The UNC Asheville magazine premiere issue

UNC Asheville launched today a new university magazine designed to provide the community and the state a compelling look at some of the University's most fascinating people, projects and community initiatives.

Highlights in the first issue include: a hands-on campus research project that nips invasive plants in the bud; a national nutrition expert's advice on how to "green" your Thanksgiving menu to benefit your health and the planet; and how a college sophomore's research led to the ongoing Asheville Mural Project.

"Our goal is to give readers here at home and across the state accurate and lively content that is valuable to them and to their lives," said William P. Massey, UNC Asheville Vice Chancellor for Alumni & Development. "Up until now, UNC Asheville has lacked the mechanism to share stories of its commitment to the region and how it brings credit to our state. This magazine is an important part of the University's strategic plan to connect with our community and foster support for our efforts.

"Many campus magazines are filled with stories of what an institution wants the reader to know. We turned that concept on its head and designed our magazine around what we believe the reader wants to know about the institution," said Massey. "We welcome feedback and story requests from all of our readers."

The colorful, 32-page magazine, which is funded through private sources, will be published twice a year, in November and June. The initial publication run of 24,000 was mailed to UNC Asheville's friends and alumni. The magazine can also be seen online at www.unca.edu/magazine/.

For more information, e-mail magazine@unca.edu.