The Leaders for Underserved Communities Endowment was created by Re Hatem and Chris Long, class of 1981 alumni. The two met at UNC as undergraduates, married in 1985, and established this endowment celebrating their 40th wedding anniversary. Having witnessed firsthand the difference strong, ethical leadership can make in small and economically challenged communities, they established this fund to help prepare future public service leaders to meet those needs.

Through this endowment, Re and Chris hope to inspire and equip MPA students who feel called to serve beyond North Carolina’s largest cities. It is intended to support those with a passion for working in small, rural, or underserved communities. The fund affirms the donors’ belief that capable leadership can transform even the most resource-strained communities and light the way toward a stronger, more resilient state.