Each year, the Rotary Club of Morganton singles out one person who has contributed significantly to the betterment of the community.  It is a special honor that transcends politics and personalities, and it is reserved for those individuals whose leadership and service extend far beyond the range of the average citizen, exemplifying the Rotary motto of “Service Above Self.”

In 1948, the late J.D. Fitz, an outstanding Rotarian and past Club President, conceived the idea of a “Man of the Year” award, which evolved into an annual testimonial and banquet.  This tradition continued until the fall of 2015 when the Club changed the name of the award to the “Distinguished Person of the Year” and made women eligible to receive the award.

Nominations are solicited from throughout the community and the award recipient is selected by a secret committee appointed by that year’s Rotary Club President.

Many of the award winners have been honored for a lifetime of community service, while others have been chosen primarily for spearheading a single, extraordinary project.  Their spheres of influence are as wide and diverse as the community itself:  education, commerce, athletics, religion and charitable endeavors, to name a few.

Each recipient has been welcomed into an exclusive fellowship of men and women whose deeds and vision have helped enhance the quality of life in this community for over 60 years.

The Rotary Club of Morganton is very proud to present the “Distinguished Person of the Year” and welcomes all the past award winners.