September 17, 2026 – UNC Charlotte celebrates 80 years with anniversary ceremony, commemorative tree planting

MEDIA ADVISORY:
UNC Charlotte celebrates 80 years with anniversary ceremony, commemorative tree planting

About: UNC Charlotte will mark its 80th anniversary with a ceremonial tree planting that honors the University’s roots and its continued growth alongside the Charlotte region.

The event will feature remarks from University leaders and community partners, followed by the planting of a commemorative oak tree near the heart of campus. Oak is the traditional gift material for an 80th birthday.

As part of the celebration, UNC Charlotte is partnering with TreesCharlotte to donate 80 oak trees in honor of its 80th anniversary. The trees will be planted across Mecklenburg County during the 2026-27 planting season, extending the University’s anniversary celebration beyond campus and into the communities it serves.

The anniversary observance also coincides with the launch of a special digital exhibit created by University Archives that highlights key moments, milestones and people from UNC Charlotte’s first 80 years.

When: 9:30 a.m., Tuesday, Sept. 22, 2026

Where: Outside of the Gage Admissions Center, 8910 Johnson Alumni Way, Charlotte, NC 28262

Who: UNC Charlotte Chancellor Sharon L. Gaber will provide welcome remarks, followed by remarks from Dontá Wilson, UNC Charlotte Board of Trustees chair.

TreesCharlotte Partnership: In recognition of the University’s 80th anniversary, UNC Charlotte is donating 80 oak trees to TreesCharlotte. The trees will be incorporated into approximately 32 to 33 community planting projects throughout Mecklenburg County during the 2026-27 planting season, which runs from Sept. 30, 2026, through March 13, 2027.

Anniversary Exhibit: UNC Charlotte archives will launch a special digital exhibit in mid-September celebrating 80 years of UNC Charlotte history.

Media Information: Media interested in covering the event are asked to RSVP for parking information.