How Charlotte researchers are improving teacher retention, register for summer courses and more

March 30, 2026
Categories: Niner Insider
Students and instructor engaged in a group discussion at desks, with notes and name cards visible.

Editor’s Note: Niner Nation Gives and Earth Month both start this week! Here’s what else you need to know. 

Introducing…the Classroom Experience!

A research team from the Cato College of Education is confronting the teacher shortage with a new approach. Take an inside look at their work to improve teacher retention through intentional design.

what you need to know: faculty and staff

  • Academic Affairs Weekly News Digest: Learn about Thursday’s “Media Literacy Matters: Empowering Critical Thinkers in a Digital World,” half-day conference, along with other important updates in this week’s news digest.
  • Boardwalk closed: A fallen tree has damaged the boardwalk between the Harris Alumni Center and Bissell House, closing the area through Thursday, April 30. Please avoid this section of Cameron Boulevard until repairs are complete.
  • SHRA supervisor appraisals: Supervisor appraisals open Wednesday, April 1, but will not be available until the employee completes their self‑appraisal. Log into NinerTalent Stakes to begin; email NinterTalent Stakes with questions.
  • Banner access audit: The spring 2026 Banner access audit for all security modules is April 1-15. Supervisors must review Banner access for employees.
  • Clean up campus: Plant trees, collect litter and assist with other beautification projects from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Tuesday, April 7. The event check-in will be outside Grigg Hall; register here.
  • 49er Mart upgrade: 49er Mart 26.1 has been applied with updates to eProcurement, Contracts+ and Supplier Management.
  • Digital accessibility policy: UNC Charlotte has adopted University Policy 319 aligning the University with federal ADA requirements and the WCAG 2.1 Level AA standards that all public entities must meet by Friday, April 24.

what you need to know: students

  • Register for summer courses: Registration for the summer 2026 term opens today, Monday, March 30. Explore summer options and courses.
  • Boardwalk closed: A fallen tree has damaged the boardwalk between the Harris Alumni Center and Bissell House, closing the area through Thursday, April 30. Please avoid this section of Cameron Boulevard until repairs are complete.  
  • Build a supportive community: April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month. Throughout the month, the Center for Wellness Promotion will host workshops to promote resources and build a supportive community for survivors of sexual assault and all forms of interpersonal violence.
  • Clean up campus: Plant trees, collect litter and assist with other beautification projects from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Tuesday, April 7. The event check-in will be outside of Grigg Hall; register here.

the difference is charlotte

Sukumar Kamalasan received Distinguihsed Research Award

UNC Charlotte has named Sukumar Kamalasadan, professor of electrical engineering, the recipient of the 2026 Charlotte Distinguished Research Award.

upcoming events: students

Earth Day Fesival

Kick off Earth Month by connecting with environmental stewards in the Charlotte region at the Earth Day Festival from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Tuesday, March 31, at Belk Plaza. At the festival, you can refresh your wardrobe sustainably at Swap Til Ya Drop.

  • BIG Student Event: Celebrate student impact and support the campus organizations, clubs and initiatives that matter to you at the Niner Nation Gives BIG Student Event from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Wednesday, April 1, at Cauble Quad.
  • Spring Commencement Fair: May graduates can pick up caps and gowns and shop for class rings, diploma frames and more at the Spring Commencement Fair from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Wednesday, April 1, and Thursday, April 2, at Barnes & Noble Charlotte in the Popp Martin Student Union.
  • Consent Carnival: Stop by the Consent Carnival on Thursday, April 2, to learn more about consent through interactive games, free food and fun activities in a welcoming space!

professional development: faculty and staff

to-do list: faculty and staff

  • Register for summer courses: Registration for the summer 2026 term opens today, Monday, March 30. Explore summer options and courses.
  • Boardwalk closed: A fallen tree has damaged the boardwalk between the Harris Alumni Center and Bissell House, closing the area through Thursday, April 30. Please avoid this section of Cameron Boulevard until repairs are complete.  
  • Build a supportive community: April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month. Throughout the month, the Center for Wellness Promotion will host workshops to promote resources and build a supportive community for survivors of sexual assault and all forms of interpersonal violence.
  • Clean up campus: Plant trees, collect litter and assist with other beautification projects from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Tuesday, April 7. The event check-in will be outside of Grigg Hall; register here.

to-do list: students