The University of South Carolina’s David and Nicole Tepper Scholars receive funding to cover a substantial portion of their tuition costs, but that’s just the beginning.

Since 2020, the Tepper Scholars Program has annually awarded merit-based four-year scholarships to four incoming sport and entertainment management freshmen, and three-year scholarships to two general scholars studying any major at South Carolina. The Teppers, owners of the Carolina Panthers and Charlotte FC, have also constantly provided opportunities for the students.

Most recently, they welcomed the six newest Tepper Scholars to Bank of America Stadium as the Panthers hosted the Falcons on Oct. 13. Tickets to an NFL game alone would be quite a gesture, but again, the Teppers went above and beyond.

The students, accompanied by College of Hospitality, Retail and Sport Management faculty and staff, arrived early and were ushered into the Panthers’ executive offices. They met with leaders including Panthers President Kristi Coleman and Charlotte FC President Joe LaBue for an opportunity to make connections and ask questions.

“Talking with Kristi Coleman about the Panthers’ international game in Germany and the NFL's focus on growing outside the U.S. was super exciting,” said Tepper Scholar Lizzie Powell. “I'd love the opportunity to help the NFL reach a broader international audience.”

“I also enjoyed hearing Joe LaBue talk about the planning involved with coordinating two teams within one stadium,” Powell continued. “It's easy to see how two teams increase overall facility utilization, but I was surprised to hear about all the operational complexities that can create.”

Tepper Scholar Catherine Cory hopes to pursue a career in the entertainment industry, particularly in artist or venue management. She was able to talk one on one with Tepper Sports & Entertainment Senior Vice President and General Counsel Tanya Taylor.

“She took an interest in my goals and spoke about the opportunities available in stadium management, which really resonated with me,” Cory said. “And her insights opened my eyes to the potential to blend my passion for entertainment with the dynamic environment of sports venues.”

After meeting with the executives, the students had a chance to go onto the field during pregame warmups. Soon after arriving there, they were surprised by David and Nicole Tepper. Nicole Tepper had spoken with them during the application process and greeted them with warm hugs. Both Teppers took time to talk and get to know the scholars better.

After chatting and posing for pictures with their benefactors, the students enjoyed the game from great seats, along with access to fantastic food in The Vault. It was a day of fun and of lessons learned.

“I was so impressed to see how much work goes into everything, how many opportunities there are in the sports management field, and how crucial it is to have coworkers you enjoy being around,” said Tepper Scholar Henry Della Penna.

“I loved seeing how all the different groups within Tepper Sports & Entertainment work together in managing their teams and entertainment businesses,” said Powell. “Working together, they support each other's success.”

The day was also a reminder, as Tepper Scholar Raegan Feldman explained, that the Tepper Scholars program is much more than just a scholarship.

“My biggest takeaway from the visit was how genuinely the leaders of the Panthers organization, including the Teppers, care about each of us and our interests, and how willing they were to share valuable insights about their careers.”