R. Edward Kizer Jr., former Vice Chancellor for Development and University Relations at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, discusses his working relationship with Chancellor James H. Woodward. Mr. Kizer begins the interview talking about his childhood and where he went to college. Upon graduating from Davidson College in 1961, he served two years in the United States Army. After his military service, Mr. Kizer joined North Carolina National Bank in 1963, serving in multiple positions during a 28-year career with the bank. He was hired by Chancellor Woodward in 1991 to serve as the Vice Chancellor for Development and University Relations. He notes that his number one priority when he was hired was legislative relations because UNC Charlotte was making a push to begin doctoral programs. Mr. Kizer talks about doctoral program funding and his role in helping Chancellor Woodward to get approval to begin offering doctoral programs. He particularly notes the help of Representative James B. Black to get the programs started. He also recalls helping to get North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University--a historically black college--to partner with UNC Charlotte in an effort to get funding for doctoral programs for both schools. Other topics covered include the Southern Piedmont Legislative Caucus in the North Carolina General Assembly and what they have done for UNC Charlotte; Mr. Kizer's role as UNC Charlotte's Advisory chairman during the campaign for the 2000 North Carolina Higher Education Improvement Bonds; and Chancellor Woodward's legacy, with particular emphasis on the enduring impact of doctoral programs and the campus aesthetic.
