Chapel Hill, N.C. – The Chamber for a Greater Chapel Hill-Carrboro partnered with UNC Athletics to recognize the 2023 Service Award winners on Wednesday, Jan. 17, before the UNC men’s basketball game against Louisville on Roy Williams Court at the Dean E. Smith Center. The winners were honored for their service to the community in front of thousands of fans donning Carolina blue.
"We are grateful to have partnered with Carolina Athletics to honor these 11 community heroes, who so deservedly received an ovation from the thousands of fans at the Dean Smith Center," said Aaron Nelson, President and CEO of The Chamber. "These award winners and the organizations they represent are an integral part of our community and should be celebrated. Thank you to UNC Athletics for their partnership and these heroes for their service.”
Also present during the recognition of the award winners from the Town of Carrboro were Mayor Barbara Foushee, Interim Town Manager Marie Parker, Police Chief Chris Atack, and Fire Chief Will Potter.
Carrboro Fire Department Firefighter of the Year – Cory Scott Horner
Firefighter Cory Scott Horner exemplifies dedication and excellence in the fire service, serving as a valuable asset to the Carrboro community. His outstanding work ethic and infectious friendly personality set a standard for his peers.
Horner played a key role in developing a new turnout gear specification and led efforts to acquire a situational awareness thermal imaging camera, showcasing both technical expertise and a commitment to safety. Additionally, he takes the lead in procuring training equipment and actively contributes to a county committee focused on mass casualty incident response.
Horner's knowledge, dedication, and proactive approach make him a standout firefighter, positively impacting Carrboro and its residents. He truly embodies the qualities of a firefighter who goes above and beyond, setting an inspiring example for the entire community.
Carrboro Police Officer of the Year – Sgt. Edgar Deharo
Sergeant Deharo stands as a consummate professional, embodying a calm demeanor and a service-driven philosophy that sets an exemplary standard for fellow officers. His commitment to community service extends beyond the call of duty, as evidenced by an incident where he discovered a young child without a bed due to financial constraints. In a heartwarming gesture, Sergeant Deharo and his wife provided a bed for the child and Christmas presents for the family.
Beyond his regular duties, Sergeant Deharo consistently acts as a bridge for members of the Latino community, offering crucial translation services and aiding them in navigating various life situations. His dedication to service, compassion, and willingness to go above and beyond make Sergeant Deharo an outstanding role model within the force and a positive force within the community.
The complete list of honorees from across the community is as follows:
- Cory Scott Horner - Carrboro Fire Department Firefighter of the Year
- Sgt. Edgar Deharo - Carrboro Police Officer of the Year
- Capt. Brian Matthew Dunagin - Chapel Hill Firefighter of the Year
- Officer Jum Gim - Chapel Hill Police Officer of the Year
- Sgt. Scott Foster - Hillsborough Officer of the Year
- Celsi Simon - OC Emergency Services Employee of the Year
- Investigator Kevin Stewart - Orange County Sheriff's Deputy of the Year
- Lt. Julio Perez - Orange Rural Firefighter of the Year
- Spencer Lindgren - SORS Member of the Year
- Sgt. Darin Lee - UNC Hospitals Officer of the Year
- Investigator Nicholas Lynch - UNC Police Officer of the Year
Carrboro Fire Chief Will Potter and Firefighter Cory Scott Horner
Carrboro Police Chief Chris Atack and Sgt. Edgar Deharo
Mayor Barbara Foushee and Interim Town Manager Marie Parker
Photo Credit: Maggie Hobson/UNC Athletics