End-of-Year Message to Students

Dear Niner Nation, 

As the semester winds down and winter break is in sight, I wanted to check in with you. Whether you’ve wrapped up your finals and are already home, or you’re pushing through that last exam, I hope you’re feeling proud of everything you’ve accomplished this semester. 

This weekend, we have the special honor of celebrating more than 3,100 graduates at our December Commencement ceremonies. Watching our newest graduates cross the stage and officially join the growing Niner Alumni Network is always one of the most meaningful moments of the year. I am so proud of you, and can’t wait to see where your journey takes you next.

For our continuing students, congratulations on another big step toward your degree. If you haven’t already, be sure to connect with your academic advisor and register for your spring classes before winter break. Locking in your schedule now gives you the best chance to stay on track and graduate on time. And just a reminder — 15 credit hours per semester is the pace that keeps you on the four-year path to graduation. 

There has never been a more exciting time to be a Niner. This fall, UNC Charlotte climbed to No. 74 among public universities nationally, and since 2020, U.S. News & World Report has named us as one of the nation’s top 10 fastest-rising universities. That incredible momentum is part of what we mean when we say “The Difference is Charlotte.”

We also reached a major milestone earlier this year by earning the prestigious R1 research designation. This places UNC Charlotte among the nation’s top research universities and opens up even more opportunities for students to engage in hands-on research and to learn from top professors who bring cutting-edge ideas into the classroom. 

No matter how you celebrate this season, I hope you are able to enjoy time with the people and places that are meaningful to you. We look forward to welcoming you back in the New Year…rested, recharged and ready for all that 2026 holds. 

Happy Holidays and Go Niners!

Sincerely,

Sharon L. Gaber
Chancellor