Welcome to the Inaugural 8 Over 80 Celebration
November 11, 2025
Quail Hollow Club
We are delighted to have you join us as we honor remarkable individuals whose lives continue to inspire and uplift our community.
We extend a warm welcome to our residents, valued community partners, local leaders, and distinguished guests, including our keynote speaker, Dr. Wendy Suzuki.
Thank you for being here – let the celebration begin!
Program Highlights
Honoring Words & Warm Wishes
Welcome from Southminster
Message from Mayor Vi Lyles Reflections from LeadingAge NC
Honoring Our 8 Over 80 Honorees:
Mary Lou Babb
Dr. John T. Crawford
Dr. Boyd H. Davis
Harvey B. Gantt
Hugh L. McColl, Jr.
Caroline Love Myers
Sally Robinson
Charles Squires
With Appreciation
Grateful acknowledgment of our generous supporters and event sponsors.
With special recognition to our community partner, Shepherd’s Center of Charlotte.
ďż˝ SOUTHMINSTER
November 11, 2025
November 11, 2025
Dear Friends of 8 Over 80,
At Southminster, we believe that purpose does not retire – it evolves. The inaugural 8 Over 80: Lifetime of Purpose Awards were born from that belief: that life beyond 80 can be a time not of slowing down, but deepening meaning, creativity, and connection.
Dear Friends of 8 over 80,
At Southminster, we believe that purpose does not retire - it evolves. The inaugural 8 over 80: Lifetime of Purpose Awards were born from that belief: that life beyond 80 can be a time not of slowing down, but deepening meaning, creativity, and connection.
This afternoon, we honor eight extraordinary individuals whose lives exemplify what it means to live longer and better – with intention, compassion, and a continued sense of purpose. They remind us that aging well is not simply about adding years but about expanding our perception of what those years can hold.
This afternoon, we honor eight extraordinary individuals whose lives exemplify what it means to live longer and better-with intention, compassion, a nd a continued sense of purpose. They remind u s that aging well is not simply about adding years but about expanding our perception of what those years can hold.
Each of our honorees serves as a powerful example to younger generations of the possibilities that come with age. Through the gift of time, they share their knowledge, wisdom, and perspective – continuing to inspire, teach, and guide others. In doing so, they show us that purpose grows richer when it is shared, and that every season of life holds opportunities for contribution and connection.
Each of our honorees serves as a powerful example to younger generations of the possibilities that come with age. Through the gift of time, they share their knowledge, wisdom, and perspectivecontinuing to inspire, teach, and guide others. In doing so, they show us that purpose grows richer when it is shared , and that every season of life holds opportunities for contribution and connection.
Each honoree has done more than achieve; they have invented new roles, created new rituals, and embodied new symbols for this next stage of life. Through their energy and example, they are shaping a more permeable community – one that invites all generations to share, learn, and grow together.
Each honoree has done more than achieve; they have invented new roles, created new rituals, and embodied new symbols for this next stage of life. Through their energy and example, they are shaping a more permeable community-one that invites all generations to share, learn, and grow together.
The 8 Over 80 celebration also reflects Southminster’s enduring commitment to purposeful connections within and beyond our walls. A portion of this afternoon’s ticket sales will benefit our long-time partner, Shepherd’s Center of Charlotte, whose mission of care and empowerment aligns closely with our own.
The 8 Over 80 celebration also reflects Southminster's enduring commitment to purposeful connections within and beyond our walls. A portion of this afternoon's proceeds will benefit our long-time partner, Shepherd's Center of Charlotte, whose mission of care and empowerment aligns closely with our own.
As we look to the future, many this afternoon remind us that a lifetime of purpose is not defined by years lived, but by the meaning we continue to make, the communities we continue to nurture, and the love we continue to share.
As we look to the future, many this afternoon remind us that a lifetime of purpose is not defined by years lived, but by the meaning we continue to m ake, the communities we continue to nurture, and the love we continue to share.
