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VOL. 43, NO. 9 CAROLINA FACULTY AND STAFF NEWS MAY 16, 2018

Rye Barcott to graduates: ‘Do not run from the pain’ or the more than 6,000 students sitting in a sea of in Kenan Stadium on May 13, the F journey to graduation was anything but easy. There were demanding classes, all-nighters and count- less assignments to overcome on the way, but those chal- lenges led to a degree from Carolina. As the graduates prepare for the next phase of their careers, Marine veteran and social entrepreneur Rye Bar- cott urged them to continue taking their challenges and turning them into something useful and positive. “The truth is, many of life’s most fulfilling moments— and most accomplishments—rarely happen without some degree of pain,” he said. Barcott, the co-founder of nonprofits Carolina for Kibera and With Honor, delivered the Commencement address as Carolina celebrated the graduation of the Class of 2018. Chancellor Carol L. Folt presided over the ceremony that drew nearly 30,000 of the graduates’ family and friends, as well as Board of Governors Chair W. Louis Bis- sette, Board of Trustees Vice Chair Charles G. Duckett and General Alumni Association Board of Directors Chair Jim Delany. The degrees of 6,119 Carolina students were conferred during the 90-minute ceremony. They included 3,886 with bachelor’s, 1,596 with master’s, 262 with doctoral and 637 with professional degrees from the schools of dentistry, law, medicine, nursing and pharmacy. JON GARDINER

See COMMENCEMENT page 10 Faculty Marshal Terry Rhodes leads the academic processional into Kenan Stadium.

Winners selected for Creativity Hubs inaugural awards Carolina’s new Creativity Hubs initiative, a Magnuson as a platform on which to assemble scientific challenges,” Magnuson said. “The prowess in big data management, the Hetero- component of The Blueprint for Next strategic teams of researchers from diverse disciplines two project teams that have been selected geneity in Obesity Creativity Hub will take a framework, has announced awards to campus to tackle major societal challenges and leverage for these initial awards embody the bold novel approach to assess the underlying causes research teams pursuing solutions to two of additional support from external sponsors. approach that I envision of Creativity Hubs of obesity, tapping information that has not the world’s most pressing issues: the obesity “While Carolina has long prided itself on award winners.” been traditionally studied to unlock new, tar- epidemic and the global clean water shortage. its culture of low stone walls, we must be aggres- Leveraging the strengths of Carolina’s geted ways to treat the disease. The Creativity Hubs initiative was devel- sive in capitalizing on our unique strengths schools of medical and health sciences, its oped by Vice Chancellor for Research Terry and positioning our faculty to tackle major affiliated research centers and institutes and its See HUBS page 4

Massey winner Meet a few employees Closing of Horace 3Barbara Polk dispenses 6behind each successful 9 Williams kindness and candy. Commencement. marks end of an era. 2 UNIVERSITY GAZETTE

German department’s Priscilla Layne wins Message from CHANCELLOR CAROL L. FOLT Berlin Prize fellowship

STATEMENT ON BOARD OF TRUSTEES VOTE ON HONORARY DEGREE Priscilla Layne, assistant professor in the Department of Germanic and Slavic Languages and Literatures, has won a Berlin Prize for 2018–19 from the American Acad-

I recommended that the University of reviewing a recommendation to revoke his honorary degree, CONTRIBUTED emy in Berlin. at Chapel Hill Board of Trustees initiate a process via a and they will formally vote on the matter at their regular The Berlin Prize mail ballot to revoke the honorary degree awarded to Bill May meeting. is awarded annually Cosby in 2003. This is the first known time that the University The University has no tolerance for sexual assault, and we to scholars, writers, has taken steps to rescind an honorary degree, and we do not have worked diligently in recent years to comprehensively composers and art- take this action lightly. In this case, Cosby’s acts were so revise our sexual assault and misconduct policy and enhance ists from the United counter to our campus values that this prestigious honor is no resources for our community. We encourage anyone to visit States who represent longer appropriate. safe.unc.edu for more information. Priscilla Layne the highest stan- Honorary degrees are awarded based on the informa- dards of excellence in tion available at that time, and we do not intend to review Sincerely, their fields. Fellows receive a monthly stipend, par- the actions of each recipient years later. The Trustees are Carol L. Folt, Chancellor tial board and accommodations at the academy’s lakeside Hans Arnhold Center in Berlin-Wannsee. The Berlin Prize provides recipients with the time and resources to step back from their daily obligations to work on academic and artistic proj- Officers designated to help campus ects they might not otherwise pursue. The fellows navigate free speech issues are encouraged to work with local individuals and institutions in the academy’s well-established network, forging rich connections and lasting In an April 25 email to students, faculty and staff, the University affirmed The University Gazette is a University pub- transatlantic relationships. its commitment to fostering an environment where intellectual engage- lication. Its mission is to build a sense of During her semester-long fellowship at the acad- ment flourishes and campus community members are free to express their campus community by communicating emy this fall, Layne will work on her second book, information relevant and vital to faculty opinions and ideas. and staff and to advance the University’s The Office of the Provost sent the message to the campus community Out of this World: Afro-German Afrofuturism, which overall goals and messages. in accordance with the Board of Governors free speech and free ex- is under contract with Northwestern University pression policy. Press. The book focuses on Afro-German authors’ EDITOR use of Afrofuturist concepts in literature and the- Gary C. Moss (919-962-7125) In certain circumstances, the University may restrict when, where and [email protected] how First Amendment rights are exercised, but in doing so, the campus ater, from the poetry of Philipp Khabo Köpsell to may not prohibit expression because the content is unpopular, offensive the plays of Olivia Wenzel and Simone Dede Ayivi. MANAGING EDITOR Susan Hudson (919-962-8415) or even hateful. [email protected] The University established the Policy on Use of University Facilities for Noncommercial and Commercial Purposes (unc.policystat.com/ DESIGN AND LAYOUT policy/4487860/latest) and Policy on Access and Use of Buildings (unc. UNC Creative (919-962-7123) policystat.com/policy/4473804/latest) consistent with these standards. CHANGE OF ADDRESS To assist students, faculty and staff in navigating the complex issues Make changes through your department’s regarding free speech on campus, the University has designated the fol- HR representative. lowing responsible officers to serve as resources about policies that affect The editor reserves the right to decide the exercise of speech: what information will be published in the Associate Provost Jean Elia, [email protected], 919-962-2624; Gazette and to edit submissions for consis- Senior Associate Vice Chancellor for Workforce Strategy, Equity tency with Gazette style, tone and content. and Engagement Becci Menghini, [email protected], 919-843-0594; Dean of Students Jonathan Sauls, [email protected], 919-966- 4045; and Layne argues that Afro-German artists have Kim Strom-Gottfried, director of the Office of Ethics Education and increasingly engaged with Afrofuturism in order to READ THE Policy Management, [email protected], 919-962-6495. critique Eurocentricism, uncover German racism, GAZETTE ONLINE AT All of these administrators are available to respond to questions or rewrite the past and imagine a more positive future gazette.unc.edu concerns. for black peoples. MAY 16, 2018 3

