🏆 Introducing The Ledger's 40 Over 40 winners 🏆
🏆 Introducing The Ledger's 40 Over 40 winners 🏆
Small-business owners, community volunteers, nonprofit leaders — this year's group of 40 leaders aged 40+ is making Charlotte better
The Charlotte Ledger announces the 2024 class of inspirational award-winners: 40 local leaders aged 40+
The Charlotte Ledger is pleased to announce this year’s recipients of The Charlotte Ledger 40 Over 40 Awards, presented by U.S. Bank.
The awards celebrate local unsung heroes aged 40+ who are doing great things in our community.
This year’s group was chosen by an independent panel of under-40 judges, who reviewed many impressive nominations — awe-inspiring and thought-provoking stories of innovators and problem-solvers who toil humbly to lift others up, or find gaps in systems and work to fill them.
They are making Charlotte a better place in a variety of ways, all over the city.
➡️ Award celebration: Help us celebrate these folks at a fun award celebration on April 30 at Griffith Hall at Lenny Boy Brewing Co., 3000 S. Tryon St. Tickets are on sale now! (more details below)
But let’s get right to this year’s winners, with summaries from their nominations:
José Alvarez, vice president, Prospera North Carolina. José is the statewide operations leader for Prospera North Carolina, a key Hispanic economic development organization. Under his leadership, the organization has seen substantial growth and increased its impact on Hispanic entrepreneurs.
Kelly Barnhardt, college consultant and owner, College Admissions Strategies. Kelly aids teens in college admissions and mental health and serves as board president of Turning Point. She balances family, work and volunteering effectively.
Michal Bay, restaurant owner and developer. Michal, who started in America as a furniture seller, now owns thriving businesses including a renovated mill and restaurants including Alino Pizzeria and The Barcelona Burger & Beer Garden in Mooresville. He generously supports global and local causes, exemplifying his commitment to improving lives.
Joanna Beck, founder and CEO, Beck Insights. Joanna specializes in improving small business efficiency in Charlotte, guiding them to profitability through process optimization. Actively involved in the National Association of Women Business Owners, her contributions significantly benefit the local community.
Liz Clasen-Kelly, CEO, Roof Above. Liz has transformed Charlotte’s approach to homelessness, creating numerous supportive housing initiatives, personally connecting with residents and advocating for everyone’s right to housing.
Courtnie Coble, founder/CEO, The Academy of Goal Achievers. Courtnie has led the organization to support over 3,500 students with mentorship, leadership and educational programs, making significant social impact in the community.
Brian Collier, president, The Gambrell Foundation. Brian has a distinguished career in philanthropy, leading initiatives for economic opportunity and community support, including during the Covid crisis, and serving as the founding president of Victory Junction for ill children.
Sherri Commander, senior property manager, Lincoln Property Co. With over 17 years at Lincoln Property Co., Sherri excels in property management, team leadership and advocacy for fairness. Her commitment extends beyond work, actively contributing to community service and professional organizations.
Nathan Currie, principal, Bruns Avenue Elementary. Dr. Currie transformed the school from low-performing to exceeding growth and is leading the transition to a new building, while fostering key community partnerships and initiatives.
Dr. Lopamudra Das Roy, founder and president, Breast Cancer Hub. Dr. Das Roy left her academic career to dedicate herself to this nonprofit, focusing on global cancer education, early detection and support, profoundly impacting healthcare and mentorship.
Angelica Figueroa, business relationship manager, Sharonview Federal Credit Union. Angelica significantly impacts Charlotte through community service, leading financial literacy workshops and supporting various social causes, demonstrating profound commitment and leadership.
Joe Forquer, director of teammate experience, Atrium Health. Joe has been pivotal in creating and expanding Atrium’s Teammate Crisis Fund, delivering substantial financial aid to employees facing severe hardships and embodying compassion and teamwork.
Jen Forsyth, owner, Start 2 Finish Event Management. Jen leads a premier event management company in Charlotte that focuses on running and cycling events. Her work significantly benefits local charities and inspires others.
Sil Ganzó, founder and executive director, ourBRIDGE for Kids. Sil, after moving from Buenos Aires to Charlotte, founded ourBRIDGE for KIDS in 2010, addressing educational and socio-emotional gaps for immigrants and refugees through tailored out-of-school programs.
