UNC's Next Challengers is co-sponsored by the Dean of Students Office and Mortar Board, the Senior honorary. 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.