Good deeds and leadership highlight Polk’s 37-year career in admissions Before Barbara Polk began her 37-year career at Carolina, she was a student here who considered transferring. Instead, she stayed, graduated and began working here. Tens of thousands of college-bound students whom she has helped should be thankful she stayed. “I haven’t transferred yet,” Polk said. The Statesville native, who is Carolina’s deputy direc- tor of undergraduate admissions, served with five directors and also served as interim director and acting director at two different times. She worked in and oversaw every aspect of admissions: application evaluation, communications, interna- tional applications, recruitment, publications, special talents (athletics, music, drama) and high school counselor relations. Polk is one of six University employees to earn a 2018 C. Knox Massey Distinguished Service Award. “It’s a tremendous honor,” Polk said. “It’s not a singular honor because I don’t work by myself. I’m the one fortunate enough to receive the recognition, but I share the award with everyone I work with across campus." JON GARDINER A 1979 graduate and member of the Order of the Golden Fleece, Polk began her first job in 1980 in Student Affairs. She Budgets and much more have changed during her career, but Barbara Polk’s gift for helping students, belief in Carolina’s mission and leadership qualities have remained constant. had duties in orientation, peer counseling, the international cen- ter and academic counseling. communities. We had between 10- and 12,000 applications; this Evaluating applicants is judicious work, Polk said. “We try to As that job ended, her last-minute application snagged an year we had 43,000. understand students in the context of their school, in the context assistant admissions director’s job. The staff and budget were “The frenzy about college admissions has increased phenom- of the applicant pool and also within their life experiences. If they small, compared to today. Polk remembers when the quarterly enally. It’s not heathy for students and their families because, seem to have advantages in life, what have they done with those budget cycle halted the admissions process. “We’d made deci- for many, it’s gone from what’s the best match for a student to advantages? If they have been disadvantaged, how do they face sions, folded the letters, put them in envelopes, but at the end of what’s the highest ranked school a student can get into.” challenges? Students are amazing at overcoming adversity. How the quarter we had no money to mail them.” they deal with things can leave a big impression when reading KIND ACTS AND LEADERSHIP an application. “I’ve believed in what this University is trying to accomplish and Budgets and much more have changed, but Polk’s gift for the experience it gives to students. For example, the commitment helping students remains constant. Her kind acts include we have to providing students with opportunities for public service shepherding an admitted student injured in an auto acci- and research. Those are two major threads in Carolina’s tapestry.” dent, welcoming a work-study student with lunch and open- Barbara’s good deeds have Polk retires in August, the beginning of year 38. “It’s time to ing the office to students waiting for an overdue bus on a frigid typically taken place behind take a break, renew energy and do some volunteer work,” she said. day. “Barbara’s good deeds have typically taken place behind the scenes and out of the limelight,” said Stephen Farmer, vice the scenes and out of the BOTTOMLESS CANDY BOWLS provost for enrollment and admissions. “She has done them out limelight. She has done them Carolina’s students will be hardest for her to leave. She’s of love for the University and the goodness of her heart.” out of love for the University increased interaction with them over the years by keeping two That humanity informs her leadership. Fifteen years ago, when large, seemingly bottomless bowls of candy in her office. “Lots elite schools took pride in having an early-decision program, she and the goodness of her heart. of students work with us as ambassadors or work-study students. pushed for Carolina to end the practice. “Barbara argued that It’s so good to sit and talk with them, to help them through dif- this practice coerced students into making commitments before STEPHEN FARMER ficult times or just have them come in for candy. they were truly ready to do so, denying them the chance to “We’re fortunate that our tremendous staff wants to continue explore other opportunities, change and grow during their senior Regardless of their college dreams, even for high schoolers growing, learning and developing. We say that we’re family and year of high school. Her argument took real courage, but carried who aren’t considering Carolina, Polk will help them. when you work here, you will always be family. I’ve been lucky to the day,” Farmer said. Lissa Broome, Burton Craige Professor of Law and member work with family through the years.” Polk honed her work ethic, commitment and leadership quali- of the Faculty Committee on Special Talent, a subcommittee ties through long, early-career weeks. of the Advisory Committee on Undergraduate Admissions, sees – Scott Jared, University Gazette “She has traveled to nearly every community in the state,” Polk as “a wonderful ambassador for the University, sharing her Farmer said. “A native of North Carolina, she knows better than expertise on the college admissions process and guiding any stu- most the beacon of hope Carolina represents to people from all dent interested in college, not just college at UNC–Chapel Hill.” The late C. Knox Massey of Durham created the walks of life. She is as comfortable, respectful and effective coun- Broome noted Polk’s ability to evaluate academic potential C. Knox Massey Distinguished Service Award in seling a first-generation college student as she is talking with the and advise athletic coaches. “I have watched Barbara interact 1980 to recognize “unusual, meritorious or superior child of a fourth-generation alumnus, and she wants no less for with the Department of Athletics, coaches and administrators contributions” by University employees. In 1984, he one than the other.” to identify student-athletes who will be successful,” Broome’s joined the families of his son, Knox Massey Jr., and nomination letter stated. daughter, Kay Massey Weatherspoon, to create the TROUBLING TRENDS Massey-Weatherspoon fund. Income from the fund As an admissions veteran, Polk has seen many trends, some of DIAMONDS IN THE ROUGH supports the Massey Awards and Carolina Seminars. which trouble her. Polk said that she is grateful for the University’s commitment Each year, the chancellor chooses six University “When I started, before rankings became a big deal, students to diversity through globalization and to finding “diamonds in employees to receive the prestigious award, which from all over North Carolina wanted to come here. We focused the rough from parts of the state without resources that a Meck- comes with a $10,000 stipend. on them and looked for diamonds in the rough from smaller lenburg or Wake or Orange county have.” 4 UNIVERSITY GAZETTE

