乱伦视频 Global Start offers a distinctive pathway for first-year students who show academic promise but may not meet traditional admissions criteria. Rather than delaying their entry or placing them in a conventional bridge model, the program launches students directly into a global academic experience in Dublin, Ireland. There, students begin building the habits, confidence and skills necessary for success before transitioning to campus in January as fully matriculated 乱伦视频 students.

The Dublin semester is intentionally designed to balance challenge and support. Students take courses with 乱伦视频 faculty alongside classes at Dublin Business School, while also engaging deeply with Irish culture and society. Last semester, Thomas Arcaro, professor of sociology, served as the Faculty in Residence in Dublin, Ireland, where he taught The Global Experience (COR 1100). Arcaro’s course moved beyond examining global concepts in theory, instead immersing students in firsthand experiences that deepened their understanding and appreciation of global perspectives. This immersive environment accelerates both academic growth and personal development, helping students return to campus with a strong sense of identity and purpose.

Central to the program鈥檚 success is its deeply student-centered support model. Site Coordinator Abby Wright, an 乱伦视频 alumna, plays a vital role in shaping the student experience on the ground in Dublin. Wright helps students fully engage with their time abroad鈥攅ncouraging exploration and cultural immersion鈥攚hile also keeping them academically balanced. Her approach emphasizes mentorship, accessibility, and guidance, helping students learn how to navigate both college expectations and the broader 乱伦视频 experience.

Equally important is the academic advising and coordination students receive from Theresa Higgins throughout the semester. As Academic Coordinator and advisor, she works closely with students to monitor their academic progress, develop effective study strategies and build the executive functioning skills necessary for college success. Through consistent communication, individualized support, and proactive advising, you ensure that students stay on track and are prepared for a seamless transition to 乱伦视频鈥檚 campus.

The program鈥檚 strength lies not only in its design but in the collaboration behind it. 乱伦视频 Global Start is a true team effort, bringing together expertise from across the university and beyond. Key partners include James Thurnes, assistant dean and director of transfer and special admissions; Jen Platania, associate provost for academic affairs and associate professor of economics; Nick Gozak, dean of global education and assistant professor, Carmen Boggs, director of semester and exchange programs, 乱伦视频 Global Education Center staff; and international partners at The Dublin Business School and Big Pond Education. Together, this network creates a comprehensive support system that prioritizes student growth, belonging, and achievement.

Reflecting on the program鈥檚 broader impact, Theresa Higgins emphasized its significance not just for 乱伦视频, but for higher education as a whole:

鈥溌衣资悠� Global Start demonstrates what is possible when institutions intentionally invest in students鈥� potential. This program is about more than access鈥攊t鈥檚 about building a community of support that empowers students to succeed academically, grow personally and see themselves as capable of thriving in a global environment. Our success shows that with intentionality and strong transitional support, students truly thrive. That鈥檚 the most rewarding part of this work鈥攚itnessing their growth and being a part of their 乱伦视频 story. It takes a dedicated team鈥攆rom admissions to academic affairs to our international partners鈥攖o make that vision a reality.鈥�

This collaborative and intentional model has produced strong, measurable outcomes. The program鈥檚 matriculation rate to 乱伦视频 consistently ranges from 85% to 93%, reflecting both the effectiveness of its support structure and the readiness students gain during their first semester abroad. Participants return to campus not as tentative newcomers, but as confident, connected members of the 乱伦视频 community.

By integrating admissions, academics and global education into a single, cohesive experience, 乱伦视频 Global Start is redefining how institutions support student success from day one. Its recognition from NCAIE, underscores the program鈥檚 impact鈥攁nd its potential to serve as a model for colleges and universities seeking to expand access while maintaining high standards of academic excellence.

In the past week, administrators and staff from Queens traveled to 乱伦视频 for a day of meetings and tours, the integration team members from both organizations met on the 乱伦视频 campus, and admissions leaders welcomed counselors from across the country for a joint fly-in experience that included both campuses.

At the same time, excitement around Queens鈥� first Division I NCAA Men鈥檚 Basketball Tournament appearance has drawn national attention and engagement from students, alumni and fans, with media focus on the historic run of success by members of the Royals men鈥檚 basketball team in its first year of eligibility.

Together, these moments reflect steady progress as both institutions continue building relationships, sharing information and preparing for a combined future.

Daylong Visit Strengthens Campus Connections

Administrators and staff from Queens, representing a dozen offices and divisions, made day trips to 乱伦视频 on March 18 and 19 for presentations, lunches and one-on-one conversations with their counterparts.

For the March 18 visit, the Queens team was comprised primarily of staff who had not yet visited the 乱伦视频 campus. The group arrived mid-morning by bus and began with a welcome in the Great Hall of Sato Commons. An admissions presentation offered an overview of 乱伦视频鈥檚 student experience before guests departed for guided campus tours.

