About the Institute for Emerging Issues

Established in 2002 at NC State University, the Institute for Emerging Issues is a nonpartisan, public policy organization that connects individuals and businesses across sectors, regions and perspectives to address emerging issues in the state. Through this collaboration, IEI is connecting North Carolinians to build consensus and move to action; inspiring and preparing citizens and leaders to meet future challenges head-on.

Honoring the legacy of Emerging Issues Forum founder, former governor james b. hunt jr.

IEI Director Sarah Hall Remembers Former Governor Hunt

IEI Director Sarah Hall honors the life and legacy of former Governor James B. Hunt Jr, the visionary founder of the Emerging Issues Forum.

Director Hall’s Reflections on Governor Hunt

Hunt’s Passionate Legacy Will Never Be Extinguished

Two-time NC State student body president and four-time North Carolina Governor James B. Hunt Jr. died Thursday, Dec. 18, 2025, at his family farm near Lucama, North Carolina. He was 88.

NC State University Remembers Governor Hunt

First in Future: Former Governor James B. Hunt, Jr.

In this December 2017 episode of the First in Future podcast, former Governor James B. Hunt Jr. discusses the origins of the Emerging Issues Forum.

First in Future Podcast Featuring Governor Hunt

Strategic Workforce Leadership Initiative

Applications are open for the Spring 2026 Strategic Workforce Leadership Initiative on June 15-18, 2026. This comprehensive professional development program is designed to equip leaders with the skills needed to capitalize on emerging opportunities in their community. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis through May 8, 2026, or until all spots are filled.

Learn More and Apply

Room Reservations

Need a collaborative space for your organization’s event or meeting? At IEI, we believe collaboration, partnership and teamwork are key to finding solutions to North Carolina’s emerging and most critical policy issues. Consider hosting your organization’s event or meeting in one of our dedicated collaborative spaces, located within the state-of-the-art James B. Hunt Jr. Library.

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IEI News

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April 07, 2026

Spring 2026 Strategic Workforce Leadership Initiative Accepting Applications

Applications are currently being accepted for the Spring 2026 Strategic Workforce Leadership Initiative cohort, taking place June 15-18. Only 25 spots are available. Applications are reviewed and accepted on a rolling basis until May 8, or until all spots are filled.

March 30, 2026

Director’s Message | March 2026

With spring in full swing, IEI Director Sarah Hall gives an update on the recommendations from the 2026 forum on water and reflects on the leadership breakfast that officially launched planning for the 2027 forum on housing. She also celebrates the team’s participation at the 2026 Rural Summit and previews a robust lineup of community initiative events in the coming months.

March 11, 2026

Christopher Chung Joins IEI National Advisory Board

IEI is pleased to announce the appointment of Economic Development Partnership of NC CEO Christopher Chung as a new member of IEI’s National Advisory Board.