Finalists have been named for the 2022 Union County Chamber Excellence in Business awards. The winners for most categories will be announced at the Chamber’s Annual Awards Gala on December 1, 2022.
Lifetime Achievement Award
We are proud to announce Ms. Nelda Jean Davis, owner of Williams, Inc. in Monroe as this year’s Lifetime Achievement Award winner. This award is presented to an individual for a lifetime of consistent contributions to his/her business, chosen industry, and community. The recipient’s influence and contributions have made a tangible impact on the lives of those around her, her community, and her place of business.
Ms. Davis has enjoyed a multi-faceted career of land development, entrepreneurship, and farming. Her work with the NC/SC District Fair, WSOC Family Reunion, and WJZY Sky Jam brought thousands of visitors to Union County. In addition, she was instrumental in the development of truck terminals in Monroe and throughout the Charlotte region. Ms. Davis continues to maintain farmland in Union County raising Brahmin cattle.
The land developed by Ms. Davis’ family that once housed the Starlite Speedway (1960-1978) now is home to the Parks Williams Athletic Complex, one of the City of Monroe’s largest athletic facilities housing softball and soccer fields along with walking trail and open spaces.
In addition, Ms. Davis has a long history of community service. Known throughout Union County as a talented pianist, Ms. Davis began playing for her church, Benton Heights Presbyterian Church, at eight years old and continues to play every Sunday. Ms. Davis is a long-time member of the Monroe Rotary Club and has been recognized as a Paul Harris Fellow, Distinguished Rotarian, and received the Service Above Self award.
“The Union County Chamber is proud to recognize Ms. Nelda Jean Davis with the Chamber’s most prestigious recognition — the Lifetime Achievement Award,” said Pat Kahle, President/CEO of the Union County Chamber. “Ms. Davis’ accomplishments in the areas of entrepreneurship and development highlight a career that spanned over 40 years and acted as an example for women who have followed in her footsteps. She continues today to raise cattle, volunteer throughout our community, and share her love for Union County.”
Award Finalists
The Chamber also announced the following 2022 Annual Excellence in Business Award finalists.
The finalists in the Excellence in Small Business Award category are:
- » Heart and Home Realty
- » The Brothers That Just Do Gutters
- » Pentagon Group Insurance Agency
The finalists in the Excellence in Business Award category are:
- » FSIoffice
- » L D Davis
- » State Utility Contractors
The finalists in the Rising Star Award category are:
- » Cake Affect
- » Club Pilates
- » Keep Evolving Consulting
The finalists in the Nonprofit Innovation category are:
- » HealthQuest of Union County
- » Project 2 Heal
- » Turning Point
The Chamber will also present awards in the Employer of Choice and Community Impact categories, as we recognize all award recipients at the Chamber’s Annual Gala on Thursday, December 1, 2022, at the Union County Ag Center.
Chain Reaction Studios, a creative digital agency located in downtown Monroe, will create videos highlighting all award finalists which will debut at the Chamber’s
Registration is now open for the 2022 Annual Gala. Click here to learn more.
Last modified: September 6, 2022
