The Craven Community College Foundation is proud to announce the recipients of the 16th Annual Community Fabric Awards, recognizing individuals and organizations whose leadership, service, and commitment help strengthen the communities served by Craven Community College.
The awards will be presented on Monday, April 28 at noon at the Riverfront Convention Center of Craven County. The annual event celebrates leaders who help weave the social and economic fabric of the region through service, innovation, and dedication to others.
Individual Leadership Award: Chuck Tyson
Chuck Tyson is recognized for decades of dedicated public service and leadership in Craven County. His service began as a commissioner for the Town of Trent Woods, where his thoughtful leadership quickly earned the trust of residents and fellow leaders.
Tyson later served eight years as a Craven County Commissioner, where he helped guide several transformative projects, including the development of the county convention center and improvements at the regional airport projects that strengthened both infrastructure and economic vitality in Craven County.
Now concluding 20 years as Mayor of Trent Woods, Tyson’s tenure has been defined by steady progress and meaningful community improvements. Under his leadership, the town has added sidewalks, parks, a Town Hall, and other projects that have enhanced safety, accessibility, and quality of life for residents.
Business Leadership Award: Hearne’s Fine Jewelry
Hearne’s Fine Jewelry has long been recognized as one of the area’s most respected and enduring family businesses. Established in the early 1970s, the business was founded on the principle of putting customers and community first.
Today, Hearne’s continues as a multigenerational family business with founder Laura Hearne still actively involved alongside her son Mike, his wife Michelle, and the next generation of the Hearne family, including their daughter Madison and son-in-law Justin.
For decades, Hearne’s has been part of many of life’s most meaningful moments for families across New Bern and the surrounding region from engagement rings and wedding bands to treasured family heirlooms. Their commitment to service, quality, and community leadership has made them a lasting cornerstone of the local business community.
Educational Leadership Award: Kelsie McBride
Kelsie McBride, Director of Nursing Programs in the Health Sciences Division at Craven Community College, is being honored for her outstanding leadership in nursing education and her deep commitment to community service.
Through her work at the college, McBride has played a vital role in preparing the next generation of nurses while inspiring students to pursue excellence in healthcare and service.
Beyond the classroom, she serves as a board member for the Merci Clinic, helping expand healthcare access in the community. She also serves as a deacon at First Baptist Church in New Bern and co-chairs the Monarch Human Rights Committee, advocating for dignity and respect for all members of the community. Her annual volunteer work with the dental bus further demonstrates her commitment to improving community health for underserved populations. A lifelong New Bern native and mother of two boys, McBride embodies the values of service, leadership, and community that the Community Fabric Awards celebrate.