1999 Honorees - Ralph A. Hunt

Growing up in Oxford, North Carolina, the eight children of Johnnie and Amanda Hunt enjoyed the benefits of love, close family ties, and adequate housing, food, and clothing. Mr. and Mrs. Hunt’s lack of education did not hinder their quest to lead their children down a path to a better life. While traveling this path, they taught them important values and lessons about life, work, and education. These values have consistently guided their seventh child, Ralph A. Hunt, Sr., who has become one of the most dedicated, effective, and powerful government leaders in North Carolina’s history.

    In 1950, Mr. Hunt enrolled in Johnson C. Smith University in Charlotte, North Carolina, on a work aid scholarship. He interrupted his education in 1953, when he left to serve his country during the Korean War. He returned to the University in 1955 and graduated a year later with a bachelor’s degree in mathematics. In 1964, he earned a master’s degree from North Carolina Central University.
  

     Before entering politics, Mr. Hunt worked as a mathematician, teacher, and computer programmer and assumed the executive vice presidency of the Durham Business and Professional Chain, one of the southeast’s most prominent and successful business development organizations.

     In 1973, he ran for a seat on the Durham City Council in North Carolina, and was elected by a landslide. He was subsequently re-elected in 1977 and 1981. During those terms, he served as mayor pro-tem for three years.

     Mr. Hunt ran for the North Carolina State Senate in 1984 and won. He was re-elected four times and served until 1993. While serving in the State Senate, he had the unique distinction of holding two leadership positions simultaneously: Senate majority whip and chairman of the Senate Finance Committee. Mr. Hunt continues his public service as a member of the North Carolina Utilities Commission, where he will serve until his term expires in 2001.

     “As you develop, stay focused, develop a strong work ethic and pursue life’s endeavors as though someone is always watching you. This way, you can’t go wrong.” This is the sage advice Mr. Hunt offers to his own three children and today’s youth.