An End-of-Year Message to Faculty and Staff
Dear Colleagues,
As we mark the end of another semester – and another year – I want to express my deep appreciation for all that you’ve done to contribute to our tremendous success. The goals and milestones we have reached this year wouldn’t have been possible without you. THANK YOU!
This weekend, we will celebrate our newest class of Niner graduates, conferring more than 3,100 degrees and graduate certificates during three commencement ceremonies. It’s a wonderful time for our graduates and their families, and the perfect way to wrap up an exciting year.
Despite continued challenges across the higher education landscape, 2025 was a great year for UNC Charlotte in so many ways:
- We continued our ascent in the U.S. News & World Report rankings, coming in at #74 in the nation among public universities.
- Since 2020, we’ve been recognized as one of the nation’s top 10 fastest-rising universities.
- Our research enterprise has continued to expand, and we were thrilled to earn the prestigious R1 designation this year.
- We set records for enrollment, retention, graduation rates and fundraising.
- Speaking of fundraising, our For the Love of Charlotte campaign is already nearly 80% toward its $500 million goal after just one year in its public phase. This is a reflection of the strong belief our alumni, friends and community partners have in our mission.
These achievements, among many others, are made possible by your ongoing commitment to excellence.
I want to encourage each of you to take time to rest and recharge over the break. Take great care of yourselves and enjoy time with those you love.
Please know that your dedication and contributions are seen and valued. It is my honor to work alongside you to build a University that transforms lives, strengthens the Charlotte region and shows the world what it truly means when we say “The Difference is Charlotte.”
I look forward with anticipation to the great things in store for Niner Nation in 2026. Enjoy your winter break…and however you celebrate this time of year, I wish you the happiest of holidays.
Go Niners!
Sincerely,
Sharon L. Gaber
Chancellor