A Triumph of Global Engagement: 29 Tar Heels Secure Prestigious Fulbright Awards for 2025-26

Chapel Hill, N.C. – The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is bursting with pride as it announces an extraordinary achievement: five dedicated faculty members and 24 brilliant students have been granted the highly coveted Fulbright U.S. Scholar and Student Program awards for the 2025-26 academic year.

This remarkable cohort of 29 Tar Heels stands as a shining testament to Carolina’s unwavering dedication to global engagement, pioneering research, and unparalleled academic excellence.

The Fulbright Program, a prestigious initiative sponsored by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, is renowned as the nation's premier international educational exchange program.

Its core mission is to bridge cultures and foster profound mutual understanding between the people of the United States and communities across the globe. For decades, Fulbright has empowered individuals to explore, learn, and contribute on an international stage, creating a network of global citizens.

This year’s stellar group of Carolina recipients will embark on transformative journeys to various countries, immersing themselves in diverse cultures and tackling critical global challenges.

Their projects span an impressive array of disciplines and academic interests: from doctoral candidates meticulously researching sustainable agriculture practices in the breathtaking landscapes of Norway, to enthusiastic undergraduates making an impact by teaching English in the vibrant communities of Spain, and esteemed professors delving into crucial public health initiatives in the dynamic context of South Africa.

This consistent success solidifies UNC-Chapel Hill’s reputation as a perennial powerhouse in attracting top-tier international scholarships.

Over the past decade, Carolina has consistently ranked among the nation's leading institutions for producing Fulbright scholars and students. The program offers more than just funding; it provides an unparalleled opportunity for profound personal, academic, and professional growth, allowing participants to gain invaluable global perspectives and contribute meaningfully to the world's most pressing issues.

Chancellor Kevin M.

Guskiewicz enthusiastically extended his heartfelt congratulations to the awardees. "Our Fulbright recipients truly embody the spirit of global citizenship, intellectual curiosity, and selfless service that defines UNC-Chapel Hill," Chancellor Guskiewicz stated. "Their dedication to scholarship and their willingness to embrace diverse cultures will undoubtedly create a lasting, positive impact on communities worldwide, while simultaneously enriching their own worldviews and future endeavors."

Beyond the immense prestige, the Fulbright awards provide comprehensive support, covering travel expenses, living stipends, and health benefits.

This crucial financial backing enables recipients to fully dedicate themselves to their innovative projects without financial burden. Upon their return, Fulbright alumni frequently emerge as influential leaders in their respective fields, bringing back enriched international perspectives and experiences to their local communities and beyond.

The university fervently encourages all eligible students and faculty to explore the life-changing opportunities presented by the esteemed Fulbright program, inspiring the next generation of global leaders.