Illuminating the path to higher education: CFNC celebrates 25 years of helping North Carolina students build brighter futures.
To celebrate a quarter century helping North Carolina families pursue education, CFNC announces a name change and new brand
RALEIGH, NC – For 25 years, College Foundation of North Carolina (CFNC) has helped North Carolina students and families plan, apply and pay for college. Founded in 2000 as one of the first state-sponsored college access programs in the country, this unique collaboration of State agencies, university and college systems and education organizations has helped students submit 7.7 million college applications and helped millions on their journey to college. In celebration of this milestone, and looking ahead to the next 25 years, CFNC announces an updated name from “College Foundation of North Carolina” to “College for North Carolina.”
This change emphasizes that this free service of the State is for all North Carolinians. CFNC also announces an accompanying new logo and look to showcase CFNC as a guiding light for all those who seek a path to higher education in North Carolina. The logo incorporates mountain and sea imagery that reflects support for the whole state – from the Highlands to the Tidewater.
“CFNC has brought education partners together for 25 years to ensure students know the opportunities that are available to them to continue their education and have the support they need to succeed,” said Andrea Poole, executive director of the North Carolina State Education Assistance Authority. “This long-standing collaboration speaks to North Carolina’s commitment to all students, so that they can build a brighter future for themselves, their family and their community.”
CFNC continues to support students today with signature initiatives such as Countdown to College and College Application Week, when many North Carolina colleges and universities waive application fees. This year’s College Application Week helped more than 42,000 students avoid application fees while applying to college, saving over $800,000 — with total applications up 15% from last year.
“North Carolina goes to great lengths to put a life-changing education within reach of every student, and CFNC works hard to fulfill that promise,” said UNC System President Peter Hans. “We all benefit when more North Carolinians get encouragement, advice and support on the path to college.”
Over the past year, CFNC partners have worked together to navigate a challenging Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) rollout, executing integrated communications and outreach strategies to bolster FAFSA completions across the state to ensure North Carolina families understand all of the options available to pay for college, including the Next NC Scholarship. These efforts continue this year, with over 20,000 high school seniors having completed the FAFSA as of December 2024 and tens of thousands more expected to complete it before the next school year.
"CFNC has been a steadfast partner to students and families, guiding them toward educational success with unwavering dedication and support,” said Dr. Jeff Cox, president of the North Carolina Community College System. “The partnership’s commitment to making higher education accessible and achievable is a true testament to CFNC’s enduring mission.”