Meet The Nominees

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Ethel Belle Sampson, a woman known for speaking to her sweetly glazed motto, “If I can help somebody as I pass along, then my living shall not be in vain!” She was honored with the 2021 Trailblazer Award for Leadership by Craven Community College, is a lifelong activist. She marched with Martin Luther King, is a member of the SCLC, and participated in pivotal segregation protests, including a sit-in at Clark’s Drug Store. A lifetime NAACP member, she was part of a historic integrated event with President Truman in New Bern, NC. Married to former Commissioner Johnnie Sampson for 60 years.

Former New Bern Commissioner Johnnie Sampson Jr., a revered leader and advocate, left an unforgettable legacy. He is a forever icon in the black community before transistioning most of his 87 years. After retiring from the Navy Depot at MCAS Cherry Point, he championed civil rights and defied a life-threatening diagnosis from his youth, living to 87. His legacy lives on through his wife of 65 years, Ethel, their 11 children, and a vast family of descendants. Sampson's journey, marked by resilience and dedication, ended on November 5, 2020, embodying a life of triumph and service.

Betty Sampson, a dedicated singer, songwriter, and author from New Bern, NC, embodies the spirit of community service and motivation. As a daughter of civil rights activists Johnnie and Ethel Belle Sampson, she continues her family's legacy of activism through her art and volunteerism. Deeply rooted in her hometown, Betty's creative talents and community efforts reflect a commitment to positive impact and change. Her life's work honors her fathers' memory and her mothers' continuationof trail blazing activities, demonstrating the profound influence of love, compassion, and resilience in fostering family, community growth, and empowerment. Betty is a pillar of strength, supported not only her father but also her mother.

Michael Rivers Morgan, born October 22, 1955, in New Bern, North Carolina, is a prominent figure in the state's legal landscape, having served as an associate justice on the North Carolina Supreme Court for over six years. His educational credentials are impressive, with an A.B. degree from Duke University in 1976 and a J.D. from North Carolina Central University in 1979. In 2016, Morgan achieved a remarkable milestone by winning the votes and capturing a majority of the state's counties. On September 12, 2023, after announcing his departure from the bench, Morgan declared his intention to run for Governor of North Carolina in 2024 as a Democrat, aiming to bring his extensive legal expertise and dedication to public service to the governorship.

Hershel Daniels Junior, as the Chairman of Friends of the African Union (FAU), aims to harness the African Diaspora's skills in the USA to build a multi-generational Pan-African infrastructure. Leveraging a background in electronics, computing, and diplomacy, he advocates for sustainable growth through new technologies like blockchain. Since FAU's inception in 2011, Daniels has promoted economic, social, and educational advancements, leading significant consultations and collaborations with U.S. and African authorities, and developing a comprehensive affiliate structure across the nation. His work is pivotal in realizing the vision of an African equivalent to the European Union. (https://friendsoftheafricanunion.com/)

USMC Sergeant Major F. Michael Cline, Sr., concluded a distinguished 30-year service at a Relief, Appointment, and Retirement Ceremony at MCB Camp Lejeune, NC. During the solemn occasion, SGTMAJ Cline ceremonially passed the sword to Colonel D. E. Smith, symbolizing the transition of responsibility and signaling the end of an era of dedicated military commitment. His departure from active duty marks a significant milestone in the battalion's history and his own career within the Marine Corps.

Chief Deputy Matthew Fogg (Ret.) of the U.S. Marshals Service in Washington, D.C., embarked on his distinguished career in 1978, quickly becoming a decorated federal law officer. His expertise led him to supervise a DEA joint drug and gun interdiction task force and later oversee the U.S.M.S. unit for INTERPOL. Fogg's commitment to justice facilitated the capture of over 300 dangerous fugitives globally. An advocate for equal justice and law enforcement reform, he frequently provides expert commentary and holds leadership roles in nonprofit and governmental watchdog organizations, including chapter president for the Heritage Chapter of Blacks In Government.

Sabrina Bengel fulfills multiple leadership roles, serving as Mayor Pro-Tem and Alderman for Ward One in New Bern, as well as Managing Partner of The Birthplace of Pepsi. She chairs the Craven County Tourism Development Authority and is a pivotal member of the Swiss Bear Downtown Development Corporation. Her governance extends to the New Bern Public Library Board and numerous local foundations, enhancing community engagement and cultural development. A staunch supporter of East Carolina University, her alma mater, Bengel has chaired both the Alumni Association and Board of Visitors. At a state level, her influence resonates from the UNC TV Board of Trustees to the Highway 17/64 Association. Her extensive service has been recognized with prestigious accolades, including the Entrepreneur of the Year and The Order of the Long Leaf Pine, which underscore her impact on regional progress and her unwavering commitment to public service.

