2026 Alumni Awards honor impact, leadership and connection

On April 10, the Lenoir-Rhyne University Alumni Association recognized a distinguished group of alumni during its annual awards ceremony, celebrating their impact on their communities and the university. 

Rising Star Young Alumna: Virginia Hinzman Cabrera ’19 

Virginia Hinzman Cabrera ’19 is an accomplished public servant whose career has spanned nonprofit leadership, congressional operations and federal government service. She currently serves as an advisor in the Office of the Secretary at the U.S. Department of State, where she contributes to high-level initiatives shaping international policy and operations. 

A native of Virginia, Cabrera began her professional journey through hands-melon experiences that blended civic engagement with leadership development. She interned and served as a program associate at Unlocking Potential, a nonprofit founded by former Hewlett-Packard CEO Carly Fiorina to connect corporate social responsibility with local communities. She then gained experience in legislative operations as deputy scheduler and executive assistant to the chief of staff for Senator Deb Fischer of Nebraska. She later served as director of scheduling for Senator Marco Rubio of Florida. These roles cultivated her strategic planning, organizational and leadership skills, and prepared Cabrera for her current responsibilities at the Department of State. 

Cabrera’s education at Lenoir-Rhyne shaped the way she has approached challenges in her career. “LR taught me to look at the whole puzzle, not just one piece,” she explained. “Building a foundation of discovery and curiosity helps me break down challenges and projects to their core and look ahead to see the impacts and implications of each event, meeting and day.” She credited the Lutheran College Washington Semester program with jump-starting her career in Washington, D.C., and giving her practical insight into government operations. 

Reflecting on her student experience, Cabrera said, “I truly believe LR is a place where every student can learn to thrive, that the opportunities are endless and that the community foundation sets everyone up for lifelong success.” Her advice to current students is equally bold: “Life is as big, bold and beautiful as you want to make it. If God opens a door, an opportunity or an experience for you, be brave enough to step into it. You never know where the next thing will lead you.” 

Since graduating, Cabrera and her husband have returned to Virginia and bought their first home. In her free time, she enjoys reading, spending time with family and friends, and playing with their two dogs. She credits LR’s supportive community and emphasis on curiosity for preparing her to thrive both personally and professionally. 

Clarence Pugh Distinguished Alumnus: Fred A. Zayas ’86 

Fred A. Zayas ’86 is a leader in aerospace engineering and technology whose career spans industry, academia and community service. He currently serves as CEO of Zaytec Incorporated, as well as a senior project engineer at Aerospace Corporation and an adjunct professor at the University of Houston’s School of Engineering and Technology. Over the years, Zayas has earned multiple honors for both professional excellence and community engagement, including the Lockheed Martin NOVA Award, the Lockheed Martin President’s Leadership Award, the National Hispanic Technical Achievement Award, NASA’s Flight Safety “Silver Snoopy” Award and two Presidential community service awards. 

Zayas credits his foundation at Lenoir-Rhyne with instilling the knowledge, discipline and confidence that has guided his career. “I recall my physics lectures and laboratory activities led by Dr. Charles Cooke and Dr. Forest J. Rennick,” he said. “They were always there to challenge me in the right way, intuitively enhancing my knowledge and thinking processes while exhibiting a deep sense of caring. This approach has been foundational for methods I have carried throughout my life and career.” 

Zayas’ time as a student-athlete further shaped his approach to challenges and teamwork, both personally and professionally. “Earning the privilege to run out between the bricks and compete weekly — including selection for traveling teams to represent LR — established my systematic approaches and habits to overcome obstacles, achieve goals and build confidence,” he noted. 

Beyond his career, Zayas has remained committed to community service, volunteering as a hurricane recovery worker, youth athletic coach, elementary school computer lab volunteer, fitness advocate and worship navigator. He encourages students and young professionals to define their own guiding principles. “Learn to be hungry to succeed, prioritize and do what needs to be done. Love people, define your dreams, lead with morality, never give up, learn from your mistakes and enjoy the journey,” he said. “I challenge each student and emerging professional to generate and memorize their own unique set of guiding principles.” 

Zayas and his wife share a love of family, football, exercise and automobiles with their three sons. He credits Lenoir-Rhyne for providing a full educational experience that helped him build positive relationships, think critically and confidently pursue his goals. “My family and I are grateful for the LR education and experiences that have enabled my professional and personal achievements.” 

Opal L. Moretz Service to the Community: Juan Esteban Ramirez ’07, Ed.D. 

Juan Esteban Ramirez ’07, Ed.D., is an education leader and community advocate dedicated to expanding access to postsecondary opportunities for students and families across North Carolina. With more than two decades of experience in education, community engagement and program development, Ramirez works to help students navigate the transition from high school to college or career pathways while strengthening the community support systems that make those journeys possible. 

Ramirez currently serves as a statewide educational and community consultant, supporting educators, school counselors and community organizations in guiding students through college planning, financial aid access and career exploration. He collaborates with school districts, nonprofits and other partners to ensure students have equitable opportunities and the resources they need to succeed. 

A native of Medellín, Colombia, Ramirez is guided by a global perspective and a deep belief in the transformative power of education. He has led initiatives that expand bilingual outreach, create culturally responsive educational programs and connect families to mentorship and academic guidance. 

“My time at LR was shaped by meaningful relationships with faculty and classmates who challenged me to think critically and engage deeply with the world around me,” Ramirez said. “The academic environment encouraged curiosity, dialogue and a commitment to service that continues to influence how I approach my work today.” 

