Giving

The Most Sterling Example of Public Service

John joined the faculty of the Institute of Government (now School of Government) in 1956, and served as the Institute’s Director for twenty-four years (1962–73 and 1979–92). Under his expert guidance, the Institute gained the solid foundation and impeccable reputation for service that enabled it to succeed as the nation’s largest and most diversified university-based local government training institution.  John’s leadership and commitment to the School of Government was recognized in 2004 with the dedication of the renovated and expanded School of Government facility as the Knapp-Sanders Building.  Upon Sanders’ retirement from the faculty in 1995, William Friday, President Emeritus of the University of North Carolina, said, “When you speak about John Sanders, you speak about the most sterling example of public service of anyone I know. Thomas Jefferson said every American owed something to his country, and John is the finest example of the Jeffersonian mandate.”

John Sanders’ impact within the University extends well beyond the School of Government.  He served as the Secretary and principal staff person to the Governor’s Commission on Education Beyond High School (Carlyle Commission).  The Commission’s 1962 report led to the expansion of the University of North Carolina as well as the establishment of the state’s Community College System.  After the University’s 1971 expansion to 16 campuses and the formation of its current governance structure, President Bill Friday called on John to serve as the University’s Vice President for Planning.  During his tenure in this position from 1973 to 1978, John developed the University’s first long-range plan as well as an affirmative-action plan at a crucial juncture in college desegregation.

Despite his long list of accomplishments, the mentoring relationships that John has forged with students are regarded among his greatest achievements. By extending himself to student leaders, he has helped to shape the successful professional and personal paths of countless young men and women.  He remains a steady, guiding influence and friend for many and can be proud of these students, past and future, as they make their own contributions at local, state, national, and international levels.

To make a gift to fund the John L. Sanders Faculty Development Fund, visit our Make a Gift page.