Lineberger’s Griffith elected into National Academy of Sciences

Carolina Professor Jack D. Griffith has been elected into the Griffith has conducted extensive research utilizing high-res- Lineberger and the School of Medicine Department of Microbi- National Academy of Sciences. olution electron microscopy to visualize protein-DNA interac- ology and Immunology as an associate professor in 1978. Griffith is a faculty member at the Lineberger Comprehensive tions. His laboratory’s work seeks to answer basic questions of During his graduate studies, Griffith used electron microscopy Cancer Center and Kenan Distinguished Professor in the School how DNA and proteins interact in cancer and other diseases. to visualize DNA polymerase I, a key protein E. coli uses to rep- of Medicine Department of “It’s hard to express how proud I am of Jack and his accom- licate its DNA. It was the first image taken by an electron micro- Microbiology and Immunol- plishments,” said Lineberger Director Shelton Earp. “This honor scope of DNA bound to a known protein. In 1999, Griffith and ogy and Department of Bio- is overdue. Jack created the first visualization of protein-DNA a colleague at the Rockefeller University used electron micros- chemistry and Biophysics. interaction, and his science has instructed all of us about the copy to demonstrate that the ends of human chromosomes are Griffith is one of 84 new inner workings of the cell and its regulation. looped back on themselves, providing a crucial new understand- members and 21 foreign “What is remarkable about Jack’s body of work is the physi- ing with direct relevance to aging and cancer. His Lineberger lab- associates being recognized cal beauty of his photo micrographs,” Earp added. “They have oratory serves as an electron microscopy core facility, offering its for their distinguished and graced the cover of the world’s top journals, and they have expertise in visualizing the microscopic world to further research continuing achievements in inspired generations of young scientists to explore the intricacy across laboratories. original research. Scientists of DNA.” He has received numerous awards and honors, including elec- are elected by their peers, and Griffith grew up in Alaska and received his bachelor’s degree tion into the American Academy of Arts and Sciences in 2005 NAS membership is one of the in physics at Occidental College in Los Angeles and his doctor- and the Grand Gold medal of Comenius University. UNC SCHOOL OF MEDICINE OF SCHOOL UNC highest scientific honors con- ate at Caltech. Following postdoctoral fellowships in laboratories Outside of his work in science, he flies Alaskan bush planes, Jack Griffith ferred in the United States. at Stanford University and Cornell University, Griffith joined restores old Jaguar cars and helps tend horses with his wife.

HUBS from page 1

“Carolina has a long history of outstanding obesity research in many different areas of sci- ence,” says Penny Gordon-Larsen, principal investigator for the obesity hub. “But much like individual factors contributing to obesity, integration of all of that very valuable informa- tion hasn’t happened yet. The Creativity Hubs award has given us an amazing opportunity to get these diverse scientists on a single project to develop tools for obesity research, prevention and treatment.”

