CHAPEL HILL — Chief Judge Catherine C. Eagles of the Middle District of North Carolina issued a summary judgment in favor of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill on July 6, 2026. The judgment ruled against former economics professor Larry Chavis in a case alleging racial discrimination and retaliation.

The court found insufficient evidence to support Chavis's claim that the university discriminated against him when it did not renew his contract in 2024. Chavis, who had taught at the university's Kenan-Flagler Business School on a yearly contract since 2006, alleged in September 2024 that his contract was not renewed because he criticized the institution for secretly recording his classes and for its position on diversity, equity, and inclusion. Chavis is a member of the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina and was an advocate for Indigenous and LGBTQ+ rights.

Eagles stated that poor teaching evaluations, not racial discrimination or retaliation for his public statements, formed the basis of the university's decision. She wrote in her opinion that multiple students reported Chavis used class time to discuss subjects outside the syllabus, and classroom observations by other faculty members substantiated these reports. Eagles also noted that several students credibly reported Chavis's teaching methods caused fear of embarrassment and retaliation related to required class participation.

Eagles cited an internal evaluation indicating Chavis did not follow the university's procedure for changing course content. She stated these issues are valid reasons for not renewing a professor's contract.