Spartan Community,
These are uncertain times. Global markets are unsteady, there are military conflicts in Europe and Africa, and there are daunting questions about climate change (to name a few). Closer to home, America is significantly polarized across any number of dimensions. Whether it is citizenship status, race, gender (and gender identity), or the role of government, Americans tend to disagree at levels not seen in decades.
One of the more unexpected developments is a serious argument over the role of education in our society. To put a finer point on it, some see this as an attack on colleges and universities, while others see it as a much-needed alteration. This debate is playing out in real-time, right here in North Carolina where the legislature and the state system’s governing body have issued a series of mandates to which the constituent institutions must respond.
I want to be clear, UNCG leadership has been closely monitoring federal, state, and University of North Carolina (UNC) System Board of Governors’ policies and actions. The offices of the Chancellor and Provost, General Counsel, Student Affairs (among many others), and the UNC System are working closely together to stay abreast of developments and determine appropriate action.
It should be noted, however, that our highest priority is to protect the interests and integrity of our students, staff, faculty, and our academic community. We continue to pay vigilant attention so we can promptly and effectively evaluate and address the impact of policy changes to determine the appropriate course of action. We are providing resources and working closely with students, Colleges/Schools, and administrative units affected by new directives, and though we may not broadly communicate every action we take, we remain tireless in our commitment to our mission and core values.
I know the dynamic nature of the issues facing our institution may be anxiety-inducing. I recognize that actions that affect any members of our community affect all of us – after all, we have a shared fate. The leadership of our university wants to make certain you are well informed and well supported as we move forward. We will be diligent in our efforts to ensure UNCG continues to be an engine of opportunity for all.