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How Tar Heels spent their summer

Published Sept. 1, 2026

There may have been fewer students on the brick pathways across campus, but summer wasn't quiet at UNC-Chapel Hill. Tar Heels engaged in research, worked prestigious internships, hosted prospective students and served the state in myriad ways.

Look back at what Tar Heels accomplished this summer — on campus, around the state and across the nation and world.

On campus

Carolina, America's flagship

This summer, Carolina and the nation celebrated the United States' 250th birthday. For UNC-Chapel Hill, that meant looking at how the University's history runs parallel to the history of the nation. The birthplace of public higher education, Carolina opened its doors to students in 1795 and was the sole public university to award degrees in the 18th century.

For centuries, Carolina has served as a leading model for all other universities across the nation in public service, research, innovation and affordability, illustrating how a public institution should support its home state and its people.

Read more about why Carolina is at the heart of America.

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The nation and beyond

Carolina archeologist Jodi Magness’ team sent ripples across the archeological world more than a decade ago with the discovery of mosaics from an ancient synagogue in Huqoq, Israel.

Now, thanks to a $1.6 million grant from the U.S. Department of State to the W.F. Albright Institute of Archaeological Research, the Huqoq excavation site is entering a thrilling new phase.

Prof. Jodi Magness wearing a UNC t-shirt gestures while speaking to seated audience, standing between two large printed images of mosaic panels, with the

Carolina junior Wade Sharp’s career plans are really taking off.

The Asheville native spent the summer with Delta Air Lines, piloting full-motion flight simulators, riding in the cockpit on domestic and international flights and learning about the airline’s business operations as a flight operations intern.

Wade Sharp sitting in the left pilot's seat in the cockpit of a Delta Air Lines airplane and looking back to smile at the camera.

As America celebrates its 250th birthday, Carolina continues to lead the way in our nation’s capital.

Read about how time in Chapel Hill prepared four Tar Heels for D.C. careers.

Four-photo collage: Elizabeth Adkins by an office sign for Congresswoman Valerie Foushee; Chris Zaber seated in a plush Washington Nationals chair in a suite; Megan Cassella sitting at an anchor desk with the U.S. Capitol seen in the background through a window; and Frank Blazich standing in front of signage for the

The world visited North America this summer for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and several Tar Heels helped make the historic event happen.

Junior Isla Mclaughlin and alumna Emily Cancro worked in roles in team operations, transportation and fan engagement in Atlanta, while alumna Jenny Chiu hosted a World Cup TV series.

Jenny Chiu listens during a conversation at a racing venue.

Carolina’s baseball team reached the College World Series for the 13th time and second in the past three years. The Tar Heels advanced to the national championship series before falling to Oklahoma.

Read about how Roy Williams’ voice gave pitchers an assist and how catcher Carter French plans to make an impact off the field.

U.N.C. baseball team taking a group photo with the super regional trophy on the field of Boshamer Stadium.

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