Office of the Chancellor

Dr. Aswani K. Volety serves as our seventh chancellor.

Office of the Chancellor Office of the Chancellor

Dr. Aswani K. Volety, an experienced leader in higher education with deeply rooted connections to UNCW, is the university’s seventh chancellor. He has served in the position since July 1, 2022.

As chancellor, he oversees a vibrant, growing coastal university of more than 18,000 students focused on shaping the future in our region and across the state by transforming lives on campus and in our community.

UNCW will invest in our campus and advance our community by ensuring students graduate career-ready, prepared to make a difference in North Carolina and around the world.

UNCW’s Strategic Plan The Chancellor and the Cabinet work with the campus community to implement the newest Strategic Plan: Soar High, Soar Far, Soar Together. MORE ABOUT THE STRATEGIC PLAN

Graduate students tosses cap by the seahawk statue

Chancellor’s Annual Report The Chancellor’s Annual Report highlights many of the reasons to be inspired, every day, by our students, faculty and staff. Read the Annual Report

A 3-D rendering of campus showing chancellor’s walk and price drive.

Campus Master Plan UNCW’s most important asset is its people, and this plan focuses fully on the continued success of our students, faculty and staff. More about the master plan

Message from Chancellor Volety

I know from personal experience that access to education can open doors that once seemed beyond reach, creating opportunities that extend far beyond campus. That belief guides my work at UNCW as I see the power of education daily in the lives of our students. This fall, we welcomed a record 20,555 students, the largest incoming class in our history.

Read the Chancellor's latest message

Cover of Spring 2026 issue of UNCW Magazine

Explore UNCW Magazine!

Check out UNCW Magazine, your go-to source for captivating stories and updates about our vibrant coastal community. Dive in and stay connected with the heart and soul of UNCW!

UNCW Magazine

Dare to Learn

This lecture series aims to expose the campus community to diverse perspectives from experts and leaders and encourage the community to explore a wide range of ideas. The name reflects the university’s motto, Discere Aude, which is often translated as “dare to learn.”

Chancellor's Lecture Series

Higher Ed, Higher Impact

UNCW had an economic impact of $3.2 billion on the state of North Carolina in a single year, according to a 2024 report. Spending and investment by the university, its students, visitors and alumni reverberate through the region.

More about the economic report

University Governance

As chancellor of UNCW, Dr. Volety serves as UNCW’s main point of contact with the university’s Board of Trustees, the University of North Carolina System Office and the University of North Carolina Board of Governors.

He works closely with his Cabinet, faculty, staff, students, special committees and volunteer advisory boards in the decision-making process at UNCW and in the development of policies.

Board of Trustees The Board of Trustees serves as an advisor to the chancellor concerning the management and development of the institution. Board of Trustees

Faculty Senate With members elected by the faculty, the Faculty Senate considers and acts on university matters, participating in the formation, implementation and review of university policy. Faculty Senate

Staff Senate The Staff Senate is a non-governing body and serves as an advisory board to the chancellor to represent all SHRA and EHRA non-faculty voices on campus. Staff Senate

Student Government Association The mission of the SGA is to represent the voice and vision of the student body by advocating to the administration and allocating funding for student groups. Student Government

Advisory Boards The Board of Visitors and the Foundation Board are volunteer groups who advocate for the university and support scholarships and educational programming. Volunteer Boards

Committees More than two dozen committees advise the chancellor and his cabinet on a variety of services and programs from athletics to campus safety and security. Committees

Chancellor Events Request

Chancellor Volety is happy to accept as many invitations to campus events as his schedule allows. His calendar fills up quickly, so please submit your request at least 60 days in advance. The Chancellor’s Office will RSVP, using the contact information you provide, to confirm his attendance and role.

Submit Your Request