The Honors College at historically Black North Carolina A&T State University is one of three recipients of the 2025 National Collegiate Honors Council Portz Grant. Presented annually, the grant is awarded to outstanding honors programs that demonstrate creativity, impact, and a commitment to advancing honors education.
At NCA&T, the grant will support the “Honors Without Borders” program. Set to launch in January 2026, the program will provide honors students the opportunity to engage in virtual study abroad experiences featuring keynote lectures and interactive sessions with scholars from all seven continents. This unique initiative aims to introduce students to global learning without the financial and logistical barriers associated with traditional study abroad experiences.
Gerard Dumancas, professor of chemistry and associate dean of research and program innovation in the Honors College, will overseen the initiative.
“We are honored to receive the NCHC Portz Grant and grateful for the opportunity to launch a truly global initiative. ‘Honors Without Borders’ will empower our students to connect, collaborate, and learn from diverse cultures and disciplines,” said Professor Dumancas. “By removing barriers to international engagement, we are helping shape the next generation of leaders who are prepared to address complex global challenges.”
