Liz Simpers honored as 2023 NC Main Street Champion

Former Wake Forest Commissioner and current Wake Forest Area Chamber of Commerce President Liz Simpers was recognized as a 2023 NC Main Street Champion during the 2024 NC Main Street Awards Conference on March 14 in Goldsboro, NC.

Simpers was one of 40 individuals and organizations from across the state to receive the honor in recognition of their commitment to downtown revitalization. This year’s group of Main Street Champions brings the total number to 415 since champions were first named in 1980. Other recent Wake Forest Main Street Champions include ARTS Wake Forest, Lisa Hayes, the Wake Forest Garden Club, Doug Pearce, Carter Harrell, and James Warren. 

“We are so pleased to recognize the people that are making a difference in Main Street communities,” said Liz Parham, Director of the N.C. Main Street & Rural Planning Center. “Main Street Champions come from all walks of life, but they share common traits. They roll up their sleeves, invest time and money in their communities, and lead by example.”

A board member of Wake Forest Downtown, Inc., Simpers serves on the Economic Vitality Committee. In its narrative nominating Simpers as a Main Street Champion, Wake Forest Downtown, Inc. described how Simpers is leading by example and making a difference in downtown Wake Forest.

“As the President of the Wake Forest Area Chamber of Commerce, Liz Simpers has restructured the organization to grow its membership offerings. Her support of local businesses and entrepreneurs through mentorship programs has boosted economic growth in the region, as well as increased community involvement in the downtown area. Also, Liz has actively led government affairs initiatives to enhance the downtown area’s visibility, ensuring that residents and surrounding communities have easy navigation to downtown.

Liz has been a driving force behind numerous community events that bring residents and visitors together. Her dedication to preserving the town’s historical character, while infusing it with new energy, has been instrumental in making downtown Wake Forest a destination. Beyond her professional endeavors, Liz has been a tireless advocate, working to ensure a thriving, economical and diverse downtown, connecting with all ages and demographics. The energy she brings to the room is felt by anyone she encounters. Liz Simpers has left an indelible mark on downtown Wake Forest.

Wake Forest is proud to recognize Liz Simpers as its 2023 North Carolina Main Street Champion.”

For more information, contact Downtown Development Director Jennifer Herbert at 919-435-9427 or [email protected].