ECU Excels to celebrate high achievers

ECU Excels to celebrate high achievers

GREENVILLE, N.C. (01/21/2026) - East Carolina University will host a special program called ECU Excels on Friday, Jan. 23 in the Main Campus Student Center Ballrooms from 2-4 p.m. The special event will celebrate freshmen and transfer students who achieved a 3.0 GPA or higher in their first semester at ECU and recognize the faculty and staff members who helped them along the way.

ECU Excels launched pre-pandemic and returned in 2025 with nearly 750 attendees who received a lapel and ECU Excels decal.

"The energy in the room last year was really exciting," said Chris Buddo, provost and vice chancellor for the Division of Academic Affairs. "ECU is committed to student success as a top priority, and these freshmen and transfer students have proven that while the transition to college isn't easy, these Pirates are up to the challenge."

In addition to receiving an ECU Excels lapel pin and decal, this year's attendees can visit with campus leaders including academic deans, advisors and mentors while also learning about additional resources and student success services to support their academic journey at ECU.

The divisions of Academic Affairs and Student Affairs are putting on the event through their strong partnership and shared commitment to student success across campus.

"These students have made academics their priority and we are pleased to recognize and celebrate their achievement," added Buddo.

Contacts: Dr. Elizabeth Coghill, executive director of Student Academic Success Services, [email protected], 252-737-2011 and Dr. Lauren Thorn, director of the Center for Student Success, [email protected], 252-737-1059.

Event Date: Jan. 23

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