Sharon Allred Decker
Served as the second female chair of the Charlotte Chamber of Commerce, while working as the first President of the Lynnwood Foundation. The foundation was created to refurbish the Duke Mansion as a conference center and to establish the William States Lee Leadership Institute in honor of the former president of Duke Power. The youngest and first female Vice President in Duke Power’s history. Woman of the Year 1998.
1998
Shirley Louise Fulton
Served as Assistant District Attorney and Chief Resident Supervisor Court Judge in Mecklenburg County. While serving as a Superior Court Judge, had two bouts of breast cancer and successfully endured a bone marrow transplant. Received the 1998 Judge of the Year Award from the N.C. Association of Women Attorneys. Led the community revitalization of the Wesley Heights neighborhood and co-founded the Queen City Congress, Inc. Woman of the Year 1998.
Gloria Pace King
As President of United Way of Central Carolinas since 1994, has mobilized significant community support and streamlined management practices resulting in major increases in the organization’s annual campaigns. Serves on numerous Boards including Leadership Charlotte, Belmont Abbey College, Mecklenburg Partnership for Children/Smart Start, the Chamber of Commerce, and the Advisory Board of Carolinas Healthcare System. Woman of the Year 1998.
Velva Whitescarver Woollen
Served as Chair of the Charlotte Housing Authority for six years and is considered a leading advocate for the economically disadvantaged, initiating programs in Charlotte for “family self-sufficiency.” Was elected to the Charlotte City Council in 1983, where she served six terms. Chair of the Boards of Science Museums of Charlotte, Spirit Square, and Salem College. Served as President of the Charlotte Junior League. Woman of the Year 1998.
