Graduating UNC senior, decorated military veteran Zac Rhyner changing lives

Posted May 6, 2019
Decorated military veteran Zac Rhyner is the recipient of three Purple Hearts, a Bronze Star Medal, and the Air Force Cross. He has been deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan six times and involved in humanitarian relief efforts in Haiti. He’s also a dad and a UNC biology major who urges students to step outside their comfort zones in pursuit of their dreams. (UNC.edu)

Related: Campus Connections

From an indigo hue to Carolina Blue: the history behind UNC's school colors
Many students, fans and alums have proudly proclaimed that UNC is home to "the better blue." Carolina Blue became a widely used noun in the...
Sat Mar 21, 2026

Entrepreneur, UNC alum gives back, a bagel at a time
Alex Brandwein left UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School in May 2020 with two big accomplishments: an MBA and a lease for a bagel shop a few...
Tue Mar 17, 2026

20 years after seeds were distributed to children, Davie Poplar's legacy still grows
At nearly 400 years old, the Davie Poplar has stood on UNC-Chapel Hill’s campus for as long as the University has existed. But its legacy...
Mon Mar 16, 2026

UNC creative writing associate professor’s book earns national honor
One UNC faculty member’s newest book is earning accolades. “The New Economy,” written by Gabrielle Calvocoressi, has been named a finalist for the National Book...
Sat Mar 14, 2026