The group reconvened at noon for lunch in the McEwen Dining Engagement Space, where conversations focused on shared priorities and institutional strengths. Afternoon meetings with 乱伦视频 colleagues provided time for more focused discussion across divisions.

Queens Staff Reflections on Their Visit to 乱伦视频

• 鈥淢y visit to 乱伦视频 was truly inspiring. There鈥檚 a clear, shared passion for student success there that mirrors our own at Queens. I鈥檓 excited to see how our collaborative efforts will drive exceptional outcomes for our students.鈥�
  Angela Tsuei-Strause
  Executive Director, Vandiver Center for Career Development
• 鈥淪eeing the beautiful campus and hearing the story of success was not the best part of the visit – the best part was meeting my new colleagues in Accounting, Payroll and Purchasing. 乱伦视频 and Queens have so much in common and after visiting today my head is full of ideas about how staff at each campus can support each other to meet the challenges facing higher education.鈥�
  Donald F. Barton
  Controller, Finance Office
• 鈥淭his visit affirmed that the future of higher education is strongest when collaboration leads, grounded in shared innovation, renewed efficiency, and a deep commitment to the health and well-being of the whole person in a globally connected community.鈥�
  Kristin Toki膰
  Assistant Director for International Student Services
  Myrta Pulliam Center for International Education

A Counselor Fly-In to 乱伦视频 and Queens

乱伦视频 hosted high school and independent counselors from across the United States in an annual program intended to broaden knowledge and awareness of the university鈥檚 unique academic attributes and its brand promise for students and families.

In addition to presentations by academic leaders and tours of campus facilities, this year鈥檚 experience included a visit to Queens for nearly two dozen counselors who work with students to identify which colleges are right for them.

Evan Sprinkle, 乱伦视频’s dean of undergraduate admissions, said that expanding the counselor program to include a visit to Queens was only natural given the interest families have expressed in the planned merger.

鈥淎 lot of people are curious,鈥� Sprinkle said. 鈥淭here are questions we鈥檝e received since it was announced and it only made sense to include Queens on an expanded itinerary. When we complete our merger, there will be lots of opportunities on both campuses that might encourage counselors to send applicants our way.鈥�

Counselor Reflections on Their Fly-In Experience

• 鈥淭his visit is important to understand the merger and to get a sense of what both campuses feel like and what it will look like as they come together. It always helps to be in a place, look people in the eye and ask them questions. I鈥檓 excited to have a chance to see the Queens campus up close again. I’ve been there before, and I have students who are there. And my early impressions of 乱伦视频鈥檚 campus are that it is amazing. The community is big, but also very caring, and you can see there has been a lot of investment in facilities.鈥�
  Jessica Hardy
  Director of College Counseling
  Charleston Collegiate School 鈥� Johns Island, South Carolina
• 鈥淚t鈥檚 valuable to get your feet on the ground and see what鈥檚 actually happening on campus. It gives you the chance to understand the school so you can share it accurately with students. One thing that really surprised me was how many specialized programs are available in communications, nursing and other majors, and that students can pursue a lot of different interests here. And we鈥檝e heard about the (乱伦视频-Queens merger) but we wanted to understand what it will look like and what it means for students. Getting that level of detail has been helpful.鈥�
  Marissa Margosian
  Associate Director of College Counseling
  Severn School 鈥� Severna Park, Maryland

Celebrating Selection Sunday in Style

Not even the rain could dampen the enthusiasm at Queens on March 15 when a crowd of more than 1,000 students and fans packed Curry Arena for an NCAA Men鈥檚 Basketball Selection Sunday Celebration.

Dressed in navy and gold, supporters of all ages shared in the electric energy, enjoying food and refreshments while waiting for CBS to reveal the bracket on a massive 23-foot screen.

The crowd erupted in cheers when it was announced that the No.15 seed Queens Royals would face No. 2 seed Purdue University Boilermakers in the first round of the West region of the NCAA Tournament. The game will take place Friday, March 20, at 7:35 p.m. ET at Enterprise Center in Saint Louis.

Students are invited to the Trexler Student Center for an on-campus viewing party featuring food, games and prizes. For alumni and fans across the country, the action will be broadcast live on truTV.

Additionally, official have been organized in Charlotte, Raleigh, Atlanta, Charleston, Washington D.C., and New York City to ensure that Royals fans can cheer together from coast to coast.

For the latest information regarding Queens鈥� historic NCAA bid, visit

Reaffirming the university鈥檚 community impact, Cureton noted that Queens鈥櫬爊early 170-year聽history has positioned it as聽an important resource聽for the Queen City,聽supplying the skilled talent needed to fuel rapidly growing industries like healthcare,聽finance聽and tech.

