Presidential Scholar Program

An Inside Look at Public Higher Education

The UNC System Presidential Scholar Program is a unique opportunity for recent graduates to gain first-hand experience in public higher education leadership and administration. Over the course of eleven months, Presidential Scholars work closely with staff at the UNC System Office, rotating through key departments to support day-to-day operations and strategic initiatives.

This full-time, paid fellowship is designed for early-career professionals who are eager to explore how a world-renowned higher education system functions – from policy development, legal affairs, and finance to communications and student affairs.

MEET THE CURRENT SCHOLARS 

UNC System 2026-27 Presidential Scholars (from left to right): Katherine Helms, Jordan Martin, John Squier, and Zachary Tucker.

Katherine Helms, NC State University

Katherine Helms, of Fairfax Station, Va., graduated summa cum laude from NC State University with a bachelor’s degree in political science and a minor in statistics. A member of the Wolfpack women’s swim team, a top-10 NCAA program, she earned Academic All-ACC honors and All-American recognition. She also served as governance chair for the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee and civic engagement chair for Pack United. Helms gained policy experience as a Hunt intern at the Institute for Emerging Issues, researching North Carolina’s energy infrastructure, and analytical experience with the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. As an Engaged Athlete Fellow, she led a swim-safety program for children from low-income households. After her fellowship, Helms plans to pursue graduate study in applied policy analytics and explore roles in the public or nonprofit sector. 

Jordan Martin, University of North Carolina Charlotte

Jordan Martin, of Wake Forest, graduated summa cum laude from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte with a bachelor’s degree in political science and communication, with a minor in journalism. During the 2024 presidential election, she served as an elections specialist with the Mecklenburg County Board of Elections. She also worked in UNC Charlotte’s Office of External Relations and Partnerships, preparing briefing materials, supporting outreach to policymakers, and assisting with university advocacy efforts. Martin has represented the university at legislative events and served as a student mentor. After the fellowship, she plans to attend law school and pursue a career in public service. 

John Squier, University of North Carolina Pembroke

John Squier, of Raeford, graduated from the University of North Carolina Pembroke with a bachelor’s degree in applied physics. He served as student body president and an ex-officio member of the Board of Trustees, representing the student body and working to strengthen communication between students and university leadership. Squier also serves in the U.S. Army Reserves as a chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear specialist. Following the fellowship, he plans to pursue graduate study in physics while completing the Reserve Officer Training Corps program, preparing for a career as a military officer and in higher education. 

Zachary C. Tucker, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Zachary C. Tucker, of Durham, graduated with distinction from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill with a bachelor’s degree in political science and African American studies. He is a published author in the Global Africana Review. At Carolina, Tucker held leadership roles in student organizations, including Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc. and the Black Student Movement. He has served as a Higher Education Fellow at The Hunt Institute and as a policy intern with the North Carolina Collaboratory, contributing to research that informs statewide decision-making. His experience also includes roles with the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality, the North Carolina Administrative Office of the Courts, and the North Carolina Budget & Tax Center. After the fellowship, Tucker plans to attend law school and pursue a career in public service. 

WHERE ARE SCHOLARS TODAY? 

Program participants have gone on to enroll in top-ranked graduate and professional programs across the nation as well as launch careers as the leaders of tomorrow.