Democracy, ethics & civic engagement

Help promote a thriving civic culture by empowering individuals to lead with integrity, encouraging community involvement and strengthening informed participation in democratic life at Carolina and beyond.

Students gather for a panel with a sign that reads "is democracy on the ballot?"

Nurturing public discourse and engaged citizens

We seek to equip students with the knowledge, judgment and habits necessary to emerge as leaders in a pluralistic democracy. Through civics-driven coursework, programming and events on campus, students are encouraged to share their voice in meaningful and effective ways.

A professor guides discussion with students seated in a circle

Courageous Conversations

In the SCiLL 190 course Courageous Conversations: Israel and Palestine on Campus, students developed skills in talking across differences before a spring break trip to Israel. SCiLL created the class in the wake of polarizing protests on campus following the Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas-led invasion of southern Israel.

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Your support in action

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Support democracy, ethics and civic engagement

Invest in civic engagement at Carolina. Help students elevate their voices, talents and expertise in a way that is conducive to a better society. 

See Related Funds

Advanced Leadership Corp Scholarship Fund

Provides support for participants of the School of Government’s Advanced Leadership Corp Program.

Master of Public Administration Online Student Support Endowment

Provides support for UNC MPA online format students related to enhancing student experiences and opportunities.

The United States Military Veterans Dental Scholarship Fund

Provides scholarship support for DDS and Dental Hygiene students who are veterans of the United States military (Air Force, Army, Marines, Navy or Coast Guard) in the UNC Adams School of Dentistry. DDS and DH students who are the dependents of US military veterans would also be eligible for selection based on academic performance and financial need.

The O.B. Hardison Scholarship Fund for the Humanities

Provides support for a scholarship in honor of Professor O.B. Hardison, a renowned scholar of English literature who impacted a generation of Carolina students, providing them with an intellectual awakening.

Contact us

Have questions or want to explore how your giving can make the greatest impact? We welcome the opportunity to connect and learn more about what inspires you. Reach out to start a conversation about your philanthropic goals and how you can support democracy, ethics and civic engagement.

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