Friendly Faces: Yzosne Riley

From great music to great vibes, “Miss Peaches” delivers students not only to their destination but to a brightened day at UNCW. 

Yzosne Riley, affectionally known to students and staff as “Miss Peaches,” has spent more than 18 years serving the UNCW community as a shuttle driver for WAVE Transit, a public transportation service for the Wilmington area. She drives the red and yellow campus routes during the academic year. Riley is a regular, friendly face that greets hundreds of students each day on their journey to class. 

“My students are everything to me. They’re the reason why I get up. They’re the reason why I come to work,” Riley said. Riley credits the start of her career to fellow transit operator, Jacquelyn McCullough, who recently retired after 31 years of service.  

“Jackie not only guided me but showed me how to be awesome,” she said. "She taught me the ins-and outs of the routes, to show students that we care about them, and that we’re more than just a driver.” 

McCullough’s guidance became the foundation of how Riley approaches her work. Whether she is jamming out to Cardi B or greeting students with her bright smile, Riley’s affectious energy has made her a campus favorite. 

“Everything starts at home. I had a giving mother that taught me respect and treating others the way you want to be treated. As far as energy, I have pets,” Riley said. “They listen to everything I say, and they never argue back. So, I have enough energy to give to everybody.” 

At home, Riley takes care of multiple cats, as well as a chihuahua, a canary, a turtle and 10 goldfish. They all are good listeners, according to Riley. 

“I may not be a celebrity of wealth, but I’m a celebrity of life and happiness,” Riley said. “Whether they know it or not, coming to see the students gives me my energy.” 

Riley’s personality has made her something of a campus celebrity. She frequently appears in student-created Tik Tok videos, where Seahawks share her upbeat personality, infectious energy and words of encouragement to a wider audience. The students also appreciate Riley’s presence.  Over the years, they have given her gifts, candy and personal letters. One student wrote: 

“Peaches, you have been such a light in my UNCW days. Every day, you make me and other students feel seen and cared for. You are such a special soul. Keep being you. Never change. There have been many days where after I see you, I feel so much happier and ready to go. I will always be here for you, care for you and cherish you.” 

As students depart from Riley’s shuttle for the day, she reminds them to check their seats and gather their belongings and tells them she appreciates each and every one of them. She also leaves them with a message that has become her trademark.  

“I tell them all the time, if nobody don’t love you, Miss Peaches loves you.” 

As part of the Seahawk Stories feature series, Friendly Faces highlights the people whose kindness, encouragement and everyday interactions help make UNCW feel like home. Know someone who brightens your day? Nominate a future Friendly Face through UNCW’s official Instagram.