Office of Student Affairs

The Graduate School provides comprehensive and wholistic support to graduate students through individual and group consultation and intentional programming. The Student Affairs team is dedicated to enhancing the student experience by fostering community and belonging for a diverse student body, strengthening professional development and preparedness across a range of fields and careers, and advocating for student well-being as a foundation for student success.

Student affairs team

Kate McAnulty
Senior Associate Dean, Student Affairs
kmcanulty@unc.edu
(919) 962-7774
Bynum Hall, Room 203

Laura Thorp
Director, Student Affairs
lethorp@unc.edu
(919) 962-7786
Bynum Hall, Room 207

Ali Ramirez
Director, Student Success
alir@unc.edu
GSC, Room 103

Leanne Bajkowski
Assistant Director, Student Affairs
lbajkow@unc.edu
Bynum Hall, Room 200A

Sam Schild
Graduate Research Assistant
smschild@unc.edu

Student events

Graduate Orientation

Graduate Orientation helps new students transition to graduate study at UNC by introducing them to essential policies, resources, and personnel. All new master's and doctoral students are encouraged to attend.

Wednesday, August 13, 2025

Grad Café

In collaboration with Graduate and Professional Student Government, these casual events provide an opportunity for graduate students to connect with one another and campus leaders while refueling with free food (held three times/semester).

Spring and fall semester

Wellness Festivals

Held twice a year, this event includes a large resource fair and lunch, massages, therapy dogs, and yoga or art activities — all to help graduate and professional students relax and rejuvenate.

Spring and fall semester

Winter Commencement

This annual university-level graduation ceremony for undergraduate and graduate students recognizes August and December graduates.

Sunday, December 15, 2024

Graduate and Professional Student Appreciation Week

The annual weekly celebration of the successes and research accomplishments of our graduate and professional students.

April 7-11, 2025

Student Recognition Event

This annual celebration of student fellowship and award recipients includes poster presentations and an award ceremony.

Thursday, April 10, 2025

Doctoral Hooding Ceremony

Held in the Dean E. Smith Center, this annual ceremony celebrates the accomplishments of August, December, and May doctoral graduates.

Saturday, May 11, 2024

Student support resources

New! Carolina Food Pantry at Bynum Hall: The Carolina Food Pantry is now open at Bynum Hall! Non-perishable food items, female hygiene products, cleaning supplies, and childcare care items (like diapers and wipes) are available to graduate students in need. The pantry is located in Bynum Hall, outside of office 203, and is typically available Monday-Friday, 10:00 am-3:00 pm. If you would like to visit the pantry, please email Leanne Bajkowski to confirm a time and ensure that someone is available to help you.

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