Charlotte Named Finalist in NSF Regional Innovation Engines Competition, Charlotte Fall Guide and more

September 22, 2025
Categories: Niner Insider
power grid

Charlotte’s Carolinas Engine for Grid Modernization Advances in National Competition

UNC Charlotte’s efforts to build an energy innovation hub for the Carolinas continue to gain national momentum. The University’s Carolinas Engine for Grid Modernization has been named one of 15 finalists in the U.S. National Science Foundation’s Regional Innovation Engines competition. 

Fall Campus Photo

Charlotte Fall Guide: Get Into the Season on Campus and in the Area

Today, Monday, Sept. 22, marks the official start of fall, and at UNC Charlotte, there are plenty of ways to embrace the season. Check out this fall guide full of autumnal recommendations from the campus community.

what you need to know: faculty and staff

  • Academic Affairs Weekly News Digest: Learn about the Center for ADVANCing Faculty Success’ new mentoring initiative, Peer Mentoring Circles, along with other important updates in this week’s news digest. 
  • Social Media Guidance: Please review this social media guidance to help faculty and staff navigate the responsibilities that come with having their professional roles visible online.
  • Three New Degrees: A Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence, a Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence and a Bachelor of Science in Construction Engineering will launch in fall 2026 at UNC Charlotte.
  • N.C. Economic Forecast: UNC Charlotte economist John Connaughton, professor of financial economics, issued the latest North Carolina Economic Forecast Tuesday, Sept. 16, noting the state economy faces a mixed outlook with continued growth and lingering challenges.
  • Don’t Miss IFest: The 2025 International Festival is 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 27, in and around the Barnhardt Student Activity Center. Check out the schedule of events.

what you need to know: students

the difference is charlotte

Split-screen image showing a rocky river valley on the left and a conceptual rendering of a redeveloped town with modern buildings, walkways, and green spaces on the right.

Twelve Master of Architecture students have submitted proposals to the Village of Chimney Rock as part of the town’s effort to reimagine and rebuild after Hurricane Helene, which leveled its commercial corridor one year ago this week. Read about the difference their efforts are making to Chimney Rock’s recovery.

Qamaria Yemeni Coffee Co.,

Qamaria Yemeni Coffee Co., which opened recently near campus, is among the latest design creations from A.B. Group, a firm led by alumnus Alaa Bou Ghanem ’18, ’20.

professional development: faculty and staff

  • 49er Mart Users: You are invited to attend a virtual forum from 2 to 4 p.m., Thursday, Sept. 25. Registration is encouraged on the learning and development portal; more information is on the 49er Mart message board.
  • Concur Users: Attend the Concur User Group virtual forum from 10 to 11:30 a.m., Thursday, Sept. 25. Registration is encouraged on the learning and development portal.
  • Resource for Grad Students: Complete this interest form to bring the Center for Graduate Life and Learning into your classroom virtually or in person to provide a session on professional development resources and training opportunities.
  • Honors College Course Proposals: The Honors College is accepting course proposals for summer and fall 2026 and spring 2027. Proposals are due Wednesday, Oct. 1; email Cindy Gilson for questions.

to-do list: faculty and staff

to-do list: students