Our Grantees & Partners

Great Schools North Carolina Awards Founder's Fellowship to Dr. Daena B. Adams

Great Schools North Carolina (GSNC) is pleased to announce a $50,000 investment through our Founder's Fellowship to support Dr. Daena B. Adams in designing her school model and preparing her charter application for Urban Legends Academy.

With more than 17 years of experience in urban education and school leadership, Dr. Adams has led school improvement efforts, coached educators, and developed innovative learning models that expand opportunities for students. Now, she is bringing that experience to Southwest Charlotte, where she plans to launch a 9–12 public charter school designed to help every student Dare to Be Great.

As a GSNC Founder's Fellow, Dr. Adams will receive early-stage funding and targeted support to advance her school design, strengthen community partnerships, and prepare a competitive charter application for submission in 2027. Urban Legends Academy will feature a rigorous academic program that integrates arts, athletics, restorative practices, and career-connected learning, removing barriers that have historically limited access to high-quality educational experiences for many students.

The Founder's Fellowship is one way GSNC fulfills its mission to bring scale and quality to North Carolina's charter school sector by identifying and investing in visionary leaders. Through funding, mentorship, and technical assistance, the fellowship equips founders with the resources they need to launch innovative public charter schools that expand opportunity and meet the unique needs of their communities.

Learn more about the Founder's Fellowship and other grant opportunities.