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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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Belmont Abbey College Launches Updated MSN Program to Train Future Nurse Educators

Belmont Abbey College Launches Updated MSN Program to Train Future Nurse Educators

Belmont, N.C. (July 8, 2025) – Belmont Abbey College announces the enhancement of its Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program, now specifically designed to train the next generation of nursing educators through the Nurse Educator track. As the demand for skilled healthcare professionals reaches unprecedented levels, there is a critical need for knowledgeable and compassionate nurse educators to lead the way.

The MSN Nurse Educator program focuses on developing advanced competencies in teaching, curriculum development, and assessment strategies tailored for nursing education. By emphasizing a comprehensive educational approach, the program prepares graduates to take on pivotal roles in academia, healthcare facilities, and educational service companies.

Students deepen their professional growth and help shape the next generation of nurses by focusing on the educational side of nursing. The program opens pathways to careers in academia, staff development, and clinical education, filling a critical gap in today’s healthcare landscape.

Entirely online, the Master of Science in Nursing program seamlessly integrates advanced nursing concepts, evidence-based practice, and leadership grounded in Catholic and Benedictine values. Designed with working nurses in mind, the online format allows students to balance their studies with personal and professional responsibilities. Graduates leave with a strong foundation for continued studies at the doctoral level and a deep commitment to ethical leadership and service. 

“Our online MSN – Nurse Educator program offers nurses a meaningful way to advance their careers while making a lasting impact on the future of healthcare,” said Dr. Lee-Ann Kenny, Chair and Program Director of Nursing for Belmont Abbey College. “Through a curriculum rooted in Catholic and Benedictine values, we prepare nurse educators to lead with both expertise and compassion, equipping them to meet the growing need for skilled educators in today’s dynamic healthcare landscape.”

Applications are now open for the upcoming semester. To learn more or begin the application process, visit belmontabbeycollege.edu/msn or contact admissions@bac.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

Download Now.

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Belmont Abbey College Partners with Veterum Sapientia Institute to Launch New Latin and Greek Majors

Belmont Abbey College Partners with Veterum Sapientia Institute to Launch New Latin and Greek Majors

Belmont, N.C. (July 1, 2025) – Belmont Abbey College is thrilled to announce its partnership with the Veterum Sapientia Institute (VSI) to enhance its commitment to the Catholic Intellectual Tradition. This collaboration will introduce two new majors in Latin and Greek, available to both traditional and Abbey Online students, along with accompanying minors. 

The new programs will be available, pending final approval from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), in the Fall 2025 semester, marking the beginning of an unparalleled partnership driving eager learners of all ages to classical education. This initiative reflects Belmont Abbey College’s dedication to providing a robust academic framework that honors the rich heritage of the Catholic faith while fostering a deep understanding of classical languages.

“At Belmont Abbey College, we strive to educate the whole student by harmonizing faith and reason,” said Dr. Joseph Wysocki, the college’s provost. “Offering degrees in these foundational languages will allow students to explore the words of both saints and scholars in greater depth, broadening their understanding of some of life’s greatest lessons and mysteries. These programs and this partnership are truly one of a kind in the world of higher education today.”

The Veterum Sapientia Institute leads the renewal of Latin and Greek studies, advancing the vision articulated by Pope St. John XXIII in Veterum Sapientia. VSI is committed to teaching Latin and Greek as living languages, helping Catholics reclaim their cultural and spiritual heritage through immersive, high-quality language instruction.

“We are honored to partner with Belmont Abbey College in forming students through the wisdom of the Church’s ancient languages,” said Christopher Owens, CEO of the Veterum Sapientia Institute. “Offering immersive Latin and Greek instruction to both traditional and online students is a bold step in the renewal of classical education—and we’re thrilled to do so alongside such a faithful and academically rigorous institution. At a time when there is a growing need for knowledgeable high school and college teachers in classical education, we’re excited to help fill that need by preparing the next generation of instructors.”

Students enrolled in the traditional undergraduate program will take foundational courses on campus with Belmont Abbey College faculty while completing upper-level classes alongside VSI cohorts of no more than 15 students, ensuring personalized attention. Adult online learners in the Abbey Online program will take all courses in a flexible, fully online format.

The Latin and Greek majors provide a foundation for a number of careers in fields such as philosophy, theology, education, history, law, medicine, and more. In addition to the majors, the adjoining minors will provide students with the flexibility to enhance their primary fields of study while gaining valuable insights into the classical roots of various disciplines. This initiative aligns with Belmont Abbey College’s mission to cultivate a community of learners who are committed to academic excellence and the pursuit of truth.

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

Download Now.

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