UNC Wilmington has been recognized by the University Economic Development Association’s 2024 Awards of Excellence, reinforcing the university’s role as a leader in environmental innovation and community development. 

Heather McWhorter, director of the UNCW Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (CIE), submitted “Climate Change and Coastal Resiliency – Turning Knowledge to Action,” showcasing UNCW’s significant impact through initiatives such as the Alliance for the Blue Economy, the Ocean Innovation Conference, Idea Test Lab and NC EcoTech. 

"I am deeply honored by this national recognition from UEDA,” said McWhorter. “It highlights the power of collaboration between innovators, entrepreneurs, universities and the community to address complex challenges. Together, we can turn big ideas into real solutions." 

The award recognizes the university in the Place Category, which honors institutions making transformative contributions to their communities and regions. McWhorter represented UNCW at the UEDA 2024 Summit in South Bend, Indiana, alongside other notable finalists, including the University of Texas at Arlington, University of Michigan Economic Growth Institute and Tech Parks Arizona/University of Arizona Center for Innovation. 

"I'm so proud of Heather McWhorter and the Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship for their efforts to make a positive impact on our region and community,” said Justine Reel, interim associate provost for research and innovation. “Heather worked extremely hard on her pitch and beat out the other finalists. No easy feat given her competition was University of Arizona, University of Michigan, and University of Texas at Arlington.”  

This recognition highlights CIE’s ongoing efforts to address climate change and promote coastal resiliency.