Holden and Patti Thorp have received the William F. Little Award for Distinguished Service to the College of Arts and Sciences in recognition of their leadership and service as the University’s “First Couple.”
The award resolution notes Holden’s service as chancellor, former dean of the College and chair of the department of chemistry, and as a “champion of innovation,” and Patti’s roles as chair of the PlayMakers Advisory Council, supporter of the Carolina Women’s Leadership Council, passionate Tar Heel fan, and “advocate for arts.”
The honor was conferred during a surprise presentation at the Arts and Sciences Foundation board dinner on April 18 by College Dean Karen M. Gil and Foundation Board Chair Vicki Craver.
“Holden has strengthened Carolina and the College in many ways over the past two decades,” said Gil. “Patti has been a tremendous asset to all aspects of the University’s mission, and her support for the arts has made a visible difference.”
“Patti and Holden have captured our minds, our hearts, and our hopes for Carolina to lead in solving the greatest problems of our time,” said Craver.
Chancellor Thorp said he was especially moved to receive an award honoring the memory of his mentor, longtime colleague and friend.
The award was established in 2009 by the College to recognize Little’s distinguished service and to honor faculty, staff and volunteers who have served the College with extraordinary distinction. Little was a member of the College faculty for more than 40 years. He was a distinguished chemist and chair of the chemistry department, a former vice president of the UNC system and a visionary leader who helped guide the development of the Research Triangle Park and Research Triangle Institute. He also was one of the founders of the Arts and Sciences Foundation.
The Thorps are heading to St. Louis this summer when Holden becomes provost of Washington University there. They have been in Chapel Hill for two decades, since Holden joined the College faculty in 1993.
