February 2019 Provost’s Corner

Dear faculty and staff,

Even though we’re still in the early part of the year, plenty is happening on campus. We’re gearing up for midterms and there’s a full slate of events for faculty, staff and students throughout February.

In this midst of this Black History Month, there is a national conversation on the use of blackface and other racist imagery in campus publications. In light of what has taken place on campuses locally and throughout the nation, we must reiterate the importance of remaining steadfast in our commitment to equity and diversity. Please see statements by Chancellor Randy Woodson and Interim Vice Provost for Institutional Equity and Diversity Sheri Schwab, who speak on these important matters.

We also want to celebrate what black excellence means to NC State through this year’s Black History Month theme: “Our Wings Still Fly: the Beauty and the Burden of Blackness,” which acknowledges the social injustices faced by peoples of the African diaspora. The month also showcases art, speakers and dialogue, educational events and more to better engage the campus community. Check out the full calendar of events here.

There are also plenty of awards and honors worth noting. Rodolphe Barrangou was recently elected to the National Academy of Engineering, and NC State is once again a top national producer of Fulbright Scholars.

Nominations are now open for the 2019-2021 NC State Staff Senate, whose members represent the interests of more than 6,000 NC State employees. Interested staff members may make an online submission through February 25.

Please also consider nominating a staff member for a University Award for Excellence, the most prestigious honor bestowed upon NC State staff. Recipients demonstrate excellence in their college, department/unit, the NC State campus community or in the lives of others.

Thank you to everyone who daily strives to make our campus a place of comprehensive excellence. I look forward to seeing how you’ll continue to Think and Do throughout the year.

To keep up with all academic and faculty- or staff-related developments, follow @NCStateProvost on Twitter.

Until next time,

Warwick Arden
Executive Vice Chancellor and Provost