The North Carolina Awards celebrate individuals whose accomplishments and contributions have made a lasting impact on North Carolina and beyond, recognizing outstanding achievement in the fields of fine arts, literature, public service and science. The 2026 recipients include bestselling author Jason Mott, NASCAR legend Richard Petty, Lt. Gen. Kevin Vereen (Ret.), former NC State Chancellor Dr. William “Randy” Woodson, paleontologist Dr. Lindsay Zanno, and artist Beverly McIver.
