As we take on the major challenges facing UNC today, it’s important to remember why our Coalition exists.
We founded the Coalition for Carolina when we saw the impact of outside forces dictating the choices on our campus. Think Silent Sam, COVID policies, and a disregard for tenure determinations. Campus autonomy was being undermined and the Coalition came together to fight back.
Looking back, those challenges were precursors to today’s dangers. Now, in 2025, the University’s very existence – at least in the way we’ve come to know and love it – is under threat.
And where are our leaders now?
The UNC Board of Trustees have mastered being outspoken and meddlesome on matters far outside of their purview. Most recently, they inserted themselves in the hiring of a football coach, the admission of students and the founding of a controversial school.
But, now, as the University faces existential threats? Silence. From the Trustees, indeed from most everyone.
At the Coalition, we can’t help but wonder, What would Frank Porter Graham or Bill Friday do if they were with us today? They certainly wouldn’t be sitting on the sidelines and leading from behind.
We’ve asked you for weeks to speak out. We’re doing our part to do the same.
Join Coalition for Carolina founders Roger Perry, Paul Fulton, and Mimi Chapman for a conversation about the challenges the University faces
and where we go from here.
“In Times Like These: A Conversation with the Coalition for Carolina Cofounders”
Thursday, April 17, 2025 at 10am ET
Carolina is a leader among universities. We must act like it.
We cannot stand by while an institution of such great importance – and one we all love – is under attack.
As we prepare for this conversation, we want your feedback. What do you want to hear from Carolina’s leaders right now? What do you think they should be doing during this time of uncertainty? Email us your thoughts and questions at contact@coalitionforcarolina.org.