Moe Holmes

Maurice “Moe” Holmes ’19 is a true example of a student making the most of their college experience.

When he wasn’t at track practice or setting university records during meets, he released three music albums with his band, MoeSOS DC. Moe was also actively involved in Speechawks (UNCW’s speech and debate team), campus ministry and Black Student Union, all while also working as a Resident Assistant. Moe, a native of Washington, D.C., was the first Seahawk to win CAA Athlete-of-the-Year honors and tied the conference record for career gold medals.

Sometimes our identities can feel swallowed up by our attachment to athletics. However, you are more. More than the number you wear, more than the spikes you run in, more than the jersey you put on.

You are more than just an athlete."

2019 CAA Track & Field Championships in Elon, N.C.

While addressing fellow student-athletes during this year’s Athletics Awards Banquet, Moe shared the wisdom he has come to know during his time at UNCW. “Sometimes our identities can feel swallowed up by our attachment to athletics. However, you are more. More than the number you wear, more than the spikes you run in, more than the jersey you put on. You are more than just an athlete," said Moe.

"For many of us, our sport can sometimes feel like the oxygen we breathe. Without it, we feel lost.” Moe went on to encourage underclassmen to not let their dreams end with the achievement of becoming a collegiate athlete, and to challenge themselves at UNCW by getting involved in student organizations and courses that they feel passionate about.

The recipient of both athletic and academic donor-funded scholarships, Moe shared that without those awards he may not have been able to attend school this year. Indisputably, UNCW donors are the catalyst to great Seahawk successes like Moe’s. A Cameron School of Business graduate, Moe hopes to secure a job in financial planning to assist low income families.