Dr. Stephanie Freeman, Founder and President
A Letter From Our Founder and President—
Dr. Stephanie Freeman
Dr. Freeman is an accomplished educator who has five earned degrees. Her educational pedigree is stellar. She was Director of the Arts and Humanities Program at North Carolina Central University for two decades; the Chair of the School of Religion at Barber-Scotia College; and the Dean of the School of Religion at Barber-Scotia College (both are HBCUs in North Carolina).
This university is the product of many years (decades) of vison casting, planning, and labor. It is not the product of some whim or afterthought. Every program has been prayed over and lovingly birthed into existence. Likewise, every person who is affiliated with this university–administrators, staff, faculty, students, and community members (whether local, national, or global)–has been prayed over and preparations have been made to receive them in their capacity and talents.
Yes, I have labored long and hard to bring this vision to life, but it has truly been a labor seasoned with love. I want the world to see all of the good and healing that can come when a university combines Christian principles with pioneering ingenuity—when love and craftmanship coexist peaceably.
I also want other frustrated Christians–Christians similar to me– to have a place to call home. I searched and searched and searched for a place that would allow me to be the unique kingdom citizen that God created me to be.
I am an author, educator, actress, model, designer, comedian (well, I’m working on this one), and so much more. I love the arts. Additionally, I love to dance and sing. I have preached and taught the word of God, but I have been called to another type of ministry—ministry that encompassed more than standing behind a pulpit. My primary purpose is education. I know I am not alone. You may not be an educator, but you may have a calling that doesn’t fit traditional academic programs.
I have wanted to start a school since I was a little girl looking up at a prominent preparatory school called Palmer Memorial Institute. A young African American woman named Charlotte Hawkins Brown started that school and inspired me to follow in her footsteps. Her legacy lives, and I thank her for sparking my love for education and schools.
Do you long for an exciting education that fits who you are?
I know that you want unique, pioneering programs that expand kingdom ministry into newer, higher, deeper realms. NCU will be your academic haven.
NCU has a start, but our programs will be organic. Our degree base will grow. What we are able to offer will grow. We will reach billions with the love of Jesus Christ, and we will do it in diverse ways—ways that may catch many people off guard in a good way.
The North Carolina University community is based on exemplifying ministry, innovation, technology, and trades. I want to use each one of these areas to reach individuals and communities with the love of Jesus and the abundance of the Kingdom of God. I encourage you, as you begin your journey at North Carolina University, to embrace all of the nuances that God has in store for your life and to love your university. After all, it was created with someone like you in mind.
Our foundational scripture comes from 1 Peter 2:9, “But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praise of Him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.” You were meant for greatness, and NCU will help you get there.
May the peace and joy found in Jesus Christ reside in your life.
Sincerely,
Dr. Stephanie Freeman, President