Employees recognized with 49er ACE Network Awards

Congratulations to the 2020 and 2021 recipients of the 49er Alumni Campus Employee Network (ACE) Award recipients — Sabrina Brown ’09, Solomon Franklin ’03, ’06, ’11 M.A. , Kevin Edwards-Knight ’09 M.S.W., Brenda Shue ’11, ’13 M.A. Joshua Avery ’03, ’06 M.A. and Darin Spease ’89. They were recognized during a special luncheon held recently.

“Alumni campus employees have a unique perspective on what it means to be a Niner,” said Mindi White ’17, co-chair of the 49er ACE Network and event services coordinator for conferences, reservations and event services. “We once came to this campus as students who lived in the residence halls, ate in the dining halls, studied at the library and attended sporting events. Now, as alumni employees, we get to witness the growth and excitement of our alma mater by coming to work each day.”

The 49er Ace Network also presented the 49er ACE Scholarship Award, an endowed annual scholarship, to two student employees, Eden Woland and Jasir Mills. Woland is a senior majoring in computer science with a concentration in software, systems and networks and a minor in geology. Mills is a senior architecture major.

“The 49er ACE Scholarship Award is focused on financially supporting campus student employees,” said Alicia Bartosch ’05, ’06 M.Acc., co-chair of the 49er ACE Network and assistant controller of compliance and interim bursar in financial services. “Until now, there hasn’t been a scholarship that supported this particular student population.”

Amazing ACE Award

2020 Recipients

As assistant director of graduate student services in Belk College of Business, Sabrina Brown is a forward-thinker who exudes leadership and creativity. She is very process-oriented and pays close attention to detail to ensure the overall success of her team. Sabrina completed a bachelor’s degree in English from the College of Liberal Arts & Sciences.

As assistant director of business operations and chief experience officer in facilities management, Solomon Franklin is the “face” of the unit. His love for his work, his staff and process improvement is truly remarkable. He earned bachelor’s degrees in graphic design and Africana studies and a master’s degree in history from the College of Liberal Arts & Sciences.

2021 Recipients

As a lecturer in the School of Social Work, Kevin Edwards-Knight is passionate about teaching and working with students. This year, he began coordinating the Early Childhood Mental Health certificate program. He completed a master’s degree in social work from the College of Health and Human Services.

ACE Milestone Award

2020 Recipients

As executive assistant to the chancellor and division budget manager in the Chancellor’s Office, Brenda Shue is passionate about learning, leading and upholding the vision of the University. The most rewarding part of her job is helping our students and parents. She earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology, a graduate certificate in technical professional writing and a master’s degree in liberal studies from the College of Liberal Arts & Sciences.

As assistant director for graduate initial licensure in the Office of Teacher Education Advising and Licensure, Joshua Avery is largely responsible for the program’s 90% growth from 2019 to 2020 with his leadership and considerable efforts to field questions, review applications and be helpful throughout the enrollment process. He is described as a modest and gracious servant leader, focused on the needs of others. He completed a bachelor’s degree in history and a master’s degree in liberal studies from the College of Liberal Arts & Sciences.

2021 Recipient

As deputy athletics director, Darin Spease demonstrates confidence and respect for his employees. He fell in love with UNC Charlotte and considered it home ever since he stepped foot on campus for his college visit. Darin earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the Belk College of Business.

The 49er ACE Network

The UNC Charlotte 49er ACE Network is designed to create a platform for alumni employees to engage, volunteer and grow professionally. The 49er ACE Network encourages the 49er spirit in alumni employees of all ages, divisions and professions. The 49er ACE Network creates opportunities through special programs, events, activities and networking opportunities and professional development training.

Photo, left to right, Solomon Franklin, Darin Spease, Brenda Shue, Sabrina Brown, Joshua Avery and Kevin Edwards-Knight.