UNC Charlotte Hosts Second Annual Charlotte Symposium on Online Learning: Championing Success for the Future

The University of North Carolina at Charlotte recently hosted the Second Annual Charlotte Symposium on Online Learning, focused on “Championing Success.” Faculty and staff leaders from across the University representing online programs, academic advising, enrollment management, undergraduate and graduate education came together to share ideas and best practices for student and program success as the University continues to strategically grow its online footprint.

Celebrating 25 Years of Online Education and Looking to the Future

This year’s event also marked the 25th anniversary of UNC Charlotte’s online programs. Dr. Jennifer Troyer, provost and vice chancellor for Academic Affairs, highlighted the University’s continued commitment in her opening remarks, “Online students are, first and foremost, UNC Charlotte students. They are ours. Whether they are taking courses from their home office or at their kitchen table after dinner, whether they are here in our city or across the country, they are a part of our University and our college community.”

With an ambitious potential to reach 5,000 online students by 2030, the symposium explored the growing statewide demand for online education and the infrastructure and collaborative work needed to support this growth. “While these aren’t official projections, our analysis shows that Charlotte Online is poised to supercharge its undergraduate growth and continue steady, sustainable gains in graduate enrollment,” said Asher Haines, associate provost. “Expanding Charlotte Online provides a high-quality, affordable alternative for the tens of thousands of North Carolinians who may otherwise choose out-of-state online universities.”

UNC Charlotte’s Competitive Edge in Online Learning

While growth was a hot topic, the event focused on ensuring high quality education and a student-first framework. Ranked among the best in the nation and #1 in the state for online bachelor’s programs by U.S. News & World Report, UNC Charlotte continues to lead in providing high-quality, flexible online learning opportunities. Sessions featured faculty, staff, and UNC Charlotte alumnus and Truist senior vice president and head of talent Charlie Blythe. Presenters covered key topics throughout the morning such as program health indicators, workforce-responsive program and curriculum planning, and course design best practices. 

“At Truist, our commitment to skill development and continuous learning is at the heart of our strategic direction. By investing in upskilling and education, we not only drive internal promotions and enhance employee mobility, but we also boost retention and elevate overall organizational performance.”

Charlie Blythe, Truist, Senior Vice President and Head of Talent

A Vision for the Future

The symposium reaffirmed UNC Charlotte’s dedication to innovative and effective online learning, with attendees energized by fresh ideas for enhancing their program and course quality and a shared vision for the future.

“I was very excited about today,” said Mary McKenzie, assistant dean for curricular competency and experiential learning for the College of Humanities & Earth and Social Sciences and the coordinator for the sociology online major, “There’s a greater emphasis on skills now, and when we focus on building those skills—not just through online classes, but also at the program level—it helps better prepare our students for life after they graduate.”

Event Resources

For inquiries or future event details, contact Karri Kennedy, Senior Director of Program Management & Learner Engagement, at karri.kennedy@charlotte.edu.