The Carolina Panthers and UNC Charlotte have announced a new partnership aimed at highlighting the university’s expanding role in the Charlotte region and across the Carolinas.
The agreement will give UNC Charlotte increased visibility during the Panthers’ season through digital campaigns, branding within Bank of America Stadium, and on-site events. The collaboration also includes professional development opportunities for Tepper Sports & Entertainment (TSE) employees interested in pursuing MBA degrees at UNC Charlotte. Several TSE executives, including Chief Financial Officer David Dickerson and Chief People Officer Kisha Smith, are alumni of the university.
Kristi Coleman, CEO of Tepper Sports & Entertainment and president of the Carolina Panthers, said: “Our partnership with UNC Charlotte reflects a shared belief in the power of education and community investment. We’re proud to work alongside the University to help cultivate emerging talent, expand professional opportunities, and contribute to the region’s continued growth.”
UNC Charlotte has experienced significant growth under Chancellor Sharon L. Gaber’s leadership. The university enrolled a record 32,207 students for fall 2025 and now counts more than 99,000 alumni in the region. It recently received Research 1 (R1) status from the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education—a distinction marking it as one of the nation’s top doctoral universities.
Chancellor Gaber stated: “The Panthers bring national recognition to the Queen City and the remarkable growth happening here. This partnership underscores UNC Charlotte’s role in driving that progress and reflects our shared commitment to strengthening Charlotte and the Carolinas.”
UNC Charlotte was ranked No. 74 among public research universities by U.S. News & World Report’s 2026 Best Colleges list—its highest-ever position—and is one of only three public research institutions in North Carolina ranked within the top 75.
The Carolina Panthers franchise began play in 1995 after being established as an NFL team in October 1993. Over three decades, they have won six division titles—including three consecutive NFC South championships between 2013-15—and played in two Super Bowls (XXXVIII and 50). Owner David A. Tepper leads both Appaloosa Management L.P., a global hedge fund, and several philanthropic initiatives across North and South Carolina.
UNC Charlotte serves more than 32,000 students as an R1 institution based in North Carolina’s largest city, offering over 300 degree programs focused on research-driven learning experiences designed to strengthen local industry and workforce development.
