The North Carolina Awards will be presented at Lenovo Center on Tuesday, November 17, celebrating individuals whose accomplishments and contributions have made a lasting impact on North Carolina and beyond.

Established by the North Carolina General Assembly in 1961, the North Carolina Awards recognize outstanding achievement in the fields of fine arts, literature, public service and science. More than 300 notable North Carolinians have been honored since the awards’ inception.

The 2026 recipients include bestselling author and National Book Award winner Jason Mott for Literature; NASCAR legend Richard Petty, Lt. Gen. Kevin Vereen (Ret.) and former NC State Chancellor Dr. William “Randy” Woodson for Public Service; internationally recognized paleontologist Dr. Lindsay Zanno for Science; and acclaimed artist Beverly McIver for Fine Arts.

Proceeds from ticket sales will benefit Blue Star Families and Camp Corral, supporting veterans and military families. This is a black-tie event that includes drinks, dinner and live entertainment.

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