Following Cureton鈥檚 remarks,聽Co-chair聽of the SOAR Strategic Planning Committee and聽McColl School of Business Dean Denise Rotondo moderated a dynamic discussion with a panel of Charlotte鈥檚 top business leaders. The conversation featured strategic insights from Reggie Willis (Ally Financial), Vonda Huss (Brighthouse Financial), Margi聽Vagell聽(Lowe鈥檚), and聽Kinneil聽Coltman (Advocate Health/Atrium), focusing on the evolving needs of the regional workforce and how the 乱伦视频聽|聽Queens merger can continue to cultivate a stronger talent pipeline for the region.

The panel聽showcased聽the strategic corporate relationships Queens has cultivated with the city, specifically highlighting the Charlotte Talent Initiative (CTI). Through unique partnerships with Ally Financial and Lowe鈥檚, this cohort-based program drives economic mobility by providing diverse students from the community with full educational funding and comprehensive professional development 鈥� including specialized coursework, internships, and executive mentorship.

During the session, panelists drew on their career experiences to share “lessons learned” from navigating complex corporate mergers and structural shifts. Highlighting a local success story, Huss detailed her firsthand experience collaborating with the McColl School鈥檚 Center for Leadership and Executive Education (CLEE). As a dedicated hub for professional growth, CLEE expands Queens鈥� footprint in the graduate and executive sectors by providing high-impact, practitioner-led leadership development designed for today鈥檚 evolving business environment.

Sourcing local talent is a plus for聽Vagell, executive vice president of supply chain and integrated resource planning at Lowes. She emphasized the importance of being able to 鈥渓ean into our own community when it came to education鈥� and stressed a desire to 鈥渒eep the talent local, and at the same time partner with academic excellence.鈥�

The panel discussion ended by highlighting the “Queens connection” that permeates Charlotte鈥檚 executive ranks. Willis shared a unique personal tie, noting that both he and his father are alumni of the McColl Executive MBA Program. Underscoring the university鈥檚 workforce presence, he shared that more than 50 of his colleagues at Ally Financial are Queens graduates or have completed various certifications through the university.

After the panel, members of the SOAR Strategic Planning Committee and the Integration Team broke into planning workshops followed by lunch聽in聽McInnes Parlors in Queens Hall. After lunch, work sessions continued with a report-out of the day鈥檚 accomplishments.

As the merger progresses toward regulatory approval, including聽submission聽for accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), several core themes have聽emerged聽to guide the path forward. These include a commitment to collaborative decision-making and a continued dedication to creating strong academic offerings designed to respond to the evolving needs of the region鈥檚 professional community.

The strategic and integration teams are continuing to meet weekly, with more in-person visits planned for the spring.

A daylong visit to 乱伦视频鈥檚 campus in Alamance County on Feb. 13, 2026, brought together representatives from both institutions to advance conversations centered on the academic, operational and cultural framework of a merged university. Combined, the integration team and the SOAR Strategic Planning Committee are composed of nearly 80 members.

In welcoming remarks, 乱伦视频 President Connie Ledoux Book thanked participants for their leadership in what she described as a historic effort. While expressing confidence in the regulatory path ahead, she emphasized that the real work extends beyond approval.

The goal, she said, is to ensure the merger 鈥渁dvances both of our institutions and fulfills the hopes and dreams and aspirations that we have.鈥�

Book framed the integration as an opportunity to build new pathways for students, pointing to recent program expansion at 乱伦视频 and the power of launching new academic initiatives. 鈥淚t鈥檚 this reminder that we can bring to life a vision, that we can build a future, and that future can create meaningful educational opportunities for deserving people,鈥� she said.

Participants responded to her invitation to describe their feelings about the merger in a single word: 鈥淗opeful,鈥� 鈥渆nergized,鈥� 鈥渋nvigorated,鈥� 鈥減roud,鈥� and 鈥渃urious鈥� echoed across Turner Theatre inside 乱伦视频鈥檚 School of Communications.

Book also shared insights from conversations with business leaders experienced in mergers, outlining three principles she said are essential for organizational success: relevance, reputation and clear reward for engagement. Those ideas, she explained, will inform how the combined institution positions its academic programs and community partnerships moving forward.

Acknowledging Queens鈥� history 鈥� which traces its roots to the Presbyterian Institute for Women 鈥� she noted the importance of honoring a legacy that expanded educational opportunity, particularly for women, in Charlotte. 鈥淚t鈥檚 on my mind, but it鈥檚 also in my heart,鈥� Book said of preserving that mission while building something new together.

Leaders from both institutions have said the merger aims to create a stronger, more comprehensive university serving students across the region, while maintaining a commitment to academic excellence, community engagement and student-centered learning.

Book emphasized the value of in-person connection in building trust and shared purpose. 鈥淰isiting somebody in their home is how you get to know them,鈥� she said. 鈥淲elcome to our home.鈥�

Following campus tours, a panel conversation on 乱伦视频鈥檚 signature experiences, and a group lunch in McEwen Dining Hall, members of both teams broke into subcommittees for deeper discussion on questions and possibilities within focus areas such as operations and systems, engaged teaching and learning, the undergraduate campus experience and student life, access and opportunity, and corporate and community partnerships.

