Remembering Faculty Member Joe Hunt

We are saddened to share that former School of Government faculty member Joseph E. “Joe” Hunt passed away on March 30. 

For decades, Hunt played a central role in shaping property tax assessment in North Carolina, both through his teaching and his work across the state. 

In 1983, Hunt, a young tax appraiser, began his career in Tennessee and started lecturing at UNC’s then-Institute of Government. Over the next 25 years, he became known for advancing both the science and art of property tax assessment, serving as a trusted advisor and instructor at the School of Government until 2009. 

Those at the School during his tenure were aware of his many contributions. For many professionals across North Carolina, their first introduction to the International Association of Assessing Officers (IAAO) came through Hunt’s classroom. If you took an IAAO course during that time, there’s a good chance he was your instructor. Hunt also worked closely with former faculty member Ken Joyner during his transition to the School, and the two served together for many years. 

One of Hunt’s most significant contributions was his vision to support and professionalize the field. In 1984, he founded the North Carolina Candidates Club to encourage county appraisers to pursue IAAO designations. What began as a state initiative quickly became a national model. His leadership in the field continued to grow, culminating in his service as IAAO president in 1991. 

His expertise spanned property tax appraisal and assessment administration, and his impact was recognized through numerous honors, including: 

In 2008, the NCAAO renamed its Distinguished Jurisdiction Award in his honor. 

His influence continues to be felt through those he mentored. Current School faculty member Kirk Boone, who joined the Candidates Club in 1995, reflected, “I had very little knowledge that one day the club would lead me to one of the most rewarding career moves I would ever make.” Boone went on to become an associate teaching professor of public finance and government, designated as both a personal property specialist and an assessment administration specialist by the IAAO. He also serves as a national instructor and has co-authored several exams and a course. 

In 2018, the NCAAO and North Carolina Tax Collectors Association dedicated a room at the School of Government in honor of Joe Hunt, a tribute to his lasting contributions to the field and the many professionals he mentored, along with his tax expert colleagues Joe Ferrell and Bill Campbell.  

Published April 29, 2026