NEWS

Unity in Community is excited to announce the call for nominations for the Lenzy R. Wallace, Jr. Excellence Award.

Lenzy was a member of UiC from its inception in 2018. He was a World War II veteran, a retired educator, and a corporate Diversity and Equity Inclusion trainer who devoted his life to living the principles of inclusion, racial equity, community dialogue, and collaboration, and building bridges across different races and cultures.

We are requesting nominations in two categories: Individual and Community Partner. Please review the nomination eligibility guidelines and nominating criteria below.  If you know of an organization or an individual that exhibits these qualifications, please complete and submit a nomination form for one or both categories. You or your organization may also self-nominate, if you feel it meets the qualifications.

Please click here to complete the Lenzy R. Wallace, Jr. Excellence Award Nomination Form by noon, Friday, March 13, 2026.

NOMINATION CRITERIA

Nomination Categories

1. Lenzy R. Wallace Jr. Individual Award for Inclusive Leadership

This award honors a UiC supporter whose consistent involvement and actions have demonstrated exceptional commitment to creating inclusive spaces, fostering cross-community collaboration, and advancing equity through education, advocacy, or engagement.

2. Lenzy R. Wallace Jr. Community Partner of the Year

This award recognizes an organization or institution that has actively partnered with UiC to promote equity, inclusiveness, and community engagement—strengthening the bonds across diverse groups in the North Mecklenburg area.

Eligibility & Nomination Guidelines

Individual Award

The nominee must be an active UiC supporter with at least one year of engagement on behalf of the organization.

Nominations may be submitted by other UiC members or through self-nomination.

UiC Board Members and Nominating Committee Members are not eligible for nomination.

Community Partner Award

Open to organizations that have demonstrated a sustained partnership with UiC and measurable impact in advancing equity and inclusion.

Organizations may be nominated by UiC members, partners, or the UiC Board.

Selection Criteria

Nominees will be evaluated on the following criteria:

Commitment

Demonstrated dedication to UiC’s mission of promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion through consistent engagement and advocacy.

Engagement: Active participation in UiC programs, UiC Large Group meetings, community events, or collaborative initiatives.

Impact

Evidence of measurable actions, programs, or leadership that have advanced equity and inclusiveness within the broader community.

For further information, contact Hannah Strack at LinkedIn: Hannah Strack | LinkedIn