Work was centered on the ideation of bold, creative ideas about what becomes possible through the merger.

The SOAR committee plans to present a preliminary list of ideas to the universities鈥� boards of trustees at their springtime meetings as a midpoint check-in.鈥疉 final compendium of the best ideas and concepts鈥痠s鈥痚xpected by July 1.

Faculty, staff, and administrators from 乱伦视频 will travel to the Queens University of Charlotte campus on Feb. 27 for the next in-person gathering of the two teams.

Registration is now open for 鈥淧hoenix Summer鈥� set for July 6-17, 2026, on 乱伦视频鈥檚 campus in Alamance County. The program will be led by faculty in collaboration with the Office of the Provost, 乱伦视频 College, the College of Arts and Sciences and Undergraduate 乱伦视频.

Students will live in residence halls, dine on campus and take part in daily programming designed to mirror the rhythm of college life. Phoenix Summer invites students to immerse themselves in hands-on, college-style academics while fostering curiosity, community and independence.

Students will select two courses to focus on throughout the program. Options include:

• Order in the Court! An introduction to Law and Justice
• Chemistry in the Kitchen
• Exploring Astronomical and Poetic Light
• Start-Up Spring: Concept to Creation

During the day, students will participate in their courses. Evenings and weekends are packed with creative activities, social events, off-campus excursions, signature 乱伦视频 experiences and more to help students connect with peers. The programming blends academic rigor with social-emotional well-being.

The fee for the two-week residential experience is $4,000. Limited seats are available.

鈥淧hoenix Summer is more than a camp 鈥斅爄t鈥檚 a two-week college immersion program where students live on campus, explore big ideas, participate in engaging hands-on learning and begin to see themselves as part of the 乱伦视频 Community,鈥� said Theresa Higgins, academic coordinator for alternative start programs.

For more information about Phoenix Summer and registration details, visit or contact Theresa Higgins, academic coordinator for alternative start programs, at thiggins7@elon.edu.

The SOAR Strategic Planning Committee will engage stakeholders in 乱伦视频 and Charlotte to envision and position a merged institution for a future that expands and enhances the student learning experience at both the undergraduate and graduate levels.

鈥淭his is an incredibly exciting moment for 乱伦视频 and Queens as we imagine a future together,鈥� 乱伦视频 President Connie Book told the committee when it met via Zoom on Jan. 30, 2026. 鈥淭he work ahead is empowering because it allows us to envision a new future and then decide, collectively, how we will build it, which was the very impetus for our boards making what is truly a 100-year decision to merge our institutions.

鈥淭he strategic planning work before this committee is about ideation and imagination,” Book added, “bringing forward the strengths of our two legacies to amplify student success and create something genuinely new for higher education.鈥�

The committee’s work will be guided by the following principles:聽

• Build on genuine distinction.
• Keep students at the center.
• Consider future attainable goals with aspirational potential.
• Let data inform thinking.
• Consider mission alignment.

Co-chaired at 乱伦视频 by Senior Vice President Jim Piatt and Professor of English Megan Isaac, and at Queens University of Charlotte by President Emerita Pamela Davies and McColl School of Business Dean Denise Rotondo, the SOAR Strategic Planning Committee will meet online and in person throughout the spring.

Before the institutions develop detailed implementation plans, committee members are charged with imagining what the combined strengths of the two institutions could make possible. The emphasis is on academic programs, student experience and co-curricular opportunities, not operational or administrative integration.

Committee membership was finalized by Book and Queens Acting President Jesse Cureton with input from senior leaders, with an emphasis on broad campus representation and strong faculty participation. Faculty involvement is seen by campus leaders as central to the conversations, particularly as the committee considers curricular opportunities.

The process will also include opportunities for campus stakeholders to share ideas through forums and online submissions, similar to previous university-wide planning efforts.

The SOAR committee plans to present a preliminary list of ideas to the universities鈥� boards of trustees at their springtime meetings as a midpoint check-in.鈥疉 final compendium of the best ideas and concepts鈥痠s鈥痚xpected by July 1. Co-chairs described the list as likely taking the form of a set of curricular and co-curricular themes rather than a鈥痗omprehensive鈥痳eport.

