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Institute for Emerging Issues
Image of the late former Governor James Hunt speaking at the 2007 Emerging Issues Forum

The Institute for Emerging Issues

Celebrating 40 Years of the Emerging Issues Forum | 1986 - 2026

About IEI

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.

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Group photo of the spring 2026 cohort of IEI's Strategic Workforce Leadership Initiative.

Fall 2026 Strategic Workforce Leadership Initiative

IEI invites applications for the Fall 2026 Strategic Workforce Leadership Initiative taking place Nov. 16-19 at the James B. Hunt Jr. Library. This professional development program equips leaders with the strategic skills needed to capitalize on emerging opportunities and build impactful initiatives that benefit their community and state. Upon completion, graduates will earn the professional designation of Strategic Workforce Leader, presented by the Workforce Leadership Institute. Spots are limited! Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis through Oct. 23, or until all spots are filled.

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

A man and a woman posing for a photo in front of a painting of the NC Capitol Building

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
A man in a suit shakes hands with someone at a dedication ceremony

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
Governor Hunt sitting in a chair, posing for a professional photo in front of an American flag

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
A Water Infrastructure Advisory Council meeting at Hunt Library.

Strategies for Strengthening Our Water Infrastructure

Developed by IEI’s Water Infrastructure Advisory Council, these recommended strategies provide collaborative, actionable solutions designed to support decision-makers and prepare North Carolina for current and future water demands. The strategies span six categories, ranging from private well and septic system support to improving water policymaking.

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Meet the Advisory Council

IEI News

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Promotional graphic for the Fall 2026 Strategic Workforce Leadership Initiative.

September 29, 2026

Applications Open for Fall 2026 Strategic Workforce Leadership Initiative

Applications are being accepted for the Fall 2026 Strategic Workforce Leadership Initiative, taking place Nov. 16-19. Only 25 spots are available. Applications will be reviewed and accepted on a rolling basis until Oct. 23, or until all spots are filled.
Graphic with text: “Director’s Message, August 2026, NC State University, Institute for Emerging Issues,” featuring a headshot of Sarah Hall.

August 31, 2026

Director’s Message | August 2026

As housing costs strain families statewide, the passage of the federal 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act offers a timely spark for local transformation. IEI Director Sarah Hall highlights how the team spent the summer collaborating with leaders across the state to gather insights and lay the groundwork for the 2027 forum, in addition to some exciting partnerships and opportunities on the horizon.
Group photo of the 2026 Climate and Sustainability Academy (CaSa) Student Ambassadors.

August 31, 2026

Empowering Next-Gen Changemakers Through the Activating Civic Leadership Program

IEI is thrilled to announce the 2026 Climate and Sustainability Academy Student Ambassadors. Representing colleges across NC State, these students will lead the new Activating Civic Leadership program—a joint initiative between IEI, CaSA and the Shelton Leadership Center designed to foster professional growth and lifelong civic engagement.

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