Overview
Mayor Frank Eagles epitomized dedication to serving others – particularly to those with needs in underserved communities. He possessed a steadfast commitment to removing barriers and a dogged determination to get things done. By virtue of his direct approach, he reminded us that there’s always an opportunity to make a very real difference in someone’s life. This namesake award is intended to honor his passionate pursuit, enduring compassion, and unwavering determination to providing services to those who need it most.
Eligibility
Any person within Wake County who has demonstrated an outstanding commitment to serving their community and helping others may be nominated. Individuals should be nominated for efforts they make beyond activities for which they are compensated. (Employees of Wake County Government and members or close relatives of the Award Selection Committee are not eligible.)
Candidates for this award should demonstrate:
- Outstanding service to an organization and/or extraordinary individual volunteerism
- A history of at least one year of service to the community
- Compassion, altruism and selfless dedication to helping others
- A positive impact, outcome or resulting system change
- Actions that are consistent with or complementary of Wake County Health and Human Services programs or the Health and Human Services Board Priorities
Nominations for this year's Frank Eagles Award closed March 15, 2024.
The 2024 Award will be presented at the April 25 Health and Human Services Board Meeting.
About Mayor Frank Eagles
A life dedicated to Community Service
Frank Eagles led a life dedicated to service. After retirement from a long career with the NC Department of Administration, he served the Town of Rolesville – first as a Town Commissioner then as Mayor for 12 years. Frank’s thoughtful and uncompromising leadership led Rolesville through a period of booming growth.
Frank’s service was not confined to Rolesville. His presence and impact benefited Wake County as a whole. A longtime member of the Wake County Health & Human Services Board, Frank worked to ensure all residents (particularly those in the outlying areas of Wake County) had access to essential services. He worked tirelessly to connect historically marginalized people to community-based health services and ensured those in rural communities had improved access to economic assistance programs.
In his most recent years of service, Frank was a staunch advocate for food security. Not only did he raise awareness, but he often took direct steps to ensure nutritious foods went to underserved communities. Frank personally delivered many meals, farm fresh produce, and shelf stable food items directly to individuals in need. He would often rally others to join him or inspire them to take on similar actions of their own.
Perhaps his most enduring legacy will be his steadfast determination. Frank was simply unwilling to accept or acknowledge barriers. He was always resolute and profoundly committed to serving those with needs. He held a fundamental belief that there was always a way forward. And, so often, he proved to be right.
Each year we pay tribute to his remarkable, lasting impact by presenting this Excellence in Community Service Award in his honor.