Dear colleagues,
Although the academic year does not officially end until June 30, the ceremonial close takes place this Sunday with Spring Commencement in Kenan Stadium. I look forward to the pomp and to the achievements this represents — and to witnessing the unbridled joy as students celebrate with family, friends, teachers and mentors.
All of you played a role in getting our students to this moment of accomplishment. I want to express my gratitude to every member of the College of Arts and Sciences community for your support of our students, for your remarkable advancements in your research and creative work, and for your contributions to making Carolina a great university. Whether faculty or staff, you are all essential to the success of our academic and research enterprise, and I value your commitment, dedication and public service.
As I round out my first year as dean, I also want to thank this community for extending a warm welcome to me. Yes, this year had challenges, but together we launched a comprehensive new general education curriculum. We raised graduate student stipends. We launched a new, much-improved undergraduate advising system. The University wrapped up a record fundraising campaign in which the College met and exceeded a very ambitious goal.
There is much more we need to do, but let’s pause and celebrate these victories. You deserve it.
Again, thank you for rising to the challenge and routinely going above and beyond — for our students and for your colleagues. Finally, I encourage you to find time to relax, recharge and reconnect with family and friends this summer. You deserve that as well.
Sincerely,
Jim
James W.C. White
Craver Family Dean
College of Arts and Sciences