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UNC AFSA & UNC News
May 13, 2026
Eric Church gives rousing commencement speech: ‘Trust what your heart hears’
Eric Church’s UNC commencement speech was a sentimental homecoming for the North Carolina native. Church told graduates to embrace uncertainty, use failure as a teacher, and stay connected to the people and places that shaped them. He then performed “Carolina,” tweaking some of the lyrics for his Chapel Hill audience. Click here to hear his speech, https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-country/eric-church-commencement-speech-carolina-1235562066/
May 13, 2026
UNC School of Civic Life and Leadership to become independent academic unit
UNC’s School of Civic Life and Leadership will become the university’s 15th independent academic unit this August, a major elevation for the free-inquiry and civil-discourse program launched in 2023. The move follows rapid growth with more than 20 faculty hires and nearly 1,000 student enrollments
May 13, 2026
Phase 1 of Carolina North campus will allow for living, learning
UNC trustees have taken a major step toward developing Carolina North, a planned second campus on the former Horace Williams Airport site. The first phase will include student, multifamily, and workforce housing, plus research buildings, a hotel, and retail space. Trustees approved $8 million for design and planning, with construction expected to begin next year.
May 12, 2026
The ‘Civic Life’ Success at UNC
The Wall Street Journal editorial board praises UNC’s School of Civic Life and Leadership as a model for restoring civic education and open inquiry on campus. The piece argues SCiLL’s rise from a new program to UNC’s 15th independent academic unit shows real student demand for serious debate and civil discourse.
Apr 17, 2026
University of North Carolina vaguely ‘retract[s]’ threat of punishment for April Fools’ Day satire
UNC officials issued a follow-up statement after backlash over April Fools’ satire, saying they are not investigating any students and partially retracting earlier language that implied possible discipline. However, critics say the university’s reversal was vague and failed to clarify what was actually withdrawn, leaving lingering questions.
Apr 14, 2026
UNC Officials Accused of Not Protecting Students or Defending Free Speech After April Fools’ ICE Article, ‘Sorority Girl Skit Lead to Death Threats, Campus Uproar
A controversy at UNC erupted after an April Fools’ satire issue from the Daily Tar Heel and a student comedy skit sparked backlash, with participants reportedly receiving online death threats. Administrators initially condemned the content, prompting criticism from free speech advocates before walking back their response. The episode has fueled debate over whether UNC adequately defends student expression.
Apr 10, 2026
UNC Newspaper Halts Satire and Implements DEI Training After Backlash Over April Fools’ Issue
After backlash over its April Fools’ issue, The Daily Tar Heel announced it will halt satire for the rest of the semester and implement DEI training and internal reviews. The decision followed criticism from administrators over articles some students found offensive. Free speech advocates argue the response risks chilling student expression.
Apr 8, 2026
Forbes names UNC a ‘New Ivy’ with more hiring appeal than the Ivy League
UNC-Chapel Hill was named to Forbes’ “New Ivies” list for the third straight year, a ranking of schools whose graduates are increasingly favored by employers over traditional Ivy League institutions. The list is based on data like admissions and employer surveys, with executives emphasizing schools that prepare students for a workforce shaped by AI and practical skills.
Apr 2, 2026
Lee Roberts Knows He Needs to Say More About That
UNC Chancellor Lee Roberts has taken a more controlled, behind-the-scenes approach to communication, limiting public engagement and tightly managing messaging during campus controversies. While Roberts emphasizes stability, critics say the lack of transparency has fueled some distrust among faculty and students.
Apr 2, 2026
UNC is cutting $90 million from its budget over the next three years. Here’s how.
UNC plans to cut $89.2 million from its budget over the next three years, targeting administrative costs, financial aid, and some academic programs. The cuts come amid uncertainty around federal funding, stalled state budgets, and shifts within the UNC System. While officials say they’re prioritizing the university’s academic mission, there is some concern about transparency and the potential impact on programs.
Apr 2, 2026
Is UNC-Chapel Hill really ‘fostering a free-speech culture’?
UNC-Chapel Hill’s recent focus on free speech may be less about open inquiry and more about advancing specific ideological viewpoints, argues a column in USA Today. There are concerns that “free speech” is being used selectively, fueling tension over whether the university is expanding debate or reshaping it along political lines.
Mar 19, 2026
We Asked Every UNC System School For a Simple Record. Here’s What Happened.
After requests for basic public records from UNC System schools, many universities said it could take many months to fulfill the petitions. North Carolina law requires records be provided “as promptly as possible,” but doesn’t set a firm deadline, allowing for long delays.
