Message from Chancellor: Homecoming & Campus Happenings

Dear Campus Community:  

Now that we are back in action after the recent snow, I want to thank you for your patience with the weather and applaud you for making the most of our winter wonderland. We have even more fun in store this week, Feb. 9-15, with a week of Homecoming activities. From brunches to basketball, TEALgate to the ACE Homecoming Kickoff, Homecoming is a time for Seahawks past and present to build connections, celebrate friendships and make memories.   

Homecoming is not the only tradition that we value as a campus community. We also have deep respect for freedom of expression. As a public university, UNCW provides space for many voices, ideas and discussions – including ones that may generate concern among Seahawks.  

This semester, registered student organizations plan to host events featuring high-profile speakers known for expressing strongly held opinions. These student organizations are the sponsors of their events, and they will follow appropriate university processes to reserve campus space. Areas for peaceful protests, staffed by university personnel, will also be designated as needed. 

I encourage you to remember that, while we may disagree with the opinions, views or beliefs of others, we have all committed to treat each other with dignity and respect. We are guided by the Seahawk Respect Compact and are expected to honor that compact and the community we have created here at UNCW.  

You can find more information about events, safety, support and Freedom of Expression below. 

• Events: As a public university, UNCW’s campus serves as a forum for a wide range of perspectives and experiences. To learn more about the variety of events taking place each semester at UNCW, visit uncw.edu/events.    
• Student-Sponsored Events: Student organizations operate under their own student leadership and do not speak on behalf of the university. Guest speakers do not speak on behalf of the university. The use of space on our public university campus does not constitute endorsement by UNCW. The university is a member of the UNC System and follows the Equality Within the University of North Carolina Policy (300.8.5), which prohibits the university from advocating for or against “contemporary political or social issues.”  
• Campus Safety: UNCW takes campus safety very seriously. UNCW Police and the Division for Student Affairs work closely with event organizers to ensure security plans are in place for speakers, programs and other gatherings. These include visible and behind-the-scenes measures designed to protect both participants and the community. While no campus can eliminate every risk, UNCW coordinates active, intentional measures to provide a safe environment for all involved. For questions about campus safety and security, reach out to UNCW Police at 910.962.2222 or police@uncw.edu. In the event of an emergency, call 911.     
• Individual Support: Individuals who feel impacted by these events have access to support resources. Students may access emotional support through the Counseling Center or through case management via the Office of the Dean of Students. Faculty and staff may access support through Employee Assistance Benefits (EAB) available to them.  
• About Freedom of Expression: The UNCW Office of the General Counsel maintains a transparent Freedom of Expression website with definitions, FAQ, policy links and relevant information. Please check out this useful resource.  

I look forward to joining you all in our Homecoming activities this week and watching you take advantage of all that’s available to you here at UNCW.  

Yours in Seahawk pride,

Aswani K. Volety 
Chancellor