Russell Banks, UNC alum and praised author of ‘Cloudsplitter,’ dies at 82

Posted Jan 9, 2023
Russell Banks, a University of North Carolina alum and award-winning fiction writer who rooted such novels as “Affliction” and “The Sweet Hereafter” in the wintry, rural communities of his native Northeast and imagined the dreams and downfalls of everyone from modern blue-collar workers to abolitionist John Brown in “Cloudsplitter,” has died at age 82. (Associated Press)

Related: Campus Connections

America’s first public university is also its flagship
The 250-year history of the United States runs parallel to the history of UNC. In the same year the nation declared independence, North Carolina’s first...
Thu Jun 18, 2026

Nine Tar Heels Pick Up CSC At-Large Academic All-District Honors
Each year, the College Sports Communicators organization highlights student-athletes from across the country for their performances in competition and in the classroom. In the at-large...
Tue Jun 16, 2026

Cure Innovation Index ranks Carolina 5th among publics, 18th overall
The University of North Carolina ranked 18th among U.S. universities and fifth among publics in the inaugural Cure Innovation Index. The comprehensive new assessment measures...
Mon Jun 15, 2026

Carrburritos Announces Move to Former Elmo’s Diner Location in Carr Mill Mall
A Carrboro staple is making a big move after nearly 30 years in business. Carrburritos, a popular burrito restaurant, will take over the Carr Mill...
Sun Jun 14, 2026