Celebrating UNC Charlotte's Rising Stars
4 Niners named 40 Under 40 Honorees
The Charlotte Business Journal's annual "40 Under 40 Awards” spotlight the region's most promising young professionals who are making significant impacts in their fields and communities. This year, four exceptional individuals from the UNC Charlotte community were recognized for achievements exemplifying leadership, innovation and dedication.
The following excerpts and photographs have been provided by Charlotte Business Journal.
40 Under 40 Honoree
Virginia Covill ’13M.A., ’16 Ph.D.
Deputy Director, Strategy and Operations, Leading on Opportunity
Virginia Covill is a dedicated leader focused on enhancing economic mobility and social capital in Charlotte. With a strong background in psychology and community engagement, she plays a pivotal role in developing strategies that connect communities to opportunities.
What professional achievement are you most proud of?
"I live a blessed life, and I don’t take for granted any opportunity I have been given to live my best life. As a result, my career path has been this rich journey of discovery and possibility."
What has been the hardest lesson learned along the way, or the one that’s had the greatest impact on your career?
“Trust the journey, be still, know that wherever I am is exactly where I am supposed to be, and God has equipped me for every assignment.”
What inspires or motivates you?
“What inspires me is when people are given the opportunity to live their best life and wake up each day hopeful, joyful and with purpose.”
40 Under 40 Honoree
Matthew Kiker, Professional Engineer ’11
Civil/Site Department Manager, Thomas and Hutton
Matthew Kiker brings over a decade of experience in civil engineering, leading projects that shape the infrastructure of the Charlotte region. His commitment to excellence and mentorship has earned him recognition as a rising leader in the engineering community.
What professional achievement are you most proud of?
“Overseeing the relocation of our team to a new office and mentoring emerging engineers.”
What has been the hardest lesson learned along the way, or the one that’s had the greatest impact on your career?
“Learning the importance of patience and continuous learning in career development.”
Why did you choose your field or profession, or how did you get started in it?
“A passion for building and design led me to pursue civil engineering.”
What inspires or motivates you?
“Seeing the tangible impact of our projects on the community.”
40 Under 40 Honoree
Fernando Mayoral ’17 MBA
Owner/President, YourPartyOnline.com
As the founder of YourPartyOnline.com, Fernando Mayoral has transformed the event planning landscape in Charlotte. His entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to community engagement have made him a standout figure in the local business scene.
What professional achievement are you most proud of?
“Expanding YourPartyOnline.com’s reach and impact within the Charlotte community over the past eight years.”
What has been the hardest lesson learned along the way, or the one that’s had the greatest impact on your career?
“Understanding the importance of adaptability and resilience in entrepreneurship.”
Why did you choose your field or profession, or how did you get started in it?
“A passion for event planning and creating memorable experiences led me to start my own business.”
What inspires or motivates you?
“Bringing joy to people through well-executed events and celebrations."
40 Under 40 Honoree
Dr. Lin Ma
Assistant Professor
Lin Ma, Ph.D., has been a key researcher in UNC Charlotte's BATT CAVE (Battery Complexity, Autonomous Vehicle and Electrification Research Center). His contributions have not only propelled scientific progress in battery technology but also have helped position Charlotte as a hub for clean energy solutions.
What professional achievement are you most proud of?
“Securing over $5 million in funding for research in energy storage technologies and mentoring students.”
What has been the hardest lesson learned along the way, or the one that’s had the greatest impact on your career?
“Balancing research, teaching, and administrative responsibilities effectively.”
Why did you choose your field or profession, or how did you get started in it?
“A deep interest in sustainable energy solutions led me to specialize in battery technology.”
What inspires or motivates you?
“Contributing to advancements in energy storage that can have a global impact.”
These honorees exemplify the impact of
UNC Charlotte's alumni and faculty in driving progress and fostering community development.
ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT
UNC Charlotte School of Nursing Distinguished Alumni Award
recognizes outstanding graduates who have demonstrated leadership, outstanding career achievements, and enhanced the mission of the University and/or School