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Dennis "The Hurricane" Lane, renowned in the USMC Hall of Fame and a seven-time World Champion Kickboxer, has also clinched six martial arts world titles. Esteemed for his resilience and dubbed "The Hurricane," Lane's influence transcends the ring, guiding both athletes and military personnel with lessons on endurance. His coaching philosophy, centered on persistence and overcoming adversity, has propelled teams to triumph against the odds. Now teaching 9AM Muay Thai classes, Lane is committed to advancing his students' skills, whether they are novices or seasoned fighters, steering them towards achieving their ultimate goals.

Roger Stewart the Head Wrestling Coach Louisa County High School stands out in the world of wrestling as a trailblazing National Champion for the United States Deaf Wrestling team in both Greco-Roman & Freestyle categories. His groundbreaking participation in the 2008 US Olympic Team Trials led to a commendable 9th place finish, marking him as the first deaf wrestler in the event's history. A 2019 Masters National Greco Roman Champion and Senior World Team Trial Qualifier, Stewart's relentless pursuit of excellence is set to take him to the world stage, competing in championships across Turkey, Greece, and Brazil. With a robust training background under Olympic medalists at the US Olympic Training and Education Centers, his wrestling prowess is undisputed, and his goal is clear: to bring home gold and etch his name in the annals of wrestling history.

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Lionel Butler's remarkable trajectory from Marine to professional boxer and distinguished scholar epitomizes both resilience and adaptability. Embarking on his boxing journey in Hawaii in 1987, Butler rapidly rose through the ranks to join the prestigious All-Marine Boxing Team, securing numerous state and regional titles. His transition to professional boxing culminated in securing the coveted position of the top IBF lightweight contender in 1998, showcasing his exceptional talent and determination in the ring. Following his boxing career, Butler dedicated himself to academic pursuits, achieving degrees in Business Administration and Human Resources. Currently, he is furthering his education by pursuing a Ph.D. in Performance Psychology. 

Sifu Gamel Spencer Sr. is a multifaceted martial artist with a career dating back to 1972, celebrated with multiple Hall of Fame inductions, including the Action Martial Arts and Budo International Halls of Fame. Acclaimed as Wing Chun Master of the Year and a recipient of the Golden Lifetime Achievement Award, he has shaped over 1,000 students into champions in kickboxing and mixed martial arts. Trained by world-renowned masters and having studied at Shaolin Temple, Sifu Spencer brings a wealth of knowledge to his coaching and fight choreography. Alongside his martial arts excellence, he is a family man, former Maryland State police officer, and holds a BA in Sociology. (https://www.spencerwingchun.com/)

Daniel "H Bomb" Ward, renowned boxing coach and owner of Ward Boxing, MMA & Fitness, has dedicated over 30 years to mentoring youth through sports and education. A former professional boxer and Kyokushin Karate student under world champion Dennis "Hurricane" Lane, Daniel's accolades include 2019 Boxing Coach of the Year and induction into the International House of Warriors Combat Games Hall of Fame. He founded LEAF to promote life skills, education, and fitness, helping individuals achieve their educational and physical goals. At Ward Boxing, he trains champions in boxing, MMA, and karate, shaping future generations both in and out of the ring.

Kevin A. Smith, Founder & CEO of Veterans View Intake Center Inc (VVIC), and a former military
member who faced homelessness, epitomizes resilience and compassion.
Mr. Smith’s challenges forged a path to founding VVIC, aiming to uplift fellow veterans from
adversity. His leadership is fueled by a blend of military discipline and a deep, empathetic
connection to those in need. Through VVIC, he provides essential support and empowerment,
transforming personal hardship into a catalyst for positive change. Mr. Smith’s journey from
adversity to advocacy highlights the power of resilience and unwavering commitment to impacting
communities and rebuilding lives.

Dr. Sydney Fitz C. Barnwell, eastern North Carolina's first black oral surgeon, pioneered community health education focusing on diet and exercise at the Craven County Health Department in the 1960s. His significant contributions include founding the Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University and initiating the first Prostate Cancer Association, driven by personal survival and alarming mortality rates among black men. Through extensive outreach, including visits to over 60 churches annually, Dr. Barnwell significantly reduced prostate cancer mortality rates in Craven, Pamlico, and Jones counties, emphasizing early screening and prevention.

