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Message from Chancellor: Greetings for the New Year

  • Chancellor Aswani K. Volety
  • January 13, 2026

Dear Seahawks, 

Happy New Year! I hope winter break gave you a chance to rest, recharge and celebrate the holiday season with joy. As campus comes alive again, I’m reminded how much creativity, energy and Seahawk spirit you bring to campus.  

Seahawk Momentum 

We closed out last semester by celebrating commencement with the Class of 2025. Watch the recap video, check out soaring Seahawk stories, and view photos from their big day on the commencement website. As our newest graduates show, UNCW provides Seahawks with opportunities to learn, grow and prepare for the lives and careers they want.  

Take time to explore the latest UNCW Magazine, where you can read about nationally recognized programs, outstanding alumni, community partnerships and more. Don’t miss the special features that underscore our place as North Carolina’s coastal university. It’s an exciting time to be part of the UNCW experience. 

National Recognition Announced 

UNCW has earned the 2026 Carnegie Elective Classification for Community Engagement. This outstanding national recognition highlights the long-standing connections the university shares with partners across the region. These collaborations enhance our mission, inspiring innovation, creativity and new learning opportunities. 

Our arts and athletics programs also enrich UNCW’s engagement with the community. From plays and ballets to exhibitions, concerts and recitals, there’s a wide range of activities on the arts schedule this semester. On the sports scene, our basketball teams are heating up the court at Trask Coliseum and spring sports will start soon. Check out details at UNCW Athletics.

Steady Ground at UNCW 

As a university community, we will continue to build on our momentum in 2026 as we navigate what’s ahead. We can expect ongoing challenges to affect higher education. Our respected academic programs, growing enrollment and strong financial position will help us steer through whatever comes our way. UNCW will keep its mission and values front and center as we move forward, using them as a compass to meet contemporary issues and evolving expectations with confidence.  

Homecoming 2026 

Homecoming is right around the corner! Join us Feb. 9-15 for a full week of events. From brunches, late night breakfast and basketball to TEALgate, fun runs and the ACE Homecoming Kickoff, there’s a full schedule lined up. I hope you’ll come out, reconnect and make new memories. 

Stop and Chat 

One of my favorite parts of the day is running into you along Chancellor’s Walk, at a campus dining spot or cheering on our teams. If you see me, please say hello. You can also reach me at chancellor@uncw.edu or connect on Facebook and Instagram.

A Reminder about Campus Safety 

The UNCW Police Department works daily to keep our community safe through active, intentional security measures. While no university can remove every risk, UNCW offers several resources and services to make our campus safe and secure: 

In the event of an emergency, call 911.   

Support When You Need It 

A new semester can bring both excitement and pressure. As always, please focus on your health and wellness. Students may access support through the Counseling Center or through case management via the Office of the Dean of Students. Faculty and staff can find support through the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) available to them. 

Thanks for being part of the Seahawk community. Let’s make this semester safe, successful and full of great experiences. 

Yours in Seahawk Service,

Aswani K. Volety 
Chancellor

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