In an exciting announcement, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill has elected Lee H. Roberts as its 13th chancellor. The news was revealed by the UNC Board of Governors, who expressed their enthusiasm for this new chapter in the university's leadership. To mark the occasion, Chancellor Roberts will deliver his acceptance speech via livestream at 2 p.m. today, inviting the entire Carolina community to witness the historic moment.

Over the course of six months, the Chancellor Search Advisory Committee diligently sought input from various stakeholders to identify the qualities desired in their next leader. Taking into account feedback from the Carolina community, the committee focused on selecting a visionary individual with a deep passion for the university, a drive for excellence, and a strong commitment to serving the state.

The committee thoroughly considered and incorporated this valuable feedback into the job posting and the identified characteristics they sought in prospective candidates. After a rigorous interview process, a slate of finalists was chosen and presented to UNC System President Peter Hans.

Chancellor Roberts stood out among the other candidates for his remarkable contributions during his time as interim chancellor. His vision for the university, rooted in its core mission of serving the state, nurturing the next generation of leaders, and conducting groundbreaking research, resonated with the committee and the Carolina community at large.

Prior to his appointment as interim chancellor, Roberts served on the UNC Board of Governors and chaired its budget committee. He has an extensive background in higher education advocacy, having served on the State Board of Community Colleges and the Board of Visitors at Duke University's Sanford School of Public Policy. As a member of the Golden LEAF Foundation's board, he championed educational and economic opportunities for rural communities in North Carolina. Additionally, Roberts has served as the state budget director under Gov. Pat McCrory and co-founded SharpVue Capital, a North Carolina investment firm that focuses on growing local economies.

The university extends their gratitude to the search advisory committee for their tireless efforts throughout the recruitment process. They also acknowledge the valuable input received from students, faculty, staff, alumni, donors, and community members. Through diverse listening sessions, informal conversations, and an online survey, an impressive 3,100 responses were collected, offering key insights that helped shape the selection of the university's next leader.

As Chancellor Roberts assumes his new role, the Carolina community eagerly looks forward to working with him, confident in his ability to guide the university with humility, empathy, and determination. His dedication to higher education and the state of North Carolina provides assurance that UNC Chapel Hill will continue to thrive and make a positive impact.

Please join us in congratulating Chancellor Lee H. Roberts and extending a warm welcome as he officially takes up the mantle as Carolina's 13th chancellor.