Writing & Reporting Work

An $8.2 million dollar grant has been awarded to Emily Turner, professor and researcher in public health communication at UNC-Chapel Hill, by the National Institutes of Health to fund a study on reducing the stigma associated with mpox vaccinations, announced Wednesday. Mpox, which has recently re-emerged as a global public health concern, has triggered increased fear and stigma, particularly in marginalized communities. One of the primary sources of this stigma is the disease’s original name, "monkeypox," which led to widespread misconceptions that the virus was linked to monkeys. This naming also triggered racist stereotypes and xenophobia, wrongly associating certain countries or populations with the disease. Additionally, the 2022 outbreak disproportionately affected men who have sex with men, echoing stigmas that surround HIV/AIDS and fueling homophobia. Initial public health messaging during the outbreak often failed to clarify that anyone can contract mpox. This messaging created a fear of judgment based on sexual behavior, further complicating efforts to promote vaccination. Another factor contributing to the stigma is confusion between mpox and smallpox; though mpox is generally milder, the association has sparked fear that contracting it could be as deadly. Set to begin in October, the study will examine various messaging techniques, such as social media campaigns, public service announcements, and community outreach programs, to identify the most effective strategies for encouraging vaccination. Turner’s team is expected to deliver initial findings within the next year, offering insights that could reshape how health messaging is handled in future public health crises. Turner’s expertise in health communication, particularly around vaccine hesitancy, has been shaped by her previous research on COVID-19 public health messaging. In the grant announcement, Chancellor Lee Roberts praised Turner’s work as having the ability to improve the lives of millions of people. Additionally, the grant will fund four doctoral students in the Hussman School of Journalism and Media for three years.

As UNC-Chapel Hill administrators implement changes to the honor system this semester, many students are raising concerns over the loss of student influence in the disciplinary process and a lack of communication from the university. Roberta Muraira Davila, a senior in biomedical engineering, was shocked by the shift away from a student-led court. Davila feels the timing of the changes is convenient, coinciding with the arrival of a new chancellor and defunding of diversity, equity, and inclusion policies and programs. "It seems to be motivated by a want for more power in the administration and less in the students themselves," she said. For Davila, removing students from the process is concerning, as she believes peer review is the most fair and empathetic way to run the court. Sophomore Ashley Summers shares Davila’s skepticism, particularly about the timing of the revisions. "It’s suspicious that the Honor Code is being changed now, with a new chancellor," she said. Summers also worries about the long-term implications. "I have concerns that by changing the Honor Code, other policies will follow suit," Summers said. "It limits student involvement, a core part of UNC’s governance since its opening." Jessica Sessoms, a senior, also feels that student power is being taken with these changes. Sessoms feels the shift away from a student-run court is majorly disappointing. Sessoms is particularly uneasy about how quickly the changes were implemented under new leadership, calling the timing "really suspicious." Some students, like Tia Malika, believe the university failed to include the student body in the decision-making process. Malika suggests the honor system should return to a more community-driven, collective approach. “I do not think enough has been done to inform students about these changes,” the senior said. Ethan Meyerhoffer, who has served in a leadership role within the honor system, was initially caught off guard by the changes. “At first, I was pretty taken aback,” he said, noting that the changes are still being rolled out. Meyerhoffer, however, sees potential for improvement, particularly in addressing flaws like long case processing times. "I hope to see significant student involvement built into the process, as this is a core tenet of our university’s student conduct history," Meyerhoffer said. "It’s one of those things that time will tell how good the new system is." Despite these concerns, Merritt Wilson, a student majoring in Advertising & Public Relations, sees the revisions as an opportunity to modernize the honor system. "Updating the honor system now makes sense to keep it relevant and effective for today’s challenges," she said. However, Wilson acknowledges that more clarity might be needed. Wilson cautions that the new system may be overly strict or unclear, potentially causing confusion among students.

