Bill Friday Remembered

William C. Friday, president emeritus of the University of North Carolina and an icon of American public higher education, died peacefully in his sleep at home on Friday, Oct. 12, 2012.  Bill Friday served for three decades as president of the University of North Carolina system, and he worked to help our state move from its agricultural and manufacturing roots to become a global pioneer and leader in higher education, digital technology, biosciences and social enterprise.  Sen Kay Hagan said, “ North Carolina lost one of our greatest leaders and advocates. A true public servant, Bill Friday helped shape North Carolina into the 21st century economic engine it is today. He grew the University of North Carolina system into the best higher education system in the country.”  Bill Friday was 92 years old.