Water Purification Research Takes Major Step Forward, Countdown to Commencement and more
Charlotte Research Takes Next Step Toward Commercial Production on Water Filters
Jordan Poler, professor of chemistry, has successfully passed filtration testing with his water purification system, paving the way for large-scale production on water filters. Developed through years of research and supported by NCInnovation, the system provides a new approach to removing contaminants from drinking water.
The Countdown to Commencement is On!
Fall 2025 graduates, commencement is right around the corner! Here’s a look at key events to help you prepare for commencement and celebrate your achievements.
- Senior Celebration: Join the GOLD Alumni Network and the University Career Center for free food, games and door prizes at Senior Send-off from 6 to 8 p.m., Monday, Dec. 1, at Armored Cow Brewing Co. Time is running out to register.
- Late Night Breakfast: Enjoy a free, late-night meal before diving into finals. Bring your pjs, dance moves and appetite to Late Night Breakfast at 9 p.m., Tuesday, Dec. 2, at SoVi Dining Hall.
- Forever a Niner: Graduates and up to four guests are invited to Forever a Niner, a celebration of commencement and many years of hard work, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 11, in the Popp Martin Student Union, Room 340.
what you need to know: faculty and staff
- Academic Affairs Weekly News Digest: Learn about the “Best Practices in Holistic Faculty Recruitment Face-to-Face” workshops in January, along with other important updates in this week’s news digest.
- OneIT Maintenance: Updates to data center firewall software will take place from 10 p.m., tomorrow, Tuesday, Nov. 25, through midnight, Wednesday, Nov. 26.
- Volunteer for Commencement: Volunteers are needed at Fall Commencement ceremonies Friday, Dec. 12, and Saturday, Dec. 13.
- MHFA Training: Support student well-being and cultivate a community of care by attending the next Mental Health First Aid training session from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., Friday, Dec. 5, location TBD.
what you need to know: students
- Loneliness and AI: The next installment of the Niner Knowledge webinar series, “Loneliness and AI – Rethinking Social Connection,” is from noon to 1 p.m., Wednesday, Dec. 3. The discussion — led by Megan Smith ’11, assistant teaching professor in sociology — will examine practical strategies for fostering belonging in tech-integrated environments.
- QPR Training: Question, Persuade and Refer is a 90-minute training intended to foster a community of care by teaching individuals to recognize warning signs of suicide. The next virtual student QPR session is from 3:30 to 5 p.m., Monday, Dec. 1.
event spotlight: students
Join Chancellor Gaber and student involvement for the fourth annual Light Up the Lake starting at 6:30 p.m., Tuesday, Dec. 2, at Hechenbleikner Lake. Enjoy free hot drinks and music at this annual tradition.
the difference is charlotte
The nationally ranked mathematical finance program in the Belk College of Business celebrated its 20th anniversary with an alumni gathering and a visit from Nobel laureate Robert Merton.
professional development: faculty and staff
- Shape AI Training: The UNC System Office is seeking faculty participants to pilot a new AI Training program for students that includes developing critical understanding, hands-on experience and industry perspectives on AI tools.
- Upgrade Your Skills: OneIT is hosting training sessions in December focused on efficiency, including integrating generative AI into your work, understanding AI essentials and mastering Google Workspace.
to-do list: faculty and staff
- Support Niners in Need: This Giving Tuesday, support the Student Emergency Fund and the Jamil Niner Student Pantry to help Charlotte students stay enrolled, focused and healthy.
- Submit OUR Project Descriptions: The Office of Undergraduate Research is accepting submissions for mentored project descriptions for the 2026 OUR Summer Research Program.
- Stay Informed: Review ongoing disruptions, delays and detours on campus.
to-do list: students
- Atkins Survey: Take this quick survey about Atkins Library’s study spaces for a chance to win a $50 Amazon gift card. The survey closes tomorrow, Tuesday, Nov. 25.
- Mark Your Calendars: Connect with hundreds of employers this spring at the STEM Fair, Thursday, Feb. 5, and the Spring Career and Internship Fair, Feb. 13. Both events are from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Student Activity Center.