Gaber lauds Charlotte’s commitment to students during annual University Convocation
A highlight of this year’s University Convocation, the event that traditionally kicks off the start of a new academic year, was the elevation of Charlotte’s high-impact learning experiences. At Wednesday’s launch of the fall 2022 semester — with faculty and staff in attendance in person as well as virtually — Chancellor Sharon L. Gaber applauded campuswide efforts to advance a culture that prioritizes and promotes student success.
“As we move forward with the initiatives in the University’s strategic plan, ‘Shaping What’s Next,’ let’s be intentional about creating a culture that provides students the education they need but that also helps them thrive,” said Gaber.
Enthusiastic about the upcoming academic year, Gaber acknowledged the ongoing COVID pandemic will continue to be of concern, along with monkeypox, which the University will monitor in conjunction with public health officials.
“Let’s continue to work together to keep our coworkers and students safe,” said Gaber. “The pandemic has created a major upheaval. We are tired, our coworkers are tired, and our students are tired. As we move forward, let compassion and understand be our guiding principles. Take care of yourself, and model that behavior for colleagues and students.”
A bright year ahead
Using the strategic plan as a framework, Gaber outlined a number of initiatives for the 2022-23 academic year. “We have exciting work ahead, and it’s going to take every single one of us to accomplish what we have outlined.”
- Toward a goal of transforming students’ lives through educational opportunity and excellence, Gaber noted one priority is to increase awareness for student support services for the campus population. The Center for Integrated Care, which launched this month, offers students a one-stop, needs-driven resource for referrals and care to reduce anxiety and stress. The website Niner Needs also is a resource to direct students to support their mental, physical and emotional well-being.
- Two academic affairs initiatives will foster high-impact learning experiences. The Truist Institute for Student Success, powered by Truist Financial, will provide scholarships and educational opportunities. UTOP, Charlotte’s heralded summer transition program for historically underrepresented students, will expand to higher numbers of participants through support from Bank of America.
- Nearly 2,000 scholarships, a record number and totaling more than $6.7 million, will be awarded to Charlotte students for this academic year.
- Classroom and research lab upgrades, possible through a historic investment from the state legislature to increase STEM educational opportunities, will renovate the Burson Building and the second floor of Cameron Hall.
- Charlotte’s goal to power the future through research and creative discovery will be enhanced, in part, through Project Restore, an initiative from the Office of Research and Economic Development. This effort will provide new funding to help faculty members revive research momentum lost during the pandemic.
- The Division of Business Affairs will start the 18-month process to update the campus master plan to determine space needs for academic and research purposes in support of the University’s strategic plan.
- As the University continues driving progress for the community and beyond, the Office of Corporate Engagement, launched last year, will strengthen relationships with established business partners and connect with industries relocating to the Queen City.
- A Niner Consulting Program, offered through the Office of Research and Economic Development, will place talented students with business startups and industry partners.
- Guiding the University’s efforts to lead in equity and engagement, the Office of Diversity and Inclusion will complete a campuswide climate survey to better understand Charlotte’s strengths and opportunities. New training and professional development opportunities also are in the works.
- The Office of Civil Rights and Title IX, part of the Division of Institutional Integrity, opened July 1 to streamline campus efforts with regard to reporting and response and deliver mandatory training for employees and students related to Title IX and the provisions of the Violence against Women Act. Additionally, the division will increase education and training related to free expression and exchange on campus.
- Gaber also recognized the University’s record accomplishments in fundraising and athletics, under the leadership of Niles Sorensen and Mike Hill, respectively.
- Finally, the chancellor lauded the leadership of the University’s Board of Trustees and encouraged everyone to save the date for the second Niner Nation Week, Oct. 17-23.
“Last year, we unveiled a new brand for the University, and we’re seeing a new sense of pride among our students, alumni, employees and throughout the Charlotte region,” Gaber said. “I challenge you all to show pride in your University, and be an ambassador for your University. And on Wednesday, wear green, it is a Charlotte tradition.”