While Carolina has long prided itself on its culture of low stone walls, we must be aggressive in capitalizing on our unique strengths diet, social influences and genetics—that con- affordable solutions that will impact the lives of research, to establish campus networks that tribute to weight gain and loss. individuals and communities worldwide.” nurture research innovation and risk-taking and and positioning our Addressing a need that affects more than The project team is comprised of polymer to promote a pervasive culture that drives dis- faculty to tackle 1.8 billion people worldwide, the Sustainable chemists, computational modelers and engi- covery and curiosity. The inaugural winners of major scientific Access to Clean Water Creativity Hub will pur- neers from the College of Arts & Sciences’ the Creativity Hubs awards were selected from sue development of an innovative and afford- applied physical sciences and mathematics proposals involving 194 Carolina researchers challenges. able membrane-based water purification tool departments and the Gillings School of Global from 35 departments in 10 schools and the Col- that can safely remove water contaminants. Public Health. Building on existing graphene lege of Arts & Sciences. Each team will receive TERRY MAGNUSON “The Creativity Hubs initiative has allowed and graphene oxide membrane technologies up to $250,000 toward the development of us to assemble a unique team of scientists and that have shown promise as water purifiers, the their proposals. Progress will be assessed after By developing an automated tool to rapidly engineers with the background and expertise to team will seek to develop new filters that make one year, and the teams could be eligible for up analyze and integrate large data sets, the team tackle a major global problem,” said Theo Ding- water purification more energy-efficient and to an additional $250,000 in funding. will seek answers to why individuals with the emans, principal investigator for the sustain- to lay a foundation for large-scale, affordable The vice chancellor for research is currently same diet experience weight gain and loss dif- able access to water hub. “Our team is excited membrane production. exploring opportunities to fund additional hubs ferently. Their research is expected to lead to to advance solutions to these scientific and The Creativity Hubs initiative was devel- in the future. For more information on the more personalized treatments that take into engineering challenges, and we are especially oped by the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Creativity Hubs initiative and the winning teams, account the wide range of factors—including motivated and inspired to provide practical and Research to foster fluid, cross-disciplinary visit: research.unc.edu/creativity-hubs. MAY 16, 2018 5

WHAT’S A TYPICAL DAY LIKE IN YOUR JOB? I normally get into the office around 10 a.m. and sort through emails to get an idea of what the agenda items are for the day. Then I do event review with our reservations team. We like to plan for events two or three weeks in advance. We have a team of about 20 staffers, so we make sure to allocate the right number of staffers to each event. I spend most of my day supporting events we have in the Union, classrooms or outdoors. I usually wrap up the day PEOPLE with maintenance and inventory of our equipment. HOW DOES YOUR WORK SUPPORT CAROLINA’S MISSION? My job supports Carolina’s mission in two ways. First, when we help put on events, we are promoting the culture of Carolina. We support small student groups all the way up to the Chancellor’s office. We help promote the diver- sity on Carolina’s campus—that’s probably the biggest way we support the mission. Second, I develop my team into young professionals and foster their interests. They get to work events where they see different cultural groups and speakers, which helps them grow as individuals and fosters the Carolina mission.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE MOST ABOUT YOUR WORK? I like working with students. I love my team. I worked for four years in this department as a student, and now I manage it. I like seeing the students grow as they work with each other and our clients and seeing the culture they develop as a working team. It’s great to see them grow.

HOW DID YOU COME TO WORK IN THIS POSITION? My freshman year at Carolina, I went to every single free movie screening the Union offered. One day, the pro- jectionist noticed that and told me that I ought to be paid for being there. I came in for an interview and got the job. I’ve worked here ever since.

WHAT IS YOUR ROLE IN COMMENCEMENT? JON GARDINER My staff and I support departmental graduations by operating our sound and light consoles, providing micro- phones for speakers, monitoring sound levels and creating atmospheric lighting for the ceremonies. At the main Zenik Hite Commencement, my team regulates the processional of graduating students into Kenan Stadium to seat every stu- dent quickly and efficiently. The line starts at the gate and goes all the way down to Hinton James, so it’s a big line! ASSISTANT TECHNICAL MANAGER, CAROLINA UNION ADMINISTRATION Carolina People is a regular feature in each issue of the Gazette that asks one of your fascinating colleagues five questions about the work they do for the University. Do you know someone with an interesting or unique job at Carolina? Please 6 years working at Carolina email your suggestions to [email protected] and put Carolina People in the subject line.

Employee Forum hears from Chancellor Folt, passes compensation resolution

Chancellor Carol L. Folt addressed Employee Forum del- Bryan Andregg, chair of the personnel issues committee, rec- student and workforce needs.” That is, as the University prepares egates at the opening of the May 2 meeting, taking advantage of ommended that employee participation in campus events and its students for the 21st century workforce, it should also address what forum Chair Shayna Hill called the group’s “farewellcome” programs be encouraged as part of performance reviews. “The the needs of its own employees for customized training to navi- event to thank the delegates who are ending their terms and wel- culture needs to value something other than people sitting at gate the same forces of change. come new delegates. their desks,” he said. Later in the meeting, the Employee Forum passed a “We all are employees with a shared mission,” Folt told the Chrissie Greenberg, a delegate from the study abroad pro- resolution calling on Folt to ask the Office of Human forum delegates. “And we all are here to dedicate ourselves to the gram, would like more University support for graduate-level Resources to initiate a three-year project related to employee well-being of our students and our mission to the state.” education for employees. compensation. The project would include raising the salaries That shared mission is captured in The Blueprint for Next, Forum secretary Tiffany Carver wanted to see more training of any SHRA employees under the market rate in the the strategic framework to guide planning and priorities for to enable employees to advance in their careers within the Uni- first year, conducting a longitudinal analysis of employee the University. versity. “I love this place and want to stay, but there’s not a lot compensation in the second year and raising the salaries of any “We want every single change we make, make something good of training for people who have been here a long time and can’t EHRA non-faculty employees under the market rate in the happen. And we want to do it in such a way that we can bring move into management,” she said. “There really is a great need, third year. along with us everybody that works here,” Folt said. “This forum especially if you want to keep people here, to train them, to offer “We see this resolution as a start to the conversation,” said is critical to that.” some kind of way to advance themselves, without having to leave Andregg, who presented the resolution. In a question and answer session after her talk, Folt sympa- the University.” In other action, the Employee Forum honored Carver, com- thized with delegates’ dissatisfaction with salary and benefits, Felicia A. Washington, vice chancellor for workforce strategy, munications and public relations committee chair Laurie Haight addressed questions about transit and parking and welcomed equity and engagement, replied that—as part of a Blueprint and treasurer Naquan Hill as the three recipients of the 2018 ideas for change. She got them. for Next staff professional development initiative—the Office Kay Wijnberg Hovious Outstanding Employee Forum Delegate Alan Moran, a delegate from carpentry in facilities services, of Human Resources is preparing an online portal for employ- Award. The Hovious Award, selected by current forum dele- brought up the idea of a partnership with area community col- ees that would contain all information about trainings available gates, recognizes the work of outstanding Employee Forum del- leges that would include apprenticeships or internships with for employees. Employees would also be able to see a personal egates who go above and beyond the call of duty when perform- tradespeople at the University. Moran has introduced this idea record of the trainings they have taken. ing work on behalf of the forum. to the forum previously as a way to address the University’s rap- Likewise, one of the components of The Blueprint for Next's idly aging trades workforce. Innovation Made Fundamental pillar is “adapting to changing – Susan Hudson, University Gazette 6 UNIVERSITY GAZETTE MAY 16, 2018 7

