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Listen "Tar Heels Update: Football Season Opens, Leadership Changes, Major Children’s Hospital, and Campus Arts Events at UNC-Chapel Hill"
Episode Synopsis
Good morning, Tar Heels! It's Monday, September 8, 2025, and here's what's happening at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
In sports news, the Tar Heels football team kicked off the 2025 season last Monday with a home game against TCU. Despite the excitement surrounding new head coach Bill Belichick's debut, the team faced a tough loss, falling 48-14. Coach Belichick, known for his strategic prowess, is already focusing on the next challenge. The team is set to travel to Charlotte this Saturday, September 13, to take on the Charlotte 49ers at Jerry Richardson Stadium. Kickoff is at 7 PM. Fans are hopeful for a strong comeback as the season progresses.
On the administrative front, UNC has announced a significant leadership transition in the athletic department. Bubba Cunningham, who has served as athletic director since 2011, will mentor his successor, Steve Newmark, through the upcoming academic year. Cunningham will then transition to a senior advisory role in 2026. Newmark, currently president of RFK Racing and a Chapel Hill native, brings a wealth of experience to his new role. This strategic plan aims to ensure continuity and sustained excellence in Carolina athletics.
In health and research developments, UNC Health and Duke Health have unveiled plans to build North Carolina's first standalone children's hospital, named "NC Children's," in the Research Triangle region. This 500-bed pediatric facility will include outpatient care, a behavioral health center, and research and education facilities connected to both health systems' medical schools. Groundbreaking is expected by 2027, with completion anticipated in about six years. This collaboration aims to enhance pediatric care and drive economic development in the state.
Turning to campus events, the Ackland Art Museum is hosting several engaging activities this week. On Saturday, September 13, from 10 AM to 12 PM, art enthusiasts can participate in "Drawing in the Galleries," an opportunity to sketch and explore the museum's collections. Later that day, the museum offers "Art Adventures," with morning and afternoon sessions designed for families and children to engage with art through interactive activities. These events provide a wonderful way to immerse yourself in the vibrant arts scene on campus.
That's all for today's update. Stay tuned for more news and events happening around our Carolina community. Go Heels!
In sports news, the Tar Heels football team kicked off the 2025 season last Monday with a home game against TCU. Despite the excitement surrounding new head coach Bill Belichick's debut, the team faced a tough loss, falling 48-14. Coach Belichick, known for his strategic prowess, is already focusing on the next challenge. The team is set to travel to Charlotte this Saturday, September 13, to take on the Charlotte 49ers at Jerry Richardson Stadium. Kickoff is at 7 PM. Fans are hopeful for a strong comeback as the season progresses.
On the administrative front, UNC has announced a significant leadership transition in the athletic department. Bubba Cunningham, who has served as athletic director since 2011, will mentor his successor, Steve Newmark, through the upcoming academic year. Cunningham will then transition to a senior advisory role in 2026. Newmark, currently president of RFK Racing and a Chapel Hill native, brings a wealth of experience to his new role. This strategic plan aims to ensure continuity and sustained excellence in Carolina athletics.
In health and research developments, UNC Health and Duke Health have unveiled plans to build North Carolina's first standalone children's hospital, named "NC Children's," in the Research Triangle region. This 500-bed pediatric facility will include outpatient care, a behavioral health center, and research and education facilities connected to both health systems' medical schools. Groundbreaking is expected by 2027, with completion anticipated in about six years. This collaboration aims to enhance pediatric care and drive economic development in the state.
Turning to campus events, the Ackland Art Museum is hosting several engaging activities this week. On Saturday, September 13, from 10 AM to 12 PM, art enthusiasts can participate in "Drawing in the Galleries," an opportunity to sketch and explore the museum's collections. Later that day, the museum offers "Art Adventures," with morning and afternoon sessions designed for families and children to engage with art through interactive activities. These events provide a wonderful way to immerse yourself in the vibrant arts scene on campus.
That's all for today's update. Stay tuned for more news and events happening around our Carolina community. Go Heels!
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