The Chancellor's Note: August 2025

Happy new year — which is also UNCSA's 60th anniversary! I look forward to connecting with you in this new space, your monthly "The Scene" newsletter, with updates on our priorities at UNCSA and important campus events. 

You’ll also hear from other UNCSA leadership, such as Provost Patrick J. Sims, Vice Chancellor Wendy Emerson and Student Body President Trey Mazza, addressing topics of interest here. I hope you’ll take a moment to give it a quick read each month.

While I certainly didn’t break any baseball records, I had a great time throwing out the ceremonial opening pitch at this past Saturday’s UNCSA Take 5ive! Night at the Dash! Even better was having the opportunity to hang out with hundreds of Fighting Pickles at Truist Stadium when the Winston-Salem Dash took on the Wilmington Sharks. For those who don’t already know, Take 5ive! is UNCSA’s initiative emphasizing the importance of prioritizing your health and wellness, such as pausing to breathe some fresh air for five minutes in a busy day. Thanks to all who came out to the ballparkk!

One of my favorite parts about UNCSA is the chance to see all of our student talent on display with our incredible performance season, UNCSA Presents. The 2025-26 performance season kicks off on Thursday with a high-energy UNCSA Wind Ensemble Pops Concert: Band Wars! a “Star Wars”-inspired showdown. I know you’ll want to catch as many of the season’s performances and screenings as possible, so check out our complimentary ticket policy to find out more. I look forward to spending time with you as an audience member marveling at the depth of our students’ artistry, the brilliance of our faculty artists, and the distinction of our guest artists, many of whom are alumni.

Finally, last week, I welcomed faculty & staff and students on our first full day of classes with everyone on campus. If you haven’t yet, I hope you take time to read the messages and learn more about our spectacular upcoming year! 

Sincerely,

Brian Cole 
Chancellor