Behind the scenes at Commencement

Commencement weekend at Carolina marks the culmination of students’ academic endeavors, instruction and encouragement by faculty and attention to detail by hundreds of staff members. Here’s a look at just a few of the many people whose work and preparation make Commencement weekend a success.

– Photos by Jon Gardiner and text by Scott Jared

Joan Roberts-Coleman, assistant registrar for records, is part of a team that begins work in March. Diplomas for undergraduates are printed after Commencement, but some 1,600 diplomas for graduates from professional schools and the Graduate School are ready for pick up after the ceremony. “Each diploma tells a story, and we get to hear some of those stories when graduates and their families come by. Some cry, and we give hugs and take family photos. It’s probably the Jeff Fuchs, director of University Bands, has conducted the 45-member Commencement band since 1995, missing only one year during that time. “My favorite part of the ceremony is when the blue best time we have in the office.” robes [undergraduates] begin to process to their seats. The energy and sense of joy are palpable at that moment.”

With so many visitors on campus during Commencement, Deborah Hawkins and her staff have one of the most visible roles. They make sure that people driving in for the ceremony can find a place to park. As parking control and event operations manager, Hawkins is in her 22nd year of keeping traffic flowing smoothly on one of the biggest days on Carolina’s academic calendar.

Just as she did for the 2017 Commencement, Faculty Marshal Terry Rhodes leads the academic processional onto the field at Kenan Stadium. “It’s a real honor to represent faculty at a lot of events, but Commencement in Kenan Stadium has to be the most exciting. I am on the music faculty, so I’m always excited to hear one of our star students sing the national anthem.”

Hoi Ning Ngai, associate dean for student affairs in the Graduate School, finalizes the list of doctoral degree candidates recognized at the hooding ceremony. She said that hoods from aca- demic disciplines represent each student’s accomplishments and are the most important parts of the doctoral regalia. Her eye for detail influences how dissertation titles appear in the printed program, how students’ names appear when projected at the ceremony and the pronunciation of their names. “I’m comfortable with being the last set of eyes because the people working on the Painters Jeremy Kime, left, and Russell Parks, right, make sure that the looks pristine, as it serves as a backdrop for photos of graduates and their families. It takes a full day to paint the Old Well, and this steps before me are so spot on.” year they used a water-based acrylic that is more environmentally friendly. 8 UNIVERSITY GAZETTE

CALENDAR

MAY 15–24 MAY 17

Join Jeanine Tatlock for her one-week MFA thesis ex- Come to the FedEx Global Education Center at 6:30 p.m. for a screening of hibition, Not in my Backyard, at the Alcott Gallery in Hanes Art Truth Underground, a 2016 film that follows three spoken word poets as they Center. Using traditional and technological fabrication methods, struggle to prove the power of the word in North Carolina. This event is part of the Tatlock creates work that prompts a dialogue about privilege Southern Culture Movie Series, sponsored by the Summer School and organized and history. An opening reception will be held 5–7 p.m. May by the Writing Center, International Student and Scholar Services and the Media 17. The gallery is open 8 a.m.–5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Resources Center. All screenings begin at 6:30 p.m. and are free and open to the Admission is free. public. Refreshments will be served.

MAY 17 MAY 18–19

Join members of the Minor family for a Join Carolina Public Humanities celebration of the William Thomas Minor Jr. and the General Alumni Association Endowment 5:30–7 p.m. in Wilson Library. The as they host history professor Molly evening will feature a reception, a dramatic Worthen for a weekend seminar on reading from the Capt. N.H. Massie papers The Protestant Reformation and and remembrances of alumnus William “Bill” Modern Culture Wars. Worthen T. Minor Jr. The papers document Massie’s will explore the prominent people, courtship of Kathreen and Massie’s military ideas and events of the Protestant service during World War I and World War II. Reformation and discuss the legacy Also included are materials related to Massie’s of that 16th-century upheaval among military service, including snapshots, postcards American evangelicals in today’s polarized political landscape. and maps related to France and Belgium in Faculty and staff are eligible for 50 percent off tuition. Register at World War I. humanities.unc.edu/register or call 919-962-1544.

MAY 16 GOT NEWS?