With artificial intelligence tools like OpenAI's ChatGPT becoming widely accessible, some UNC-Chapel Hill faculty and students raised concerns on Thursday about overreliance, while others said AI tools are essential for learning. Elizabeth Ross, Senior Writer and Editor for Harvard Graduate School of Education, reports that "concerns abound about academic integrity," particularly as AI tools like ChatGPT raise questions about plagiarism and the accuracy of AI-generated content. Daniel Kreiss, a professor at the UNC Hussman School of Journalism and Media, views AI as a helpful tool. “It’s like an email program or a keyboard—it’s just another tool that students should learn to use effectively,” Kreiss said. He emphasized that AI, when used thoughtfully, can push students to think in new ways. However, Kreiss noted the danger lies in students using AI as a substitute for their own thinking, which can lead to subpar academic work. “Students who rely on AI solely don’t produce very good products,” he said. Al Duncan, a classics professor, expressed a more ambivalent view. “AI unlocks new forms of creativity and helps level the playing field for students with different learning styles,” he said, adding that it can help with tasks like research and outlining. Regardless, Duncan is wary about the potential for students to become overly dependent on AI, noting that while the technology may boost productivity, it could also “inflate” students’ achievements, diminishing the value of human originality. Reece Brigman, a freshman majoring in advertising and public relations, finds AI useful for structuring essays, but thinks it could be problematic in science, technology, engineering and math subjects. “For writing, it’s helpful. But in STEM, it can just give you the answer without you learning anything,” Brigman said. Anish Sharma, a computer science and neuroscience major, echoed similar feelings. “It all depends on how you use it,” Sharma said. He explained that while AI can enhance productivity when used as a tool, using it to complete assignments undermines the learning process. Upperclassmen voiced stronger concerns. Sarah Masters, a senior majoring in environmental science, described how she uses AI to solve problems in her coding class. “It helps with grades, but I’m not sure I’m actually learning the material,” Masters acknowledged. Despite this, Masters recognized the value of AI in professional settings. “I interned at Coke, and they had their own internal AI for data analytics. It was super helpful for tasks like summarizing spreadsheets,” she said. For Ella King, a biology major, AI is a tool best suited for summarizing busy work. However, she said she avoids using it for more substantial tasks, especially in STEM subjects. “But when it comes to actual learning, especially in STEM, I try not to use it. It undercuts any real understanding of the material,” King said. She also raised concerns about AI-generated content in creative fields, pointing out that human creativity is still easily distinguishable from machine output. She emphasized that while AI can mimic styles, it often lacks the depth of emotion, personal experience and nuance that defines original works.

Despite UNC-Chapel Hill not being her top choice, Cooper Hall, a first-year from Statesville, North Carolina, has found a sense of community and purpose in working at The Daily Tar Heel and as a student in the UNC Hussman School of Journalism and Media. “I didn’t really want to come to Chapel Hill,” Hall said Tuesday. “It wasn’t my top choice, but it was never a bad option.” What started as a fallback has quickly turned into a place where her passion for journalism is thriving. Hall joined the opinion desk at the DTH this semester, and it’s already been an impactful experience. Having written for her hometown newspaper, Hall was no stranger to journalism, but the DTH felt like a significant step up. “This feels very professional, and it's really cool to have stuff published," Hall said. “It's just been really exciting.” Hall has her sights set specifically on a career in sports journalism, a field she’s passionate about. However, she acknowledges that breaking into the industry, especially as a woman, is a challenging path. To strengthen her qualifications, Hall recently added a second major in exercise and sport science. She is committed to making a meaningful impact in the industry, not just through her studies but also by actively participating in clubs dedicated to empowering women in sports. Beyond the newsroom, college has been a journey of personal growth for Hall. She admits that being in a new environment was daunting, but with the help of her sister, who is also a student at UNC-CH, she’s begun to find her footing. “I feel like I've just gotten so much better at putting myself out there,” Hall acknowledges. Whether it’s attending events or diving into opportunities that push her out of her comfort zone, Hall has embraced the college experience with openness and curiosity. “I think just being open to trying new things, even if you aren't going to be the best in the room,” Hall said has been her guiding principle in making the most of her time in college. Hall’s resilience and drive aren’t traits she developed alone — they come from her mother. “She’s the strongest person I know,” Hall said, explaining how her mom supported the family through difficult times, including her father’s recovery from a traumatic brain injury. “She set such an amazing example of how to persevere through difficulties, and she's always encouraged me to continue even though things are hard,” Hall said. From finding her place at UNC-CH to working toward her dream of sports journalism, Hall is making the most of every opportunity. Though it may not have been her first choice, Chapel Hill has become exactly where she belongs.

