Charlotte, NC — The Urban League of Central Carolinas (ULCC) proudly announces the distinguished honorees for its 2025 Whitney M. Young, Jr. Awards Gala, taking place Friday, September 12, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. at The Westin Charlotte. This year’s event is generously presented by Truist and Trane Technologies, the 2025 Presenting Sponsors. 

The Gala’s theme, “Enchanted Garden,” is a celebration of the leaders, opportunities, and people that grow our communities. Communities, like gardens, are filled with seeds that are intentionally sown to foster growth, renewal, and a harvest. The Urban League works in every garden across Charlotte to strengthen the lives of individuals and families. 

ULCC will present the Whitney M. Young, Jr. Award to three visionary leaders whose work embodies the spirit of social justice, innovation, and community impact: 

  • Dave Regnery, CEO of Trane Technologies 
  • Kristy Fercho, Head of Financial Inclusion & Opportunity at Wells Fargo 
  • Linda Lockman Brooks, President of Lockman-Brooks Marketing Services 

The Vernon E. Jordan Award will be presented to Frank Emory, Chief Legal Officer at Novant Health, a civic trailblazer whose unwavering dedication to leadership, equity, and economic empowerment has shaped Charlotte’s future and inspired the next generation.

The Community Catalyst Award will be presented to Care Ring, an organization committed to expanding access to healthcare for Charlotte’s most vulnerable populations.
The Urban League will also introduce its inaugural Young Professionals Award, honoring Elijah Strickland, Senior Vice President, Treasury Management Advisor at Pinnacle Financial Partners, for his leadership and commitment to advancing community empowerment.

“This year’s honorees are change agents who have used their platforms, positions, and social capital to advance the Charlotte community in ways that run deep and transform lives both today and tomorrow. We are honored to give them their flowers while they can still smell them,” said Robyn Hamilton, President & CEO of ULCC.

ULCC is also grateful for the corporate support of Wells Fargo, Atrium Health, Winston & Strawn, and others. Sponsorship opportunities and tickets for the Gala are still available.
For more information, please contact Lee Salter at lee.salter@urbanleaguecc.org or visit www.urbanleaguecc.org.

Media Contact:

Lee Salter
Director of Corporate Partnerships & Marketing
Urban League of Central Carolinas
O: 704.373.2256 C: 980.704.4908
Email: lee.salter@urbanleaguecc.org