UNC Charlotte’s Honors College hosted its 2026 All-Honors Graduation and Awards Ceremony on April 27, bringing together students, families, faculty, staff, and campus leaders to recognize academic excellence and community achievement.
The event highlighted the accomplishments of honors students as well as the support provided by faculty and donors. Malin Pereira, dean of the Honors College, said, “Each year, our honors students demonstrate what academic excellence and engaged citizenship look like at UNC Charlotte. This year’s graduates and award recipients exemplify the curiosity, leadership and commitment to service that define our Honors College. We are immensely proud of their achievements and the impact they will continue to make at Charlotte and beyond.”
This year saw a significant increase in applications for nationally competitive scholarships requiring campus endorsement—up by 66 percent—and several notable firsts for UNC Charlotte. The university produced its first Marshall finalist with senior Annabelle Hill, as well as its fifth Goldwater Scholar in junior Arnav Sareen. Students also received recognition from national programs such as Truman, Gilman, Boren, and Fulbright awards.
Michael Lizotte received the Faculty Recommender Award for his exceptional support of student applicants. Al Maisto Honors College Scholarships were awarded to Alaija Alexander, Bronwen Bates, and Kevin Nanney for their academic achievement and service. Delbridge E. Narron Scholarships went to Heather Anderson, Ronald Bautista Moreno, and Charlotte Crees in recognition of character through community service; these awards can also support international study abroad experiences. Study Abroad Scholarships were given to Lauren Alexander-Raynor, Kean Dao, Shea Olson, Shradha Rout, and Nick Vuchev.
Ten students received UNC Charlotte Alumni Association Merit Scholarships this year: Adda Fisher; Kylie Greenelsh; Saanvi Kundu; Kenna Lawing; Ennifer Moyei; Mo Pirela; Reina Rached; Agnes Rodts; Mason Wood; Alissa Young. Graduates from merit scholar programs—including Martin Scholars, Albert Scholars, Johnson Scholars,and Freeman Scholars—as well as all students graduating with honors from any of the university’s thirty honors programs were recognized during the ceremony.
The Honors College serves nearly one thousand high-achieving students across thirty interdisciplinary or discipline-based programs under its motto “Curiosity Community City.” It provides major merit-based scholarships,fellowship advising,and a collaborative network among staff,fellows,and program directors.
