Cynthia Apple was a great operations manager who truly cared for her residents and staff and demonstrated excellence every single day. She was a property manager’s property manager. Kind and considerate to all, Cynthia had the skills, ability, and demeanor that every owner looks for in a manager.

Clyde Fitzgerald, Jr. served the Second Harvest Food Bank of Northwest NC for 36 years as an advocate, board member, board chair, and later as the organization’s CEO for nearly 10 years. During his tenure as CEO, which coincided with one of the greatest economic recessions in our community, Clyde increased food distribution from 7 million to 31 million meals provided annually across 18 counties. Our community sadly lost this champion in the fight against hunger in 2018. He leaves us with the legacy of words he shared often: “Giving food to those in need is showing God’s love in a can. It’s always the right time to help somebody in need.”

Frederick Proctor, known as Bobby, was a member of the Signature Property Group family for eight years. His skill set and work ethic were that of a model employee and his positive disposition made him a joy to be around. Anyone who knew Bobby loved him. He was gentle and generous and an excellent role model in every facet of who he was. Sadly, Bobby passed away in 2006 and is greatly missed by all who were lucky enough to have known him. The award was created to honor not only Bobby, but those who embody such admirable qualities.