The Clark Atlanta University Alumni Association, Charlotte Chapter, now proudly known as the Panther Alumni Club of the Carolinas (PACC), held its first meeting on November 19, 2009, at the Mecklenburg Democratic Office in Charlotte. What began as a small gathering of passionate alumni quickly grew into a thriving chapter committed to connection, service, and impact.

By May 2010, the first officers were installed, and just a month later the chapter was officially chartered. Among the founding members were Nicole Bell and Truda Nathan, who both went on to serve as Presidents of the chapter. More than a decade later, they remain active and dedicated leaders in the Panther family.

From the beginning, PACC was about more than fellowship. It was about creating opportunities. In 2017, during a meeting of just 12 members, the chapter began to dream bigger: How could we raise more scholarship funds, honor distinguished alumni, and grow our reach? That vision became reality on September 22, 2018, when the Charlotte Chapter hosted its inaugural Scholarship Brunch. With the theme “Charlotte Renaissance,” the event honored three remarkable alumni, Wil Brooks (AU ’75), Katrina Jones-Young (CC ’80), and Arion Herbert (CAU ’97), while raising vital funds for student scholarships.

The first scholarships provided support for books, but over the years the chapter expanded its impact by contributing to “Close the Gap,” an initiative that helps CAU students stay enrolled and graduate despite financial challenges. In 2023, PACC awarded $6,000 to three deserving students. In 2024, the chapter hosted its 7th Annual Scholarship Brunch with an even greater goal: raising $10,000 to “Close the Gap,” supporting incoming freshmen with books and gift cards, and continuing to uplift the next generation of Panthers.