Mar 10, 2026
Provost addresses Faculty Executive Committee about decision not to release SCiLL investigation report
At a March meeting, UNC’s provost discussed the University’s decision to not release a report from an independent investigation. Administrators said there were internal concerns about making the findings public, which drew questions from faculty about transparency and accountability.
Mar 10, 2026
UNC, former provost ‘completing’ deal ending meetings, records lawsuit
UNC and former provost Chris Clemens are close to settling a lawsuit over alleged violations of open meetings and public records laws. A court filing says the agreement is expected soon and would end the case. Some of Clemens’ claims had already been dismissed, but others are still pending.
Mar 2, 2026
A Liberal Professor’s Case for the UNC Syllabus Policy
A liberal professor argues that the UNC System’s policy requiring syllabi to be posted online is consistent with academic freedom because public universities are accountable to taxpayers. While critics fear the policy could invite political attacks on faculty, the author contends that greater transparency strengthens public trust in higher education.
Feb 27, 2026
UNC Systems leaders approve overhaul of academic freedom policy
UNC Systems leaders approved a revision to the university's academic freedom policy that more clearly defines the scope and limits of faculty protections. Supporters say the change clarifies expectations for teaching and research, while critics argue the new language could discourage open classroom discussion and expose faculty to greater scrutiny.
Feb 27, 2026
Chancellor announces UNC will ‘scrap’ policy that allowed University to secretly record instructors
UNC-Chapel Hill has reversed a controversial policy that allowed administrators to record classes without a professor’s knowledge. The decision came after strong backlash from faculty who warned the rule could lead to classroom self-censorship and undermine academic freedom.
Feb 19, 2026
Guest essay: A student’s defense of public syllabuses
A UNC student argues that making course syllabi publicly available, as the UNC System policy does, supports transparency and accountability rather than chilling faculty speech. The author argues that public syllabi help students and the broader community understand classroom expectations and curricular content.
Feb 19, 2026
NEH Pours Millions Into Conservative-Alligned Projects
The National Endowment for the Humanities is awarding nearly $10 million to UNC-Chapel Hill’s School of Civic Life and Leadership, as well as other conservative-aligned projects at schools across the country. The grant is intended to hire faculty and expand programs in American political thought and civic education. This is part of a broader national push toward Western civilization and civics initiatives.
Feb 12, 2026
UNC Tuition Has Already Tripled
Tuition across the University of North Carolina System has risen by roughly 330% since 1999, far outpacing inflation and long-term affordability trends. This overview comes amid a push for new tuition increases. Instead, the Martin Center argues to reject the increases in favor of keeping college more accessible and aligned with constitutional commitments to educational opportunities.
Feb 10, 2026
UNC debuts policy on secretly recording classes. Here’s what it says.
UNC Chapel Hill has adopted a new policy allowing administrators to record or access classroom recordings without notifying instructors in certain circumstances. Such circumstances include investigating alleged policy violations andother lawful purposes. Critics, including professors and academic freedom advocates, warn the policy could chill open discussion in class and heighten concerns about surveillance.
Feb 5, 2026
Judge blocks UNC’s ban against protesters, tosses part of their suit
A federal judge has temporarily blocked UNC from enforcing campus bans against three individuals arrested during anti-Israel protests in 2024. The ruling said the indefinite nature of the bans was likely unreasonable and not viewpoint-neutral. While the judge dismissed several of the plaintiffs’ claims, the lawsuit will move forward on the remaining free speech-related allegations.
Feb 4, 2026
Lee Roberts Apologizes to Faculty over Handling of Area Studies Centers
Chancellor Lee Roberts apologized to faculty members after the University’s December decision to close several area studies centers. The announcement of the closures sparked backlash from some professors and campus groups. The centers were closed due to University budget cuts. Roberts acknowledged concerns about shared governance and said the administration should have consulted faculty more before making the changes.
Feb 2, 2026
The Missing Men of UNC
Classrooms across the UNC System are now majority female, with women making up more than 60 percent of students at most campuses. This is attributed to many factors, including boys’ weak academic performance and cultural messaging encouraging higher education for women. This gender imbalance is impacting campus social dynamics and the classroom experience, causing long-term effects after graduation.
Jan 20, 2026
Where faith meets the First Amendment: Religious Speech at UNC
Religious speakers at UNC are engaging in constitutionally protected speech on campus. While such speech may be controversial or uncomfortable for some students, the First Amendment requires UNC to remain viewpoint-neutral and allow this form of expression and religious freedom. Such speech sparks debate among the student body regarding religion and grants students exposure to a diverse array of religious beliefs.
Jan 20, 2026
UNC Alumni Free Speech Alliance reflects broader trend of campus alumni engagement
UNC’s AFSA chapter continues to strengthen alumni engagement on campus by hosting discussions and advocating policy that champions free speech, academic freedom, and viewpoint diversity. The group connects alumni with students and faculty to encourage open dialogue and contributes to a broader national trend of alumni involvement in higher education.
