Commencement Traditions
ringing of the old Bell
The UNC Charlotte Bell, which for many years hung in the belfry of the old Elizabeth School at East Fifth Street and Travis Avenue in Charlotte, was given to Charlotte College in 1963 to be rung on ceremonial occasions.
It has been rung on special occasions including March 2, 1965, when Charlotte College became the fourth branch of the University of North Carolina System and on August 11, 2010, to celebrate clearing the final hurdle to field UNC Charlotte’s football team.
The honor of ringing the Old Bell is awarded to an outstanding student leader who has shown exemplary 49er spirit. It is rung nine times, once for each of the eight academic colleges and once for The Graduate School, which means eighteen chimes are heard as the clapper hits both sides of the bell.
Your First pick
This initiative provides our newest Niner Alumni with the opportunity to start their philanthropic journey. Thanks to the generosity of a Charlotte alum, we give our graduates $2 at commencement to make their first PICK. They can invest in themselves or support future Niners by PICKING a program, college or area of campus that means the most to them.
“I’m a proud alumna of this incredible university! As the former senior class president, supporting my alma mater is an act in which I take pride in, that truly brings me joy. To me, it’s an investment in Charlotte’s education, and innovation, and helps foster all of the amazing resources provided by this great university. By contributing, you empower students to excel, drive research advancements, and strengthen UNC Charlotte’s impact on the community, creating a lasting legacy of positive change!
Giving back is the gift that keeps giving!! Gooooo Niners!”
– Judith VanBoven Class of 2023
UNC Charlotte Alumni Coin
The UNC Charlotte Alumni Coin is a symbol of our bold legacy. This custom-designed keepsake celebrates your university connection.
Learn more about the Alumni Coin and Alumni Association.
49th Reunion
The 49th Reunion, sponsored by the UNC Charlotte Alumni Association, celebrates the achievements and camaraderie of the class that graduated forty-nine years ago. The event allows alumni to reconnect with old friends, reminisce and marvel at the strides UNC Charlotte has taken over nearly five decades.