Doug Hague announces retirement, Meagan Conley to assume a new role
Doug Hague, executive director of corporate engagement and professor of practice in data science, has announced his retirement from UNC Charlotte, effective June 30, 2025. Meagan Conley becomes executive director for corporate engagement and strategic partnerships in a new role designed to further expand corporate and industry partnerships.
“Doug is an exceptional leader and strategist,” said Jennifer Troyer, provost and vice chancellor for academic affairs. “His hard work and collaborative approach drove the transformation of the School of Data Science into one of the fastest-growing and most distinctive programs of its kind in the nation. We are grateful for his many contributions and the foundation he leaves for future expansion.”
Hague was the founding executive director of UNC Charlotte’s School of Data Science. Under his leadership, the School of Data Science established four interdisciplinary programs: the Bachelor of Science in Data Science, the soon-to-launch Bachelor of Science in Sports Analytics, Certificate in Sports Analytics, and Ph.D. in Data Science — growing total enrollment to more than 800 students.
He also supported the faculty in the development of a partnership with Charlotte Athletics to launch the nation’s only comprehensive Division I sports analytics internship program, enabling students to work directly with coaches and teams across multiple sports. Hague’s impact extended beyond campus, including through his service with the Charlotte Regional Data Trust board and the North Carolina Innovation Council. He also helped establish the SDS Founders Endowed Scholarships, which provide financial support for four to six students annually.
“Launching and growing the School of Data Science has been one of the most meaningful experiences of my career,” said Hague. “I’m pleased with what we’ve built — and I’m eager to see how UNC Charlotte continues to lead in data science, research and innovation. I’m especially grateful to the faculty, staff, students and partners who made it possible.”
About Meagan Conley
Meagan Conley brings over 15 years of experience in business development, advancement and strategic relationship-building, including six years of transformative impact at UNC Charlotte. She has led major gift strategy, built enduring corporate philanthropic relationships, and expanded corporate philanthropy and principal gift cultivation. She has consistently demonstrated an ability to align institutional priorities with industry needs, unlocking innovative partnerships that drive student success, faculty research and regional economic growth.
“As key to a growing and dynamic region, UNC Charlotte is prepared to deepen its corporate impact and partnership innovation,” said Beth Crigler, vice chancellor for university advancement. “Meagan is the right leader at the right time to connect corporate strategy with campus-wide impact and strategic thinking to transformative outcomes.”
Among Conley’s most notable achievements is securing the single-largest corporate investment in University history — a $5.3 million investment from Truist that established the Truist Institute for Student Success. The partnership supports students through scholarships, experiential learning, leadership development and more. She has also played a lead role in designing innovative engagement strategies that align engagement and philanthropic priorities with academic and institutional strengths.
In her new role, Conley will continue to strengthen corporate relationships, foster strategic partnerships and advance UNC Charlotte’s role as a leader in industry-connected research and workforce development.