In a celebrated career as lawyer, chief of staff to a member of Congress, N.C. superior court judge, Z. Smith Reynolds Foundation executive director and a private and public higher education leader in North Carolina, Thomas W. Ross has shown how one person can make a difference. To honor his accomplishments and inspire the next generation of leaders, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is seeking to raise funds to create the Thomas W. Ross North Carolina Leaders Fellows Program. This exciting new initiative will honor Ross’ distinguished career by supporting UNC College of Arts & Sciences public policy undergraduates pursuing public service opportunities in the State of North Carolina during the summer.

Ross Leadership Fellows will recognize passionate and accomplished students who want to work within any sector (public, higher education, philanthropy, non-profit) and seek to advance ideas that improve the quality of life for North Carolinians. In consultation with a prospective mentor at a host organization, Ross Leadership Fellows will propose a plan of action that addresses a challenge or problem facing North Carolina. Ross Leadership Fellows will develop their professional skills in a public service environment while deepening their academic learning through hands-on experience.

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