UNCG’s annual day of giving, Believe in the G, is April 17-18. Graduation ceremonies will be May 2-3. And the coming months, as well, hold exciting opportunities for our University:
- Jackson Library renovation project The library’s tower, where most books have been held, was designed for a campus of 6,000 students. Our enrollment has tripled, while technology and students’ needs have changed, as they have at university libraries nationwide. With state budget funding earmarked for this much-needed project and after lots of input, a prospective design is beginning to take shape. Updates are posted at library.uncg.edu/reno. Look for a feature article in the next UNCG Magazine.
- National searches The interview process for three deanships will begin in earnest this August. After 13 years leading the Bryan School, Dr. McRae “Mac” Banks has announced his retirement at the end of the academic year. Under his leadership, the school has experienced enrollment growth of almost 50%, launched 12 online degree programs, and rolled out the Bryan Blueprint undergraduate curriculum for undergraduate success, professional development, and career readiness. Also, Dr. John Kiss, after eight years leading the College of Arts and Sciences, has accepted a provost position at Florida Institute of Technology. During his tenure, the college’s research profile was elevated with external grant awards rising by 150%. Additionally, Dr. Sherine Obare, dean of the Joint School of Nanoscience and Nanoengineering since 2019, will succeed Dr. Terri Shelton as UNCG’s vice chancellor for research and engagement this summer.
- “The three deanships are opportunities to build on what these deans and the schools have accomplished. We are excited about the possibilities in bringing in new leadership to leverage our existing strengths in research and community engagement and to continue to provide pathways for students’ academic success,” says Provost Debbie Storrs.
By Mike Harris ’93 MA