Stephen Anderson, a distinguished professor of composition and jazz studies at UNC-Chapel Hill, has dedicated his life to music, academia, and the vibrant interplay between cultures. Known for his dynamic performances and innovative compositions, Anderson’s journey through music reflects his commitment to collaboration and community. For Anderson, music is as much a means of cultural connection as it is an artistry. At 19, he embarked on a two-year mission for his church in Mexico, an experience that profoundly shaped his worldview. Living among the locals allowed him to form deep friendships that have become central to his musical collaborations. “I just really gained the love for the people, genuinely," Anderson said Thursday. "It had such a profound impact.” Anderson described the strong bonds he’s formed with his collaborators, calling them his "brothers" and "best friends." He explained that much of his inspiration came from engaging with people from Latin America and learning about their music and culture. This dedication to cultural authenticity is evident in his leadership of the Dominican Jazz Project, which has been praised for its vibrant and passionate music. According to Anderson's faculty page, the project earned recognition in 2023 with two awards at the Premios Indie Dominicano, the largest music awards ceremony in the Dominican Republic, for Best Jazz Album and Best Jazz Song. "The Dominican Jazz Project is totally meaningful," Anderson said. "Those are my favorite projects." In acknowledgment of his efforts, Anderson was also honored by the Dominican Republic's Minister of Culture, Señora Milagros Germán, for his contributions to preserving and promoting the nation’s musical heritage. Anderson’s creative endeavors are complemented by his academic role at UNC-CH, where he serves as the Director of Jazz Studies. His commitment to education has allowed him to foster a new generation of musicians while engaging in his artistic pursuits. Anderson acknowledged the challenge of balancing academic responsibilities with artistic pursuits, saying, “I find academic life as a musician is forever out of balance.” Nevertheless, he recognized that teaching provided flexibility during academic breaks, allowing him to fully immerse himself in "artist mode" and concentrate on his creative projects. “I really try to just forget what I'm doing and focus entirely on the music and my relationship with my colleagues on the bandstand,” Anderson said. This collaborative spirit is at the core of his artistic philosophy and has led to performances at various festivals across the Caribbean and South America. Anderson advised aspiring musicians to “be humble, be genuine, be good to people." He emphasized the importance of integrity and community, believing that nurturing spiritual and family life alongside artistic pursuits is essential. For Anderson, this balance is key to fueling creativity and maintaining a fulfilling life. Anderson said he has several upcoming projects, including a piece set to premiere next year with the Cali Philharmonic Orchestra and a soloist feature composition for the London Symphony. He also mentioned the next installment of the Dominican Jazz Project, having already begun to compose a new tune.

