In 1947, Wilmington College officially opened with classes being held at New Hanover High School from 4 to 9 PM. Reportedly, over 200 students enrolled, and there were 17 faculty members. Teh school had begun as a temporary college center under the Division of Extension at UNC-Chapel Hill in 1946. However, after the passage of a public referendum in March, Wilmington College gained the local support and property tax levy to earn permanent status. Today, UNCW has close to 18,000 students and 2,500 employees.
