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capitalization

In general, avoid unnecessary use of capital letters. Words are not capitalized just because somebody considers them important. Capitalize words in these categories:

Proper nouns (the proper name of a person, place or thing) — Debbie Yow, Raleigh, NC State University, Reynolds Coliseum, the Bulletin, the Department of Materials Science and Engineering
Personal titles immediately preceding a person’s name — Chancellor Howell, Coach Valvano, Provost Arden
Personal titles following a name in a formal or ceremonial list — Warwick Arden, Provost and Executive Vice Chancellor
Brian Sischo, Vice Chancellor for University Advancement

  • Correct: The chancellor is meeting with Dean Hinks to discuss recent successes in commercialization of research.
  • Incorrect: The Chancellor is meeting with Dean Hinks to discuss recent successes in commercialization of research.
  • Correct: The department has hired a new assistant professor.
  • Incorrect: The department has hired a new Assistant Professor.
  • Correct: The class of 2018 has a bright future.
  • Incorrect: The Class of 2018 has a bright future.
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