Fall 2023 Welcome Message for Students

Dear Students,

Happy first day of classes, Niner Nation! The fall always brings renewed excitement and fresh ideas, and this year is no exception.

Whether you’re on campus for the first time or reconnecting with friends after a nice summer break, you have one thing in common: You belong here at Charlotte.

I wish you great success with your studies, your research, and your work this academic year. At Charlotte, we have the best faculty and staff around. Meet with them, whether it’s in class, during office hours, or by email. We all want you to succeed!

We are welcoming our largest-ever incoming class of first time college students, at nearly 4,500, and also our largest class of new graduate students. Our students are from at least 97 North Carolina counties, 49 states and 104 countries around the world.

It’s exciting to see that more and more students are taking advantage of the transformative education and opportunities available only at Charlotte.

This fall, there’s added excitement as the Charlotte 49ers begin competition in the American Athletic Conference. The move brings greater national media exposure and new competition, including in-state rival East Carolina.

Other additions to campus include new academic programs and courses as well as the introduction of a self-driving shuttle called CASSI, a pilot program with the North Carolina Department of Transportation. You can read more about what’s new in Niner Insider on Wednesday, Aug. 23.

I’m proud of our accomplishments and know there are many more to come. Let’s show that pride together on #WearGreenWednesday, a Charlotte tradition. Get your gear ready!

We also want you to stay healthy and safe. Please speak up if you are struggling, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. There are many resources available to you. The Niner Needs website is a good starting place.

It is truly a privilege to serve as your chancellor. I will do everything in my power to support and strengthen our academic programs, ensure an outstanding college experience for you, and always place the highest priority on the safety and well-being of our students, faculty and staff. I can’t wait to see the great work you’ll accomplish this year. Go Niners!

Sincerely,

Sharon L. Gaber
Chancellor