Jan 20, 2026
Anonymous survey reveals UNC faculty culture of self-censorship
An anonymous Daily Tar Heel survey of UNC faculty found many instructors worry about expressing their personal views. The survey also found that self-censorship was common and dissatisfaction was high, despite a low turnover rate. The data highlights broader concerns about academic freedom and free expression across higher education.
Jan 19, 2026
When Dad Says No, Ask Mom
Recent changes in UNC System policy have muddled the balance of authority over high-level campus hires. Traditionally, Boards of Trustees approved senior academic and administrative appointments, but revisions now let the chancellor seek approval directly from the system president, bypassing oversight. This shift of governance weakens accountability across North Carolina’s public universities.
Jan 6, 2026
UNC syllabi will be available as soon as Jan. 15 — and there are already requests
The UNC System’s new policy requiring syllabi to be public records is soon to take effect. The documents will be available to the general public beginning January 15th. Supporters of the move argue it will increase transparency in higher education. Detractors cite potential risks to academic freedom. Several public records requests have already been lodged.
Jan 6, 2026
Update on free speech laws, policies and resources
In a community-wide communication, UNC reiterates that as a public university, it fully embraces the First Amendment and state free speech laws. This means that the University cannot bar speakers simply because their views are unpopular or offensive. The update underscores that protecting free speech is central to UNC’s mission and gives students resources to uphold their rights.
Dec 31, 2025
UNC cuts all six area studies research centers, effective 2026
UNC is set to close all six of its area research study centers in 2026. These include the Center for European Studies, African Studies Center, Carolina Asia Center, Center for Middle East and Islamic Studies, Institute for the Study of the Americas, and the Center for Slavic, Eurasian and East European Studies. This is part of broader cuts amid a decrease in state and federal funding. The move has drawn concern from some faculty surrounding a loss of research opportunities.
Dec 17, 2025
Faculty Wrestle with UNC System Decision to Disclose Syllabi
The UNC System is moving to require all syllabi to be treated as public records, beginning in the upcoming fall semester. Proponents of the idea assert the decision increases transparency throughout the UNC System and allows students to review course syllabuses before registration. Opponents, including some faculty, have criticized the potential policy as an attack on intellectual property.
Dec 16, 2025
{Letter] In Support of UNC’s Proposed Policy on Syllabus Transparency
Martin Center President Jenna Robinson commends UNC System President Peter Hans’ decision to require universities to publish academic calendars, grading policies, and course syllabi. Robsinson argues the move will enhance the public’s trust in North Carolina public universities and grant students clearer academic expectations.
Dec 16, 2025
Judge dismisses portion of ex-provost’s lawsuit against UNC
A North Carolina Superior Court judge dismissed two claims in former UNC Provost Chris Clemens’ lawsuit against the university over alleged open meetings and public records violations. The dismissed claims involved alleged destruction of public records and conducting an unlawful electronic meeting without notice. Other portions of Clemens’ lawsuit, however, will continue to be litigated. The suit centers on transparency issues regarding University officials.
Dec 15, 2025
Q&A: How incoming Provost Magnus Egerstedt plans to tackle AI, engineering, tenure
Incoming UNC Provost Magnus Egerstedt discusses his priorities for the University for when he takes office this coming March. He addressed the impacts of artificial intelligence in education, supporting engineering and interdisciplinary research, and strengthening faculty tenure processes. He emphasized fostering innovation while balancing traditional academic values, such as merit.
Dec 15, 2025
AI was integrated into UNC’s operations and ideology this year — whether you like it or not
UNC is increasing efforts to establish itself as a premier “AI University,” with new leadership roles and the creation of a new school centered around the technology. Administrators say AI is unavoidable, and these moves are necessary to keep UNC competitive. Many faculty, however, are uneasy about the push to modernize the university, citing the risk to hurt learning, creativity, and academic integrity.
Dec 1, 2025
Of the 15 campus demonstrations in 2025, almost every protest opposed federal actions
An analysis of campus protests by the Daily Tar Heel shows that the vast majority of demonstrations were in opposition to federal actions. These actions ranged from a rejection of the Trump administration’s higher education compact to protests against immigration enforcements. Other protests on campus were in response to decisions made by UNC administration. The vast majority of protests were peaceful and without major disruption to University operations.
Dec 1, 2025
n 2025, UNC’s ‘imperfect process’ for balancing free expression, academic freedom became clear
Over the course of the year, UNC-Chapel Hill has tested its ability to maintain free speech on campus. The temporary suspension of a faculty member, controversy surrounding the removal of an anti-Israel mural, and federal actions that risk infringing on academic freedom were important issues during the past calendar year.
