The Office of Community Outreach and Engagement would like to celebrate UNC Lineberger’s Community Advisory Board member Mr. Ernest Watts for receiving the 2024 Reynolds Achievement Award, an award given annually to a North Carolina Public Health Association member who has made the greatest contribution to public health in North Carolina during the past year.
“I was not expecting it,” Mr. Watts said. “When it [had] been brought up in the past before to submit my name, I said, ‘Well, no, no, I want local people to get credit because they’re doing the hard work.’”
Over the past year, Mr. Watts has worked tirelessly to protect communities by pushing for zoning regulations that limit vape shop proximity to schools, churches, and residential areas. Thanks to his efforts, ten counties have adopted new policies to reduce youth access to harmful nicotine products. He has also played a key role in expanding tobacco-free policies in apartment complexes, educational institutions, and vacation rentals.
Despite receiving this well-deserved recognition, Mr. Watts remains humble. “It’s never just me, it’s the local folks,” he said. “My previous boss, who passed away two years ago, which was Bill Smith, who really got me started and lighted to the flame under me, received this several times, and I guess that’s the biggest honor in getting it.”
Looking ahead, Mr. Watts remains dedicated to his mission, always thinking about the next steps needed to continue making a difference. “It’s nice, but five minutes afterwards, you got to think about what you got to do for the next year. It’s kind of like sports teams, when they win the World Series or the NBA championship or the Stanley Cup, they go like, ‘Well [that’s] nice, but now we gotta get back to work.’ Yeah, when I came back Monday from that conference, I had to get to work on some stuff.”
Understanding that every county has unique needs, Mr. Watts approaches his work with a deep respect for the communities he serves. “I am an outsider, and I understand that,” he said. “But they know people, and they make the connections, and they get me in the right person, and you get me in front of the right person, I can run my mouth and I can be fairly convincing. But you have to utilize local folks, and that’s the whole trick.”
As we celebrate Mr. Watts’ incredible achievements, we also recognize his unwavering commitment to making a difference. His work continues to inspire others, ensuring healthier communities for years to come.
When asked about the message he wants to leave with people, he shared, “Be aware of what’s going on in the world. Don’t shut yourself off, and if you see a chance to help someone out, do it. Open the door, pick up some trash as you walk into the parking lot. This is your world, and this is your home. You wouldn’t let trash lay around at home. You wouldn’t see somebody suffer in your house. We have a social obligation to make a better world for everyone.” His work continues to inspire others, ensuring healthier communities for years to come.