With gratitude and inspiration,
With gratitude and inspiration,
Ben Gilchrist
Ben Gilchrist President & CEO
�;!;IL�· Vice President, Philanthropy & Strategic Initiatives
Tracy McGinnis President & CEO Vice President, Philanthropy & Strategic Initiatives
Dr. Boyd H. Davis
For more than five decades, Dr. Boyd H. Davis has been a pioneer in inclusive communication, using her expertise in linguistics to help people connect across profound cognitive, linguistic, and cultural barriers. An Emerita Professor of English and Bonnie E. Cone Distinguished Professor of Teaching at UNC Charlotte, Boyd has devoted her career to improving communication for individuals living with dementia and other cognitive impairments.
Over the past 25 years, her innovative work has shaped how caregivers and students understand and communicate with older adults and people with dementia. Her methods became the foundation for a transformative servicelearning program in UNC Charlotte’s Introduction to Gerontology course, preparing hundreds of students to serve their communities with empathy and skill.
Dr. Davis remains an active scholar, mentor, and international collaborator— with research partners in Taiwan, China, Cyprus, New Zealand, and beyond. She continues to publish, guide new researchers, and inspire colleagues through her compassion, creativity, and commitment to meaningful connection. She also serves as an Affiliate of the Alzheimer’s Research Clinical Programs at the Medical University of South Carolina and as a Collaborative Researcher with the New Zealand Institute of Brain, Language & Behavior.
Known for her warmth, wit, and unstoppable spirit, Boyd sees no obstacles—only opportunities. As she likes to say, “People might think I’m a sweet old lady—and I can be—but I can get things done.”
Harvey B. Gantt
Gantt Huberman Architects, the firm Harvey B. Gantt co-founded, cemented his reputation as a pioneer in blending urban planning with the practice of architecture, designing buildings that encourage community. But his most lasting legacy and impact came from breaking barriers, such as when he joined Charlotte City Council in 1974 and was elected Charlotte’s first African-American mayor in 1983. Over his two terms, Gantt stood shoulder-to-shoulder with other Charlotte leaders committed to establishing a New South City.
In 2009, when the former Afro-American Cultural Center opened its doors to a new, award-winning facility, it was renamed the Harvey B. Gantt Center for African-American Arts + Culture in honor of Gantt, a recognized American trailblazer far beyond the Charlotte region.
Hugh McColl Jr.
Hugh McColl is one of the most influential figures in American banking and civic life, a leader guided by his belief that “business has a moral obligation to build community.” He joined North Carolina National Bank (NCNB) in 1959, and over the next four decades, helped transform a regional bank into a global financial powerhouse. As Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, McColl guided NCNB’s evolution into NationsBank, and ultimately the 1998 merger that created Bank of America, headquartered in Charlotte. A tireless advocate for Charlotte’s growth, he has championed initiatives in education, the arts, and community development, helping to establish the McColl Center for Art + Innovation and played a pivotal role in the creation of the Levine Center for the Arts. His commitment to urban revitalization, cultural investment, and social equity has shaped Charlotte’s identity as a dynamic, inclusive city.
Caroline Love Myers
Caroline Myers has been a proud Charlottean for 92 years. A graduate of the city’s public schools, she earned her bachelor’s degree Magna Cum Laude from Queens College in 1955, later serving as Registrar and as a longtime board member. She married Mike Myers in 1958 and together they raised four children—Michael, Charles, Susan, and Richard. Caroline also taught part-time at Central Piedmont Community College.
In 1974, while serving as Director of Community Mission at Covenant Presbyterian Church, Caroline helped launch what would become Crisis Assistance Ministry (CAM). That opportunity, combined with the challenges of the 1974–75 recession, led to the creation of Crisis Assistance Ministry in April 1975. Under her guidance, CAM became a lifeline for households in financial crisis, providing emergency rent and utility assistance, clothing, furniture, and supportive services. As its founding Executive Director, she led CAM from its first location at St. Martin’s Episcopal Church to its permanent home on Spratt Street in 1988.
Caroline retired in 2000 and continues to be a passionate advocate for low-income families in Mecklenburg County. She now lives next door to her childhood home and delights in her four children and five grandchildren. Her life stands as a testament to compassionate leadership and a deep commitment to community.
