The Robertson Scholars Program is not just a scholarship; nor is it just a leadership development program. The Robertson Scholars Program is a comprehensive, long term investment in our Scholars' futures.
More than just a monetary award, the Robertson Scholars Program allows students to take advantage of the faculty and other resources of two of the most highly regarded universities in the nation, producing an undergraduate experience that is unequalled in American higher education. It empowers students---generally 18 at Duke and 18 at UNC-Chapel Hill each year-- to make their own education. It provides students with the resources to further pursue their passions, the freedom to experience living abroad, and the mentorship to guide them through their years in college and beyond. Personal relationships with Robertson staff and faculty at both universities help Scholars explore their passions and develop their ability to turn these passions into action. During this four year journey, Robertson Scholars learn to create change and foster collaboration both locally on the two campuses and globally during many of their summer enrichment experiences.
The Robertson Scholars Program was created in 2000 through a $24 million gift from 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 who graduated from UNC-Chapel Hill in 2001, the Robertsons wanted to encourage further collaboration between the two universities. The establishment of this innovative program, which recruits and supports undergraduates on both campuses, was designed to serve as a catalyst for increased collaboration between students, faculty, and staff of the two universities.
