Carolina Panthers & UNC Charlotte Announce Partnership Focused on Growth & Talent Progress
CHARLOTTE, NC – The Carolina Panthers and UNC Charlotte today announced a new partnership designed to amplify the University’s growing regional impact and bolster both organizations’ commitment to the Carolinas.The collaboration will feature increased UNC Charlotte visibility throughout the Panthers season and expanded professional development opportunities for Tepper Sports & Entertainment (TSE) employees.
The partnership will see UNC Charlotte maintain a strong presence during Panthers games thru digital campaigns, in-stadium branding, and on-site activations at bank of America Stadium. TSE will also work with the University to support employees pursuing MBA degrees, fostering a stronger connection between the two institutions. Notably, several TSE executives are UNC charlotte alumni, including Chief financial officer David Dickerson ’92 and Chief Peopel Officer Kisha Smith ’06.
“Our partnership with UNC Charlotte reflects a shared belief in the power of education and community investment,” said Kristi Coleman, CEO of Tepper Sports & Entertainment and president of the Carolina Panthers. “We’re proud to work alongside the University to help cultivate emerging talent, expand professional opportunities, and contribute to the region’s continued growth.”
Under the leadership of Chancellor Sharon L. Gaber, UNC Charlotte has reached a record enrollment of 32,207 students for the fall 2025 semester and boasts a network of over 99,000 alumni in the region. The University recently achieved prestigious R1 - or Research 1 – status from the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education,recognizing its leadership in research.
“The Panthers bring national recognition to the queen City and the remarkable growth happening here,” said Gaber. “This partnership underscores UNC Charlotte’s role in driving that progress and reflects our shared commitment to strengthening Charlotte and the Carolinas.”
UNC Charlotte’s upward trajectory continues to be recognized nationally, recently achieving its highest-ever ranking in U.S. news & World Report’s 2026 Best Colleges,rising to No. 74 among public research universities. It is one of only three public research institutions in North Carolina ranked in the top 75.
