The University’s doors officially opened Jan. 15, 1795, but Carolina did not welcome its first student until Feb. 12. Hinton James Day is celebrated every Feb. 12 to commemorate the man who walked 170 miles from Wilmington in pursuit of his education. Although James found himself to be the only student for some time, more students eventually joined him on campus. James graduated from Carolina in 1798; he is noted for having founded the Dialectic Society, which remains active on campus today. James’ legacy lives on with our annual celebration and the South Campus residence hall named in his honor.
This year on Wednesday, Feb. 12, we are welcoming Hinton James back to campus for a day of fun activities celebrating the day he first set foot on campus. Activities include:
BoJos at HoJo
Kick off Hinton James Day with Hinton at his namesake residence hall. We’ll have Bojangles biscuits and photo opportunities for the residents of HoJo starting at 7:30 a.m.
Carolina’s Firsts Trivia With Hinton James
Order of the Bell Tower will be hosting Carolina’s Firsts Trivia in the Pit from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. with Hinton James himself. Test to see how much you actually know about UNC and Carolina’s Firsts.
Hinton James Day Themed Dinner
Walking all the way to main campus from Hinton James Residence Hall leaves one famished. See what Hinton James would have enjoyed for dinner during his time at UNC. We’ll have a very themed out dinner at Chase Dining Hall, including several selections that would have been popular during Hinton’s time. Don’t worry, Chase Dining Hall will still serve your usual favorites, too. Make sure to take a peek at Rams Plaza on your way to dinner to learn more about other Carolina’s Firsts.
Enter to Win
Enter to win one of two $15 gift cards to Top of the Hill when you download and log in to the free Carolina Alumni app. Yep, it’s for students, too. Simply search “UNC Alumni” in your app store. Then open the app and hit the Enter to Win tile. Winner announced via app notification so be sure you’ve allowed notifications and location services so you don’t miss who wins (you!?).
Learn more about the other 21 Carolina’s Firsts honored throughout the day.