UNC Charlotte had a milestone year; 2016 saw record-breaking enrollment of nearly 29,000, the most diverse student body ever with representation from 103 countries and more than $40 million in awarded research grants.
There was much to celebrate in 2016 - here are a few favorites:
1. 70th Anniversary:
UNC Charlotte marked its 70th year as an institution by kicking off Exponential: The Campaign for UNC Charlotte to fund student scholarships, recruit and retain talented faculty, enhance the student experience and invest in high impact projects.
2. Globetrotters:
Our students traveled near and far soaking up global knowledge: They participated in the political process in Cleveland and Philadelphia, explored educational systems in China and Korea, studied food insecurity in South Africa and uncovered the past on Mount Zion.
3. Outstanding Students:
Junior Sean Myhand was honored by North Carolina Campus Compact for his work with the newly-formed Student Philanthropy Council and the Jamil Niner Student Pantry.
4.
Faculty Accolades:
Our talented faculty remained as busy and determined as ever. Bragging rights include a Fulbright Grant, a Fulbright Fellowship and a 2016 Inspiring Woman in STEM Award.
5. A New Doctoral Degree:
Belk College of Business launched a Doctorate in Business Administration, the first of its kind in North or South Carolina.
6. 
Civic Engagement Awards:
Chancellor Philip L. Dubois received the 2016 World Citizen Award, Provost Joan Lorden was honored as a leader in civic engagement, and UNC Charlotte was lauded for its community work by the prestigious Washington Center.
7. Game-changing Grants:
The National Science Foundation awarded the University $4 million for Big Data and the School of Social Work received $2 million to fund graduate scholarships.
8. Extraordinary Generosity:
UNC Charlotte was the fortunate benefactor of a number of gifts that led to the naming of the Karen A. Popp and Demond T. Martin Student Union (donors pictured above), the Cato College of Education, the Jamil Niner Student Pantry and the Turner School of Accountancy – just to name a few.
9. Connect NC Bond Passes:
Voters overwhelmingly approved the Connect NC bond. As part of the package, UNC Charlotte will receive $90 million for a new science building.
10.
Champs:
Women’s soccer finished its season as Conference USA champions. Way to go, Charlotte 49ers!