The anticipation for the 2026 North Carolina Awards is building as Governor Josh Stein has announced U.S. Air Force veteran and North Carolina Department of Military and Veterans Affairs Secretary, Jocelyn Mitnaul Mallette, as the event’s host. This prestigious event, scheduled for November 17, will honor six distinguished individuals with the state’s highest civilian accolade.
Proceeds from the award ceremony’s ticket sales will support two notable charities: Blue Star Families and Camp Corral. These organizations are dedicated to enhancing the lives of veterans and military families across the nation.
Governor’s Remarks
Governor Stein emphasized the significance of this event by noting, “Over the past six decades, many remarkable North Carolinians have received the North Carolina Award. Our 2026 recipients represent the best of our state, and it is a privilege to honor these outstanding individuals.” He encouraged the public to attend the event, stating, “I am also honored to focus this year’s awards ceremony on supporting active and former servicemembers. Secure your tickets today for a memorable night celebrating our honorees and supporting North Carolina’s servicemembers, veterans, and military families.”
Leadership and Commitment
Secretary Jocelyn Mitnaul Mallette expressed her gratitude for hosting the event, “It is a privilege to host this year’s North Carolina Awards and to celebrate the remarkable achievements of our 2026 honorees. This event not only recognizes excellence across our state but also strengthens support for the veterans and military families who serve our nation and enrich communities across North Carolina.”
Acknowledging Service and Excellence
Pamela B. Cashwell, secretary of the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, remarked on Secretary Mallette’s role, “We are honored to have Secretary Mallette, a third-generation servicemember herself, host this year’s North Carolina Awards ceremony. As we commemorate the 250th anniversary of our country, this event provides an opportunity to honor our state’s heroes while celebrating our six exceptional award winners.”
In August 2025, Governor Stein declared North Carolina a Do Your Part State in collaboration with Blue Star Families and the National Governors Association. Blue Star Families connects military families with their local communities to support them during their service. Camp Corral, another beneficiary, focuses on nurturing the children of wounded, ill, and fallen servicemembers through various programs.
Awards Committee and Recipients
The North Carolina Awards are overseen by a committee led by Chair Nina S. Szlosberg-Landis, alongside Margaret Abrams, Joe Sam Queen, Tom Terrell, and Margaret Weller Stargell. Managed by the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, the awards will honor the following recipients:
- Literature: Jason Mott
- Public Service: Richard Petty
- Public Service: Lt. Gen. Kevin Vereen (Ret.)
- Public Service: Randy Woodson
- Science: Lindsay Zanno
- Fine Arts: Beverly McIver
For additional details about the award recipients, click here.
Interested individuals are encouraged to secure their tickets for this significant occasion.
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