N.C. D.A.R.E. Officers Association Awards
NC D.A.R.E. Officer of the Year
It is with great respect and sincere admiration that I submit this nomination for Holly Locklear-Turner for the NC DARE Officers Association – DARE Officer of the Year Award.
Holly has been an exemplary asset to North Carolina DARE and a steadfast representation of the values our organization stands for. Even following the conclusion of her presidency, she has continued to exceed expectations through her dedication, leadership, and unwavering commitment to our mission. She consistently works to secure donations, strengthens community relationships, and champions humanitarian efforts that directly benefit the youth we serve.
Both Holly and her husband, Sammy, have played a significant role in supporting our association, particularly through their ongoing financial contributions and their deep passion for the wellbeing of North Carolina’s children. Their combined efforts have greatly enhanced our ability to positively impact communities across the state.
On a personal level, Holly has always been available whenever I have reached out. She makes a genuine effort to listen, provide guidance, and ensure that others feel valued and appreciated. Her compassion, dependability, and professionalism stand out among her many admirable qualities.
I wholeheartedly believe that no one is more deserving of recognition as North Carolina DARE Officer of the Year. Holly’s dedication and service exemplify the very spirit of this award.
In closing, Holly Locklear-Turner's commitment to service, integrity, and community impact reflects the highest standards of the North Carolina DARE program. Her leadership continues to uplift those around her, and her contributions will be felt for years to come. It is an honor to endorse her for this prestigious recognition.
Glen Mowrey Executive of the Year
Sheriff Asa B. Buck III has dedicated more than 25 years to serving the citizens of Carteret County, including more than 19 years as sheriff. Throughout his career, he has been a strong advocate for community-oriented law enforcement, focusing on prevention, education, and building positive relationships between law enforcement and the public. He has been a dedicated supporter of the D.A.R.E. program, believing that reaching young people early helps them make safe and healthy choices while promoting respect, confidence, and good decision-making. During his tenure, Sheriff Buck led efforts to combat drug crimes, expand drug prevention programs, improve the county’s 911 communications system, upgrade detention center technology, and equip deputies with naloxone to help reverse opioid overdoses. In addition to his service in Carteret County, he served as President of the North Carolina Sheriffs’ Association and received numerous honors for his leadership and community involvement. As he retires, Sheriff Buck leaves behind a legacy of public service, strong leadership, and unwavering dedication to the safety and well-being of the citizens of Carteret County.
N.C. D.A.R.E. Officers Association Awards
NC DARE Educator of the Year
It is an honor and a pleasure to submit this letter of nomination for Mrs. Tricia Prevette for the NC D.A.R.E. Officers' Association Educator of the year awards.
I first met Mrs. Prevette in 2018 at Friedberg Elementary School when I became the DARE Instructor for her students. Over the past nine years, I have had the privilege of witnessing her strength, passion and unwavering commitment to education. Mrs. Prevette consistently places the academic and personal needs of her students at the forefront of everything she does, and her care for them extends far beyond the classroom walls.
Serving as DARE instructor in her classroom has allowed me to observe her professionalism, dedication, and exceptional character firsthand. Her years of teaching experience have been invaluable in supporting my work with students. Mrs. Prevette is dependable, hardworking and wholeheartedly devoted to both her students and her colleagues. Her principal once shared that she 1'has always had complete confidence that her students are cared for in every aspect of their well-being," a sentiment that perfectly reflects her daily practice. In addition to her classroom responsibilities, she established a clothing and food closet for students in need, demonstrating her compassion, leadership and initiative
Mrs. Prevette is also a strong and enthusiastic advocate for the DARE program and its mission. She is deeply committed to ensuring her students receive the knowledge and skills necessary to make safe and responsible decisions that will positively shape their futures. She is never too busy to sit down with a student-or with a DARE Instructor-to listen, offer support, and help guide them through challenges. She is the kind of teacher every parent hopes their child will have: one who educates, encourages and empowers her students as they move into the next chapters of their lives.
It is my esteemed pleasure to nominate Mrs. Tricia Prevette for the NC DARE Officers' Association Educator of the year Award. She is truly deserving of this honor.
Big Country
The Mike Adkins “Big Country” award, created in memory of the late Michael Adkins, former NC D.A.R.E. Training Coordinator, recognizes an Active Board Member.
The "Big Country" Award is presented each year to a current board member whose contributions are truly second to none. As president of this year's board, I have the tremendous honor of selecting this year's recipient. And while so many members of this board are deeply deserving, there is one individual who truly rises above-someone whose impact is unmistakable.
This year's recipient is someone everyone in this room knows and loves. This individual embodies everything that Mike Atkins stood for. They shoulder for more than most of us ever see and consistently go above and beyond to ensure every aspect of DARE in NC is the very best it can be.
To me, this recipient is not only a trusted friend, but a mentor--someone I can reach out to at any time for advice, guidance, or support. And I know Mike himself championed this person. He would be the first to say, "Richard, you are right where you are suppose to be."