Seahawks Rising: UNCW Staff, Alum Make Annual “40 Under 40” List

Many of the names on The Greater Wilmington Chamber of Commerce's annual “40 Under 40” list are Seahawks. For seven years, the chamber has recognized area professionals making significant contributions to their organizations and the broader community with the awards.  
 
Andrew Harrison, one of the UNCW employees and alum being honored, said it was “the most unexpected and exciting news.” He is a lecturer in the School of Health and Applied Human Sciences and earned a bachelor's in exercise science ('12) and a M.A.T. in health and physical education ('17) from UNCW.  
 
“As someone who came up through UNCW and now has the opportunity to teach and mentor the next generation of professionals, this recognition reinforces the impact we can make when we stay committed to serving others and building strong, healthy communities,” he said.  
 
Lydia Thomas, program manager in the UNCW Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, is the other UNCW employee on the 2025 list.  
 
“It’s a privilege to be recognized alongside such a talented group of professionals who are making an impact in our region,” she said. “It represents more than just a personal achievement, it’s a reflection of the hard work, dedication and support of the people I’ve been fortunate to work with and learn from at the UNCW CIE.” 
 
Thomas completed her undergraduate work at North Carolina State University and is in the process of earning an MBA from UNCW. 
 
The additional Seahawk honorees are alumni: 

• Roy Badillo '24M 
• Justin Burgess '10 
• Chris Capone '12M 
• Elizabeth Felts ’11 
• Candace Guido '12M 
• Ben Jacobson '17M 
• Mireya Lupercio '15 
• Eileen O’Malley '12 
• Drew Smith '13 
• Shay Webb '23M
• Jason Windham '09 

Honorees are chosen by a selection committee based on their professional accomplishments and commitment to community engagement. They will be formally recognized at an awards ceremony in October.