“The passage of legislation authorizing a statewide referendum on a $2-billion bond package of capital projects offers clear evidence that state leaders understand the critical role our public universities and community colleges play in North Carolina. We are grateful that voters will have the opportunity to approve a package that includes over $1 billion of targeted capital investments across the UNC system. These STEM and business-related investments will help ensure North Carolina has the capacity to produce the talent needed to be competitive in the global economy. We applaud the Governor and the legislature for their support and we look forward to working with them and the people of North Carolina to ensure the University continues to contribute to our state’s future economic growth and prosperity.”