Chapel Hill & Durham, North Carolina, May 4, 2023 – The Robertson Scholars Leadership Program is thrilled to welcome twenty-six incoming first-year students to the Class of 2027 Scholars. The Scholars selected are some of the brightest and most dynamic leaders from across the globe, representing three continents and fifteen states.

“The Robertson Scholars Class of 2027 is a global cohort representing an unprecedented depth and breadth of interests in transforming the world around them. Student interests encompass the environment, global affairs, public policy, healthcare, entrepreneurship, education, theater, film and the sciences among others. We are confident that this class of Robertson Scholars will make transformational contributions during college and beyond,” said Director of Recruitment Kay-Frances Brody.

The Robertson Scholars Leadership Program invests in young leaders who strive to make transformational contributions to society. Scholars are selected based on students’ commitment to outstanding academic achievement, intellectual curiosity, strength of character, purposeful leadership, and collaborative spirit. Andrew Lakis, Executive Director for the Robertson Scholars Leadership Program, remarked, “The Robertson Scholars Leadership Program is more than a scholarship to two world class institutions of higher learning – it is a life-long community of dedicated leaders with one mission: to make transformational contributions to the communities of which they are a part. Robertsons bring this mission to life every day in large and small ways. We’re excited to welcome our 2027 Robertson Scholars and look forward to the impact they will have – individually and collectively – on campus, in our communities, and across the world.”

In addition to full tuition, room, and board, Robertson Scholars receive student privileges at both Duke University and UNC-Chapel Hill, including opportunities to pursue second majors and minors, enroll in courses, spend a semester in residence on the other campus, and participate in student activities.

During the academic year, the Robertson Scholars Leadership Program provides customized leadership development experiences designed to encourage Scholars to lead with curiosity, purpose and a commitment to impacting the lives of others. Scholars are also awarded three generously funded summer experiences to supplement their learning, and have access to ongoing leadership development grants.

The Robertson Scholars Leadership Program was created in 2000 through the work and generosity of Julian Robertson, a 1955 graduate of UNC, and his wife, Josie. Inspired by their sons – one of whom graduated from Duke in 1998, and another from UNC in 2001 – the Robertsons believed that each institution offered a distinctive undergraduate experience, but that the combination of the two promised a breadth and depth of resources that no other university could match. The Robertson family continues to work closely alongside the Program staff to make this a one-of-a-kind experience for students.

The Robertson alumni network consists of more than 550 leaders on six continents, linked together by a common goal to make transformational contributions to their communities across the globe.

To learn more about the Class of 2027 please click here.