SEAHAWKS IN ACTION
Enjoy a powerful academic experience that stimulates creative inquiry, critical thinking and thoughtful expression.
Bradley Ballou ’06 returns to the University of North Carolina Wilmington as chief of staff, bringing with him extensive experience from his recent service as vice president for executive leadership and management with the University of North Carolina System Office, where he reported to UNC System President Peter Hans.
The 2026 theme is “Health Without Borders: Connecting People, Professions and Places.”
Chancellor’s Corner
As we enter the second half half of the spring semester, I am inspired by the momentum carrying our university forward. Progress on our strategic plan is offering new insights, helping us align priorities, strengthen academic programs and support the university’s long-term vision.
OUR COMMITMENT TO
UN ‘Sea’ W
Advancing Turtle Conservation, Education and Outreach
Supporting Global Ocean Education
I AM WATER
I AM WATER and UNCW researchers are empowering youth to protect the ocean through hands-on conservation and immersive marine education.
Learn More
Research Hubs Dive Deep
Focus on Maritime Cybersecurity and Brain Health
The UNCW’s Research Hubs program supports interdisciplinary research collaborations with $100,000 annually for up to three years, focusing on maritime cybersecurity and brain health. The Maritime Cybersecurity Applied Research, Technology and Education Center (MCARTEC) aims to enhance the cyber resilience of the maritime transportation system, while the Brain Health Resilience Hub addresses brain health issues through innovative research and collaboration.
Creating a Living Laboratory
Finding Solutions. Protecting Resources.
A project aimed at mitigating floodwater issues at the Battleship North Carolina site involves monitoring the challenging marsh environment. UNCW's Coastal and Estuarine Studies Lab is tracking physical and biological changes to address significant increases in flooding at the historic site.
Discovering New Knowledge
Excavating Evidence of Early Agricultural Engineering
With the use of a side-scan sonar and positioning systems, researchers are searching for archaeological evidence of the rice fields once situated along the lower Cape Fear and Brunswick rivers’ banks.
Collaborative Research
Understanding Frying Pan Shoals Ecology
UNCW researchers and the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management are studying Frying Pan Shoals as a possible offshore sand source. The university will receive $2 million in funding for the four-year collaborative research project.
-
1st
Wilmington declared the first World War II Heritage City in the U.S.
-
2nd
Best Places in U.S. to Live & Work
-
322
Miles of Pristine Shoreline in NC