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Selfie moment during the inaugural WaveMakers Celebration of Philanthropy
WaveMakers Society

See the Impact of Making Waves

Every act of generosity ripples out to create an ocean of opportunities.

"At its heart, being a WaveMaker is about three things: creating opportunity, inspiring momentum and transforming lives."


Ellie Barker
Senior Director of Annual Giving
Branden speaking at podium

“These experiences have taught me that leadership is not simply having a title. It is about showing up, listening to people, and finding ways to make an impact.”

Branden James '26
Exercise Science; Allied Health concentration and Psychology minor

Through study abroad, campus leadership and faculty mentorship, Branden discovered his passion for healthcare administration and serving others.

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Branden shaking hands with student

“Donor support has opened the door for me in ways that I could never imagine.”

Aaron Seate '27
Psychology, Clinical Research minor

Passionate about addressing the opioid epidemic and helping our communities, Aaron is conducting cutting-edge research in areas like remote patient monitoring.

 

Aaron shaking hands with donor
Ava video capture,

“The Nursing Simulation Lab is the place, it's our classroom where we get to learn tasks that we'll be doing as nurses and preparing us for clinical.”

Ava Edwards '28
Nursing; Clinical Research minor

Contributing to research on pediatric feeding disorders by helping develop a standardized scoring guide for clinicians, Ava is building her own skills while also helping others provide quality patient care.

Your Collective Impact

More than $33 Million

Contributed by nearly 1,700 individuals and organizations between July 1, 2025 - June 30, 2026.

"The true measure of your impact is what those dollars make possible."

Eddie Stuart '05M
Vice Chancellor for University Advancement

UNCW students with Chancellor
Aaron shaking hands with donor
Chancellor shaking hands with international student

“Every transformative chapter in UNCW's history began with people willing to think boldly about what was possible. People like you.”

Aswani K. Volety
UNCW Chancellor

Laura speaking with donors

“I will carry your generosity forward by caring for families and serving communities just like the one I grew up in.”

Laura Grossheim '27

Laura in lab coat doing research
Laura holding sign
Laura crowned at Homecoming
Behind the Stories

Pier601 Creative

UNCW students in Pier601 Creative, an applied learning course that connects students with community organizations through real-world projects, produced the videos shared during the inaugural WaveMakers celebration in October 2026. 
Working in a collaborative space made possible by donors, students gain valuable professional experience while providing creative solutions and marketing services to local partners.
WaveMakers Society

The inaugural

WaveMakers Celebration of Philanthropy

 

From the first notes of the student jazz ensemble to the heartfelt stories, cheers of encouragement, and laughter that filled Kenan Auditorium, there was something special in the air at our inaugural WaveMakers' Celebration of Philanthropy this past October.

Thank you for believing in our students, celebrating their successes, and making waves that will shape futures.

 

Student jazz ensemble performing on stage
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Guests dancing at celebration