UNC Charlotte presents several awards to students during the annual University Honors and Awards Ceremony at the end of each Spring semester. These awards provide recognition to students who have made significant contributions to UNC Charlotte during their undergraduate or graduate career.
Recipients of these prestigious honors demonstrate an attitude of unselfish interest in the welfare of their fellow students and the University as a whole. The recipients must have at least a 2.75 cumulative GPA, and be in good academic and disciplinary standing with the university. Graduate student applications will be reviewed solely on contributions during graduate school and not additionally on their accomplishments as undergraduates.
- The Bonnie E. Cone Leadership Award, Chancellor's Awards, Chuck Lynch Award, and the University Commendations for Leadership and Service provide recognition to students graduating in May, August, or December who have made significant contributions to UNC Charlotte and shown outstanding qualities of scholarship and leadership during their undergraduate career.
- The Derrick Griffith Servant Leader Award provides recognition to a first generation college junior or senior student who has demonstrated leadership through on or off campus service to others, involvement in student organizations/activities, and a commitment to mentorship.
The Bonnie E. Cone Leadership Award is presented to a member of the graduating class (May, August or December 2024) whose leadership, scholarship, and service to the University embodies the spirit of Bonnie E. Cone, the founder of the University who devoted her life to the development of UNC Charlotte.
It is the highest nonacademic award a student may receive from UNC Charlotte and honors students who demonstrate a breadth and dedication of involvement, demonstrated initiative in improving the campus community, inclusive and collaborative leadership, demonstrated integrity, fostering leadership in others, and dedication to and pride in the University.
The funding for this award is provided by UNC Charlotte alumni who served as student leaders during their tenure on campus.
The Chancellor’s Awards are presented to one graduating (May or December 2024) undergraduate and graduate student leader in recognition of their outstanding leadership, academic excellence, and commitment to the campus community. Their contributions help enrich the college experience for fellow students and help develop good citizens and stewards for the future.
The Chuck Lynch Leadership Award is presented to a member of the graduating class (May, August or December 2024) in honor of former Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs, Chuck Lynch, who served the university with distinction for 34 years. This award recognizes student leadership in building relationships and programs while also mentoring others to reach their maximum potential.
University Commendations for Leadership and Service are presented to a highly engaged group of graduating students (May, August or December 2024) in recognition of their distinguished leadership and commitment to the campus community demonstrated through the initiative they have taken to improve our community.
The Derrick Griffith Servant Leader Award was established to honor the memory and legacy of alumnus Derrick Griffith, who was an active student and community leader dedicated to the service and mentorship of others. This award is given to a first generation college junior or senior student who has demonstrated leadership through on or off campus service to others, involvement in student organizations/activities, and a commitment to mentorship.
Below are tribute videos made by CUNY Prep about Derrick Griffith, and that captures him and what he did at the school.
Selection Committee Review
One application is submitted for these honors and awards, and the Honors & Awards selection committee will determine which award will be given to each award recipient. Information about award recipients will be kept confidential until the awards are presented at the annual Honors and Awards Program. You will be notified of your selection status via email. A resume and personal statement are both required.
- Derrick Griffith Servant Leader Award, Application Process: A separate application is submitted for the Derrick Griffith Servant Leader Award, and the Derrick Griffith selection committee will determine the award recipient. Information about the award recipients will be kept confidential until the awards and citations are presented at the annual Honors and Awards Program. You will be notified of your selection status via email. For the Derrick Griffith application, a resume and personal statement are both required.
Deadlines
Online applications will be open from 8:00 AM on Monday, February 19, 2024 through 11:45 PM on Sunday, March 17, 2024. No late submissions will be accepted. Applicants do not need to be nominated in order to apply. A letter of recommendation/support is highly encouraged but not required for an application to be considered complete.
- Apply for Honors & Awards on NinerEngage
- Apply for the Derrick Griffith Award on NinerEngage
Reference letters may be submitted on Niner Engage
For questions or additional information, contact Leadership & Community Engagement in Popp Martin Student Union room 280, at 704.687.7171 or via email at leadership@charlotte.edu.