The event honors freshmen who received a 3.5 or higher with a minimum of 12 hours during the first term of their freshman year. Freshmen and their families are invited to a Sunday afternoon ceremony, during Spring term, where they will receive a certificate. The Dean of Students recognizes academic achievement through the Dean's List of Distinction and the Dean's Honor Roll. Students receive a certificate and a letter from the Dean. The award is made during Summer term for the previous year.
Information is sent to hometown newspapers regarding the listing.
Honors Convocation is held annually as a part of Academic Excellence Week to recognize academic achievement. Each undergraduate department chooses four departmental scholars, students who are outstanding in their academic performance and display departmental leadership and a potential for the future. The President, Vice Presidents, and Academic Deans participate and wear academic regalia. SRC also awards a plaque to the Outstanding Faculty Member, Advisor, Teaching Assistant, and Organization Advisor. The Robert and Ludie Dickeson Presidential Prize for Leadership Award is given annually at Spring commencement to acknowledge and reward student leadership on the UNC campus.