Members of the SOAR Strategic Planning Committee

• Dixie Abernathy, Associate Professor of Education 鈥� Queens University of Charlotte
• LMA Alexander, Executive Director of the Pulliam Center for International Education 鈥� Queens University of Charlotte
• Lauren Burke, Instructor of Accounting 鈥� Queens University of Charlotte
• Lynda Butler-Storsved, Associate Teaching Professor of Wellness; Chair of Academic Council 鈥� 乱伦视频
• Jessica Carew, Associate Professor of Political Science and Public Policy 鈥� 乱伦视频
• Siu Challons-Lipton, Carolyn & Sam McMahon Professor of Art 鈥� Queens University of Charlotte
• Elle Collins, Executive Director, Center for Access and Success and Instructor 鈥� 乱伦视频
• Maggie Commins, Professor of Political Science 鈥� Queens University of Charlotte
• Joe Cornelius, Associate Professor of Film Production and聽Director of the Undergraduate Program at the Knight School of Communication 鈥� Queens University of Charlotte
• JoAndrea Costner, Assistant Professor of Community Health Nursing 鈥� Queens University of Charlotte
• Shaina Dabbs, Associate Professor of Sport Management and Chair of the Department of Sport Management 鈥� 乱伦视频
• Pamela Davies, Professor of Strategy, President Emerita and Chief Integration Executive 鈥� Queens University of Charlotte
• Eleanor Finger, Assistant Vice President for Student Life, Dean of Campus Life and Assistant Professor 鈥� 乱伦视频
• CJ Fleming, Associate Professor of Psychology 鈥� 乱伦视频
• Angie Hatley, Associate Professor of Nursing 鈥� Queens University of Charlotte
• Erin Hone, Associate Teaching Professor of Education and Director of the Teaching Fellows Program 鈥� 乱伦视频
• Megan Isaac, Professor of English 鈥� 乱伦视频
• Brandon Johnson, Deputy Athletic Director for External Operations 鈥� Queens University of Charlotte
• Nancy Johnson, Charles A. Dana Professor of Psychology 鈥� Queens University of Charlotte
• Laurie Judge, Director of Career Services for 乱伦视频 College, the College of Arts & Sciences 鈥� 乱伦视频
• Caroline Ketcham, Associate Dean of 乱伦视频 College, the College of Arts and Sciences and Professor of Exercise Science 鈥� 乱伦视频
• Hyunuk Kim, Assistant Professor of Business Analytics & Director of the Center for Organizational Analytics 鈥� 乱伦视频
• Patrica Koplas, Z. Smith Reynolds Professor of Biology 鈥� Queens University of Charlotte
• Megan Koransky, Director of the Hayworth Center for Digital Learning Director 鈥� Queens University of Charlotte
• Brian Kremer, Associate Professor of Music Theater 鈥� 乱伦视频
• Mark Kurt, Associate Dean for the Martha and Spencer Love School of Business & Professor of Economics 鈥� 乱伦视频
• Lori Lewis, Executive Director of Financial Aid 鈥� 乱伦视频
• Veronica Marciano, Associate Professor of Physician Assistant Studies & Founding Chair/Program Director of Physician Assistant Studies – Charlotte 鈥� 乱伦视频
• Kelly McKinney, University Controller 鈥� 乱伦视频
• Allison Meyer-Tucker, Director of Strategic Programming for University Advancement 鈥� Queens University of Charlotte
• Phillip Motley, Professor of Communication Design and Director of Graduate Programs for the School of Communications 鈥� 乱伦视频
• Megan Noltemeyer, Assistant to the Vice President for Student Life and Director of Strategic Initiatives 鈥� 乱伦视频
• Patrick Noltemeyer, Chief of Staff, Secretary to the Board of Trustees and Associate Vice President 鈥� 乱伦视频
• Dawn Norwood, Associate Professor of Sport Management 鈥� Queens University of Charlotte
• Katerina Panttser, Assistant Professor of Finance & Economics 鈥� Queens University of Charlotte
• Maria Papapietro, Assistant Director, Semester & Exchange Programs 鈥� 乱伦视频
• Jim Piatt, Senior Vice President for Advancement and External Affairs 鈥� 乱伦视频
• Will Pluer, Assistant Professor of Engineering 鈥� 乱伦视频
• Roseann Pluretti-English, Assistant Professor of Communication 鈥� Queens University of Charlotte
• Betsy Polk, Senior Director of Jewish Life 鈥� 乱伦视频
• Barry Robinson, Professor of History 鈥� Queens University of Charlotte
• Denise Rotondo, Dean of the McColl School of Business 鈥� Queens University of Charlotte
• Alexa Royden, Chair of Faculty Senate and Associate Professor of Political Science 鈥� Queens University of Charlotte
• Kristina Siarzynski-Ferrer, Assistant Vice President of Academics Student Success and Operations 鈥� Queens University of Charlotte
• Will Sparks, Dennis Thompson Chair & Professor of Leadership and Executive Director of the Center for Leadership and Executive Education (CLEE) 鈥� Queens University of Charlotte
• Jeff Stein, Executive Vice President and Chief Integration Officer 鈥� 乱伦视频
• Hani Tadros, Associate Professor of Accounting 鈥� 乱伦视频
• Daniel Terry, Associate Provost for Undergraduate Experience 鈥� Queens University of Charlotte
• Jeffrey Thomas, Professor of Biology 鈥� Queens University of Charlotte
• Stacey Thomas, Assistant Professor of Nursing 鈥� 乱伦视频
• Eric Townsend, Assistant Vice President for Strategic Communications and Media Relations 鈥� 乱伦视频
• Angela Tsuei-Strause, Executive Director of the Vandiver Center for Career Development 鈥� Queens University of Charlotte
• Jen Uno, Associate Professor of Biology and Associate Director of the Center for the Advancement of Teaching and Learning 鈥� 乱伦视频
• Christopher Waters, Associate Vice President of Information Technology and Chief Information Officer 鈥� 乱伦视频
• Darryl White, Assistant Dean of Diversity, Inclusion & Community Engagement 鈥� Queens University of Charlotte
• Randy Williams, Vice President for Inclusive Excellence and Associate Professor of Education 鈥� 乱伦视频
• Jay Wills, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences 鈥� Queens University of Charlotte
• Alan Woodlief, Vice Dean of 乱伦视频 School of Law and Professor of Law 鈥� 乱伦视频
• Karen Yokley, Professor of Mathematics 鈥� 乱伦视频