At this special edition of the Ackland Art The Gazette welcomes your story ideas and calendar Museum’s popular Art for Lunch program, hear announcements. To make sure your information reaches from Rob Fucci, Peck Collection Research Fellow us in time for the next issue, please submit it at least 10 at the museum, on Old Paper, New Research: days before our publication date. You can find our latest Using Historical Watermarks to Study publication schedule online at gazette.unc.edu/about. Drawings. Fucci will discuss the symbolism and function of watermarks from the 17th and 18th The next Gazette will be published May 30. To centuries and how research currently underway announce events occurring May 31–June 20, please will enhance our understanding of the significant submit your information no later than May 18. Note that group of old master Dutch drawings in the collection, including works by artists such as this deadline falls on the Friday before the Memorial Day Rembrandt and Jacob van Ruisdael. The program begins at noon. Bring a bag lunch to holiday. Email us at [email protected] or submit through enjoy in the galleries. The talk is free, but space is limited, so please RSVP to reserve a spot the Got News? page on our website (gazette.unc.edu/ at ackland.org/events-programs/adult-programs. got-news). MAY 16, 2018 9 COURTESY OF THE CHAPEL HILL HISTORICAL SOCIETY

This photo of a U.S. Army Curtiss plane was taken in the 1930s at what would later become .

Martindale Field eventually became known as Chapel Hill Air- into a stand of trees. “We all got out,” Ford said, “and five min- Cleared for landing port, and in 1931, the U.S. Department of Commerce named it utes later it exploded and burned.” the second official airport in North Carolina. In these early years, The closing of Horace Williams Airport people from across the state came to watch weekend air shows. A SECOND CALL TO ACTION Nearly three decades later, Horace Williams Airport was again marks the end of an era Carolina, in partnership with Duke University, also began a pro- gram to train civilian pilots at the airport, with backing from the called into action as home base for UNC Medical Air Operations. Med Air, as it came to be called, became the wings of AHEC, the It sits empty now, but this long stretch of asphalt on the north- Civilian Aeronautics Authority. N.C. Area Health Education Centers Program, as well as for the ern edge of Chapel Hill remains full of history. With its closing But more serious business lay ahead. UNC School of Medicine. on May 15, Horace Williams Airport became part of history, too. WINDS OF WAR Since 1972, AHEC has brought medical expertise, patient care Brad Ives, associate vice chancellor for campus enterprises, When war broke out in Europe in 1939, the Department and consultation to rural areas of the state. Much of it arrived by said the closing of the airport was needed because the University of War authorized the CAA to expand the pilot training pro- plane from Horace Williams Airport. was losing money operating the airport. It also faced at least $1 gram. The Works Progress Administration provided funding to From 1977 (the first year records were kept) to 2007, the pro- million of repairs to keep the airport open. upgrade the airport. gram logged 19.2 million passenger miles over 160,241 trips. In short, Ives said, past reasons for keeping the airport open no Upon Williams’ death in 1940, he donated to the University longer justified the mounting expense. an 870-acre parcel of land next to the airport. That same year, the COUNTDOWN TO CLOSURE The last plane based at the airport took off on May 1. The only University bought the airport and renamed it Horace Williams In 2007, the University took the first step to close the airport remaining employee is now there to maintain the buildings and Airport in his honor. when it entered into a 20-year lease to relocate the Medical Air mow the grass. After the attack at Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7, 1941, University Operations to Raleigh-Durham International Airport. University TAKE OFF of North Carolina President Frank Porter Graham announced leaders sought to close the airport at the time in order to make It started in 1928 when Charlie Lee Martindale bought a the University would offer “all its resources to the nation for room for a new multi-use satellite campus called Carolina North 50-acre plot of land from Horace Williams, a professor of philos- the defense of the freedom and democracy it was founded on the eastern portion of the Horace Williams property. The air- ophy at Carolina from 1890 to 1935. Martindale called the plot to serve.” port was located in the middle of where the campus was set to go. Martindale Field and an airfield soon took form. Graham, along with his finance officer William Carmichael, In 2008, University trustees passed a resolution to allow the mounted a campaign for Horace Williams Airport to be named airport to remain open until construction on Carolina North one of the four sites for a U.S. Navy pre-flight training school. began. That never happened: Plans for Carolina North were It worked. grounded later that year by the economic tailspin known as the Carolina beat out all the universities in the northeast to host Great Recession. the eastern pre-flight school, which by war’s end would train There are no current plans to begin construction on Carolina about 18,700 cadets. Among them were Ted Williams, Paul North, but the ongoing costs of keeping the airport open led “Bear” Bryant and two future presidents, Gerald Ford and George University trustees last November to amend the 2008 agreement H.W. Bush. so that the airport could be closed. A 2006 story in The Carolina Alumni Review titled “Gerald “The airport had a remarkable run of providing vital services to Ford Took a Liking to UNC, But to Horace Williams Airport, our state and country,” Ives said. “That legacy lives on. It will WILSON LIBRARY Not so Much…” reported how Ford survived a crash at the air- always be remembered, along with the countless people who Traffic at Horace Williams Airport fell after the fleet of Area port when he was a passenger accompanying an admiral to the became part of its changing mission, for a job well done.” Health Education Center planes used to ferry medical experts across the state moved to Raleigh-Durham International Airport airport near the war’s end in 1945. According to the story, the in 2011. prop plane landed on the runway at a wrong angle and spun off – Gary Moss, University Gazette 10 UNIVERSITY GAZETTE

COMMENCEMENT from page 1

“Your future is brighter because of your degrees, and I know that you’re not going to forget how much you’ve been given,” Folt said. “Carolina seems to bring out the call to serve and a feeling of immense gratitude in all of us. “Perhaps that is because we’re all so aware of the support of millions of hard-working people in North Carolina and the nation—most without your advantages—together with gifts from alumni and benefactors who care about you that made this day possible.” Folt reminded the graduates that while their time as Carolina students has come to an end, the University will always be a part of them. “You aren’t leaving this place, you are actually carrying the best of it with you,” Folt said. “Your families, your friends, your coaches, your professors believe in you. We can’t wait to see what you will achieve. Go out and solve the biggest mysteries.”

