Chancellor Gaber’s 2024-25 Welcome Message to Students

Dear Students,

Happy first day of classes, Niner Nation! As the new academic year kicks off, there’s a buzz of excitement in the air.

Today, we are welcoming another record class of first-time in college students, at over 4,600. Our new students are from 87 North Carolina counties, 45 states and 16 countries around the world. We’re also welcoming our largest group of transfer students since 2021, at over 2,500.

Charlotte is a University on the rise – in rankings, reach and impact – and on a trajectory to become one of this nation’s top public research universities. It’s a great time to be here.

Whether you’re new to Charlotte or a returning student, we are happy you have chosen to be part of Niner Nation. I encourage you to make the most of your semester. Connect with your professors, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. There are many resources available here to assist you. We all want you to succeed!

Part of your success is rooted in having a safe environment in which to learn and live. This remains our top priority. I hope you saw my campus message on Friday about our new mandatory active assailant response training that is launching today. The training is provided through an online portal and only takes a few minutes to complete. Check your email for a message with the subject line “Active Assailant Response Training Has Been Assigned,” and complete this important training as soon as possible. 

Another important component of a safe and welcoming community involves the free expression of diverse ideas and perspectives. This will be especially important this year as we head into an election season. As a public university, UNC Charlotte must uphold and protect the principle of free speech. We may not agree with all viewpoints being expressed, but by balancing the freedom to speak with the responsibility to listen and consider the impact of words on others, we create a supportive community where all voices are heard and valued. And ultimately, this fosters a richer, more dynamic educational experience for everyone. 

You’ll often hear us say “only at Charlotte.” There are amazing things happening here and experiences you won’t get anywhere else. The connections we have to this vibrant international city create great opportunities for you: for jobs and internships, networking, culture, sports and entertainment. The light rail connects you to everything Charlotte has to offer. 

It is a privilege to serve as your chancellor. I wish you great success with your studies, your research and your work this academic year. Go Niners! 

Sincerely,

Sharon L. Gaber
Chancellor