Community:
- Independent Monitor Community Meetings will take place May 12 in Marion and May 13 in Asheville. Hosted by Dogwood Health Trust and Affiliated Monitors, Inc., these sessions will review HCA’s compliance with its community healthcare commitments. Attendees can hear findings from 2023, learn how to share feedback, and connect with representatives from HCA, NC DHHS, and the NC Attorney General’s Office. Learn more.
- UNC Asheville has adopted a new core curriculum, reducing general education requirements to 40 credit hours to improve affordability and flexibility. This streamlined structure creates more space for students to pursue minors, certificates, or second majors and is more transfer-friendly than ever.
- Chancellor Kimberly van Noort was officially installed as UNC Asheville’s ninth chancellor during a campus ceremony on April 25. With a focus on innovation, access, and long-term sustainability, van Noort is guiding the university toward a bold new vision through the Asheville 2030 plan.
- Buncombe County residents are encouraged to participate in the Envision Buncombe survey to help shape the region’s next five-year strategic plan. The brief survey is an opportunity to guide long-term recovery and community investment post-Hurricane Helene. Participate.
Education & Innovation:
- The Great Smokies Writing Program is celebrating 25 years of helping writers find their voice. This summer’s course lineup includes classes in personal essay, poetry, fiction, and playwriting—taught by acclaimed writers such as Wiley Cash and Heather Newton. Credit and non-credit options are available, with scholarships for qualifying students. Learn more.
- Blue Ridge National Heritage Area has published the 2025–2026 edition of Down the Road, a guide to bluegrass and old-time music across the region. The latest issue includes event listings, features on cultural institutions, and a look at how fundraising helped support musicians after Hurricane Helene. Learn more.
Happenings:
- Habitat for Humanity’s Women Build is back with House #21 breaking ground in Arden’s Glenn Bridge neighborhood. Volunteers of all experience levels are welcome. Fundraising and celebration events include Rock the House on May 17 and a wall-raising ceremony on May 22. Learn more.
- All Souls Counseling Center will host its third annual Hope is in Bloom fundraiser on May 22 at Highland Brewing. The evening includes live music, food from local favorites, and the presentation of the Pam Penland Mental Health Champion Award to Cheryl Antoncic Suess. Learn more.
- Lake Junaluska Golf Course is offering a seasonal discount card to residents of Haywood, Jackson, and Buncombe counties. For $50, players save on green fees through October 31, 2025. Learn more.
• • The Flying Bike, Asheville’s premier eBike tour company, has reopened in its new home inside the Asheville Visitor Center. After losing their River Arts District location to Hurricane Helene’s flooding, they’re back and ready to welcome riders for scenic and story-filled adventures. Learn more.