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Ahead of the Wave

  • Christine Reed Davis
  • September 03, 2026

Vice Chancellor Dr. CRD's Student Guide

Students make their way around the Campus Commons as the annual Involvement Carnival at UNCW, Tuesday August 25, 2026.
Students make their way around the Campus Commons as the annual Involvement Carnival at UNCW, Tuesday August 25, 2026.
Photo: CHRIS INGHAM/UNCW
This message was originally emailed to students on Wednesday, September 2, 2026 by the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs on behalf of Vice Chancellor Dr. Christine Reed Davis.

Dear Seahawks, 

One of my favorite things about the beginning of the semester is seeing students build friendships, attend campus events, explore Wilmington and embrace new opportunities. As your independence grows and your routines begin to take shape, you're also becoming part of a community that looks out for one another. 

That raises an important question: 

How do I care for myself and others?

What makes the UNCW community special is our willingness to show up for one another. Whether it's checking in on a friend, learning where to turn for help or reaching out when something doesn't feel right, small actions can make a meaningful difference.

Make a Splash

Yesterday, you received an email from the Provost and me highlighting campus support resources as you start the new academic year. I encourage you to take a few minutes to review those resources and explore UNCW's Emergency and Safety Resources webpage. Knowing where to turn before you need help is one of the simplest ways to support your own wellbeing and contribute to a caring community.

Resource Spotlight: Office of the Dean of Students

The Office of the Dean of Students (ODOS) is committed to empowering student success and helping students navigate the challenges of college life. 

ODOS is here for you if you need support during a difficult situation, assistance connecting to campus resources or guidance understanding university expectations. The ODOS team helps students navigate the Code of Student Life and the Academic Honor Code, and they connect Seahawks with basic needs resources, emergency funding, case management and support for off-campus living. The office serves as a central resource for students facing challenges or seeking guidance along the way.

If you're unsure where to start in your college journey, ODOS is a great place to begin.

Reaching out and connecting with people who can help is also an important part of this month’s Healthy Hawks focus on Engagement Wellbeing. Remember that wellbeing is strengthened through connection. Making time for relationships, involvement and shared experiences can help create a sense of balance and belonging throughout the semester.

On the Horizon

As a reminder, UNCW recently launched a new Mental Health and Wellbeing Resources Webpage that brings together information from the Counseling Center, Office of Student Wellbeing, Student Health Center and other campus partners. If you're looking for support for yourself or resources to share with a friend, this site can help you quickly find the information you need.

Community thrives when we stay connected, support one another and know where to turn when help is needed. 

In Seahawk Pride,

Dr. “CRD” Christine Reed Davis 

Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs

This article has the following tags: Office of the Dean of Students Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs Tips & Tricks Student Affairs