Equality Within the University of North Carolina
Guidance and updates related to UNC System Policy 300.8.5, titled Equality Within the University of North Carolina, adopted on May 23, 2024.
Last update: June 26, 2026
On May 23, 2024, the UNC System Board of Governors voted to repeal and replace Policy 300.8.5 in the UNC Policy Manual, which was called the Policy on Diversity and Inclusion Within the University of North Carolina, and adopted a new policy, titled Equality Within the University of North Carolina.
Each university is charged with certifying, on or before by Sept. 1 of each year — full compliance with the commitment to institutional neutrality and nondiscrimination required by law and this policy. This includes providing a report describing the actions Appalachian State University has taken to achieve compliance and how any savings related to these actions have been redirected to initiatives that support student success and well-being.
On June 28, 2024 the UNC System shared guidance with its constituent institutions. Chancellor Norris convened a working group to help assess the areas specifically referenced in the guidance and to ensure we are complying with the new policy as expected. This group includes representation from Academic and Student Affairs; Athletics; Enrollment Management; Finance, General Counsel; University Operations (including Human Resources and University Communications) and Research, and it has continued to review the University’s efforts to maintain compliance.