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.

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

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

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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July 31, 2026

Director’s Message | July 2026

While summer is traditionally a time for rest, rising costs are forcing many North Carolinians to rethink their plans and stay closer to home. IEI Director Sarah Hall explores this economic strain and its connection to the 2027 Emerging Issues Forum on housing.

July 05, 2026

New Strategies Offer North Carolina Communities Solutions for Water Challenges

IEI is pleased to present the final Strategies for Strengthening North Carolina’s Water Infrastructure. These recommended strategies were developed by the Water Infrastructure Advisory Council as part of the 2026 Emerging Issues Forum: Future Forward Water.

July 02, 2026

IEI Celebrates Fourth Cohort of the Strategic Workforce Leadership Initiative

IEI is excited to announce the fourth cohort of the Strategic Workforce Leadership Initiative, a professional development program for leaders in workforce and economic development. Graduates earned the professional designation of Strategic Workforce Leader after completing the four-day program.