Andy Jin’s (BSBA ’24, BA ’24) experience of what business can do to solve problems was shaped at UNC Kenan-Flagler. “As UNC Kenan-Flagler graduates, the knowledge we’ve acquired, the skills we’ve honed and the resilience we’ve built are tools that not only empower us to navigate this open terrain but afford us the opportunity to affect change on a grand scale. Whether it be through innovative business ventures, meaningful community service or social justice advocacy, each of us has the power to leave a lasting impact.”

The pioneering Center for Sustainable Enterprise received an estate gift valued at $11 million from the late Charles S. Ackerman (BSBA ’55), real estate legend. He also was a visionary when it came to appreciating the impact the center contributes to the School’s mission to develop leaders who make the world a better place and how his support could advance the center’s important work.” The center was renamed in his honor: the Ackerman Center for Excellence in Sustainability.

The goal of Minni Marwaha’s (BSPH ’03, MBA/MHA ’08) startup, Deebo, is to take the fear out of medical exams for children and make it easier for parents to figure out what ails them. Marwaha never considered herself a risk-taker. “I’ve become more confident with myself as an entrepreneur and a big part of that comes from reconnecting with the Business School and it being there for me in this stage of my career,” says Marwaha. “I realized I have this backbone that’s been built by UNC Kenan-Flagler’s MBA Program and all that I’ve learned through my career so far.

Carolina is a family affair for Kevin J. Clark (BSBA ’99). He met his wife, Udanda Clark (BA ’99, MAC ’00), at UNC when they were undergraduates. They share their time and treasure with our community, including the Udanda and Kevin Clark Fellowship in Accounting. “Believe me when I tell you, the more you invest in this community, the more this community will invest in you,” says Clark. “Tar Heels are family. We care for each other. We celebrate each other. We mentor each other. You are part of a community unlike any on the planet, so don’t take it for granted.

Hailey Innocent (MBA ’25) brought her expertise in commercial interior design to her studies in real estate development, seeking a career in the built environment and sustainable communities. She found students and faculty to be “incredibly impressive, inspiring and accessible. The culture is rooted in community and support.” She also received support from alumni, including as a Horey Family Fellow and Vetter Dean's Fellow.

Steve Vetter (BSBA ’78) and Debbie Vetter (ABED ’78) credit their Carolina education changing their lives and contributing to their career success. They made an endowed gift of $10 million to support and enhance the highly selective Dean’s Fellows Program: “To play a role in developing the next generation of business leaders is profoundly meaningful to us. My hope is Vetter Dean’s Fellows remember the role the program and UNC Kenan-Flagler played in their success, and they give back in ways that enable others to follow in their footsteps.”

Steven D. Bell (BA ’67) has spent his life investing in people and real estate. He made his greatest investment ever in both with a $26 million pledge to support our new building. He and his wife, Jackie Bell, have a simple goal: “Investing in the success of UNC Kenan-Flagler is an investment in making North Carolina even stronger. Graduates become better employees, employers, entrepreneurs and contributors to our state. Having one of the best business schools in the U.S. right here in Chapel Hill is a precious resource for our state and our region.”

John Townsend (BA ’77, MBA ’82) and Marree Townsend (BA ’77) thrived at UNC: “Carolina is a place that we both love. We were privileged to go to the University, and we both got fabulous educations for which we are grateful. Carolina was one of the first organizations that we felt fortunate to be able to support, and it’s been such a rewarding place to continue to give to over the years. It’s wonderful to watch our contributions making a difference.”

Joseph High (BSBA ’76) attributes much of his success to UNC Kenan-Flagler – and his father, a small-business owner. Speaking with students, High shares his lessons of experiences including the importance of “leaving the organization stronger than you found it. Be a good steward.” High and his wife, Kathleen High (BA ’78), have done just that at UNC by sharing their time, expertise and financial support.

Lewis Burton (BSBA ’65) was a trailblazer. The first Black student to graduate from UNC Kenan-Flagler, he felt he could best effect social change by developing strong relationships with his classmates. He organized intramural athletic activities and participated in student government. “It’s those relationships that are most important,” says Burton. “That’s why Carolina is so special.” Classmate Coleman Ross (BSBA ’65) established the Lewis M. Burton Master of Accounting Fellowship to honor Burton’s legacy of courage, leadership and sacrifice.