Bank of America CEO Honored by UNC Charlotte for Leadership and Community Commitment

Brian Moynihan recognized for his dedication to Charlotte and the university

Mar. 30, 2026 at 8:53pm

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A polished, geometric metal trophy in the shape of a miner's pickaxe, representing the 'The 49er Miner' statue awarded to UNC Charlotte Distinguished Service Award recipients, placed on a clean, monochromatic background with dramatic studio lighting and deep shadows.A prestigious award recognizing Bank of America CEO Brian Moynihan's unwavering commitment to the Charlotte community and UNC Charlotte.Marietta Today

Bank of America CEO Brian Moynihan was awarded UNC Charlotte's 2026 Distinguished Service Award for his outstanding leadership, enduring service, and deep community commitment. Former Bank of America CEO Hugh McColl praised Moynihan's 'ferocity of competitive spirit' and belief that strong business and strong communities are inseparable, which have defined his tenure at the helm of the bank.

Why it matters

Moynihan's recognition highlights Bank of America's longstanding partnership with UNC Charlotte, which has included over $10.6 million in investments supporting students, faculty, and community initiatives over the past three decades. As one of Charlotte's largest employers with 19,000 local workers, including over 2,000 UNC Charlotte alumni, Bank of America's commitment to the city and university has been integral to the region's growth and development.

The details

During the award ceremony, Moynihan was given the nickname 'Brian the Lion' by McColl, a reference to his competitive spirit from his college rugby days. Moynihan highlighted Bank of America's community engagement, including over 2 million employee volunteer hours in Charlotte over the past decade and $100 million in donations to 330 local nonprofits. He emphasized that the bank can only be strong if the Charlotte community is also thriving.

  • Moynihan became CEO of Bank of America in 2010 at the age of 50.
  • The award luncheon honoring Moynihan took place on March 30, 2026.

The players

Brian Moynihan

CEO and president of Bank of America, who has led the second-largest bank in the U.S. since 2010. He has remained committed to Charlotte and the local community, supporting economic opportunity and improving financial lives.

Hugh McColl

Former CEO of Bank of America, credited with building the modern Bank of America and cementing Charlotte's reputation as 'Banktown'.

Sharon Gaber

Chancellor of UNC Charlotte, who praised Moynihan's leadership and service to the region.

Tom Scrivener

UNC Charlotte board of trustees member and chief operations executive for Bank of America.

Ken Lewis

Former CEO of Bank of America, who succeeded Hugh McColl.

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What they’re saying

“No community can exist without educational capabiltites of the stature you're building here.”

— Brian Moynihan, CEO and President, Bank of America

“We can only be strong as a company if Charlotte is strong as a community.”

— Brian Moynihan, CEO and President, Bank of America

“Today we honor not only this distinguished executive, but a trusted partner, city leader and a champion of education and opportunity.”

— Hugh McColl, Former CEO, Bank of America

What’s next

Bank of America and UNC Charlotte will continue to strengthen their longstanding partnership, with the bank expected to make additional investments in student success, faculty excellence, research, innovation, and community engagement initiatives at the university.

The takeaway

Moynihan's recognition by UNC Charlotte underscores the pivotal role Bank of America has played in shaping Charlotte's growth and development, both through its corporate leadership and deep community engagement. The bank's commitment to supporting education, economic opportunity, and the overall well-being of the city it calls home has been integral to Charlotte's trajectory.