Message from Chancellor Volety: Spring 2024 Welcome

Dear Students, Faculty and Staff,

Welcome to a new year at UNCW! Even though the spring semester technically begins in the winter, I always think of January as the season of renewal for our priorities. As Chancellor, my highest priorities center on UNCW’s students and the quality of their experience. Elevating students' opportunities means supporting our faculty and staff as they educate, encourage and inspire our Seahawks to soar however their journeys happen.

More than 2,550 career-ready new graduates started their post-UNCW journeys in December. Take a closer look at their joyous commencement celebrations and join me in thanking the Division of Student Affairs, the Division of Academic Affairs and many other campus units involved in hosting commencement.

Strategic Plan

Last year, we launched “Soar Higher,” a 10-year strategic plan that emphasizes people, programs, places and priorities in ways that align with our core mission to integrate teaching and mentoring with research and service. The plan’s four pillars (below) and priorities guide our actions on behalf of students, faculty and staff. Visit the strategic plan site to learn more.

• Unparalleled Opportunities
• Nationally Prominent Programs
• Community Commitment
• World-class Operations and Infrastructure

Campus Master Plan

We are developing the 2024 Campus Master Plan to enhance and support the pillars and priorities outlined in the strategic plan. The five principles guiding our efforts are:

• Cultivate a sense of belonging for all campus users
• Promote interdisciplinary collaboration
• Enhance UNCW’s identity within the community and region
• Optimize the use of space and resources
• Elevate the campus experience

Many Seahawks have already given input to help us shape the master plan. I want to thank them and encourage others to take part in this open and collaborative process.

• Visit the campus master plan site.
• Offer your feedback.

Upcoming Events

Mark your calendars now, Seahawks, for Homecoming 2024! Learn more about the activities planned Feb. 15-18, including brunches, basketball, socials and so much more. Looking for more activities and events? Check out our spring sports season and outstanding arts programs.

Connection

Although I often interact with students, faculty and staff during campus activities and events, I welcome opportunities to informally connect with you. Please stop and chat when we meet while strolling on Chancellor’s Walk, dining at campus eateries or cheering for the Seahawks in Trask. Reach out via email at chancellor@uncw.edu or call my office at 910.962.3030. Interact with me online using the UNCW Chancellor social media channels on Facebook, Instagram and X (Twitter).

I also encourage you to communicate with student, faculty and staff representatives, including Student Body President Cody Brandon, Faculty Senate President Colleen Reilly (Department of English), and Staff Senate Chair Susan Smith (Student Recreation). These leaders are dedicated to you and UNCW.

Support

A new year can inspire excitement while also causing stress. Please remember that the university has many resources to help students, faculty and staff navigate life’s twists and turns. Please access your benefits when you need them.

For students

• Student Health
• University Counseling Center

For faculty and staff

• Employee Assistance Program 
• Headspace Care (formerly Ginger), an app offered in partnership with the UNC System that  provides confidential, on-demand emotional and mental health support.

We live, learn and work in one of the nation’s “top 25” best college cities and towns – home to a rich and varied history, stunning scenery and growing opportunities. As great as this area is, there are challenges to solve, and UNCW is right here in the mix, committed to facing the future with the goal of transforming lives on campus and in our community for years to come.

Have a safe and successful semester!

Yours in Seahawk spirit,

Aswani K. Volety
Chancellor