Cindy Greer, owner, Transition With Care. Cindy has been aiding seniors and their families in Charlotte for 15 years, specializing in downsizing and relocation services, with her deep industry knowledge and compassionate approach.
Melody Gross, founder, Courageous SHIFT. Melody turned her survival of domestic violence into advocacy, creating programs for victim support within workplaces, leading community retreats and offering emergency financial aid.
Phil Gussman, Gussman Consulting. Active in Charlotte’s urban planning, Phil has championed sustainable development and educated residents on future plans. Through his work with the Plaza Midwood Merchants Association, he helped lead the initiative to create Charlotte’s first “social district,” navigating complex city regulations.
Ashir Haji-Mohamed, refugee case coordinator supervisor, Catholic Charities Diocese of Charlotte. Ashir secures affordable housing for refugees, leveraging his own experience as a Somali refugee. He ensures clients' smooth transition to self-sufficiency, fostering their community integration and success.
Teresa Hernandez, owner, Pura Vida Worldly Art. Teresa has created a unique fair trade business in Charlotte, offering a culturally rich, inclusive space that fosters community, remembrance and connection through diverse traditions and products.
Amy and Bill Hillis, co-founders, Social Pet Hotel & Daycare. Amy and Bill lead their pet care business with distinction. Amy, an educator turned pet care thought leader, and Bill, a military veteran and entrepreneur, have driven the company's growth through innovative management, education and steadfast dedication to their team and industry.
Helen Kimbrough, senior director, community voice, Next Stage. Helen is a DEI advocate, author and publisher, focusing on cultural representation in children’s literature through her company, AK Classics. She actively supports literacy initiatives and serves on various boards, promoting diversity and inclusion in community and organizational narratives.
Trudi Lacey, director of athletics, Johnson & Wales University. A sports trailblazer, Trudi achieved remarkable success from college athletics to coaching in the WNBA, while also championing diversity and inclusion as Chair of JWU’s DEI Task Force.
Myla Maloney, chief growth officer, PINC AI Applied Sciences, Premier Inc. Myla drives clinical research innovation using AI, achieving remarkable growth. She mentors in various organizations and promotes tech-driven healthcare solutions, advancing early disease detection and intervention for better outcomes.
Rachel Martin, founder and creative director, Mindful & Good. Rachel leads Mindful & Good, a design agency championing sustainability. She offsets carbon emissions, supports local suppliers and fosters DEI initiatives. Active in Charlotte's environmental scene, she supports community organizations.
Amanda McGough, licensed psychologist. Dr. McGough is a leader in suicide prevention in Mecklenburg County. With a personal connection to the cause, she volunteers extensively, providing training, support and consultation to communities, schools and organizations.
Ray McKinnon, executive director, Charlotte PFLAG. Ray, a fixture in Charlotte’s community for 20 years, serves in various volunteer and faith roles. As chair of Inlivian and pastor at Sacred Souls and South Tryon Community UMC, he advocates for LGBTQ rights through leading PFLAG.
Sarah Olin, CEO and co-founder, LUMO. Sarah champions working parents’ support nationally, notably in Charlotte. With LUMO, she helps organizations like the United Nations, J. Crew, the Charlotte Hornets and local businesses in efforts to reshape work culture to empower parents.
Kimberly Pereira, director of education and community engagement, Charlotte Ballet. Kimberly champions inclusive dance programs for all abilities. She oversees Reach, a nationally recognized, need-based dance scholarship program for 7- to 10-year-olds, and coordinates classes for seniors with mobility challenges, demonstrating her commitment to accessibility in the arts.
Marcus Rabun, CEO and president, Myers & Chapman Construction. Marcus, a 24-year construction veteran, led the Charlotte Commercial Construction Coalition, uniting competitors to tackle pandemic challenges, focusing on workforce development and enhancing communication with city officials.
Matt Raymond, chief operating officer, Bowtie Solutions. Matt founded Bowtie Solutions, an automotive call center company that fosters job creation and economic growth in Charlotte. Beyond business, he contributes through charity, youth sports coaching and establishing a nursing scholarship.
Brad Ritter, executive director, The Independent Picture House. Brad’s leadership of the Independent Picture House in Charlotte has transformed it into a crucial cultural venue, showcasing a wide range of films and stories, enriching the community and bolstering local filmmakers and artists.
