Investing In Educators

Wherever you are in your teaching career, we invite you to join our professional learning community.

Through immersive experiences and leadership training, you will gain the skills and confidence to cultivate meaningful relationships with industry professionals and create resources to connect industry to the classroom.

Offered in an encouraging environment, our professional development is interactive, values your expertise, and is led by educators who understand your needs. Educators consistently rate our professional development as one of the best experiences of their careers.

HOW TO APPLY →

Headshot of Clark wearing a pink suit in front of a natural backdrop.

“I thought about leaving the profession but after attending the Summer Institute I feel rejuvenated and ready to get back in the classroom.”

Rodriques Clark, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools 

Immersive Professional Development

Our model pairs you with mentors from local industries or higher education institutions who offer firsthand insights and experiences into the workforce.

You will spend three weeks immersing yourself in your host organization’s culture, shadowing employees, touring facilities, and exploring career pathways available for students.

Our professional development institutes will then guide you in translating these immersion experiences into resources and programs for your school community, and in some instances, for your host organization.

90% of Fellows improved their skills to network with other educators

614 Fellows in 80 NC counties from the mountains to the coast

100% of Fellows said the fellowship made them a better teacher

Why Kenan Fellows?

Three-week immersion in a local industry/research setting

Classroom-to-workplace connections

80 hours of high-quality professional development

Recognition as a Kenan Fellow opens doors

$5,000 stipend

Build lasting connections with educators and community partners

Alumni share resources, guidance, and support

Kenan Fellows staff provide caring and enduring assistance

Join a statewide network of energetic and diverse educators

CEUs: 9.2 subject area and/or general.

Application Period Opens Thursday, Sept. 19, 2024
Priority Deadline: Monday, Dec. 2, 2024
Recipients AnnouncedMay 6, 2025
National Teacher Day
Online OrientationMay 2025
Summer InstituteJune 23-27, 2025, Cullowhee
Industry ImmersionJuly-August 2025
(Exact dates determined by Fellows
and industry hosts)
Fall InstituteOct. 23-24, 2025, Raleigh
Spring Institute
& Celebration
April 23-24, 2026, Raleigh