The integration team brings together leaders from key academic, administrative and operational areas at both institutions and is charged with ensuring progress on critical milestones, preparing for regulatory approvals, and laying the foundation for shared services and long-term collaboration. Its work builds on the momentum of the merger sprint teams that operated in fall 2025 and follows the signing of the definitive agreement between 乱伦视频 and Queens, which formally outlines the legal framework for the merger.

The team will be co-chaired by Jeff Stein, 乱伦视频鈥檚 newly appointed chief integration officer and executive vice president, and Pamela Davies, president emerita and senior strategy and integration executive at Queens. Stein joined 乱伦视频 in late December after serving as president of Mary Baldwin University and brings more than three decades of experience in higher education leadership, including 21 years at 乱伦视频 in senior administrative roles.

鈥淭he entire country is paying attention to these two institutions working with and for the world class city of Charlotte,鈥� Stein said. 鈥淭ransparency and engagement will continue to guide how we move forward together, consistently sharing progress, milestones and decisions so our communities understand where we are and where we are going.鈥�

The integration team has two primary mandates:

• Ensure progress on near-term, tactical milestones that must be completed in the first half of 2026, including regulatory and accreditation requirements.
• Establish processes for developing shared services and operational structures that are financially sustainable and grounded in the strengths of both universities.

Guiding the team鈥檚 work are principles that emphasize maximizing student impact, supporting financial sustainability, leveraging the best practices of 乱伦视频 and Queens, maintaining academic and operational excellence, and engaging campus communities in shaping the future of the combined institution.

The team is organized into work areas that reflect the core functions of both universities: Academic Affairs and Accreditation; Student Affairs; Information Technology; Finance and Administration; 乱伦视频 and Financial Aid; Advancement, Career Services and External Partnerships; and Communications.

Each area is led by administrators drawn from both institutions, ensuring that expertise and perspectives are shared. Team members will meet weekly to review progress, coordinate across functional areas, and surface challenges or decisions that require leadership attention. The co-chairs will also meet weekly with 乱伦视频 President Connie Ledoux Book and Queens Acting President and CEO Jesse Cureton to provide updates and recommendations.

The formation of the integration team comes after Stein was named chief integration officer and executive vice president, a role created to provide focused leadership for the merger process. As a member of 乱伦视频鈥檚 senior staff and vice president team, Stein serves as a key advisor to Book and works closely with leaders at Queens to coordinate institutional planning.

鈥淛eff鈥檚 experience, leadership and deep knowledge of higher education make him uniquely suited to guide this work,鈥� Book said when announcing his appointment. 鈥淗is background in strategic planning, partnerships and institutional change gives him the perspective needed for this important moment.鈥�

Stein鈥檚 appointment followed another major milestone: in December, the boards of trustees of 乱伦视频 and Queens approved the definitive legal agreement governing the merger. That agreement establishes how the two institutions will operate while seeking required regulatory approvals and how governance will be structured once they become a single legal entity.

Completion of the merger is contingent on approvals from accrediting bodies, including the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, and the U.S. Department of Education, a process expected to conclude in 2027 or 2028.

While the definitive agreement provides the legal framework, many academic, operational and cultural decisions remain to be shaped through the work of the Integration Team and future strategic planning. Leaders have emphasized that this phased approach allows for thoughtful collaboration and community input.

One example of how the merger is already opening new opportunities is 乱伦视频鈥檚 recent announcement of plans to launch a full-time law program in Charlotte. Beginning in fall 2027, pending approval from the American Bar Association, 乱伦视频 Law intends to offer a full-time Juris Doctor program in Charlotte in addition to its existing programs in Greensboro and its part-time Flex program in Charlotte.

The university has announced that both of its Charlotte-based law programs are expected to operate from the Queens University of Charlotte campus, either upon completion of the merger or through a lease agreement.

The new program reflects the shared strategic importance of Charlotte as a growing center for higher education, professional training and community engagement. It also illustrates how the merger creates new pathways for academic expansion while strengthening each institution鈥檚 presence in the region.