Ramirez’s professional accomplishments are numerous. He was recognized by Hickory Young Professionals as one of 2022’s Top 10 under 40 Trailblazers, received the Outstanding Community Service Award from Bank of Granite and earned the Outstanding Young Philanthropist Award from the Association of Fundraising Professionals, Northwest North Carolina Chapter. At Lenoir-Rhyne, he received the John & Suanne Roueche Distinguished Alumnus Award, Outstanding Community Service Award and was a founder of the Transfer Student Association. 

Beyond his professional work, Ramirez is a committed community volunteer, mentoring youth, supporting immigrant and rural communities, and partnering with organizations to expand educational access. “LR helped cultivate a sense of responsibility to use education, excellence and curiosity as tools for positive change,” he said. “Leadership is rooted in service, and education has the power to transform communities. That perspective continues to guide my work every day.” 

Ramirez also enjoys photography and visual storytelling, travel, writing and poetry, exploring nature and volunteering in the communities that shaped his journey. To current students, he advised, “Stay curious and invest in your growth. Focus on discovering your talents and the ways you can use them to contribute to the world around you. Opportunities often emerge when you remain open to learning and committed to serving others.” 

 Opal L. Moretz Service to the University: The Rev. Harry F. Andrews ’71 

The Rev. Harry F. Andrews ’71 has dedicated more than three decades to pastoral ministry, serving mainly rural United Methodist congregations across North Carolina. Throughout his career, Andrews emphasized building relationships with all members of his churches — seniors, families and children — and sought to meet people where they were. “I just tried to do my thing and let the Lord lead me where He wanted me to be and when He wanted me to be there,” Andrews said. 

Andrews’s ministry included meaningful service beyond his congregations. He participated in Habitat for Humanity projects, led a work team to Israel — spending time with both Israelis and Palestinians — and helped establish Motor Racing Outreach, providing chaplaincy support for drivers, crew members and racing teams on the NASCAR circuit.  

He also maintained close ties to Lenoir-Rhyne over the decades. He served on his 50th reunion planning committee and as a faithful Listening Post volunteer. He was a fixture at LR basketball games, running the clock for many seasons. He continues to attend cultural and alumni events regularly. 

As a student, Andrews joined the Playmakers and sang with the A Cappella Choir. These experiences later informed his creative approach to ministry, including Palm Sunday services featuring his signature “rusty nail” ritual, in which congregants held a nail throughout the service before placing it into a cross as a reflection on the crucifixion. He also performed in professional films and community theater. A few memorable roles brought him into contact with notable figures such as Richard Pryor, Pam Grier and Johnny Cash — experiences he recalls with warmth and humility. 

“One of the most unexpected benefits to come from my time at LR was singing with the A Cappella Choir,” he said. “It helped my career because, in many of the rural churches, the minister doubled as song leader or choir director. Music became a central part of my ministry.” 

Andrews credits his LR education with shaping both his ministry and worldview. In addition to his active engagement in music and theater, he majored in sociology and participated in campus athletics as team manager and equipment manager for football and basketball. He also learned early lessons in diversity and social responsibility, experiences that prepared him to navigate complex community dynamics throughout his career. 

Service has long been a defining thread in Andrews’s life. He comes from a family deeply rooted in ministry — his father, brother, uncles and cousins all served in religious leadership. His daughter is an Episcopal priest and his son works in international mission efforts. In retirement, Andrews continues to look upon on a life of service and community engagement shaped by both his LR experiences and the relationships he has forged along the way. 

Reflecting on those experiences, Andrews encourages current students to stay committed and trust their path. “Set goals that you know you can achieve and stick with them,” he said. 

Opal L. Moretz Service to the Alumni Association: Melanie Smith Sigmon ’84 

When Melanie Smith Sigmon ’84 isn’t traveling or spending time with her grandchildren alongside her husband, Kyle Sigmon ’84, they often return to the campus where it all started. The couple stays active in Lenoir-Rhyne University life, attending concerts and sporting events, even sharing the occasional meal in the dining hall. 

Now retired after 28 years of service in North Carolina schools, Sigmon’s career included work as a teacher, media coordinator and behavior specialist across five school systems. She earned National Board Certification for Professional Teaching Standards and was recognized as Counselor of the Year for Catawba County. Her work often focused on helping students navigate challenges and reach their potential, a commitment that reflects the values instilled during her education at Lenoir-Rhyne. 

“LR taught me to be present, to lead when opportunities arose and to value the community around me,” said Sigmon. “My experience there didn’t just prepare me professionally. I learned how to be a lifelong Bear in service, connection and spirit.” She has continued that service as an active alumna, volunteering with the Alumni Association, the President’s Society, Bears Club and The Listening Post. Through her own service, she encourages others to engage fully with their LR community. 

Sigmon’s roots at LR connect closely with the university’s history. Born in Lenoir, North Carolina, in 1962, she is the youngest of three children of Marcus ’52 and Dot Walker ’53 Smith. Her grandparents, Margaret Aderholdt Walker ’26 — the first May Queen at LR — and the Rev. James Walker ’25, set the stage for a family legacy steeped in university life. Although Melanie met Kyle while they were students, they didn’t begin dating until both were in Concord, North Carolina, for their first jobs. They married in 1986 and later returned to Hickory, where they cultivated their connection to LR for years to come. 

Sigmon credits her involvement in Greek life, cheerleading, FCA and campus leadership opportunities with forming teaching skills she carried into her career. “Being present and involved on campus — in athletics, organizations and chapel — gave me confidence to put myself out there professionally, to lead and to make a difference,” she said. 

In retirement, she and Kyle enjoy family travel, camping, e-biking and attending LR events. Her advice to students is simple: “Use all your senses while you’re here — see, hear, feel, taste, smell the day. Talk to somebody new, greet a stranger, smile and see who smiles back. LR is fantastic when you get involved and make your experience here meaningful.”