Sonja Haynes Stone Center for Research in Black Culture and history

The Stone Center supports the critical examination of all dimensions of African American and African diaspora cultures and seeks to be a beacon of digital equity, innovation and community engagement. 

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Your support of the Stone Center is transformational.

An investment in the Stone Center isn’t just a gift, it’s a statement of belief in the future we are building — one that will amplify the stories, struggles and triumphs of Black communities to build a more just and equitable world.

Cards
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Transform programs

Foster collaboration and research in an ecosystem rooted in digital equity.

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Transform experience

Enhance inquiry and innovation through immersive and educational opportunities.

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Transform learning

Empower communities to create sustainable solutions for pressing challenges.

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Bringing culture, connection and conversation to campus

Get to know the Stone Center with this virtual tour, led by Director LeRhonda Manigault-Bryant. Private philanthropy is the cornerstone that enables this transformational work on campus and beyond. 

WATCH THE VIRTUAL TOUR (Opens in new tab)

A vibrant academic and community engagement hub

Rooted in the spirit of educational transformation, the Stone Center seeks to become a globally recognized research center committed to advancing knowledge of African American and African diaspora experiences.

Research shows…

the Stone Center supports course programming for 60+ University schools and departments.

15,000

students and faculty served in classrooms

350

campus and community-wide events hosted at the Stone Center

30,000+

visitors annually
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FY25 Impact Report

Because of a committed community of supporters, partners and advocates, the Sonja Haynes Stone Center continues to grow as a vital hub for scholarship, culture and public engagement. Each year, we deepen our impact — amplifying voices, advancing critical research and creating spaces where ideas and communities can flourish.

READ THE FY25 REPORT (Opens in new tab)

Support the Sonja Haynes Stone Center for Research in Black Culture and History

Your support of the Stone Center fuels groundbreaking research, innovative programs, impactful community engagement and transformative partnerships. Make a gift today to advance the work of the Stone Center. 

See Related Funds

Stone Center Communiversity Program

Provide support for the CommUniversity Youth Program (CYP) is the Stone Center’s longest-running outreach program. CYP, founded by Carolina students in 1992, serves an enrichment program for K-12 scholars. Communiversity Youth Program is supported by volunteers from the campus community and takes place after school, four days per week during the academic year.

Stone Center Seat Naming Campaign

Provides donors with the opportunity to inscribe their name, a loved one’s name, their business, or in memoriam, to create a lasting legacy. A permanent brass plate with your inscription will be installed on the seat you select in the Stone Center Auditorium. Your named seat serves as a reminder of your commitment to the Stone Center’s mission.

The Harbor Fund

Provides support for the maintenance of and resources for The Harbor, our newly renovated student-centered space on the Stone Center's third floor, designed to transform student learning and experience.

Sonja Haynes Stone Center Gift Fund

Provides support for the Stone Center to respond to pressing programmatic needs and pursue new opportunities, as well as collaborate on innovative projects with faculty, students, and staff.

Your support in action

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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 the Stone Center’s mission.

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Kara Endsley

Philanthropy Officer
karase@unc.edu (919) 962-9001
“We want people to see themselves in the work we do and to leave inspired, informed and empowered to gain a deeper understanding of our history and culture.”
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LeRhonda Manigault-Bryant, PhD

Director, Sonja Haynes Stone Center for Research in Black Culture and History