Thereasea C. Elder Trailblazer Award

The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Black Heritage Committee recognizes those who have made substantial contributions to the community by awarding them the Thereasea C. Elder Trailblazer Award.

Annually, the CMBHC hosts the Thereasea Clark Elder Trailblazer Celebration, wherein the group designates a particular segment of the Charlotte-Mecklenburg community to spotlight; illuminating the significant contributions made to this community and geographical region. Past honorees include: The Churches of Brooklyn (Faith); Black Schools of Charlotte and Mecklenburg County (education); African-American Medical Doctors, including the No Road Maps Project (medical); Civil Rights Activists (economics); and The Alexander Funeral Home (business).

Thereasea Clark Elder – Chairman Emeritus CMBHC

Thereasea Clark Elder grew up in Charlotte’s Greenville neighborhood in the late 1920s. Over the course of her career, she’s served as both a nurse and a community activist. After enrolling in Johnson C. Smith University, Elder entered into the U. S. Cadet Nursing Program. Following World War II, she became the first African American Public Health Nurse in Mecklenburg County, officially retiring in 1989 after nearly fifty years of service. As a strong champion of the African American community, Thereasea C. Elder established the Greenville Community Historical Society as well as the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Black Heritage Council. Over the years, Thereasea C. Elder has received numerous awards and recognition for her leadership and community spirit.