The past weeks have showcased the dedication, talent and spirit that define UNCW and provided memorable moments that highlight the strength of this community. A rare snowfall transformed campus, temporarily altering routines while providing a shared experience of joy and connection. That same energy carried into a successful Homecoming celebration. Thousands of Seahawks, family and friends filled campus with enthusiasm as we enjoyed brunches, reunions, Tealgate, games and more. Homecoming remains one of the most cherished ways we honor our traditions, celebrate friendships and enhance the ties that make UNCW special.
Our momentum is also reflected in the academic excellence and leadership across campus and beyond. UNCW continues to post retention and graduation rates above UNC System averages (see strategic plan metrics), evidence of the commitment our faculty and staff bring to student success. Their support helps shape the achievements we proudly celebrate, including outstanding individual recognitions.
Diana Ashe, professor in the Department of English, earned the 2026 UNC Board of Governors Award for Excellence in Teaching, one of the highest honors in the UNC System. Her dedication to student learning exemplifies the best of UNCW. We also congratulate Lilit Martirosyan, associate professor of mathematics, who recently traveled to Washington, D.C., during Joint Mathematics Meetings Hill Day. By participating in formal advocacy training and congressional meetings, she elevated UNCW’s voice on a national stage. Three emerging scholars have been selected as UNCW’s 2025-26 Pharmaceutical Chemistry Ph.D. Fellows. The innovative research of Ernest Brubaker II, Courtney Clevenger and Cullen Wright will help strengthen a program providing growing contributions to the state and region.
As we celebrate these achievements, we are also building for the future. This month, we broke ground on a new residence hall that will house more than 500 students. This project will enhance the campus living experience and support continued enrollment growth.
We are fortunate to welcome back a familiar face to help guide such work. Bradley Ballou ’06 has returned to UNCW to serve as chief of staff. Bradley brings deep institutional knowledge, statewide experience and a true Seahawk spirit. He succeeds in the role recently filled by the late Dr. Michael Wilhelm, whose service and leadership made a lasting impact.
These highlights reflect a university on the rise. We have achieved much already this year, and I am confident that we will continue to soar higher together. Enjoy spring break next week!
Yours in Seahawk spirit,
