Unity in Community (UiC) proudly recognized three outstanding recipients during our recent Unity Session, celebrating individuals and organizations whose leadership, partnership, and commitment continue to strengthen our mission of fostering diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging throughout North Mecklenburg.
These awards honor those who demonstrate courage, compassion, and a steadfast commitment to building stronger, more connected communities.
Lenzy R. Wallace Jr. Excellence Partnership Community Award
Recipient: Brownicity
The Lenzy R. Wallace Jr. Excellence Partnership Community Award was presented to Brownicity in recognition of its transformative partnership with Unity in Community and its unwavering commitment to racial healing through education.
Founded by Dr. Lucretia Berry, Brownicity creates learning experiences that inspire true belonging, justice, and understanding. Through educational programs such as What LIES Between Us, Brownicity has helped countless individuals engage in meaningful conversations about race, history, and our shared humanity.
Over the past year, Brownicity partnered with Unity in Community to bring these important conversations to our North Mecklenburg community, equipping participants with tools to build bridges across differences and foster deeper relationships.
Brownicity exemplifies the spirit of Dr. Lenzy R. Wallace Jr., whose life was dedicated to bringing people together through education, dialogue, and a belief in the dignity of every person. We are honored to recognize Brownicity for its outstanding partnership and lasting impact.
Lenzy R. Wallace Jr. Excellence Individual Award
Recipient: Jim Simpson
The Lenzy R. Wallace Jr. Excellence Individual Award was presented to Jim Simpson for his exceptional leadership, advocacy, and unwavering commitment to justice, education, and community partnership.
Jim has consistently demonstrated what it means to lead with humility and purpose. Through his work promoting understanding across diverse communities, educating others about the dangers of hatred and antisemitism, and strengthening partnerships that bring people together, Jim has become a trusted leader and friend to Unity in Community.
His willingness to serve, collaborate, and advocate for a more just and inclusive community reflects the very values that Dr. Lenzy R. Wallace Jr. championed throughout his life.
Unity in Community is grateful for Jim’s faithful service and is proud to recognize him as this year’s Lenzy R. Wallace Jr. Excellence Individual Award recipient.
Introducing the Inaugural UiC President’s Award
Recipient: Lydia Lorenzin
This year also marked a special milestone as Unity in Community presented the inaugural UiC President’s Award, a new recognition established by the President to honor extraordinary service that has significantly advanced the mission and vision of our organization.
The very first recipient of this distinguished award is Lydia Lorenzin.
Lydia has been an unwavering supporter of Unity in Community, generously sharing her time, talents, leadership, and heart. Whether coordinating volunteers, welcoming new members, strengthening relationships, or stepping in wherever needed, Lydia consistently demonstrates servant leadership with grace, humility, and compassion.
Her dedication has helped cultivate the welcoming and inclusive community that defines Unity in Community today. She leads not for recognition, but because she genuinely believes in bringing people together and creating spaces where everyone feels seen, valued, and empowered.
As the inaugural recipient of the UiC President’s Award, Lydia Lorenzin represents the very best of servant leadership and the spirit of Unity in Community.
Celebrating Those Who Build Community
These three honorees remind us that meaningful change happens when individuals and organizations choose courage over comfort, collaboration over division, and hope over fear.
Congratulations to Brownicity, Jim Simpson, and Lydia Lorenzin on these well-deserved honors.
Thank you for helping make North Mecklenburg a place where every person belongs, every voice matters, and our shared humanity continues to unite us.
Together, we are restoring relationships, building hope, and strengthening our community—one connection at a time.