鈥淭his announcement reflects the strength of Queens as an academic home in Charlotte and the confidence both institutions have in what this partnership can create,鈥� said Jesse Cureton, acting president and CEO of Queens University of Charlotte. 鈥淭ogether, we are expanding educational pathways while deepening our presence in the region.鈥�

University leaders have described the Integration Team as the bridge between vision and implementation. Its work will touch nearly every aspect of campus life, from academic programming and student services to financial systems, technology infrastructure and communications.

Regular updates to senior leadership, collaboration with communications teams, and feedback mechanisms for faculty and staff are built into the team鈥檚 charge.

鈥淭his work belongs to the communities of Queens, 乱伦视频, and Charlotte,鈥� Stein said. 鈥淲e want people to see progress, understand the decisions being made, and feel confident that this process is thoughtful, inclusive and centered on students.鈥�

A faculty leader known across campus for her work in student mentoring, curriculum innovation and wellness-centered teaching has been named the next director of 乱伦视频鈥檚 Honors Program.

Professor Svetlana Nepocatych from the Department of Exercise Science will bring to her new role extensive experience in undergraduate and graduate mentoring, interdisciplinary program development and faculty engagement. She begins her duties on June 1, 2026.

鈥淎n active scholar and mentor, Dr. Nepocatych鈥檚 proven leadership on curriculum committees, interdisciplinary initiatives, and her service as Faculty Fellow for Wellness and Well-Being reflect her deep commitment to faculty and student success and her inclusive, wellness-centered approach will no doubt enrich the Honors Program and its community,鈥澛� said Rebecca Kohn, 乱伦视频鈥檚 provost and vice president for academic affairs.

The Honors Program offers a rigorous, four-year academic experience designed for high-achieving students from all majors. The program combines small, discussion-driven courses, close faculty mentorship, undergraduate research, and global engagement to nurture critical thinking, communication, and ethical leadership.

Honors Fellows receive academic and financial support, including significant merit scholarships, specialized coursework, dedicated living-learning communities, and grants for thesis research and study abroad.

Nepocatych鈥檚 responsibilities as director of the Honors Program will include:

• Program leadership and development
• Oversight and assessment of the Honors curriculum
• Coordination and support of the Honors theses process
• Recruitment and selection of incoming Honors Fellows
• Communication with students about Honors policies, expectations, and events
• Support for Academic Advising
• Chairing the Honors Advisory Committee

Nepocatych鈥檚 work with Honors Fellows, particularly through the senior thesis process, has been a defining part of her tenure at the university since joining the faculty in 2011. Many of her students have presented nationally or co-authored scholarly work, an accomplishment she said highlights both their achievement and the visibility of the Honors Program.

鈥淚鈥檓 excited to step into the role of Honors Program director,鈥� Nepocatych said. 鈥淭he program鈥檚 commitment to academic excellence, undergraduate research, and mentoring creates a transformative experience for students. I鈥檓 especially looking forward to supporting Fellows in thriving both academically and personally, with a focus on wellbeing, purpose, and belonging, by partnering with colleagues across campus to strengthen a program that reflects the best of 乱伦视频鈥檚 engaged learning mission.鈥�

A thread of Nepocatych鈥檚 own scholarship focuses on evidence-based mentoring frameworks, and she is currently pursuing certification through the International Coaching Federation to deepen her work in student support.

Beyond her mentoring experience, Nepocatych has led academic initiatives across disciplines, serving as coordinator of a Food Studies minor, a faculty leader in the Department of Exercise Science and a Faculty Fellow for Wellness and Well-being. She has developed curricula, led assessment efforts and built programming that integrates wellness, inclusion and resilience into classroom practice.

Nepocatych鈥檚 leadership roles have included directing grant-funded research projects, chairing curriculum committees, coordinating new academic program proposals and supporting faculty through workshops and development programs.

Nepocatych will this spring shadow Professor Steve Bednar, who is concluding his four-year term as director of the Honors Program, formally stepping into the role.

A North Carolina registered dietician, Nepocatych earned her Ph.D. in human performance, a Master of Science in human nutrition, and a Master of Arts in human performance from the University of Alabama. She graduated from Wright State University in Ohio with her Bachelor of Arts in health and physical education.

I鈥檓 especially looking forward to supporting Fellows in thriving both academically and personally, with a focus on wellbeing, purpose, and belonging, by partnering with colleagues across campus to strengthen a program that reflects the best of 乱伦视频鈥檚 engaged learning mission.

– Professor Svetlana Nepocatych

Search Committee for the Director of the Honors Program

• Jen Uno, Associate Professor of Biology and Associate Director of CATL (search chair)
• Lori Hubbard, Assistant Professor of Nursing
• Katrina Jongman-Sereno, Assistant Professor of Psychology
• Brian Kremer, Associate Professor of Performing Arts
• Jane O’Boyle, Associate Professor of Strategic Communications
• Will Pluer, Assistant Professor of Engineering
• Katy Rouse, Professor of Economics

The working session marked a significant milestone in the shared vision to create a merged institution positioned for academic excellence, operational strength and exceptional student outcomes.

