LILLINGTON, NC — The Harnett County African American Heritage Center celebrated local leaders and community champions at the 2nd Annual Harnett County Juneteenth Trailblazers Awards on Friday, June 19, at the Harnett County Commons.
The evening, coordinated by Executive Director Desi L. Campbell and hosted by Board Chair Rev. Kenneth L. Swann and Co‑Chair Denise Thurman, recognized individuals, churches, and organizations whose service has strengthened the county's African American community.
The Trailblazers Awards, part of the Heritage Center's broader mission to preserve and promote African American history and culture in Harnett County, honors those who have given selflessly of their time, talent and resources to uplift neighbors and advance opportunity across generations. The ceremony showcased stories of mentorship, faith‑driven service, entrepreneurship and cultural preservation.
Award recipients included Effie Woodard, Melanie Stewart, Roy Harris, Deborah's Catering, David Earl and Annette McAllister, Rev. Floyd Wicker and Lillington First Baptist Church, Walker Funeral Home, Jimmy Ragland, Murchison Chapel AME Zion Church, Linda Spears Sturdivant, the Shawtown Alumni Association, and Dunn Mayor pro tem April Gaulden. Each honoree was recognized for unique contributions to the community, from preserving local history and providing comfort to bereaved families, to offering spiritual leadership, organizing community programs, sharing musical talents, advancing education and civic service, feeding those in need, supporting youth development and sustaining cherished local traditions.
Campbell, executive director of the Harnett County African American Heritage Center, spoke about the event's purpose and the role of service: "This celebration is about honoring people who show us every day what it means to care for one another. Their generosity and leadership are the pillars of our community's resilience and hope."
Rev. Swann reflected on the legacy of Juneteenth and local action: "Juneteenth reminds us of freedom's ongoing journey. These Trailblazers are living examples of that journey — turning freedom into opportunity through service, faith and love."
Thurman emphasized community unity and continuity: "Recognizing our everyday heroes connects us to the past and inspires the next generation to serve. The Heritage Center is proud to spotlight those who invest in our future."
The evening concluded with community celebration and fellowship, reaffirming the county's commitment to honoring past sacrifices and encouraging continued service in the years ahead.
About the Harnett County African American Heritage Center
The Harnett County African American Heritage Center works to collect, preserve, and promote the history, culture and contributions of African Americans in Harnett County. Through educational programs, exhibits, community events and partnerships with local schools and organizations, the center fosters pride, understanding and intergenerational dialogue. The annual Juneteenth Trailblazers Awards are part of the center's initiative to publicly honor those whose service uplifts the community and ensures a living legacy for future generations.
Originally published by The Daily Record.