The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill has appointed Lee Roberts, a member of the UNC system's Board of Governors, as its new interim chancellor. Roberts, a graduate of Duke University and Georgetown University, brings a strong background in finance and government, as well as extensive experience in the public and private sectors.

Roberts, a managing partner of Raleigh-based private investment firm SharpVue Capital, expressed his excitement about taking on the challenge of leading the important institution of UNC-Chapel Hill. He emphasized his commitment to public service and his dedication to the state of North Carolina and higher education.

While Roberts' appointment has been seen by some as politically motivated, former UNC Chancellor Holden Thorp believes that Roberts is a great choice within the given political landscape. Thorp highlighted Roberts' managerial skills and suggested that he would be able to delegate academic operations to individuals with the appropriate expertise.

Roberts himself stated that he views the role as nonpartisan and intends to approach it in a nonpartisan manner. Former North Carolina Governor Pat McCrory, for whom Roberts previously served as state budget director, praised his skills and ability to connect with people from all political backgrounds.

Roberts, who has been an instructor at Duke's Sanford School of Public Policy for five years, emphasized the importance of effective leadership in leading large and complex organizations. He stated his commitment to supporting the university's world-class faculty and ensuring that the students and staff have the necessary resources. Roberts acknowledged the need for a welcoming and inclusive environment and stressed the importance of securing external resources in a political and media-driven landscape.

Roberts will officially assume his role as interim chancellor on January 12, following the departure of Kevin Guskiewicz, who accepted the president position at Michigan State University. Guskiewicz's exit came amidst speculation of political interference from the UNC Board of Trustees and UNC System Board of Governors.

As Roberts begins his tenure as interim chancellor, he expressed his willingness to listen and learn from the campus community. His overarching goal is to leave UNC-Chapel Hill in a better state than when he assumed the position, although he noted that sweeping changes would be premature at this point.

Lee Roberts' appointment as interim chancellor of UNC-Chapel Hill represents an important transition for the university. With his diversified background and commitment to public service, he hopes to lead the institution forward, ensuring that it continues to thrive as a vital academic and research hub for the state of North Carolina.

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