February 2025 Archives

Carolina Connection podcast: Enrollment growth may worsen UNC’s housing shortage

February 18, 2025 Mia Khatib and Sarah Ellis

Many students on UNC’s campus are concerned about securing on-campus housing, after Chancellor Lee Roberts announced an enrollment increase of 5o0 new students in the incoming class of 2029. Carolina Connection’s Mia Khatib spoke to students who are unable to get dorm rooms for the upcoming school year. Mia and Sarah Ellis discuss the university’s “Comprehensive Housing Masterplan” on this edition of the Carolina Connection podcast.

Carolina Connection – Feb. 8, 2025

February 8, 2025 Editor

UNC Chancellor Lee Roberts faces backlash after he says the university will comply with Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Local Congresswoman Valerie Foushee details how Democrats are opposing President Donald Trump’s aggressive effort to remake the federal government. A Carrboro music shop balances its role in the community with keeping the doors open. And students and community leaders explore how to celebrate Black history beyond February.

Roberts faces backlash after his announcement that UNC will cooperate with ICE

February 7, 2025 Gowri Abhinanda

UNC plans to comply with President Trump’s executive order ending “sensitive spaces” where ICE was previously prohibited from detaining migrants.

Foushee says Americans should be concerned by Elon Musk’s access to their information

February 7, 2025 W.H. Hayes

North Carolina 4th District Congresswoman Valerie Foushee talks about Democrats’ response to DOGE’s unprecedented actions.

‘A reminder that these are your roots too’: the community celebrates Black History Month

February 7, 2025 Maya Hagan

As the Trump Administration tries to make Black History Month and other similar ones obsolete. Black educators and community are working to keep the conversation going beyond February.

Problematic language and making a statement: the trans community reacts to executive orders

February 7, 2025 Maddie Policastro and Twumasi Duah-Mensah

The Trump administration has issued a slew of executive orders targeting trans Americans. Trump’s orders have barred trans people from serving in the military, banned trans women from competing in female categories of sports, and outlawed gender-affirming care for anyone under 19.

How will young adults’ mental health be affected if Tiktok’s time is up?

February 7, 2025 Sarah Ellis

If TikTok is banned in the U.S., users may find other apps to replace it. But there are still ways for young adults to reduce their social media use if they’re concerned about the amount of time they spend online.

Carrboro music store continues to serve the community despite economic challenges

February 7, 2025 Andy Zhao

Twin House Music has survived despite competition from big-box music stores and online sellers. Community service is part of the reason.

Lululemon isn’t just selling athletic wear; it’s also selling status

February 7, 2025 Maya Hagan

Athleisure brand Lululemon’s high prices have not stopped people from wearing the brand. Experts say that’s because customers are attracted to the brand’s premium image.

Carolina Connection – Feb. 1, 2025

February 1, 2025 Editor

Immigrants in the Triangle area are uncertain and anxious about President Trump’s effort to end birthright citizenship. A freeze on federal funding could impact the town of Chapel Hill, but the mayor says it’s not clear exactly which services might be affected. The recent cold snap left the local unhoused population in danger. UNC plans to increase enrollment, even though some current students can’t get on-campus housing. A quilter is stitching together more than fabric; he’s creating a community. Groundhogs will have their day Feb. 2, but a Chapel Hill organization cares for them all year long.