Zorana Roldan, chief prevention and diversity officer, Anuvia Prevention and Recovery Center. Zorana, with over 24 years at Anuvia, is a pioneer in substance use treatment and prevention, focusing on cultural competency and innovative programs to enhance care for the Latino community.
Libby Safrit, executive director, Teen Health Connection. Libby has significantly impacted adolescent health in Charlotte, offering comprehensive care and support. Her advocacy for systemic change and trauma-informed therapies exemplifies her dedication to improving teen and family well-being.
Erin Santos-Primis, president, Isabella Santos Foundation. Erin channeled her daughter’s battle with cancer into pioneering new approaches in pediatric cancer fundraising, raising over $8 million for research and family support. Her efforts have established significant hospital programs, demonstrating a profound commitment to improving pediatric cancer care.
Chris Scorsone, co-founder, Cluck Design Collaborative and The Spoke Easy. Chris revitalizes spaces with innovative designs and mentors new designers. As co-owner of Spoke Easy Bar and Bike Shop, he champions biking culture and infrastructure in Charlotte.
Imana Sherrill, head of school, Trinity Episcopal School. Imana fosters a welcoming culture at Trinity Episcopal, keeping her door open for students and staff and empowering them to realize their potential. With deep Charlotte roots, she connects the school with the community, including initiatives like Central Piedmont Community College teacher intern visits.
Melissa Sutherland, chief operating officer/chief financial officer, Table & Twine and Best Impressions Catering. Melissa leads with fearless dedication and a generous spirit, organizing community initiatives like a toy run in Gaston County and chairing the State Troopers Association. She’s admired for her hard work, giving heart and quiet humility.
Karen Sutton, director of community engagement, Levine Museum of the New South. Karen has enhanced school engagement, nurtured student leadership, contributed to community initiatives, and spearheaded the Grier Heights neighborhood’s historical exhibition, making substantial impacts in her community.
Cynthia Wood, executive director, Mind Body Baby. Cynthia transformed Mind Body Baby from a small group into a significant nonprofit, driven by her experiences with postpartum challenges. She's dedicated to supporting Charlotte's perinatal community, recently initiating a doula program for low-income families.
Laura Yates Clark, CEO, United Way of Greater Charlotte. Laura has redefined United Way of Greater Charlotte’s impact strategy to tackle racial inequity and economic mobility, directing significant funding to grassroots organizations and embodying dedicated community leadership.
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Each year, when we read about these winners, we’re amazed at the breadth of all the different ways people are making Charlotte better. Hats off to all of them — and to everyone else who cares about our community and strives to improve it.
Award celebration: April 30
This is no snoozy awards banquet — it’s a lively celebration! Come have a fun night out with our group of award winners and supporters.
Details:
When: Tuesday, April 30; 6-9 p.m.
Where: Griffith Hall at Lenny Boy Brewing Co., 3000 S. Tryon St.
Who: YOU and local leaders in business, nonprofits, education, healthcare and other fields
What: Networking, drinks, delicious dinner buffet stations and of course celebrating our winners! (We’ll also have our traditional costume contest — this year’s theme is DECADES. Dress in your favorite attire from the ’60s, ’70s or ’80s — or any other decade — for a chance to win our contest. 2020s attire is OK, too.)
Cost: $90 is the early-bird rate, through March 26.
This celebration wouldn’t be possible without the support of our generous event sponsors:
Title sponsor: U.S. Bank
Silver sponsor: Ducie Stark, residential real estate broker with Dickens Mitchener
Bronze sponsor: Apparo — Amplifying Nonprofit Impact
(Sponsorships are still available — if interested, contact support@cltledger.com)
➡️ Find out more about The Ledger’s 40 Over 40 awards here.
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With 40 Over 40, there’s always next year
Do you know someone who didn’t make the final cut, or whom you’d like to nominate for next year? Hang onto that thought for next year’s Charlotte Ledger 40 Over 40 contest, which we’ll announce at the start of 2025.
Congratulations again to all of the award recipients, and a big thank you to everybody making this celebration a success: all the nominees, all the people who took the time to nominate somebody, our volunteer judges — and a special thanks to Ledger business manager Brie Chrisman, who coordinated this year’s awards.
We hope to see you at the celebration on April 30!
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Executive editor: Tony Mecia; Managing editor: Cristina Bolling; Staff writer: Lindsey Banks; Business manager: Brie Chrisman