Chapel Hill mayoral candidate Harold Weatherton, a former Marine and reporter, issued a public apology Monday, admitting that he exaggerated the severity of his Gulf War injuries that had earned him the Purple Heart. "I've come to you today to come clean and apologize for lying about the details of my war injuries," Weatherton said. "I'm asking for your forgiveness and your vote." Weatherton said that his most serious injuries were the result of a traffic accident at a military base in Qatar, which he previously claimed were sustained in combat. He delivered the speech at the Chapel Hill American Legion, addressing around 90 American Legion members and other attendees. Weatherton said that his Purple Heart had been awarded for minor combat injuries, not for the life-threatening wounds he sustained in the accident. He tearfully expressed regret over the embellishment, acknowledging he couldn't explain his need to portray the accident as a combat injury. "I suppose I just wanted people to think I had suffered terribly in combat instead of a simple vehicle accident," Weatherton said. "I truly regret my lies." The crash, which claimed the life of a close friend riding with him, left Weatherton hospitalized for two months. Throughout his hospitalization, Weatherton said he witnessed many wounded Gulf War veterans succumb to their injuries and often feared for his own life. Weatherton urged listeners not to let this mistake overshadow his experience and qualifications. Weatherton promised that, if elected on Nov. 5, he would commit to honesty and transparency, regardless of this past misstep. "I have served my country and Chapel Hill honorably for many years," Weatherton said, having never held political office before. "I can promise you I will be totally truthful with everyone from now on." Weatherton, a former executive director of the Associated Press and reporter for the Cincinnati Enquirer, asked listeners not to “let the news media blow this out of proportion." Sandra McMilan, an Afghanistan War veteran, acknowledged the seriousness of Weatherton's lies, saying she wants to forgive him and understands how combat can affect one's mental state. However, McMilan expressed lingering doubts, saying, "I’m just not sure I trust him to lead Chapel Hill." Terence Williams, a Gulf War veteran, echoed a similarly mixed response, acknowledging the challenges veterans face after combat. While he recognized Weatherton's service, Williams remained uncertain about offering forgiveness, noting that he hadn't been harmed personally. Others, however, felt less inclined to empathize. Roy Chesterfield, a Vietnam War veteran, shared his concerns about Weatherton's character. "I do not want a mayor with a history of lying," Chesterfield said. "The fact that he served his country doesn't change the fact that he lied, and that means I won't vote for him."

A proposed ordinance to limit Chapel Hill households to two adult dogs sparked debate among residents and council members at Monday’s meeting. Council member Adam Searing, who introduced the measure, described the ordinance as an effort to address neighborhood complaints over excessive noise and neglected pets. "The dog issue has gotten to a point of serious noise pollution," Searing said. "I'm not against pets but pet owners need to be responsible." Searing argued that reducing the limit from the current four-dog maximum would improve living conditions for people and pets in Chapel Hill. He said that in many cases, households with more than two dogs may not provide adequate care for all of them. "It's certainly not unreasonable to restrict the number to two," Searing added, suggesting a potential grandfather clause for households with existing pets. The ordinance faced resistance from Chapel Hill Mayor Jessica Anderson, who described it as "too strict." Anderson voiced concerns about punishing responsible pet owners who properly care for their dogs, particularly those who keep pets indoors. "We don't need to try to control every aspect of residents' lives," Anderson said. "We need to balance private rights with public needs." To address public concerns, the council voted unanimously to postpone a decision on the ordinance until after a public hearing, allowing residents to share their views before a final vote. The hearing is scheduled for Nov. 18 at 7 p.m. where those who wish to speak will have three minutes each and can sign up on the town's website. A resident attending the meeting attempted to speak on the proposal but was told to wait until the public hearing. She left in frustration, yelling that no one could tell her how many dogs she could have. The council meeting also took time to honor local Boy Scout Troop 374, which raised $1,750 for United Way of the Greater Triangle programs that help adults learn to read "They’ve worked for many months, to raise all of this money, and I’m proud of them," council member Theodore Nollert said. "Their efforts will be a big help to the United Way.” Troop leader Bill Bandy, who attended on behalf of the scouts, expressed his gratitude for the council's recognition of the troop's community service. Additionally, council member Camille Berry announced she would take a four-week family leave to support her husband, who is recovering from a recent traffic accident. Berry expressed her reluctance to be away from town business for an extended period but emphasized the need to prioritize the health of her family members.

