On a campus known for civic engagement, one speaker encouraged students to rethink the very law that made voting more accessible. At a speaker series honoring the 60th anniversary of the Voting Rights Act, Dr. Andy Jackson director of the Civitas Center for Public Integrity at the John Locke Foundation, argued that federal oversight of […]
From studio to stage: Senior portfolios celebrate creativity
November 15, 2025 by
The Bardo Fine Arts Museum unveiled its 2025 senior portfolio exhibition with a reception of laughter and camaraderie. While the students attaining their Bachelor of Fine Arts degrees described their commitment to their process, their work spoke to their dedication to their craft. With an expected turn out of 60, expectations were blown out of […]
WCU homecoming parade brings joy and business to Sylva
November 14, 2025 by
Perfect fall weather brought community, alums, and students to downtown Sylva for the annual parade to celebrate the university. Kids were lining the West Main Street, Nov. 7 cheering on the floats and waiting for the traditional candy in their small hands. The event is a kickoff for the celebration of homecoming weekend. Live music […]
Food and toiletries drive collects goods for local pantries
November 13, 2025 by
The Center for Community Engagement and Service Learning is hosting a food and toiletries drive through the end of November, just in time for Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week that runs from Nov. 16 to Nov. 22. With the holidays approaching, CCESL associate director Natalie Newman, who is overseeing the drive, says it is […]
Some won, some lost and many remained – 2025 election results in Jackson County
November 11, 2025 by
Story produced with Halle Stanley and Sam Scroggins Municipal elections are over. The election day saw more voters then in 2023 and a little over 29% of eligible voters who live within the limits of Sylva, Dillsboro, Webster, Village of Forest Hills and Highlands voted for mayors or town councils or boards. See more on […]
SMN: Western Republicans buck national trend in Nov. 4 election
November 11, 2025 by
Story published in Smoky Mountain News Nov. 6; re-published with permission Overwhelmingly, municipal officials take pride in their nonpartisan service, but once they’re elected, they don’t just leave their party hats at the chamber doors. Despite claims that “there’s no Republican/Democratic way to fill a pothole,” the partisan composition of municipal governing boards can be […]
