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The installation of Chancellor Lee H. Roberts
Each year, Carolina celebrates University Day, which marks the laying of the cornerstone of Old East — the campus’ first building and the oldest state university building in the nation.
Occasionally, University Day also serves as the installation of a new chancellor. Carolina honored its 13th chancellor, Lee H. Roberts, at this year's event on Friday, Oct. 11.
Keep scrolling to learn more about University Day and Roberts.
University Day has been a Carolina tradition since 1877. The day is a celebration of our mission as the country’s first public university and our service to North Carolina, the nation and the world. On this day, we remember the University’s past and celebrate its future.
UNIVERSITY DAY INFO | LIVESTREAM | DISTINGUISHED ALUMNI AWARDS | FACULTY AND STAFF AWARDS
Since 1957’s installation of William B. Aycock, University Day has also been theinauguration day for new chancellors. Carolina continued that tradition this year with the installation of Roberts, who was elected by the Board of Governors in August.
Read and watch a video about the tradition of installing new chancellors at Carolina.
Wearing Carolina Blue regalia, Roberts took his oath of office with his hand on the Durant Bible, the state’s oldest family Bible, held by his wife, Liza. Roberts was later presented with the chancellor’s medallion that includes the names of his predecessors.
I will do everything I can to support your good ideas, encourage opportunities and continue building a community where everyone can thrive.
Chancellor Lee H. Roberts
The beginning of a new chapter
"We must continue expanding our reach and ensuring that our University reflects the dynamism and evolution of the state that we serve," Roberts said in his speech.
Press the play button above for sights and sounds from the chancellor’s installation on University Day
Carolina’s 13th chancellor
Chancellor Lee H. Roberts is a dedicated public servant and a strong believer in the importance of a liberal arts education. He served as Carolina's interim chancellor before being named to the permanent role in August.
Learn more about Roberts as he is installed as Carolina's 13th chancellor.
Leaders share support for Chancellor Roberts
In this University Day video, Gov. Roy Cooper and Tar Heel leaders speak about Carolina’s mission and Chancellor Lee H. Roberts.
Lee H. Roberts aims to keep pace with an evolving future
Upon his installation, Carolina’s 13th chancellor strives for the nation’s “best public university” to set the bar even higher.
Carolina welcomes Lee H. Roberts as 13th chancellor
“I’m here to listen and learn, to partner with you,” Roberts told the campus at an Aug. 9 event.
In pictures: past University Days
1877: In a poster advertising the inaugural University Day, Kemp P. Battle, the University's president from 1876 to 1891, invited the public to attend.
1940s: University President Frank Porter Graham and Chancellor Robert House led a group of faculty toward Memorial Hall.
1961: President John F. Kennedy spoke at University Day and received an honorary degree from the University during the ceremony.
1978: Actor and North Carolina native Andy Griffith (center) spoke at University Day and received the distinguished alumnus award.
1993: Speaking at the University's bicentennial, Tar Heel alumnus and journalist Charles Kuralt gave a famous speech that asked the question, "What is it that binds us to this place as to no other?"
2018: As it turned 225, the University celebrated its past and embraced a future in service of a better state, a better nation and a better world.