Nov 18, 2025
SCiLL Presents Reviving Civil Discourse on Campus Tuesday, November 18
The UNC School of Civic Life and Leadership is presenting a program at the George Watts Alumni Center for Reviving Civil Discourse on Campus.
The event will feature the premiere of a short film on the Courageous Conversations: Israel and Palestine on Campus course, followed by Q&A with some of the students. There will also be a conversation with Bret Stephens (The New York Times) and Elizabeth Bruenig (The Atlantic). Chancellor Roberts will also offer opening remarks.
Nov 12, 2025
UNC Announces New Provost
Today, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill announced the appointment of Magnus Egerstedt as Executive Vice Chancellor and Provost, effective March 2, 2026. Egerstedt, currently Dean of Engineering in The Henry Samueli School of Engineering and a Professor in the Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science at the University of California, Irvine, will succeed Executive Vice Chancellor and Provost James W. Dean Jr., who has been serving in an interim role since May 2025.
Nov 12, 2025
UNC-Chapel Hill Trustees Reject Proposal to Raise Tuition for In-State Students
For the first time in nine years, the UNC Board of Governors is allowing public universities to increase tuition for in-state students. UNC-Chapel Hill's Board of Trustees have decided they do not want to take that offer.
Nov 10, 2025
‘We Don’t Plan To’: Chancellor Downplays Potential That UNC Signs Trump Admin’s Higher Ed Compact
Chancellor Lee Roberts has signaled that UNC-Chapel Hill will not sign onto the Trump administration’s compact for universities in order to receive more favorable federal funding. The proposed agreement by the federal government would require universities to comply with a range of educational policy objectives. Roberts argued UNC was already complying with many aspects of the compact, but some features were “difficult or impossible” to implement.
Nov 6, 2025
Guest essay: As censorship rises, we urge university leaders to protect free speech
Legal Director of the ACLU of North Carolina Kristi Graunke argues that UNC leadership needs to improve its protections for freedom of speech for faculty and students. Graunke argues that pressures from the General Assembly and federal government have gone too far. She also mentions the University’s investigation into Professor Dwayne Dixon and is critical of UNC’s treatment of anti-Israel protesters.
Oct 23, 2025
UNC System Faculty Seek to Define ‘Academic Freedom’
A group of professors from across the University of North Carolina system want officials to adopt a definition of “academic freedom.” While the term’s definition may vary depending on the organization, it largely expresses that faculty are free to research and teach subjects without reasonable interference. Academic freedom has become a hot button issue because of new local and national influences on the University.
Oct 22, 2025
The University Elite, Reconsidered
The Manhattan Institute has established a new university ranking system which takes into account free speech climate, ideological balance, curricular rigor, and student outcomes. With these metrics, the University of North Carolina takes the number three rank, behind the University of Florida and the University of Texas. More traditionally prestigious institutions, such as Ivy League Universities, score poorly.
Oct 20, 2025
Dwayne Dixon and professor who taught pro-Palestine mural creators talk academic freedom
The Campus Y hosted professors Dwayne Dixon and Hồng-Ân Trương to discuss academic freedom at the University of North Carolina. Both academics recently came under scrutiny by University: Dwayne for his alleged association with an armed leftist militant group and Trương for organizing the creation of a mural which was criticized as antisemitic. The professors connected their experiences to wider national trends within academia.
Oct 14, 2025
Past Rhymes With Present Times: Free Speech, Academic Freedom, and the Assault on Expertise
Professor Emeritus Lloyd Kramer outlines how the struggle for academic freedom is a common occurrence throughout the history of the University of North Carolina. From early faculty dismissals to political interference, Kramer warns of the dangers of infringing upon academic freedom not just at the local level, but nationally.
Oct 12, 2025
‘Too woke’: Former provost talks with TransparUNCy about free speech in higher ed
Former UNC Provost Chris Clemens had a wide-ranging discussion with progressive student group TransparUNCy about free speech in higher education. Clemens defended his record on the First Amendment during his tenure, which included enacting new policies at the Trustee level. He encouraged current University leadership to resist temptations to regulate faculty speech at the classroom level.
Oct 8, 2025
University system changes how it funds campus performance. Is it a ‘tax’ on UNC?
Under a new system-wide funding scheme, UNC-Chapel Hill will lose just under $7 million in funding. The UNC System Board of Governors approved a plan that would link funding to University performance. There is disagreement about the benefits of the plan across University leadership with Chancellor Lee Roberts supporting the new model and members of the Board of Trustees comparing the plan to a “tax.”