2025 Alumni Awards

Outstanding Service Award -A passionate advocate for socioeconomic development and a champion for immigrant communities in Charlotte, Miriam blends her commitment to social work with an entrepreneurial spirit. After earning a master’s degree in social work at UNC Charlotte, Miriam dedicated herself to supporting Spanish-speaking immigrant families facing mental health challenges. Drawing on early experiences […]

Distinguished Alumni Award -A tireless advocate for community empowerment, Senator Joyce Waddell has dedicated her career to transforming the lives of North Carolinians through her unwavering commitment to education, healthcare and housing. As a North Carolina State Senator for District 40 since 2014, Senator Waddell has championed policies that support women, children and families. Her […]

Distinguished Alumni Award – A proud Niner, Scott received his B.A. in business administration in 1987. At UNC Charlotte, he balanced his studies with working full-time managing a hotel—a testament to his early dedication. He later earned an MBA from the University of Virginia Darden School of Business. Today, Scott is the Group Chief Executive of […]

Distinguished Alumni Award -After graduating in 2003 with a degree in business administration, Bryan worked developing system-based applications for the Department of Defense. In 2005, he co-founded Skookum—a digital business technology company—with his UNC Charlotte roommate, James Hartsell. His visionary leadership steered Skookum to success, culminating in its acquisition by GlobalLogic Inc. in 2019. Bryan […]

Distinguished Alumni Award -With over 25 years of experience in local government and the nonprofit and private sectors, Terrell has dedicated his career to public service, economic development and community building. Terrell currently serves as an Assistant City Manager for the City of Jacksonville, North Carolina. He has vast experience in working for solutions in […]