UNC system leaders call for more transparency after days of protest
CHAPEL HILL, N.C. (WTVD) -- UNC system leaders called for more transparency Friday after days of protest.
Critics stood with their backs turned as president Margaret Spellings delivered her first report to the UNC Board of Governors at Fayetteville State University.
"I thanked them for their respect and their decorum, and I think it was the perfect way to voice their concerns," said Spellings.
Since the new leader took office Tuesday, hundreds of students and faculty have voiced their frustrations over her hiring, calling it a political move.
The former U.S. Secretary of Education succeeds Tom Ross, who was forced out by the Republican-dominated board.
"We're concerned about the direction of the UNC system, and we want to really find accountability to the public," said protestor Altha Cravy.
Spellings laid out a plan for her first 100 days as president. She vowed to fight for increased pay for faculty after the board raised pay for many chancellors last fall.
"I'm hopeful that together we can achieve some early legislative wins, and performance-based pay is at the top of my list," she said.
Spellings plans to tour all 17 UNC system campuses on her listening tour.
"I want to plant the seeds for us to have strong and lasting partnerships and even friendships with stakeholders, from students and faculty to legislators, business leaders, civil rights and faith leaders. All of them have valuable expertise to contribute and I want to ensure that our conversations include them," said Spellings.
The UNC BOG voted on new policies Friday to make meetings more open.
They will be streamed live on the web and include a public comments section.
The rules of conduct will also be laid out during each meet to keep protestors from becoming disruptive.
