University Honors & Awards
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 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 - December 2025 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.
- First-Generation Niners are students whose parents and/or guardians did not complete a four-year college degree.
- Am I still first-gen if my sibling has a degree? YES
- Am I still first-gen if my parents/guardians have an associate’s degree? YES
- What if my parents/guardians have a four-year degree from another country? You may self-identify as First-Generation at Charlotte if you don’t have prior exposure to or knowledge of navigating higher education in the United States
- First-Generation Niners are students whose parents and/or guardians did not complete a four-year college degree.
- Please Note: Only Undergraduate students are eligible to receive the Derrick Griffith Servant Leader Award
Applications open in the Spring.
At that time, more information will be provided about the applications and selections processes.
The Bonnie E. Cone Leadership Award is presented to a member of the graduating class May - December 2025 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, collaborative leadership, demonstrated integrity, fostering leadership in others, and dedication to and pride in the University.
The Chancellor’s Awards are presented to one graduating May - December 2025 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 - December 2025 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 - December 2025 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.