This work has a tangible impact, driving economic growth and enhancing the overall prosperity of the region. An economic development impact study showed that impact is valued at $3.2 billion across the state of North Carolina, underscoring the broader influence of UNCW in the economic vitality of our region and state. Many thanks to Mouhcine Guettabi, associate professor of economics, for producing the study. He serves as the regional economist with the Swain Center in the Cameron School of Business.
UNCW is growing its reach by collaborating with respected international institutions. This month, the campus hosted visitors from the University of Algarve, a public university in Portugal, and the University of Hull, a public university in the United Kingdom, following last month’s visit from GITAM, a private university in India. We are also building our connections with N.C. community colleges. Transfer students from these schools were 56% of this fall’s transfer enrollment, a proportion that is growing thanks to enhanced relationships with these valuable partners.
We welcomed more thought leaders to campus for the Ocean Innovation Conference hosted by our Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship to discuss new solutions for our oceans and waterways. The Center for Marine Science also opened its doors to the public during its annual open house event, when more than 1,000 people showed up to explore the facilities of our state’s coastal university.
The basketball season launched with the excitement of another Seahawk Madness event in Trask Coliseum. This year the men’s team will play 19 home games, the most ever for the team, and those games started this week. Our women take to the court for the first time early next week. I’m looking forward to seeing the fans come out in support.
Our concern for the victims of Hurricanes Helene and Milton runs strong, and we continue to offer support, particularly to affected students and sister institutions. Wilmington knows from experience the complex and lengthy road to recovery after a devastating storm, and we offer both our expertise and condolences.
I wish the entire Seahawk family a safe and happy Halloween filled with many treats and no tricks.
Yours in Seahawk spirit,