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Human Relations Commission
Human Resources Department
In the early 1990s, the City Council recognized that there was a need for a dedicated response to the changing demographics and needs of the community.
In May of 1993, the Morganton City Council formally established the Morganton Human Relations Commission as an advisory board to advise the Council, the City Manager and City staff on matters involving race, discrimination and human relations.
The 11 members of the commission represent varied racial, religious and ethnic backgrounds and include at least one student member from Freedom High School.
Members serve staggered three year terms. Member nominations are sought from the public and suggested by the sitting commission and city staff. Selected individuals are appointed by the mayor.
The commission selects its chair and vice-chair. The city's Human Resources Director serves as the city's representative.
Purpose and Goals
The goal of the Commission is to eliminate prejudice and practices of discrimination against individuals or groups because of race, color, creed, national origin, ancestry or religious affiliation.
The Commission works to eliminate such prejudice and discrimination by keeping the officers and departments of the City of Morganton informed of developments in human relations and by developing initiatives to unite the peoples of the community.
The City of Morganton Human Relations Commission will:
- study relationship issues between peoples of different races, colors, creeds, national origins, ancestries and religious affiliations.
- invite the cooperation of these groups as well as individuals and help facilitate that cooperation.
- promote mutual understanding and foster equality and respect among all peoples regardless of their race, color, creed, national origin, ancestry or religious affiliation.
Citizens of the Year
The Commission created the Citizen of the Year Award in 1995. The awards honor outstanding adult, high school and middle school volunteers who have made a positive difference in their school, community or neighborhood. A person may be nominated for service to a group, an organization or an individual.
Award recipients represent a wide range of interests and backgrounds but all share the same commitment to community and mankind. They have given of themselves by providing assistance for those in need of shelter and medical care, volunteering in rest homes and local ministries, organizing civic events and celebrations, and by volunteer service through their church, school or civic group.
Nominations are sought beginning in January honoring outstanding volunteer contributions from the preceding year. Forms are available at City Hall in the Human Resources Department, 438-5253, and at the Collett Street Recreation Center, 438-5350, and at www.ci.morganton.nc.us
2008 Citizens of the Year
On April 17, 2008, the Commission named George Brewer as the 2008 Adult Citizen of the Year. Sarah Griffin was named the 2008 High School Citizen of the Year and Lamara Parnell was honored as the 2008 Middle School Citizen of the Year.
 Read more about the 2008 Citizens of the Year
2007 Citizens of the Year
Last year, the Commission named Deloris McDowell as the 2007 Adult Citizen of the Year. Marcus Connelly was named the 2007 High School Citizen of the Year and Matthew Randall was honored as the 2007 Middle School Citizen of the Year. The 2008 Citizens of the Year Banquet will be held at 6:00 p.m. Thursday, April 17, at the Morganton Community House.
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