On Deck February 2026

From the Desk of Vice Chancellor Brandon Frye

Dear Colleagues and Friends of Student Affairs:

What a winter it has been so far!  We have already weathered one polar vortex, and good old Punxsutawney Phil has “predicted” six more weeks of winter.  It may be wise to keep those jackets handy a bit longer, though ECU spring break will be here before we know it.

Time certainly seems to move quickly in higher education.  I often reflect on this in my monthly VCSA messages in On Deck with Student Affairs. With so much happening on our campus, it is easy to feel caught up in the momentum. There is always something going on at ECU – athletic events, lectures, programs, films, and more. At the same time, classes, assignments, projects, and exams continue at full pace. Many of our students are also working, supporting family members, and managing other responsibilities as they pursue their degrees.

While this energy can be exciting, it can also feel overwhelming for some students. As we work to support their success, it is important to keep this perspective in mind. Taking time to check-in with students truly matters. Chancellor Rogers often speaks about the importance of a “relationship-rich” education at ECU, and I see that value reflected across our campus every day. On February 4, 2026, I began my fourth year as Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs, and it has become increasingly clear to me that connection and care are central to who we are as an institution.

As I have shared before, being intention about our interactions with students makes a meaningful difference. A follow-up email, a note of encouragement, or a referral to a campus resource can have a lasting impact. By making these connections, we can help “slow” what often feels like a fast-paced and hectic environment and remind students that they are supported.

That is not a call to slow progress or innovation. Rather, it is an invitation to pause, connect, and reaffirm that ECU is a place where people matter. I believe this is one of the qualities that truly sets our campus apart, and I am grateful to continue this work in my fourth year of service.

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UNC Board of Governors – SGA Elections Policy Reminder

Reminder: With the ECU Student Government Association elections approaching, February 11-27, 2026, campus leaders are reminding the campus community of the UNC Board of Governors Policy on Student Government Elections.

The policy prohibits UNC System schools’ faculty, staff, and board members from influencing (endorsing, campaigning for, etc.) and contributing (direct or in-kind contributions) to any student campaign, with the exception of student employees. Student employees can campaign and support other students, with the exception of the Student Body President, who is a serving board member.

Please thoroughly review the Policy on Student Government Elections on the UNC System website.

Contact Aleshia Hunt, Assistant Director/SGA Advisor for Student Life hunta@ecu.edu, with questions.