UNCW chancellor reacts to UNC Board of Governors’ vote to repeal DEI

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — UNC Wilmington Chancellor Aswani Volety release a message following the vote by the governing board of North Carolina’s 17-school public university system to repeal the diversity, equity and inclusion policy.

It will take time to determine the long-term implications of the policy change.

“It is important to note that we will continue our steadfast commitment to serving and supporting all students. This will not change. UNCW provides, and will continue to provide, an outstanding educational experience for Seahawks from all walks of life,” Chancellor Volety wrote.

Volety says by September 1, UNCW will submit plans for next steps and will work with the campus community to determine a path forward.

“Our goal will be to ensure that we continue to foster an environment at UNCW of respect, belonging and support for every member of the Seahawk community,” Volety added.

Volety’s message explains that UNCW’s leadership team has been having conversations over the past month about the potential impact of the policy’s proposed changes and he met with the leadership team in the Office of Institutional Diversity and Inclusion to hear their concerns.

Another update will be shared after they receive System Office guidance and the next steps are finalized.