Runway partnership with CLT takes flight, where to reset during exam week and more

May 4, 2026
Categories: Niner Insider
Tara Cavalline and Jack Christine (center) with (l to r) Vice Chancellor John Daniels, Dean Rob Keynton, Chancellor Sharon Gaber and Executive Director Lingguang Song.

First-of-its-kind partnership and research project to improve runways across America

A new partnership between Charlotte Douglas International Airport and UNC Charlotte’s Aviation and Innovation Research Institute is turning a runway into a living laboratory, complete with embedded sensors and digital‑twin modeling. The project will generate real‑time insights that could redefine runway design across the country.

what you need to know: faculty and staff

  • Strategic plan update: The University has launched a refreshed strategic plan. The Charlotte Difference: A Plan for National Distinction, 2026–2031 is a focused roadmap to accelerate the ongoing rise as a premier public urban research university.
  • Levine Scholars named: UNC Charlotte’s Levine Scholars Program has selected 22 exceptional young leaders from across the United States for the 17th class of the University’s most competitive academic scholarship. The scholars will join UNC Charlotte in fall 2026.
  • Academic Affairs Weekly News Digest: The Board of Trustees recently approved revisions to University Policy 102.13: Tenure Policies, Regulations and Procedures. Learn more about the revisions, along with other important updates in this week’s news digest.
  • Temporary lane restrictions: The All-in-C road logos at all four campus entrances will be repainted from 6 a.m., Monday, May 4, through 6 p.m., Tuesday, May 5, with temporary lane restrictions and directed traffic in the work zones.
  • Building safety update: As part of the University’s safety protocols, buildings will be on card access only from 8 a.m., Friday, May 8, through Monday, May 18. All faculty, staff and students will need their mobile or 49er ID card to enter any campus building.
  • Board of Trustees recap: The UNC Charlotte Board of Trustees met on Wednesday, April 29. A summary of the reports shared with the board and actions taken by the board is available for review.
  • Award of Excellence: UNC Charlotte’s financial reporting unit received the State Auditor’s Award of Excellence, a new honor from the North Carolina Office of the State Auditor recognizing exceptional financial management.
  • Graduate leadership update: Sabrina Brown has been appointed assistant dean for graduate enrollment management. She will provide strategic leadership and operational oversight for graduate recruitment, admissions and marketing across the University’s 150+ graduate programs.
  • Updated unit name: Digital & Professional Learning is the updated name for UNC Charlotte’s Academic Affairs unit responsible for advancing online learning, professional programs and teaching innovation across the University.
  • Attention nine‑month faculty: Please complete all employee appraisals/evaluations before leaving for summer break. Log into NinerTalent Stakes to get started. Email NinerTalent Stakes with questions.

what you need to know: students

  • Building safety update: As part of the University’s safety protocols, buildings will be on card access only from 8 a.m., Friday, May 8, through Monday, May 18. All faculty, staff and students will need their mobile or 49er ID card to enter any campus building.
  • Graduation preview: UNC Charlotte will hold May commencement ceremonies for 2026 graduates Thursday, May 7, through Saturday, May 9, in Dale F. Halton Arena in the Barnhardt Student Activity Center.
  • Levine Scholars named: UNC Charlotte’s Levine Scholars Program has selected 22 exceptional young leaders from across the United States for the 17th class of the University’s most competitive academic scholarship. The scholars will join UNC Charlotte in fall 2026.
  • Temporary lane restrictions: The All-in-C road logos at all four campus entrances will be repainted from 6 a.m., Monday, May 4, through 6 p.m., Tuesday, May 5, with temporary lane restrictions and directed traffic in the work zones.
  • Strategic plan update: The University has launched a refreshed strategic plan. The Charlotte Difference: A Plan for National Distinction, 2026–2031 is a focused roadmap to accelerate the ongoing rise as a premier public urban research university.

upcoming events: students

Students with stoles and cords at Forever a Niner

The UNC Charlotte Alumni Association invites all spring 2026 graduates and up to four guests to participate in Forever a Niner from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., Thursday, May 7, in Popp Martin Student Union, Room 340. Register to connect with alumni networks and receive stoles and cords.

  • Exam therapy dogs: Take a break from exams and spend some time with certified therapy dogs today, Monday, May 4, and Tuesday, May 5, on the first floor of Atkins Library.
  • Guided meditation: Join CAPS staff for a 15-minute guided meditation session and learn techniques for relaxation as you prepare for finals at 12:30 p.m. and 3 p.m., today, Monday, May 4, and Tuesday, May 5, in the Visualization Lab, Atkins Library second floor.

the difference is charlotte

Arnav Sareen, Goldwater Scholar

UNC Charlotte junior Arnav Sareen has been named the University’s fifth-ever recipient of the Barry Goldwater Scholarship — one of the nation’s most prestigious awards for undergraduate researchers.

professional development: faculty and staff

  • Concur enhancements: Effective today, Monday, May 4, Concur will feature several enhancements, including reorganized expense categories and automated email reminders for returned expense reports at 15- and 30-day intervals.
  • AI@Work session: Learn to leverage Gems and agents to streamline copyediting, project organization, data analysis and instructional design at the next AI@Work session at noon, Wednesday, May 6. Register on the Learning and Development Portal.
  • HR Power Hour: The next virtual HR Power Hour will take place from noon to 1 p.m., Tuesday, May 12. The HR team will provide an overview of the new Rise to LEADership Certification program, a cohort-based development program for Charlotte employees looking to strengthen their foundational leadership skills.
  • Funding for faculty innovators: The Division of Research and the NC Small Business and Technology Development Center will share funding options to move your technology from concept to commercialization from 12:30 to 4 p.m., Tuesday, May 12, in PORTAL 242; register to attend.
  • Spring writing retreat: Faculty and staff are invited to the two-day Spring Writing Retreat from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Tuesday, May 19, and Wednesday, May 20, at The Dubois Center at UNC Charlotte Center City. Make progress on personal or professional writing goals, jumpstart a summer project or simply write alongside colleagues in a relaxing environment.

to-do list: faculty and staff

to-do list: students