Dear Eagles,
It is always our shared goal to create a learning and living environment where every member of our community feels seen, supported, heard, and safe. Over the past twenty months of my tenure as Chancellor, I have consistently emphasized four imperatives that guide us: Protect your peace. Protect your community. Protect the Brand. Protect the Nest.
I write today to reaffirm these expectations, and to call us back to them with intention. Across our campus—and throughout higher education—students are faced daily with choices that test our shared values. One of the most pressing challenges we continue to confront is the misuse of anonymous social media applications.
The use of platforms, such as Fizz, YikYak, and Whisper to post anonymous, slanderous, defamatory, derogatory, or threatening content stands in direct opposition to our institutional motto of Truth and Service. The misuse of these applications have had a demonstrably negative and deeply concerning impact on the safety, well-being, and cohesion of campus communities nationwide, including our own.
Such behavior erodes trust, damages reputations, and weakens the sense of belonging that is essential for student success and community strength. Let me be clear: anonymity does not equate to immunity. Posts made on these platforms can often be traced and reports of harmful or inappropriate content will be taken seriously.
In alignment with UNC System expectations, we as an institution are responsible for fostering environments that are safe, respectful, and conducive to learning. This includes holding students accountable for conduct—whether in person or online—that violates campus policies or disrupts the educational environment, including behavior that occurs off campus or through digital platforms when it has a direct or adverse impact on the University community. Behavior conducted through anonymous social media apps that constitutes harassment, threats, or defamation may be investigated as potential violations of the Student Code of Conduct and, if substantiated, may result in disciplinary action, up to and including the loss of student status.
Since July 2024, the University has taken decisive action by restricting access to these applications on our network. While developers continue to attempt workarounds, we remain vigilant in addressing these challenges in real time. However, technology solutions alone are not enough. We must also rely on each member of our community to demonstrate sound judgment and personal responsibility by choosing not to engage with platforms that harm others and weaken our community. Equally important is our commitment to the health and wellness of our campus. If you or someone you know has been affected in ways that impact mental health, support is available. Counseling services can be accessed by calling 919-530-7646 or visiting the Student Health Building (2nd Floor), Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with drop-in hours Monday through Thursday from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. After-hours support is available evenings, weekends, and holidays through the same number. Faculty and staff may access ComPsych resources via the University’s HR page. Additionally, all members of our community have access to the Calm Health app, a valuable tool for managing stress and supporting overall well-being.
Please know that I—and my administration—remain steadfast in our commitment to ensuring that NCCU continues to soar above negativity and division. As we often say, “the Eagle is no common, ordinary barnyard fowl.” Let us embody that excellence in all that we do—both in our personal interactions and in our digital presence.
In Truth and Service,
Dr. Karrie G. Dixon