In Memoriam, Spring 2026

Thomas M. Salzman

August 13, 1959-January 17, 2026

Thomas M. Salzman, professor emeritus and chair of the Department of Theatre, passed away in San Jose, Costa Rica, where he and his wife, Carolyn, had fulfilled their long‑held retirement dream. Born in Akron, Ohio, Salzman discovered his love of theatre in high school before earning both his BFA and MFA from Carnegie Mellon University. A gifted lighting designer, he created work for more than 80 productions during his 18 years with the Caldwell Theatre Company, including 12 world premieres, and was recognized with two Carbonell Awards for Best Lighting Design, among many accolades.

At UNCW, Salzman was a transformational leader who brought stability to the department, knit the community together and guided a period of growth in programs, recruitment and production capabilities. Colleagues remember his gentle disposition, unflappable kindness and thoughtful mentorship. He was admired for bridging classroom learning with real‑world experience, inspiring students who went on to thriving careers in theatre. He leaves behind a legacy of artistry, leadership and generosity of spirit.

He is survived by his wife Carolyn; his siblings, Jim Salzman (Amy) and Diane Howard; sister-in-law Sandy Salzman; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Jeanne Salzman; and his brother, Dan Salzman.

Michael B. Wilhelm ’22Ed.D

October 8, 1967-February 3, 2026

Michael Wilhelm, a deeply respected leader and cherished colleague at UNCW, devoted more than a decade to advancing the university’s global mission and strengthening its academic community. Serving most recently as chief of staff to the chancellor and for nearly 10 years prior as associate provost for global partnerships and international education, he played a pivotal role in expanding UNCW’s international reach. His vision and leadership fostered transformative collaborations, broadened global engagement and created life‑changing opportunities for students, faculty and staff to learn and work abroad.

A gifted linguist and true global citizen, Wilhelm was fluent in numerous languages, including Arabic, Mandarin, Portuguese, Korean, Japanese, Spanish, Hindi and French. Earlier in his career, he held leadership roles at West Virginia University supporting international students and building alumni networks overseas. He earned a Doctor of Education from UNCW and multiple degrees from West Virginia University including a master’s in foreign languages and dual bachelor’s degrees in international studies and foreign languages.

His leadership elevated UNCW’s global profile and contributed to national recognition, including the NAFSA Senator Paul Simon Award for Internationalization. A Fulbright U.S. Scholar and Fulbright Specialist, he represented American higher education with distinction around the world. He is survived by his loving wife, Candace; his parents, Brent and Kay Wilhelm; his brother Kris Wilhelm (BJ Taylor); and extended family, friends and colleagues.