University Operations

Barry Rowan recently joined the University as conflict of interest manager in the Research and Economic Development Department.
In coming to UNC Charlotte, Rowan brings solid experience in a number of areas related to research compliance from the Office of Research at the University of California Santa Barbara. Before that, he spent 10 years as laboratory manager in oceanography and cancer research facilities.

Commencement brings to mind the culmination of one’s academic journey—it also marks a beginning. It is the start of that next chapter, either undertaking advanced studies or entering the workforce. In either case, it is a cause for celebration.
Approximately 3,400 students, along with their families, friends and others, will gather for fall 2013 commencement ceremonies on Saturday, Dec. 14, in Halton Arena, located in the Barnhardt Student Activity Center.

Junior Kendyl Messer is the inaugural recipient of the Daisy Pearl Pugh Urban Scholarship. The honor was presented during Tuesday’s CONE-vocation in the Cone University Center Lucas Room.
Rob Urban, the son of the scholarship’s namesake, announced the recipient, who is a nursing major and student employee. A Charlotte native, Messer is a building manager for the Cone Center. She noted that during her two years as a student worker, she has learned the importance of building relationships, and she said she values the leadership experience her job affords.

UNC Charlotte’s Graduate School has established its first Graduate School Advisory Board.  Members will serve primarily as advocates for graduate education and help promote public awareness of the incredible breadth and depth of graduate programs found at North Carolina’s Urban Research University, according to officials.

Michael Lizotte is the University sustainability officer, which is part of the Facilities Management Department in the Division for Business Affairs.

While students moved into Belk Hall this fall, the University formally dedicated the facility this week. It honors a staunch University supporter.

Elizabeth Rollins recently joined UNC Charlotte as the director of financial aid. She brings more than 20 years of experience in the field of higher education financial aid.
In undertaking this role, Rollins plans to streamline financial aid processes within the office, and she said she plans to implement a “more holistic approach to customer service, ensuring the financial aid staff provides a positive experience during every meeting with students and/or parents.”

Former Gov. Jim Hunt recently discussed the significance of investing in public education to North Carolina economic future in his remarks as part of the Distinguished Speaker Series. He was on campus to attend a dedication ceremony for Hunt Hall, the first suite option in the new South Village residential area. It is named in honor of the former governor.

The CRI Deck 1, the University’s largest single parking structure, received an Award of Merit from the Carolinas Parking Association Awards of Excellence competition.
The first four-bay deck on campus, the CRI Deck 1 has 1,343 parking spaces. Features include induction lighting, white-stained ceilings, integrated bicycle lockers, RFID-operated gates, a bus pull-off area and visitor parking with two pay-on-foot kiosks. It also is pre-wired to accommodate electric vehicle chargers.

Prior to the noon kickoff of the Charlotte 49ers game against Gardner-Webb on Saturday, Oct. 5, a ceremony will dedicate a street near Jerry Richardson Stadium in honor of Malcolm “Mac” Everett.
The 11 a.m. ceremony will designate the stretch of road Mac Everett Way in tribute to the longtime supporter of the University and its athletic programs.