The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

UNC School of Nursing professor Saif Khairat has been appointed chief artificial intelligence officer and vice provost for AI.

A nationally recognized expert in digital health and artificial intelligence, Khairat will help guide Carolina's AI strategy and advance the University's mission of using AI for public good.

Learn more about his new role and vision for Carolina

Saif Khairat to serve as chief AI officer | UNC-Chapel Hill The School of Nursing professor will shepherd Carolina’s vision of ensuring that the invention, use and governance of AI serves the public good.

is leading a statewide initiative to help North Carolina communities better understand and engage with generative AI. The initiative is by Diane Kelly, professor and interim dean in the UNC School of Information and Library Science, in collaboration with Maria Estorino, vice provost for UNC-Chapel Hill Library and university librarian, and in partnership with Michelle Underhill, state librarian with the Library of North Carolina.

Working alongside public libraries across the state, the study is designed to explore how libraries can respond to generative AI and help ensure local communities are included in conversations shaping the future of information access and digital literacy.

Learn more about the partnership and its impact across North Carolina

Carolina launches study on libraries and generative AI in local communities | UNC-Chapel Hill The statewide project, announced on Chancellor Lee H. Roberts' summer tour, is aimed at understanding how local libraries can support AI literacy.

's Barry Popkin came to Chapel Hill in 1977 to help build a nutrition research program.

Nearly five decades later, his groundbreaking work has transformed how researchers understand the relationship between diet, physical activity and health around the world. His Nutrition Transition framework became foundational in explaining the global rise of obesity, diabetes and other chronic diseases.

Learn how Popkin's research continues to shape public health worldwide

Nutrition professor fights against unhealthy habits | UNC-Chapel Hill Barry Popkin’s groundbreaking research on the dangers of sugary drinks, processed foods and inactivity has improved lives worldwide.

's Ava Holland is making sure more Tar Heels have the opportunity to remember their graduation day.

Combining her love of photography with a commitment to service, Holland provided free senior photo sessions to students facing financial barriers this spring. The effort reflects a broader dedication to serving others that has defined her time at Carolina and recently earned her the James O. Cansler Service Award.

Discover how Holland is helping fellow students feel celebrated

Pre-dental student makes graduation photos free of charge | UNC-Chapel Hill “I realized this was a way I could give back to the Carolina community,” said Ava Holland ’27, a Chancellor’s Award winner

Carolina’s impact extends far beyond Chapel Hill.

A new report shows how contributes to the Tar Heel state across all 100 counties — from Carolina research and University-affiliated startups to Tar Heel alumni and Carolina employee contributions.

Learn how Carolina powers North Carolina https://unc.live/3PFkQYv