Here are 5 things I love about Carolina

1. The Libraries

I’m biased. I get to go to work in Wilson Library every day. But I truly do believe that the libraries are at the heart of the academic experience at Carolina. I love the range of experiences and activities possible in the libraries: Students can use centuries-old rare books and archives in Wilson Library, then go over to Davis Library and develop projects using the new AI studio. As a library user, I love the quiet study spaces and views from the top floors of Davis Library, the historic newspapers available through the North Carolina Digital Heritage Center and especially the library’s terrific audiobook collection.

2. The History

When I walk past Old East, I often reflect upon how remarkable it is that the building, first opened in 1795, is still in use 230 years later. Carolina does a terrific job with the delicate balancing act of preserving aspects of the historic character of the campus while meeting the needs of a constantly changing modern research university. In Wilson Library, we have always been dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of UNC. We are working on expanding opportunities for students and the broader campus community to learn about and engage with the history of the University as a way of understanding how our past has shaped the Carolina we know today.

3. The Tar Heel Bus Tour

I’ve had the privilege of participating in the Tar Heel Bus Tour three times, once as a participant and twice in the role of commentator. Each time I’ve walked away with the feeling that it was one of the most memorable experiences I’ve had at Carolina. The Tar Heel Bus Tour provides a way for faculty and administrators to learn more about North Carolina by visiting sites around the state. It’s moving and inspiring to learn about the challenges many of our neighbors face and the ways that UNC faculty and students work with local communities to tackle these issues.

4. Women’s Basketball at Carmichael

I’ve been at Carolina for a long time, but not long enough to have seen men’s teams coached by Dean Smith play in Carmichael Auditorium. However, I love having the chance to see women’s basketball games at Carmichael Arena, as it’s now named. It’s a terrific venue for a game no matter where you sit. Watching the Tar Heels defeat No. 1-ranked Notre Dame in 2019 is one of the most memorable games I’ve seen in person at Carolina.

5. Rameses at Home

One of my favorite experiences in the community is when I drive past the Hogan family farm and I catch a glimpse of Carolina Blue out in the field. Rameses is a celebrity on campus, but when it’s not game day, he lives on a family farm alongside the other animals. It’s always a delight to spot him, with his Carolina Blue-painted horns, on those rare occasions when he’s out calmly grazing in the field while the cars pass by.