Happy 2026!

Dear Niner Nation,

Welcome to a new semester and a new year. Winter break offered a welcome pause across campus, but it’s always great to welcome our students, faculty and staff back “home.”

UNC Charlotte enters 2026 with remarkable momentum. We anticipate setting another spring enrollment record, continuing the expansion of our research enterprise and advancing toward the $500 million goal of our For the Love of Charlotte fundraising campaign – each reflecting growing confidence in the power of our mission and our people.

We are also reaching an important milestone: the midpoint of our 10-year strategic plan. Already, we have achieved several goals ahead of schedule – including our designation as a Carnegie R1 research university. This semester, you will see a refreshed plan with updated goals and metrics that will guide our next chapter of growth and impact.

The year ahead will also bring important developments, including a national search for our next athletics director and the naming of several academic programs and units that will further strengthen our academic and research portfolio.

Whether you have been part of UNC Charlotte for days or for decades, you are an essential part of what makes Niner Nation strong. Thank you for the role you play in our success. The year ahead will be full, and no doubt challenging at times – but together, we are ready to meet what’s next.

The Difference is Charlotte… and the Difference is YOU.

Go Niners!

Sincerely,

Sharon L. Gaber
Chancellor