The Chamber for a Greater Chapel Hill-Carrboro partnered with UNC Athletics to recognize 2023 Service Award winners on Jan. 17 before the UNC men’s basketball game against Louisville on Roy Williams Court at the Dean E. Smith Center. The winners were honored for their service to the community in front of thousands of fans donning Carolina blue.
"We are grateful to have partnered with Carolina Athletics to honor these 11 community heroes, who so deservedly received an ovation from the thousands of fans at the Dean Smith Center," said Aaron Nelson, President and CEO of The Chamber. "These award winners and the organizations they represent are an integral part of our community and should be celebrated. Thank you to UNC Athletics for their partnership and these heroes for their service.”
Orange County Emergency Services Employee of the Year – Celsi Simon
Celsi Simon exemplifies the best of the organization, personifying unwavering commitment to OC Emergency Services’ values and taking immense pride in her work. In a remarkable achievement this year, Celsi led a collaborative, multi-jurisdictional team effort to create accessible and standardized fire safety education materials for all of Orange County. Her dedication shone through as she tirelessly developed age-appropriate lesson plans, ensuring clarity and understanding for diverse age groups.
As a native Spanish speaker, Celsi has been at the forefront of the organization’s efforts to reduce fire risks in the latinx communities. Beyond her regular duties, she actively contributes to various community committees, including Safe Kids, our Diversity and Inclusion workgroup, and El Centro Latino. Celsi's impact extends far beyond the organization, making her a true community leader.
Orange County Sheriff’s Deputy of the Year – Investigator Kevin Stewart
Investigator Kevin Stewart embodies the essence of effective law enforcement, recognizing that while new investigative techniques and technologies enhance modern policing, they are not a replacement for tenacity, commitment, and determination. With a relentless pursuit of excellence, Investigator Stewart consistently seeks out additional training, displaying thoroughness, skill, and intuition in his work.
Even in the face of personal challenges, such as knee surgery and welcoming a new baby this year, Investigator Stewart's dedication did not waver. Qualifying for time off, he chose to continue working from home, regularly calling the office to offer assistance and inquire about additional training opportunities. His polite, professional, and caring demeanor makes Investigator Stewart a true asset to the Sheriff’s Office and a source of pride for the residents of Orange County.
2023 Service Award Winners
- Carrboro Fire Department Firefighter of the Year – Cory Scott Horner
- Carrboro Police Officer of the Year – Sgt. Edgar Deharo
- Chapel Hill Fire Department Firefighter of the Year – Captain Brian Matthew Dunagin
- Chapel Hill Police Officer of the Year – Jun Gim
- Hillsborough Police Officer of the Year – Sgt. Scott Foster
- Orange Rural Fire Department Firefighter of the Year – Lt. Julio Perez
- South Orange Rescue Squad Member of the Year – Spencer Lindgren
- UNC Hospitals Officer of the Year – Sgt. Darin Lee
- UNC Police Officer of the Year – Investigator Nicholas Lynch
About The Chamber: The Chamber is a membership organization that serves and advances the business interests of the Greater Chapel Hill-Carrboro, including the Towns of Chapel Hill and Carrboro as well as southern Orange, northern Chatham, and southwest Durham counties. The Chamber's network includes over 600-member enterprises that employ more than 95,000 workers throughout the region. Together with its network, The Chamber is committed to building a sustainable community where business thrives.
Photo Credit: Maggie Hobson/UNC Athletics