Our beloved University helped open your eyes to the world. Keep this perspective. Nurture it. It can help you JOHNNY ANDREWS better take the pain and Student-athlete Theo Pinson of Greensboro displays one of his achievements at Carolina, the 2017 NCAA men’s basketball championship. create something useful— possibly even something transcendent—out of it.

RYE BARCOTT

During the ceremony, the University awarded honorary doctorates to Carolina alumnus Phillip L. Clay, an emi- nent scholar of urban life who served as chancellor of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology; Judith A. Jamison, a world-renowned American dancer and choreographer; and James F. Goodmon, the CEO and chairman of the board of North Carolina’s Capitol Broadcasting Co. Drawing on his own experiences since graduating from Carolina in 2001, Barcott encouraged the graduates to persevere through difficult and challenging times by maintaining a positive attitude, serving others and keep- ing perspective. “Our beloved University helped open your eyes to the world,” Barcott said. “Keep this perspective. Nurture it. It can help you better take the pain and create something useful—possibly even something transcendent—out of it.” Life’s challenges and difficulties, Barcott said, should be embraced and taken head-on. Without them, little is accomplished. “My hope for you—and for us—is that you do not run from the pain,” he said. “Maneuver through the stuff that you can—the pain that’s unnecessary. For the pain that’s part of life, and certainly the pain that’s part of making a difference, keep the tar on your heels.” JON GARDINER

– Brandon Bieltz, University Communications Social entrepreneur and veteran Rye Barcott gives an impassioned Commencement speech at his alma mater. MAY 16, 2018 11 JON GARDINER

Nearly 30,000 family members and friends brave the heat at the sunny May 13 Commencement. JON GARDINER JON GARDINER

This graduate student gets some help with the placement of her tassel before the procession into The Class of 2018 concludes the Commencement ceremony with the traditional tossing of caps in the hooding ceremony. the air. Three receive honorary degrees at 2018 commencement PHILLIP LEROY CLAY JAMES F. GOODMON JUDITH A. JAMISON DOCTOR OF LAWS DOCTOR OF LAWS DOCTOR OF PERFORMING ARTS Clay, an eminent scholar of urban life, served as chancellor Goodmon is CEO and chairman of the board of Capitol Jamison is a world-renowned American dancer and choreogra- of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. A native of Broadcasting Company, a major television and radio broadcast- pher. In 1965, at the age of 22, she joined the Alvin Ailey Ameri- Wilmington, he graduated from Carolina with honors in ing company in North Carolina. After attending Duke University, can Dance Theater—a modern dance company of international 1968. He earned a doctor- he served in the U.S. Navy. stature. Iconic performances in ate in city planning at MIT In 1968 he began working at Alvin Ailey’s masterpieces Blues in 1975 and joined the MIT WRAL-TV. He became presi- Suite, Revelations and, most faculty. He became head of dent in 1975 and CEO in1979. notably, the tour-de-force solo the Department of Urban Known for his belief in Cry, brought her worldwide Studies and Planning in 1992, broadcasting’s role as a stardom. She was a guest art- associate provost in 1994 and responsible leader in news ist with numerous companies, chancellor in 2001, a role in and information, Goodmon starred in the Broadway musi- which he oversaw academic never abandoned or hollowed cal Sophisticated Ladies and programs, student life and out his company’s newsrooms, formed her own company, The research policy until 2011. even in difficult financial times. Jamison Project.

CONTRIBUTED Clay is known for his work CONTRIBUTED His community spirit is exem- CONTRIBUTED In 1989, she became artistic

Phillip Leroy Clay in housing policy and commu- James F. Goodmon plified by his leadership revital- Judith A. Jamison director of Alvin Ailey Ameri- nity development, particularly izing the American Tobacco can Dance Theater and for 21 in the United States. In a path-breaking 1987 study, he identi- Historic District in Durham. years led the company, helped establish a permanent home for it fied factors contributing to a decline in low-income housing Goodmon received the 2000 North Carolina Award, the high- and guided Ailey’s global 50th anniversary celebration. She cho- and made recommendations that were implemented nationally est civilian honor the state confers. He was named “ reographed many celebrated works, including Divining, Forgotten through the Housing Act of 1990. He chaired the board of direc- of the Year” in 2003 by The News & Observer. He was inducted Time, Double Exposure, HERE ... NOW and Sweet Release. Her tors of The Community Builders, the nation’s largest nonprofit into the N.C. Media and Journalism Hall of Fame and the N.C. autobiography, Dancing Spirit, was published in 1993. developer of affordable housing, and is deputy chair of the Fed- Association of Broadcasters Hall of Fame. He has received Jamison received a prime-time Emmy and the American Cho- eral Reserve Bank of Boston. He was a founding director and vice honorary degrees from Peace University, Pfeiffer College and reography Award for the PBS special, A Hymn for Alvin Ailey, chair of the MasterCard Foundation and serves on the boards Duke University. based upon her work Hymn. She was awarded the Kennedy Cen- of the Kresge Foundation and the Aga Khan University, among Goodmon is chairman of the board of directors of the A.J. ter Honor, a National Medal of Arts, a New York Dance and others. Fletcher Foundation that supports Carolina’s School of Media Performance Bessie Award and the Handel Medallion. Featured Clay served on the University Board of Trustees from 2007 and Journalism and many local institutions. He was the founding in The TIME 100: The World’s Most Influential People, she was to 2014 and led the committee that supported Carolina’s focus president of the UNC-TV Foundation and played a key role in also honored at the White House and inducted into the National on innovation. establishing WUNC-FM radio’s broadcast facilities in Durham. Museum of Dance’s Hall of Fame. 12 UNIVERSITY GAZETTE

The kids are not alright

A Carolina researcher is dedicated to improving the well-being of youths who take care of their parents and siblings.

