The First Public University

On October 12, 1793 — 225 years ago — the cornerstone for American public higher education was laid in Chapel Hill. From that founding, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill has been an innovator. And though our founders may not have fully anticipated it, our University has driven and continues to drive great change in our state, nation and world.

Learn more about the 2018 University Day celebrations on the Carolina campus here.

Across our history are countless stories of the people, programs and discoveries that have made that change possible. Featured below are 225 of those Carolina Stories. The resolve to discover for everyone’s benefit, the commitment to serve others in North Carolina and beyond, and the drive to share our knowledge with the next generation of scholars are distinctive traits of the Carolina community.

And while we can’t feature everyone, every Tar Heel is here in spirit. But we would love to hear your story. Please share your story below and it may be featured here or on the Carolina Stories website.

Carolina Stories

Click on the link below to see 225 stories of success and breaking down barriers that highlight our University’s strengths in medicine, the humanities, the arts and the sciences. They reflect our culture of innovation made fundamental and embody our mission to be of the public and for the public. They speak to our past and to our future. And they are made possible by you — by your commitment to Carolina and to a better world. These stories are your stories.

Campus Then & Now

The home of UNC-Chapel Hill is consistently ranked as one of the most beautiful university campuses in the nation. Tar Heels of all ages enjoy visiting Carolina’s grounds to learn about its history, cheer on its athletic teams, enjoy diverse arts venues or just stroll through the iconic landscape. Click on the link below to see how a few photogenic spots on campus have looked over the years.

Carolina’s History

As the nation’s first public university, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill has long been an innovator. For 225 years, Carolina has grown and adapted to serve the people of North Carolina and beyond. With our long history of talented students, leading faculty, and innovative programs, Carolina has made a mark on the world ever since our founding 225 years ago. Click on the link below to browse a timeline with some of the milestones along our storied journey.

What are you for?

At Carolina, we believe the intersection of your passions and our work hold the potential to change the world. We would love to hear your Carolina story.

Connect With Us To Share Your Story