Our Historic Journey: 1966 – 2026

1966 – 1978: Our Shared History and Achievements

From first grade through twelfth grade, we shared an educational journey that became part of history! During a pivotal era in America—marked by the civil rights movement and the end of Jim Crow segregation—we were the Baby Boomers born between 1959 and 1960, making history as the FIRST trailblazer class to attend all twelve years in the newly integrated Chapel Hill-Carrboro school system. Unknowingly, we were the “test kids,” who were studied and evaluated by the American education system to determine the success of integration.

For most of us, life was simple and carefree—just childhood fun, making new friends, and enjoying the vibrant trends of the 60s and 70s: afros, stacked shoes, long hair, halter tops, PF flyers, bellbottoms, leisure suits, and so much more! We learned, bonded, and grew in school together, while receiving a quality education amidst a transforming nation. Those formative years laid the foundation for lifelong friendships. When we graduated and stepped into the world that awaited us, those 12 years together remained a bond that endures today.

Our shared history is why we want every member of our great class to be remembered for this incredible journey. And we’re just getting started...

60 Years Later: 2026 - Our Historic Memorial Endowment Scholarship

Making history again, Team ’78 achieved a remarkable milestone by establishing an endowed scholarship for future Chapel Hill High School graduates, becoming the first alumni class to do so. This scholarship honors our late classmates who were part of our historic journey beginning in 1966. Each recipient of the 1978 Memorial Scholarship keeps the memory of our deceased classmates alive. Though they are no longer with us physically, they are forever remembered through this enduring endowment.

Our scholarship is a testament to the lifelong friendships forged in an integrated class of 60 years. And our legacy is still being written...