The UNC Hussman School of Journalism and Media will receive a $300,000 endowment to establish the Joy R. Gibson Scholarship, designed to support first-generation college students. The scholarship, endowed by faculty members Rhonda Gibson and her husband Joe Bob Hester, will be awarded annually starting in the fall of 2025 to at least one UNC Hussman School student who meets the criteria. "My husband and I are both first-generation college students and we both remember how finances were challenging," Rhonda Gibson said Monday. "We want to help folks out who may be in situations like we were all those years ago." The scholarship was created in honor of Rhonda Gibson's mother, Joy R. Gibson, who unexpectedly passed away in 2001. The scholarship's name reflects the support Rhonda Gibson received from the UNC Hussman School community during the period following her mother's passing and her time away from work. "It was an emotional time," Rhonda Gibson said. "I came back to see a lot of grace." To be qualified, applicants must be accepted into the UNC Hussman School, meet the university's definition of a first-generation college student and demonstrate experience working for at least one full semester at a university-affiliated student media outlet. A portion of the endowment, equivalent to 5%, will be distributed annually with the potential to increase if the scholarship fund earns interest. "Financial stress is physically and emotionally devastating," Rhonda Gibson noted, adding that the funds can be used at the student's discretion to manage costs. Dean Raul Reis of the UNC Hussman School announced the scholarship on Monday. He emphasized that this scholarship will offer significant financial assistance, enabling students to gain valuable journalism experience while pursuing their education. "I'm delighted the school now has a scholarship for first-generation students who support our student media," Reis said. "Those are such time-consuming jobs and they often keep students from being able to hold a paying position somewhere else." Joy R. Gibson, a police dispatcher, held a critical view of journalism — largely due to her experiences with the media during her career. Rhonda Gibson jokingly acknowledged the irony of naming the scholarship after her mother. Recipients of the Joy R. Gibson Scholarship will be selected each year by the Hussman School Scholarship Committee, which oversees scholarship allocations for UNC Hussman School students. This committee, composed of faculty and staff from the school, will evaluate applicants based on their qualifications. Rhonda Gibson previously served on this committee. "Scholarship support is so vital. This scholarship will help us support some of our best students, namely first-generation students who work for one of our many outstanding student media outlets," said Danita Morgan, associate dean for development and alumni affairs at the UNC Hussman School.

A proposed 20-unit townhome development on Erwin Road faced significant criticism from Chapel Hill residents during the Planning Commission meeting on Tuesday night, with concerns about flooding, traffic, and inadequate public notification. The project, presented as a concept plan by Thomas & Hutton on behalf of Durhamite Holdings, is planned for a 2.61-acre site. The homes would be two to three stories tall, with 15% of the units designated income-restricted affordable housing. The developer has not yet decided whether the townhomes will be for sale, for rent, or a combination of both, according to Jeremy Anderson, a landscape architect with Thomas & Hutton. Residents voiced concerns about the impact the development could have on the surrounding area, particularly for neighboring properties. Some said the size and height of the townhomes could overshadow existing houses, while others criticized the town’s notification process. “The notice was an abject failure because we just got the card in the mail about two hours ago,” said Rick Courtright, who lives near the site. “We are going to have a number of people very interested in this conversation.” Courtright also warned of potential safety risks and increased traffic congestion in the area, a sentiment echoed by several others during the meeting. Planning Commission Vice Chair Wesley McMahon acknowledged the public’s concerns but highlighted the project’s potential to meet housing needs. “It may not fit now, but it’s definitely going to fit for the future for what’s going on in this area,” McMahon said. “This is an opportunity for us to work with a developer who can help us get more of these smaller units near a growing area.” The board also addressed how the project fits into broader zoning policies. Jonathan Mitchell, a Planning Commission board member, urged the town to maintain a uniform approach when evaluating projects like this one. “We don’t want to be inconsistent about the standards that we’re applying,” Mitchell said. While the Erwin Road proposal dominated the meeting, the board also considered updates to the Land Use Management Ordinance, which governs zoning and land use decisions. Proposed changes include requiring public information meetings for zoning map amendments, simplifying language in zoning ordinances, and improving public notification procedures to reach renters and other vulnerable populations better. Board members expressed mixed reactions to the proposed changes, with four opposing, two supporting, and one remaining indifferent. “What strikes me in a lot of communities is the complete lack of trust that members of the community have in the local government staff who are responsible for reviewing and making decisions,” Geoffrey Green, a member of the Transportation and Connectivity Advisory Board, said. Green noted lingering skepticism among residents, adding, “they think staff is just going to let developers do whatever they want.” He emphasized that Chapel Hill has strong, professional staff and that improving public trust is critical to moving forward. Josh Mayo, a staff member in the Planning Department, said the Erwin Road project is still in the concept phase and that there will be additional opportunities for public input, including another meeting.