Sally Robinson
Sally Robinson’s legacy in Charlotte is defined by a lifetime of civic leadership, strategic philanthropy, and hands-on service that has shaped our most vital cultural, educational, and social institutions. Her role in founding the Levine Museum of the New South has especially inspired generations of Charlotteans, as have her herculean efforts on behalf of the Charlotte Mecklenburg Library and Library Foundation. The boards of Duke University, National Center for the Humanities, Foundation for the Carolinas, the Charlotte Nature Museum, and the Arts & Science Council, among many others, have also benefitted from Robinson’s insights and talents.
Charles Squires
Charles Squires has dedicated his life to service, faith, and community. Whenever there’s a need, he steps forward—offering his time and heart through organizations such as the AARP Tax-Aide Program, ROOF Above, St. Gabriel Catholic Church’s Men’s Ministry, and the Charlotte Regional Farmers Market. Known for his warmth, humility, and ability to inspire others, Charles leads by example, showing that kindness and faith in action can transform lives.
Born and raised in Trinidad, Charles learned generosity and service from his grandmother, whose quiet faith shaped his character. After moving to New York, he built a successful career in accounting and later founded a sales and marketing company. In 1992, his innovative Black History Month campaign—featuring six leading African American publications—was recognized by The New York Times for its national impact promoting Black literature and culture.
Since relocating to Charlotte in 2011, Charles has continued to serve faithfully through volunteer work and ministry, always infusing his efforts with what he calls his “Caribbean spice.” Married for 52 years to his wife, Adlett, he is a proud father of three and grandfather of five. Guided by James 2:14–18 and Matthew 25:35–40, Charles lives by the belief that true faith is shown through service—demonstrating that purpose is found not in words, but in action.
Thank You to Our Sponsors
PRESENTING SPONSOR
LEAGACY SPONSOR
Thank You to Our Sponsors
PURPOSE SPONSOR
FRIENDS SPONSOR
MEDIA SPONSOR
In Five Years, One in Five People will be 65 and Over
At The Shepherd’s Center of Charlotte, we’re prepared to meet the growing needs of our aging community. As the sole provider in Mecklenburg County of the Senior Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP), we help older adults, both new to Medicare and those already enrolled, navigate the complex system with unbiased, personalized guidance at no cost.
Our trained counselors empower participants to find plans that best meet their health and financial needs. Last year alone, we counseled 2,357 individuals and helped Mecklenburg County Medicare beneficiaries save $323,407. By putting money back into their pockets, The Shepherd’s Center provides peace of mind knowing their coverage supports their healthcare needs.
To learn more about the SHIIP program and how to support The Shepherd’s Center of Charlotte, visit www.ShepherdsCharlotte.org. or scan the QR code.
300 Hawthorne Lane, Charlotte, NC 28204 | 704-365-1995
Honoree Plates
Bill Godley and Bob Buric
Southminster Resident Artists
With Special Thanks to Our Resident Artisans
We are deeply grateful to Southminster residents Bob Buric and Bill Godley for their exceptional craftsmanship in creating the inaugural 8 Over 80 awards.
Handcrafted in the Southminster woodshop from a beautiful Curly Maple and Walnut wood, these plates capture the beauty of fine craftsmanship and the care, patience, and talent behind each piece. Thank you for sharing your skill and creativity to make this celebration truly special.
We celebrate the extraordinary achievements of eight remarkable individuals whose wisdom, leadership, and lifelong contributions inspire us all.
At Southminster, we believe that celebrating those 80 and beyond inspires every generation to recognize that purpose, leadership, and meaningful impact transcend age.
Thank you for joining us to honor individuals who continue to elevate our community with grace, wisdom, and unwavering dedication. Congratulations to all honorees!
With Deep Gratitude to Our Keynote Speaker
We extend our sincere gratitude to Dr. Wendy Suzuki - worldrenowned neuroscientist, bestselling author, and acclaimed TED speaker - for serving as the inaugural 8 Over 80 keynote guest.
Thank you for sharing your powerful insights on aging, brain health, and the remarkable capacity for growth at every stage of life. Your wisdom inspires us to age with curiosity, vitality, and purpose.
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