North Carolina Central University Chancellor Charlie Nelms will retire from his position effective August 6, 2012. Nelms began at NCCU in August 2007.

An interim chancellor will be appointed by University of North Carolina General Administration.

Highlights of Nelms’ accomplishments include:

  • Developing and implementing a campus-wide Quality Service Initiative (QSI), which has received national recognition from the College and University Personnel Association;
  • Raising admission requirements and academic progression standards;
  • Strengthening infrastructure with particular attention to financial controls, technology, campus aesthetics and residential life;
  • Increasing online course offerings by 50 percent;
  • Establishing the University’s first Ph.D. program in more than 50 years; the Ph.D. degree in Integrated Biosciences will enroll its first cohort this fall;
  • Transitioning the institution from Division II to Division I in athletics;
  • Overseeing the institution while it was rated the number one public HBCU for two consecutive years by U.S. News and World Report;
  • Constructing a new residence hall, the Nursing building and a parking deck;
  • Reaffirming the University’s accreditation by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools;
  • Obtaining membership in the American Association of Law Schools;
  • Receiving record funding in support of Science, Math and Technology (STEM) initiatives;
  • Establishing the University College to place increased emphasis of student retention and academic success;
  • Creating the Centennial Scholars Program aimed to increase African American male retention;
  • Establishing the Division of Research and Economic Development; and
  • Managing a comprehensive academic program review and restructuring.

Nelms is recognized nationally for his leadership and expertise in the areas of student retention and academic success. He recently served on the American Council on Education Blue Ribbon Task Force on Accreditation and is a member of the Board of Directors of the American Association of State Colleges and Universities. Reference