Healthy Charlotte Alliance established the Genie Hayes Distinguished Service Award in 2007. This award was named for and first presented to Genie Hayes to honor her strong leadership and her selfless investment of time and talents to Healthy Charlotte Alliance over the years.
Nominations are accepted on a rolling basis and must be submitted by February 15, 2025.
The recipient will receive an award which shall be presented at the Annual Meeting on May 15, 2025.
2024 Genie Hayes Award Recipient: Sherry Ward
Sherry has been a member of Healthy Charlotte Alliance (then MMAE) since 1987. She is an Investing member of the Alliance and a member of the Legacy Society. Over the past nearly 4 decades, Sherry has been a valuable, active member of the Alliance, volunteering her time, talent and treasure to this organization. She and her husband Dr. Simon Ward have generously sponsored the Classroom for many years. She has served on the Alliance Board in a number of volunteer leadership positions, including President, Past President, Financial Development, and Board Development. Sherry contributed to the success of several Holiday Houses, even spending the night at one Holiday House to ensure adequate security! She has graciously opened her home for various meetings, receptions, and several board retreats. In the words of President Karen Chandler, “Sherry brings a wisdom and dedication to this organization as well as compassion for others. Sherry always has an important jewel of historical wisdom and valued perspective to share. While she gratefully acknowledges the legacy of the past, she is forward thinking and receptive to change and growth.”