Councilman Bryan H. Jackson, a respected public servant and U.S. Navy veteran from Jacksonville, NC, brings a wealth of experience from his service in the Persian Gulf War to his role in local government. A proud alumnus of the University of North Carolina Wilmington, Jackson is not only celebrated for his poetic prowess but also for his staunch advocacy for the Jacksonville community within Onslow County. Currently serving Ward 1, he is a veteran political candidate known for his dedication to civic engagement and leadership. Jackson seamlessly combines military discipline with academic success and a zeal for the arts, contributing significantly to local governance. His advocacy extends beyond Jacksonville, reaching the congressional halls of Washington, D.C., where he works alongside stately legislators to effect positive change. He is currently continuing his journey and succeeding.

Victor J. Taylor's commendable tenure as a U.S. Army veteran and a former officer of Public Safety in New Bern sets the foundation for his current role safeguarding FRC EAST Cherry Point NC. A proactive New Bern Alderman and a strategic leader, he steers the Craven County Tourism Authority and contributes to the Swiss Bear Corporation's success. His governance experience spans across pivotal cultural and educational boards, including the University of North Carolina TV Board of Trustees and the Highway 17/64 Association, showcasing his extensive reach in civic enhancement. Awarded the Order of the Long Leaf Pine among numerous accolades, Taylor's profound commitment to community service is evident. He also thrives in the culinary business, owning Bakers Kitchen with his wife, where they share the essence of their community-focused lives enriched by family and enterprise.

Nelson McDaniel, a native of New Bern and an esteemed historian, has made significant contributions to his community. A graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, George Washington, Georgetown, New York University, and the University of Lyon, McDaniel's academic prowess is well-documented. Following a teaching stint at Episcopal High School in Alexandria, Virginia, he returned to New Bern, engaging deeply in various capacities. His roles have included leadership and volunteer work with the New Bern Historical Society, Christ Church, Tryon Palace Foundation, and several other pivotal organizations, earning him the Community Fabric Award.

Craven County Commission Johnnie Sampson, an icon in the black community for most of his 87 years

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Taurance William, Athletic Director at the City of New Bern Parks & Recreation Department, is deeply rooted in the New Bern community. The son of Booke of Stanley White, Taurance has made significant contributions to the area, earning him the titles of 2020 Unsung Hero and recipient of the local Jefferson Award. Beyond his administrative role, Williams is a dedicated coach and mentor to underprivileged children, providing guidance, support, and opportunities for growth. His commitment to nurturing young talent and fostering a sense of community underscores his invaluable presence in New Bern, where he continues to inspire and uplift the next generation.

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Anderson Herbert, CEO of APS Security LLC and a US Virgin Island native, revolutionized the security sector with over 20 years of expertise. An ex-professional athlete turned Certified Protection Officer, he's led security at high-profile events worldwide. Holding degrees in Hotel, Restaurant Management, Business Administration, and a doctorate in Business Administration and General Management, Herbert has mastered skills from tactical driving to dignitary protection. Fluent in 4 languages from travels in 88 countries, he's committed to cultural respect and client relations. His unwavering commitment to safety, professionalism, and integrity has defined his distinguished career in security and executive protection.

Bishop Roger Kirksey, a transformative spiritual leader since his revelatory experience at 13, has dedicated his life to ministry and community service. His early tutelage under the influential Pastor Janie Mitchell set him on a path of unwavering devotion. A celebrated graduate from Washington County High School and NADC College, Bishop Kirksey's journey took him from an inspired minister in Nashville to honorable service in the U.S. Army Reserves. His profound impact as a pastor is seen in the five thriving churches he leads, and his voice resonates through his acclaimed literary works, which address pivotal themes of empowerment and have merited him a Pillar Award nomination. Recognized as Pastor of the Year and featured on prominent Christian media, his consecration as a Bishop in 2017 marked a milestone in his commitment to fostering faith and guiding the moral compass of his community.

Please Be Patient With Us.

Please Be Patient With Us.

Please Be Patient With Us.

Please Be Patient With Us.

Please Be Patient With Us.

Please Be Patient With Us.

Please Be Patient With Us.

Please Be Patient With Us.

Please Be Patient With Us.

Please Be Patient With Us.