Congratulations to the First Cohort of Tepper Scholars at University of South Carolina

COLUMBIA, S.C. – A group of students who had the unique opportunity to work closely with the Carolina Panthers are now celebrating a major milestone as they graduate from the University of South Carolina. This inaugural class of Tepper Scholars consists of four talented individuals who have been recipients of a 4-year scholarship funded by the team’s owners.

Real-World Experience with the Panthers

Maddi McLain, one of the Tepper Scholars set to graduate in 2024, expressed her enthusiasm for the program, stating, “I’m very much more football-oriented, so having the opportunity to work so close with the Panthers has been a dream come true.” The scholars received scholarships covering approximately half of their tuition costs over the course of four years.

Hands-On Opportunities

Since its inception in 2020, the Tepper Scholars Program has supported a total of twenty scholars. Participants have had the chance to intern at high-profile events such as the Super Bowl and March Madness tournament in Columbia, as well as work with both the Carolina Panthers and Charlotte FC.

McLain shared her valuable insights gained from hands-on experience with NFL teams, including the Los Angeles Rams and Carolina Panthers. She emphasized the dedication and meticulous planning involved in both player operations and behind-the-scenes logistics.

A Vision for Giving Back

Nicole Tepper, who oversees the Tepper Scholars Program, highlighted her family’s commitment to giving back to the community. Upon relocating to the Carolinas in 2018, the Tepper family established the scholarship program with the goal of providing students with practical experience in the sports entertainment industry.

Tepper emphasized the importance of guiding students towards their career aspirations, saying, “You’re working so hard behind the scenes, and it’s really good exposure for them to understand; Do I want to do this? Is this where I want to be?”

Fulfilling Career Paths

As the first cohort of Tepper Scholars graduates, McLain plans to return to her home state of Maryland to work with the Baltimore Ravens. Meanwhile, students still participating in the program will continue their internships with the Carolina Panthers and Charlotte FC throughout the summer of 2024.

Congratulations to the Tepper Scholars on their impressive accomplishments and best wishes for their future endeavors!