management, event planning, and human resource management. The curriculum will focus on practical applications, allowing students to engage in hands-on learning experiences that prepare them for real-world challenges.

“This new minor offers students an incredible opportunity to gain firsthand insight into the hospitality industry while developing the practical skills employers are looking for,” said Michael Matthews, Belmont Abbey professor and industry professional. “With the region’s growing demand for hospitality professionals, we’re preparing students to step confidently into leadership roles right here in our community and beyond.”

Students pursuing the hospitality management minor will have access to a range of courses that cover topics such as hospitality and tourism management, financial management, and business communication excellence. Additionally, the program will emphasize the importance of ethical practices in the hospitality sector.

“We are thrilled to introduce this new minor, which reflects our commitment to providing students with relevant and impactful educational opportunities,” said Dr. Brad Frazier, Vice Provost and Dean of Graduate and Professional Studies at Belmont Abbey College. “The hospitality industry is rapidly evolving, and we believe this program will empower our students to become leaders in this exciting field.”

Belmont Abbey College is dedicated to fostering a learning environment that encourages personal and professional growth. The introduction of the hospitality management minor aligns with the college’s mission to prepare students for successful careers while instilling a sense of service and community engagement. As the demand for skilled professionals in the hospitality industry continues to grow, Belmont Abbey College is poised to provide students with the tools they need to succeed.

For more information about Belmont Abbey College and its programs, visit www.belmontabbeycollege.edu.

About Belmont Abbey College: Founded in 1876, Belmont Abbey College is a private, Catholic baccalaureate and liberal arts institution. Our mission is to educate students in the liberal arts and sciences so that in all things God may be glorified. Guided by the Catholic intellectual tradition and the Benedictine spirit of prayer and learning, we welcome a diverse body of students and provide them with an education that will enable them to lead lives of integrity, to succeed professionally, to become responsible citizens, and to be a blessing to themselves and to others. Our beautiful and historic campus is conveniently located just 10 miles west of Charlotte, N.C., and is currently home to more than 1500 students. For more information, visit https://belmontabbeycollege.edu/.

About Strand Hospitality: Founded in 1969, Strand Hospitality Services began as a developer/owner of full-service Holiday Inn resorts. From there, the hotel management company grew via third-party management. Today, Strand Hospitality focuses on developing, investing and operating properties as well as servicing third-party management contracts. The company specializes in the two to four-star hotel segments among many segment types of hotels and is approved to operate hotels under all the leading hotel brand families, including Marriott, Hilton, InterContinental Hotel Group, and Wyndham. Strand Hospitality Services supports operations centers in Charlotte, Myrtle Beach and Atlanta. For more information, please visit www.strandhospitality.com.

For Immediate Release

Contact: Sarah Bolton

P: 704-461-7016 E: sarahbolton@bac.edu

Download Now.

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