Wealth Testing Social Security: A Grounded Exploration
The largest transfer program in the United States has a major problem on the horizon. First introduced in 1935, Social Security has long served as a crucial source of income for the retired, survivors, and disabled; nearly 74 million Americans receive benefits from the transfer program annually, with 67% of adult recipients relying on it for at least half of their income (Moore, 2024).
Given the importance of the program to millions of Americans, as well as the massive costs that go into paying such benefits out every month, there has long been debate over how to maintain the solvency of the Social Security trust. Whenever mentioned as a solution, cutting benefits has been largely unpopular, with around 80% of Americans opposing the idea (Pew Research Center, 2024).
UNC hosts first-ever AI for the public good conference
UNC held its first AI for Public Good Conference on Monday at the Friday Center. The conference brought together industry leaders and featured panels, discussions and presentations centered around the question of how AI can be developed and applied in ways that “truly serve the public good.”
The conference opened with presentations from University leadership and messages from Congresswoman Valerie Foushee and North Carolina Gov. Josh Stein. This was followed by an industry leader dialogue with OpenAI’s chief economist, Ronnie Chatterji, and Thompson Paine, head of geopolitics at Anthropic.
On the student election ballot: Reduce CUAB funding and give it to other student organizations?
A referendum seeking to redirect funding from the Carolina Union Activities Board and the now-defunct UNC Student Television (STV) — and instead make the money available to other student organizations — is on the ballot in the UNC Spring 2026 General Election.
CUAB hosts multiple recurring events for students, including the Jubilee student-planned concert, last-day-of-class celebrations and other campus events.
‘Wouldn’t see in your average Goodwill’: Discover the University Surplus Store
Wearing a UNC beanie and church robe costume, Joshua Riggs sorted through a large container of computer parts at the University Surplus Store. Riggs, and his outfit, appeared right at home.
The aisles of University Surplus, located on Estes Drive, are organized and hold a wide variety of items. The store sells items such as old laptops, vinyl records, vending machines and antique furniture. It aims to find a new home for University property no longer needed by departments.
Irish Dance Association at Carolina focuses on community over competition
Using fast footwork, stiff arms and strict technique, the centuries-old tradition of Irish dance can be physically demanding and highly competitive. However, during meetings for the Irish Dance Association at Carolina, members balance the traditions of the medium with a laid-back, community-driven approach.
The Irish Dance Association meets three times per week and offers members an opportunity to practice — or learn — Irish dance. While many members of the club have previous dance experience, the association is open to beginners.
UNC Hussman School of Journalism and Media hosts first ever Black History Showcase
On Thursday, the UNC Hussman School of Journalism and Media hosted its first-ever Black History Showcase. Organized by a group of students in the school, the event spotlighted the work and achievements of Black Hussman students, alumni, staff and faculty.
While the idea and inspiration for the event are not new, Eleazar Yisrael, one of the student organizers of the event, said that concrete planning began only about a month ago. Despite this, Yisrael said that he was passionate about the meaning behind the event.
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