A.J. FLETCHER
2001 Inductee
He was a family man, entrepreneur, and a firm believer in the free enterprise system who had a passion for bettering his community. In addition to being a successful entrepreneur, Fletcher believed the arts were vital to public education and helped create the Grass Roots Opera Company, now the Fletcher Opera Institute at the North Carolina School of the Arts. Through wise business opportunities and dedicated work, he gained much success and gave generously to what he believed in.
R.J. REYNOLDS
2001 Inductee
A true free enterprise hero in the Carolinas who was innovative in branding and marketing strategies that set the industry standard. He established innovative working conditions in his business and generously provided his employees with higher pay and shorter working hours.
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WILLIAM HENRY BELK
2001 Inductee
A true enterprise hero in the Carolinas who created a successful business through a creative use of his talents and resources, and whose life is marked by good character and virtue. He was an innovator, leader and well respected member of his community, business and civic organizations. Most importantly, he used his success to give back to people and philanthropic organizations
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CHARLES A. CANNON
2001 Inductee
A true free enterprise hero in the Carolinas that trailblazed the way for trademark branding, marketing, and advertising in the textile industry. Altruistic and charitable, Cannon’s kindness within his community extended not only to his employees and their families, but also to local churches, schools, hospitals, and libraries.
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