Former University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW) Chancellor Jose V. Sartarelli is leading an effort to restore the Escola Municipal Coronel Pinto Ferraz, a historic school in his hometown of Ribeirão Bonito, Brazil. The school, known locally as “the Coronel,” has served more than 95% of the town’s residents over its history, including Sartarelli and his family.
Sartarelli retired from UNCW in 2022 after seven years as chancellor. He is now working with local leaders, residents, and alumni to renovate the 1909 building so it can reopen as a middle school for more than 500 students. The structure is one of 123 architecturally significant schools built across São Paulo state to promote literacy.
“This project is an example of giving back to my birthplace,” Sartarelli said. “The Coronel represents a community’s belief in literacy and opportunity.”
A proposal for the restoration has been submitted to the state’s heritage preservation authority. If approved, work could begin immediately with completion expected by mid-2027. More information about the project is available on the Coronel restoration project website, which offers content in both Portuguese and English.
“When we honor the places that shaped us, we help the next generation imagine what’s possible,” Sartarelli said. “Giving back is how we keep the doors of opportunity open for every student who will follow.”
During his tenure at UNCW from July 2015 to June 2022, Sartarelli supported initiatives focused on community engagement, applied learning, and global partnerships. Under his leadership, UNCW saw record enrollment numbers and increased philanthropic support; developed a master plan for campus growth; expanded partnerships with military and international organizations; improved online education offerings; and introduced new academic programs. In 2018, UNCW was recognized as a “doctoral university with high research activity,” a distinction held by only 139 institutions nationwide committed to training scholars and advancing research.
