Geography Student Wins Sustainability Award

UNC Charlotte geography student Ray Atkinson was one of the 12 community leaders to win a Community Sustainability Award earlier in April, presented by Sustain Charlotte, which announced the winners at the 7th Street Public Market in uptown Charlotte. Atkinson received recognition for his work with the UNC Charlotte Cyclists Club.

Sustain Charlotte recognized leaders of local nonprofits, government agencies, businesses and schools for their efforts to help realize “Charlotte 2030: A Sustainable Vision for Our Region.” Also from UNC Charlotte, Regina Guyer, with UNC Charlotte IDEAS Center, was named Outstanding Educator. Atkinson is scheduled to receive his bachelor’s degree this spring; his minor is urban studies.

Mayor Anthony Foxx and Michael Smith, CEO of Charlotte Center City Partners, spoke at the event. Recipients were:

• Air Quality: Leslie Rhodes with Mecklenburg County Air Quality.
• Buildings and Homes: Craig Lewis with the Lawrence Group.
• Economy: Shannon Johnson with Cabarrus County government.
• Energy: Phil Berman with Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools.
• Food: Cassie Parson with Harvest Moon Grille.
• Parks and Green Space: Jim Garges with Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation.
• Waste: Jennifer White with Mecklenburg County Waste Management Advisory Board.
• Social Equity: Barney Offerman with Saint Peter’s Catholic Church Social Justice Committee.
• Transportation: Ray Atkinson with UNC Charlotte Cyclists Club.
• Water Quality: Rick Gaskins with Catawba Riverkeeper Foundation.

Sustain Charlotte also named Bill Gupton (with Piedmont Sierra Club) Overall Outstanding Leader.