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University employee contributions
Impact beyond the classroom
At UNC-Chapel Hill, impact extends far beyond the classroom.
University employees and initiatives support local communities, fuel innovation across industries and play a vital role in North Carolina’s economy and future.
Explore ways the University’s operations power our local community and state at large.
*All statistics from FY25 and do not include construction, athletics, tourism or UNC Health System.
- $8.3 billiontotal economic activity across NC
- 29,312Orange County jobs supported
- $3.3 billionadded to Orange County GDP
“As the University and adjacent local jurisdictions plan together for growth, this data is a great tool to facilitate continued collaboration. Carolina’s impact for the entire state begins right here with our relationships with the towns and counties that support every aspect of our educational enterprise.”
Ivy Taylor ’98 (MRP), local relations director
“The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill has had an incredible impact on both my life and our business, creating opportunities and providing support that is second to none. What makes Carolina so special is its people—a community that genuinely shows up, invests in one another, and strengthens local businesses every day.”
Alex Brandwein ’20 (MBA), owner of Brandwein’s Bagels
Fueling our local community and powering our state
STAR students help solve business challenges
The UNC Kenan-Flagler STAR program celebrates 20 years of teamwork and experiential learning.
Training for new legislators highlights bipartisanship
At the UNC School of Government’s orientation, politicians from both sides of the aisle learn how to govern.
Carolina Community Academy marks 3 years of collaboration
Second grade graduates created a tree-themed art installation for the innovative K-2 lab school’s Roxboro location.
10 Chapel Hill mainstays tie Tar Heels together
These businesses survived challenges and change to serve the local community and welcome back generations of Carolina alumni.
NCGrowth aids Mayland’s visionary Three Peaks Enrichment Center
Kenan Institute experts helped the community college secure funding for the resource hub in its redevelopment project.
PlayMakers set designer takes her final bow
After 18 seasons and 45 productions, set designer Jan Chambers will retire Feb. 16.
UNC Rural director wears ‘many different hats’
Adam Sotak provides insight on how the program connects rural communities with campus partners and resources.
Trial school helps defense attorneys prepare for court
In the UNC School of Government program, public and private defenders practice presenting real cases through mock trial workshops.
2025 Massey Awards recognize service to Carolina
The recipients include two housekeepers, two academic staff members, a retired dean and a research professor.