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Research and community impact topped UNCG Chancellor Linda Brady's first formal address to faculty and staff when she delivered the convocation this morning.

Brady mentioned research 14 times during the speech, including using the phrase "metropolitan research university" to describe the school several times. Highlighting research as a priority for the school indicates an ongoing shift to increase research activity there.

Brady noted the Carnegie Foundation recognized the school as a high research activity campus on par with the likes of the College of William and Mary, Georgetown University and neighboring Wake Forest University. She also noted the collaborative effort with N.C. A&T on the massive research endeavor the Joint School of Nanoscience and Nanoengineering.

"We will leverage existing and emerging strengths in the sciences, education, business and the allied health professions to expand our research portfolio in selected areas in which our faculty is likely to have a significant impact," she said.

But Brady also made an effort to alleviate fears the school may be shifting away from its long-standing role as a leader in the humanities, noting the success of programs like its schools of education and nursing. The speech included numerous references to the school's impact on the community, specifically its economic impact.

"Universities are social institutions with a responsibility to the public we serve," she said. "... the public demands that we also focus on their needs and engage directly in creating knowledge necessary to solve the many pressing problems of our society."

Brady said the school will develop a five-year strategic plan. Along with board members, faculty and staff Brady promised Greensboro community leaders will sit on the planning committee.