Moeser to step down

Chancellor James Moeser announced Wednesday that he will relinquish his position, effective June 30.

“This is not a retirement for me,” Moeser said in his annual State of the University address. “After a year’s research leave, I will return to the campus with the most exalted title this University can confer on an individual – professor.”

Moeser was visibly emotional as he made his personal remarks in front of a crowd that included UNC-system President Erskine Bowles, former chancellors, the Board of Trustees, students and faculty.

Despite the announcement, Moeser said he will continue to push the current initiatives.

“My pledge to you is to bring the same level of passion, energy and commitment in my last year as I did in my first seven,” he said.

During his years in office, Moeser said he has seen the University grow and change for the better but urged for this success to continue in the coming years.

“There’s a lot to celebrate in Chapel Hill. We are making progress on virtually every goal we have set for ourselves,” he said.

During the speech, Moeser outlined his vision for the University, setting goals he said he hopes will be accomplished by his successor.

With projects such as proposed satellite campus Carolina North in the works for the University’s future, Moeser said focusing on the years to come is key.

“I believe this University has the strength of character and maturity to embark on the bold and audacious initiatives I have described,” he said. “We must not let our love of (the University) lead us to complacency.”

Moeser was elected to the chancellorship by the UNC-system Board of Governors in 2000. His appointment came following the death of Chancellor Michael Hooker. Before coming to UNC, Moeser served as chancellor of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

With Wednesday’s announcement, the Board of Trustees will create a search committee to find a new chancellor in upcoming months. Moeser said the goal is to have a replacement fill the spot by July 1.

The State of the University address is typically earlier in the semester, but the speech was moved back this year to coincide with a Board of Trustees’ meeting, which began Wednesday.

Following Moeser’s announcement, audience members gave a resounding standing ovation.

While some higher-ups knew of Moeser’s decision beforehand, others said they were caught off guard.

“My reaction was surprise,” said Wayne Blair, a University ombudsman. “I guess a little sadness.”

Despite the coming change in leadership, Blair said he thinks UNC will continue to move forward but not without a period of transition.

“The next chancellor has big shoes to fill, so that in itself is an immediate challenge,” he said.

Student Body President Eve Carson said she thinks Moeser has left a lasting impression.

“His values have shaped and developed my love and commitment to Carolina,” she said.

With only nine months left until he steps down, Moeser stressed that he’s got a lot to do in a short amount of time.

“This is a place that, for many years, I held in high esteem from afar,” Moeser said. “This year will pass in a flash, and before we know it we’ll be in Kenan Stadium in graduation gowns. I do not intend to waste a minute.”

Contact the University Editor at udesk@unc.edu.