Morehead-Cain Global Fellows Program

Your Journey to Global Leadership Begins Here

The Global Fellows Program

Morehead-Cain invites the world’s most promising young leaders to apply for the 2026 Global Fellows Program.

This fully funded, highly selective program brings together extraordinary leaders from across the globe to study at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. For one transformational year, you will push boundaries, hone your leadership, and join a legacy of changemakers shaping the future.

Step forward and shape the world for the better. Together.

About Morehead-Cain

Start Your Application

The Experience and People at Carolina

Morehead-Cain brings promising leaders to the first public university of the United States—and undoubtedly one of its finest and most beautiful.

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is a world-class institution nestled in an idyllic setting—a special place some say is touched by magic.

Learn from the world’s foremost experts at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill . . .

Aziz Sancar, MD, PhD

A Nobel Prize-winning scientist and trailblazer in DNA repair research, whose groundbreaking work is transforming our understanding of cancer and human health.

Tressie McMillan Cottom, PhD

A MacArthur “Genius” Fellow and New York Times contributor, whose fearless insights on race, class, and power will change the way you see the world.

Nancy Messonnier, MD

The former director of the Centers for Disease Control, whose decisive leadership and expertise shaped national responses to pandemics and advanced global health strategies.

Praneeth Chakravarthula, PhD

A visionary researcher pushing the boundaries of optical engineering and augmented reality, revolutionizing the way we see and interact with the world.

Collaborate with impactful young leaders . . .

Takhona Hlatshwako ’22

From Manzini, Eswatini, Takhona is a Rhodes Scholar and PhD candidate studying international health and tropical medicine.

Maria Silva ’22

From Lima, Peru, Maria is a Schwarzman Scholar at Tsinghua University pursuing a master’s in global affairs.

Andrew Buchanan ’23

From Redondo Beach, California, Andrew is leveraging AI and GIS technologies for solar development as the co-founder and CEO of MAIA Analytics.

Ananya Tadikonda ’23

From Boyds, Maryland, Ananya is an M.D. candidate at Harvard Medical School in pursuit of a career in primary care and health services research.

Gain membership into a community of distinguished Morehead-Cain Alumni . . .

Hon. Karen Stevenson ’79

A U.S. Chief Magistrate Judge, who is the first Black female Morehead-Cain and first African American female Rhodes Scholar.

Jonathan Reckford ’84

Named “the most influential nonprofit leader in America” by The Nonprofit Times, Jonathan is the CEO of Habitat for Humanity International.

Silphi Somaya Gowda ’92

An award-winning, New York Times and internationally bestselling author of Secret Daughter, The Golden Son, and The Shape of Family.

Camilo Durana ’04

The executive vice president at Major League Soccer (MLS) oversees the organization’s partnerships with major national and international brands.

Life at Carolina

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Morehead-Cain Global Fellows Program?

The Morehead-Cain Global Fellows Program is a highly selective, fully funded one-year fellowship for exceptional student leaders from around the world to study at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. It combines rigorous academics, leadership development, and global engagement to empower the next generation of changemakers.

Who is eligible to apply?

Undergraduate students currently enrolled at international universities who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and a commitment to global impact are eligible. Applicants must have completed two years of study at their home institution and have at least one year before graduation.

What does the fellowship offer?

The program provides full funding for travel, tuition, fees, living expenses, and enrichment opportunities during your year at UNC–Chapel Hill.

How do I express interest in the program?

Start by completing the interest form on the Start Your Application page. This ensures you’ll receive updates and resources to guide you through the process.

More FAQs

Our Community

Morehead-Cains come from across the globe.

Their interests are diverse, and their perspectives vary widely. These are their stories.

Have Questions?

If you or your nominator have any questions about the process, contact us using the form below. Additional details are available on the Frequently Asked Questions page.

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