Hospital spokeswoman Stephanie Crayton confirmed the 91-year-old was in the hospital Wednesday, but didn't release any other details.

 

Friday was president of UNC for 30 years, leading the school through integration, the sponsorship of the state education network and its growth into a 16-campus university system. 

He also helped with the formation of the Atlantic Coast Conference,

 

Since retiring as president in 1986, Friday has continued to push to keep college affordable and supported programs to reduce poverty and illiteracy. He also has his own show on UNC-TV called "North Carolina People" that he last taped earlier this month.

 

Friday had open heart surgery in 2009.