McNeilly, Mark

UNC Service

Co-chaired UNC Gen AI committee for AI guidance/training since 2023. Delivered ~40 presentations on Gen AI campus-wide. Initiated adoption of University of Chicago Free Speech Statement by Faculty Council in 2018. Faculty Council member since 2020 and Academic Freedom/Free Expression Committee since 2023. Co-authored undergrad research on free expression, presented to Faculty Council and boards. Led cross-departmental task force on student leadership programs, creating a university-wide leadership credential. Developed Heterodox Heels, a faculty community supporting academic freedom with 70 members. Served on Confederate Monument Committee.

Candidate Statement

I am running for this position to represent KFBS and improve UNC's academic rigor, student preparation, faculty support and campus culture. I am especially focused on preparing UNC for generative AI as well as improving our culture of free expression and constructive dialogue.

In my service to UNC I have built a wide set of connections across UNC as well as externally and do my best to work constructively with stakeholders with different perspectives to achieve the above goals. I have a rich understanding of how to get things done in an academic environment. I have initiated and seen to fruition many initiatives, such as the UNC Gen AI committee, the U of Chicago statement, the formation of the Committee on Academic Freedom and Free Expression.