Wake Forest University has expanded its educational presence in North Carolina with the opening of a new academic campus in The Pearl, Charlotte’s innovation district. This development is anchored by the Wake Forest University School of Medicine and aims to transform medical education, research, and economic development in one of the nation’s fastest-growing cities.
The expansion marks a significant moment for both Wake Forest and Charlotte. “We are proud of the role our University and alumni continue to play in Charlotte,” said Wake Forest University President Susan R. Wente. “Wake Forest’s presence in The Pearl allows us to train future physicians, researchers, and leaders in a collaborative, urban environment that reflects the needs and opportunities of the communities we serve. This is more than just a new campus — it’s a strategic investment in the future of healthcare and innovation.”
Charlotte will soon host its first four-year medical school as Wake Forest School of Medicine opens its second campus this summer. The inaugural class will begin at the Howard R. Levine Center for Education. Additionally, Wake Forest plans to relocate its School of Professional Studies and nationally ranked MBA program from Uptown Charlotte to The Pearl.
Dr. Ebony Boulware, Dean of Wake Forest University School of Medicine, commented on this expansion: “Our Charlotte campus marks a transformative moment for Wake Forest School of Medicine. It brings our mission to life in new and powerful ways — advancing innovation, forging strong community partnerships, and expanding access to top-tier medical education in one of the country’s most dynamic cities.”
Historically, third- and fourth-year students have completed clinical clerkships in Charlotte; however, this new campus signifies a broader educational opportunity with plans to increase enrollment over five years.
The Pearl will also house IRCAD North America which offers surgical training programs beginning in September. These programs are expected to attract thousands globally each year.
Annette L. Ranft, Dean of the School of Business at Wake Forest stated: “Sharing a home with Wake Forest’s School of Medicine and School of Professional Studies offers exciting cross-disciplinary opportunities for our MBA and other offerings.”
Charles Iacovou added that strong industry partnerships would connect academic coursework with real-world applications: “Leveraging strong partnerships with Charlotte’s leading industries — including healthcare and financial services — Wake Forest programs connect academic coursework with real-world applications.”
Over 15 years, The Pearl district is projected to create more than 5,500 on-site jobs alongside 11,500 regional jobs.
President Wente emphasized that this initiative extends Wake Forest’s commitment beyond Winston-Salem into broader statewide innovation efforts: “This new campus is yet another manifestation of Wake Forest’s mission to serve humanity through knowledge and discovery.”
