Asheville, North Carolina, August 27, 2025
News Summary
Governor Josh Stein has unveiled the recipients of the North Carolina Award, the state’s top civilian honor, set to take place at the Grove Park Inn in Asheville. This year’s ceremony is significant as it supports recovery efforts from Hurricane Helene, with proceeds aiding affected communities in western North Carolina. The event will honor six individuals for their remarkable contributions in Fine Arts, Literature, Public Service, and Science, while also highlighting the resilience of the region post-hurricane disaster.
Asheville, North Carolina – Governor Josh Stein has announced the 2025 recipients of the North Carolina Award, the highest civilian honor in the state. The ceremony is scheduled to take place on November 13, 2025, at the historic Grove Park Inn in Asheville. This marks the first time the award ceremony will occur outside the capital city of Raleigh.
Six distinguished individuals will be honored for their contributions in the fields of Fine Arts, Literature, Public Service, and Science. This prestigious event is particularly significant as all proceeds will directly support recovery efforts following the devastating impact of Hurricane Helene, especially in western North Carolina. The funds raised will benefit communities affected by the hurricane through the Community Foundation of NC.
The focus of the award ceremony will not only highlight the achievements of the honorees but also emphasize the resilience of western North Carolina, a region that faced significant challenges after Hurricane Helene struck on September 27, 2024. The storm caused catastrophic flooding in Asheville and surrounding areas, with record rainfall reaching some locations at 700mm within just 24 hours. Upgraded to a category-4 hurricane, Helene generated winds that reached 220km/h.
The aftermath of the storm was devastating. In total, 107 lives were lost, with over a third occurring in Buncombe County alone. Entire neighborhoods were destroyed by flooding and mudslides, displacing numerous residents who tragically had to leave loved ones behind in inundated homes. In addition to fatalities, communities experienced massive infrastructure damage, loss of running water, power outages, and disruptions in telecommunications.
In the months following the hurricane, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) initially covered 100% of recovery costs for the first six months. However, this amount has since been reduced to 90%, leaving many areas still in dire need of financial support. As of mid-2025, recovery efforts have continued, exacerbated by the fact that extensive areas remain awaiting assistance from federal resources after the storm. The North Carolina General Assembly responded by passing a disaster relief funding package in June 2025 to help alleviate some of the financial burdens.
Economic recovery remains a pressing issue as Asheville’s unemployment rate soared to 6% in the aftermath of the hurricane, marking the highest rate in North Carolina. Local businesses endured significant revenue losses which contributed to a staggering drop in tourism, with visitor numbers declining by 74% in October and 57% in November 2024 compared to the previous year.
Despite the challenges, efforts to ensure federal funding and assistance continue as the community of Asheville works diligently towards rebuilding infrastructure and revitalizing the local economy. Current recovery projects focus on reopening vital access routes and restoring essential services throughout affected areas in western North Carolina.
North Carolina Award Background
The North Carolina Award was established in 1961 to recognize and celebrate individuals who’ve made significant contributions to the state. Over the years, the award has honored over 300 prominent figures, including renowned personalities like Maya Angelou, James Taylor, and Eric Church. The upcoming ceremony is anticipated to highlight both the resilience of the state and the important steps being taken to recover from the recent hurricane disaster.
Key Statistics on Hurricane Helene Recovery Efforts
- Total fatalities: 107
- Maximum rainfall recorded: 700mm
- Maximum wind speed: 220km/h
- Current unemployment rate in Asheville: 6%
- Visitor decrease: 74% (October 2024) and 57% (November 2024)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the North Carolina Award?
The North Carolina Award is the state’s highest civilian honor, celebrating significant contributions in the fields of Fine Arts, Literature, Public Service, and Science.
When and where will the 2025 North Carolina Award ceremony take place?
The ceremony will be held on November 13, 2025, at the Grove Park Inn in Asheville, North Carolina.
What is the purpose of the proceeds from the award ceremony?
All proceeds from the event will support recovery efforts for communities impacted by Hurricane Helene through the Community Foundation of NC.
What impact did Hurricane Helene have on western North Carolina?
Hurricane Helene caused catastrophic flooding, resulting in 107 fatalities, extensive infrastructure damage, and significant economic losses, leaving many areas in need of ongoing recovery assistance.
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Additional Resources
- New York Times: Hurricane Disaster Information
- Monocle: Asheville Recovery Post-Hurricane Helene
- Carolina Journal: Asheville Mayor’s Update on Hurricane Helene
- WRAL: Updates on Hurricane Helene Recovery
- Wikipedia: Hurricane Helene
Author: STAFF HERE ASHEVILLE WRITER
The ASHEVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAsheville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Asheville, Buncombe County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Asheville Bread Festival, LEAF Festival, and mountain sports tournaments at Biltmore Estate. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce and Explore Asheville Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in hospitality and brewing that power the local economy such as the Biltmore Estate and Sierra Nevada Brewing Company. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, HERERaleigh.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
