2021-2022 IMPACT REPORT

The Carolina Covenant

Since 2004, the Carolina Covenant — UNC-Chapel Hill’s groundbreaking program for students from low-income families — has supported more than 10,000 scholars, providing an opportunity to graduate debt-free through scholarships, work-study, and grants. The Carolina Covenant also provides students with support and resources to help them thrive on campus and beyond.

Scroll down to see how your contributions to the Carolina Covenant have helped ensure that Carolina meets this critical commitment to students of all backgrounds.

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Carolina Covenant Quick Facts

  • Approximately 10% of all undergraduates are Covenant Scholars.

  • Approximately 50% of enrolled Covenant Scholars are first-generation college students.

  • Approximately 50% of Covenant Scholars graduated in the top 10 in their high school class.

  • Dozens of faculty, and staff mentors currently support and guide Covenant Scholars.

  • Since 2004, the four-year graduation rate of Covenant Scholars has increased by more than 40%.

  • As of fall 2021, approximately 30% of Carolina Covenant alumni completed their graduate degree, and more than 70% overall had enrolled in graduate school.

Carolina Covenant

An up-close portrait of DeCarlos Hickson in front of the Old Well at UNC-Chapel Hill
Student Support

A Carolina to Hollywood Dream

Watch this inspiring Carolina Story to see how DeCarlos Hickson '20 went from working as a security guard while attending community college to a career in animation at a global entertainment company. He now serves on the Carolina Covenant's Alumni Advisory Board.

Moving Forward

Portrait of Alex Acosta
Student Support

‘Where I’m Meant to Be’

The third of four children, Alex Acosta '24 talks about how the Carolina Covenant opens doors and provides support.

Portrait of Whitney Nobel standing in front of the Old Well
Student Support

Stepping Ahead

Carolina Covenant Scholar Whitney Noble made her way to nursing school at UNC-Chapel Hill through her own hard work and a little help from C-STEP.

Donor

Focused on Career Development

Rick Margerison ’70, along with his wife Leah, is still finding new ways to pay it forward.

    Candice Powell profile

    The Fruits of Our Efforts

    “In my last letter to you, I shared our efforts to grow networks of opportunity and connections for Carolina Covenant Scholars. Today, I write to share the fruits of these efforts, and wow — I couldn’t be prouder of what we’ve done together with your support.”
    Candice Powell ’06, ’21 (Ph.D.), director of the Carolina Covenant

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