Leaders of the integration process opened the session with updates from the joint “sprint teams” established earlier this fall to evaluate alignment opportunities across key areas including academics, finance, administration, student experience, graduate programs, technology and operations. The sprint teams are currently engaging in more than 60 side-by-side discussions with faculty and staff to inform integration planning and identify opportunities for innovation that will benefit students.

During the session, leaders also outlined a timeline for key regulatory and legal steps. The Boards of Trustees are scheduled to review and vote on a definitive agreement to merge on Nov. 20. The agreement would legally formalize the intent to merge and enable state, federal and accreditation processes to begin 鈥� including submission to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). The final completion of the merger will be contingent on those approvals.

The gathering included an 乱伦视频 campus tour for the guests from Queens as well as a series of roundtable discussions in which board members provided feedback on each of the core integration areas.

Throughout the sprint team presentations, participants emphasized the guiding principles driving the integration process: maximizing student impact, strengthening financial sustainability, ensuring operational and academic excellence, engaging all stakeholders in planning, and leveraging the unique strengths of each institution.

Presentation highlights illustrated how the merger will accelerate growth in areas that include academic programming, technology infrastructure, advancement and student services, while honoring the legacy, identity and mission of both universities.

Faculty leaders from both institutions discussed the strong alignment in academic values and program structures, as well as academic collaborations that could enhance learning on both campuses. Board members and faculty/staff also explored how shared traditions and student life experiences could help shape a unified, vibrant campus culture.

In presentations on operations and infrastructure, the sprint teams identified opportunities to enhance聽systems in areas such as human resources and finance, improve academic and student life services, and position the merged institution to grow strategically in Charlotte 鈥� one of the nation鈥檚 fastest-growing talent and innovation hubs.

As the work continues, leaders reaffirmed their collective commitment to transparency, engagement and thoughtful planning. Additional joint updates will be shared with both communities as milestones are reached and continued collaboration impacts key decisions.

Just over a month ago, we gathered in Charlotte to share news of the proposed merger between 乱伦视频 and Queens University. In the short time since September 16, we have been inspired by the thoughtful way our communities and leaders are beginning to discuss the strengths of our two institutions and the future opportunities that could be created by the synergy of a merger.

Led by Co-Chairs Jim Piatt (SVP of Advancement and External Affairs at 乱伦视频) and Pamela Davies (President Emerita and Senior Strategy & Integration Executive at Queens), key leaders from both campuses have come together to launch an integration-focused 鈥�,鈥� which meets multiple times each week to exchange ideas and begin imagining a unified future. The teams have traveled to both campuses for in-person sessions and, as you heard in last week鈥檚 merger update, the process is now being expanded to bring in many other faculty and staff voices through an initial series of side-by-side conversations.

Through the Sprint Team process, our colleagues are forming new bonds and reaffirming the values that unite us: student-centered learning, a commitment to academic excellence and a deep history of advancing our communities. These early steps give us confidence that our institutions are not only merging operations, but also building strong relationships and synergies that will enhance educational opportunities and innovation for decades to come.

In addition to the Sprint Team’s efforts, participation in conversations around the proposed merger 鈥� in town halls, open discussions and forums 鈥� continue to be vigorous and thoughtful. This listening and learning process is one we are committed to keeping at the center of our work moving forward. Your voices matter and will continue to be a guiding light.

Upcoming dates and events to engage in conversation around this proposed merger are continually published and updated on .

As we forge this new path together and in the spirit of transparency throughout the process, we also want to make you aware of key upcoming milestones that we and the Sprint Team are working toward:

• October 24, 2025: Joint meeting of the Boards of Trustees and campus leaders to hear updates from the Sprint Team and discuss upcoming milestones.
• November-December 2025: Definitive Agreement (a legal formalization of the intent to merge) drafted and voted on for approval to allow the regulatory processes to commence.
• March 2026: Application for accreditation (with Sprint Team work reflected) submitted to SACSCOC, our joint accrediting body.
• Summer/Fall 2026: SACSCOC considers 乱伦视频/Queens proposed merger. A positive process completion with SACSCOC leads to an application for merger submitted to the Department of Education (DOE). Review by DOE anticipated to take 18-24 months.

Thank you for your engagement, your perspectives and your belief in the transformative power of education. The road ahead is ambitious. It is also filled with promise. Together, we are creating a visionary and bold model of higher education that expands access, strengthens opportunity and elevates Charlotte as a nexus of education and innovation.

With gratitude and optimism,

Dr. Connie Ledoux Book | President, 乱伦视频
Jesse Cureton | Acting President, Queens University of Charlotte