On January 22, 2026, the United Way of Wayne County and the Wayne County Chamber of Commerce hosted a special awards presentation recognizing the enduring legacies of local institutions that have served Wayne County for over 100 years.
Governor Josh Stein and Wayne County Board of Commissioners Chairman Joe Daughtery presented the awards during the ceremony, celebrating 15 organizations for their long-standing contributions to the community. Among the honorees was Wayne County, marking an extraordinary 246 years of public service.
In his keynote address, Governor Stein emphasized the vital role that local businesses and government institutions play in strengthening communities, creating jobs, and fostering resilience across generations.
Award Recipients Included:
- Wayne County – 246 years
- City of Goldsboro – 178 years
- Weil Family Business – 160 years
- Goldsboro News Argus – 140 years
- Crawford-Henderson Insurance – 133 years
- UNC Health Wayne – 130 years
- Wayne County Chamber of Commerce – 128 years
- First Citizens Bank – 127 years
- Southern Bank – 125 years
- Goldsboro Milling Company – 110 years
- Seymour Funeral Home – 105 years
- KS Bank – 102 years
- TA Loving Company – 101 years
- Mount Olive Pickle Company – 100 years
- Caterpillar Fluid Transfer Solutions – 100 years
Wayne County extends its sincere appreciation to these institutions for their historic service and commitment to excellence. Together, they represent more than 1,900 years of combined impact in Wayne County.