Beep. Beep. Beep. LauraKathryn Smith’s eyes shoot open. She lets them adjust to the light before shutting off the alarm. After a few minutes, she slides out of bed and heads for the rooms of her older brother and sister to wake them. Once they’re up and mov- ing, she gets dressed and heads to the kitchen, where she makes two bowls of cereal. She eats one and then brings the other into a nearby bedroom. “We’re going to school now,” the Carolina senior tells her mom, who’s still in bed. “OK. Have a great day,” she says. Smith pauses for a minute —then sets the cereal on the bedside table, kisses her mom and leaves. Four years before Smith was born, her mother was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis—a disease of the central nervous system. Symptoms can vary, but for most of her life her mother has expe- rienced flareups of double-vision, dizziness, pain down the spine and difficulty thinking clearly. As a result, Smith learned to be independent at an early age. She was 7 when she began waking her siblings for school. None of them was old enough to drive, so they took a golf cart to the local Kroger, then hopped on a bus for a 45-minute ride to school. LAFARO ALYSSA

When Smith was 11, her mother was hospitalized for two Senior LauraKathryn Smith has been a youth caregiver for most of her life, as her mom has multiple sclerosis and her dad had a weeks, and she and her brother spent a month in foster care, traumatic brain injury. then six more months with their grandparents. After that, Smith moved in with her dad, who struggled with the disability of a to improving the well-being of youth caregivers and the older caregivers does, largely because of numbers—there are more traumatic brain injury. adults for whom they provide care. than 40 million in the United States. For years, AARP has At the same time, she started building Carolina Student Carers, worked with more than 60 aging and disability organizations to a network for students on campus who are caregivers for siblings, rally support for this demographic. parents, grandparents, children or multiple family members. In January, these groups applauded the passing of the Raise Smith, who is studying psychology and women’s and gender Family Caregivers Act, which, if made law, will create an advisory studies, helped Olson lead the group while continuing to provide committee for articulating future family caregiving actions in the Even though your parents care for her mother. United States. Through the Department of Health and Human Olson said juggling the responsibilities of caregiving with Services, it will develop, maintain and update a national Family are supposed to be the ones school can influence where a student goes to school or whether Caregiving Strategy—one that must include youth caregivers, taking care of you—we think he or she needs to get a job to meet expenses. “Caregiving can Olson said. really shape a young person’s life trajectory,” Olson said. “And “I hope that will finally get the message across that more and of them as superheroes who we know that it can both limit and expand kids’ abilities.” more young people are providing care,” Olson said. And with can do anything—that’s not Before coming to Carolina in 2011, Olson spent three years most baby boomers already in retirement, the United States liter- working with youth caregivers in the United Kingdom, which ally does not have enough people—paid, volunteer or family— always the case. has recognized youth caregivers as a demographic for more than to provide care. To further that message, Olson and Siskowski 20 years. participated in a panel discussion this spring at the N.C. Associa- LAURAKATHRYN SMITH This means that any government organization there must tion on Aging State Aging Conference. ensure the protection of caregiver rights, with supports like bet- “The exciting thing is that, in just one year, we’ve transitioned “At some point it hit me,” Smith said. “Even though your par- ter transportation, counseling services and even the option to from me as a researcher caring desperately about this situation ents are supposed to be the ones taking care of you—we think attend camp. Today, upon request, U.K. social workers will visit to a whole network of people across the state who are stepping of them as superheroes who can do anything—that’s not always the homes of these kids to perform a “young carer needs assess- up,” Olson said. the case. And trying to come to grips with that as a kid and young ment” to identify ways to assist the family. Smith plans to become a social worker so she can become a adult is very difficult.” Olson said she was surprised to find the lack of awareness or part of that network and make a difference. support for youth caregivers when she returned to the United “I think I have a lot to add to the conversation because I have BUILDING SUPPORT States. In her search for fellow advocates, she found the American my own unique experience with my parents,” Smith said. “A Even though more than 1.4 million American children under Association of Caregiving Youth led by Connie Siskowski, the lot of young caregivers don’t have anyone to talk to about the age of 18 care for siblings or parents who have a chronic ill- organization’s founder and president. Olson and Siskowski have this stuff, and it would have been so nice if I could have talked ness or disability, support for this demographic is in short supply. collaborated on multiple projects including the Caregiving Youth to anybody about what it’s like. So I’ve decided that I really Carolina childhood and youth geographer Elizabeth Olson has Research Collaborative, a network that seeks to support advances want to work with nonprofits—with the people who struggle to spent the past decade researching the topic of youth caregivers, in research and practice for youth caregiving in the United States. get help.” children under 18 who care for a family member with a disability, To read the full story, go to endeavors.unc.edu/the-kids- chronic illness or other health circumstance. SPREADING THE MESSAGE are-not-alright. In 2016, Olson began the Bookend Caregiving Project, a While youth caregivers receive little to no recognition network of researchers and community members dedicated across the nation, a broader, more familiar group called family – Alyssa LaFaro, Endeavors