The Kozmetsky Legacy: Living, Giving and Uplifting

Jack Kozmetsky

When Jack came to Carolina to join its nationally ranked men’s lacrosse program, he brought a lot more than sticks, pads and guards — he also brought a Texas-sized heart of gold, compassion for miles and his family’s far-reaching legacy of community outreach, advocacy and support.

Jack’s great-grandparents, Ronya and George Kozmetsky, founders of the RGK Foundation, instilled in their family the value of hard work, the power of education, and the strength of optimism, fostering a culture of giving and philanthropy that transcends the borders of the Lone Star State.

The Kozmetskys’ philanthropic culture is now having an impact at Carolina in the form of two grants supporting areas the family holds dear: Boot Prints to Heel Prints, which supports veterans on campus as they transition from military to college life, and Making Trauma Less Traumatic, which funds a dedicated, trauma-focused social worker at UNC Children’s Hospital.

“I grew up watching my entire family . . . volunteering in our community and supporting efforts to help those less fortunate,” said Jack.

For Jack’s parents, supporting their son’s efforts to make a difference in his community, wherever that may be, is crucial to them as parents, volunteers and grantors.

“When Jack decided to make Carolina his college home, we adopted it as well, and we’re so glad we did,” they said. “It’s been a tremendous experience for Jack, and we’re looking forward to seeing what his legacy will be.”

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