CORNELIUS, N.C. — The Lake Norman Chamber of Commerce will welcome Marine Corps Sergeant and combat veteran Aaron Harper, Human Resources Business Partner with Novant Health, as the featured speaker for the Chamber's 2026 Diversity Luncheon. The event takes place Thursday, September 10^th11:45 to 1:15 at Northstone Country Club 15801 Northstone Dr in Huntersville.

Harper will present “Together, We Stand,” a program focusing on service, leadership, and building stronger connections with veterans, active-duty service members and military families.

The luncheon will also feature the presentation of the Lake Norman Chamber's annual Diversity Champion Award to Dan and Melanie Houston, recognizing their commitment to fostering understanding, inclusion and stronger relationships throughout the Lake Norman community.

The Presenting Sponsor for the 2026 Diversity Luncheon is MSC Industrial Supply. Gold Sponsors are Novant Health, Duke Energy and The McIntosh Law Firm. Media Sponsors are Cornelius Today and WSIC News.

Together, We Stand

As a Human Resources Business Partner with Novant Health, Harper leads the organization's Military & Veterans Affairs strategy. A fifth-generation United States Marine and combat veteran, Harper brings both personal experience and professional expertise to his advocacy for those who have served our nation.

“Aaron's story is one of service that didn't end when he took off the uniform,” said Bill Russell, President & CEO of the Lake Norman Chamber of Commerce. “Our Diversity Luncheon is designed to help us better understand the different experiences and perspectives represented within our workforce and community. Veterans and military families bring tremendous leadership, skills and experience to our businesses, and Aaron is uniquely qualified to help us understand how we can better recognize and engage that talent.”

During his military career, Harper served as an air traffic controller, tower supervisor, training leader and Marine Corps hand-to-hand combat instructor. He was medically retired following spinal injuries sustained during Operation Desert Storm.

His continued service and veteran advocacy have earned numerous honors, including the Presidential Certificate of Retirement, Commandant of the Marine Corps Certificate of Retirement, Department of Defense Seven Seals Award, Veterans Bridge Home Veteran of the Year, U.S. Air Force Civil Air Patrol Leadership Torch Award and Charlotte Hornets Yellow Ribbon Award. He has also been recognized as Veteran of the Game by both the Charlotte Independence and Charlotte Knights.

Dan and Melanie Houston Named 2026 Diversity Champions

A highlight of the luncheon will be the presentation of the Chamber's 2026 Diversity Champion Award to Dan and Melanie Houston, honoring their commitment to bringing people together and strengthening the Lake Norman community.

The Houstons have played a particularly significant role in the Chamber's diversity initiatives. Dan served for several years as Chair of the Lake Norman Chamber Diversity Council. During his leadership, the Council continued and expanded programming addressing race, culture, inclusion, leadership development and opportunities for minority- and women-owned businesses. The Council's work also included the Lake Norman Women's Conference, one of the Chamber's signature professional development programs.

An international leadership and diversity trainer and coach, Houston has worked with organizations and individuals across the United States and internationally. Through his professional work and his involvement with the Chamber, he has encouraged candid conversations about race and differing perspectives while emphasizing the importance of leadership, understanding and respect.

“Dan has never been afraid to encourage conversations that aren't always easy, but are important,” Russell said. “Dan and Melanie are a team and they understand that diversity isn't about what separates us — it's about recognizing those differences, respecting one another and finding the common ground that makes our community stronger. They are very deserving of our Diversity Champion Award.”

About the Lake Norman Chamber Diversity Program

Established in 2008, the Lake Norman Chamber Diversity Council works to foster an inclusive and welcoming community and support businesses and individuals from diverse backgrounds. Its programming encourages community engagement and conversations addressing race, culture, gender, ability and other experiences represented within the Lake Norman region.

The annual Diversity Champion Award recognizes an organization, business or individual whose efforts help unite the Lake Norman region across cultural, racial, sexual or political barriers.

EVENT DETAILS

2026 Lake Norman Chamber Diversity Luncheon Thursday, September 10 11:45am-1:15pm Northstone Country Club
Theme: Together, We Stand

To Register: Click Here

Featured Speaker: Aaron Harper, Human Resources Business Partner, Novant Health
2026 Diversity Champions: Dan and Melanie Houston
Presenting Sponsor: MSC Industrial Supply
Gold Sponsors: Novant Health | Duke Energy | The McIntosh Law Firm
Media Sponsors: Cornelius Today | WSIC News

For additional information or to register, contact the Lake Norman Chamber of Commerce at 704-892-1922 or visit the Chamber's website.

About the Lake Norman Chamber of Commerce

The Lake Norman Chamber of Commerce represents approximately 900 businesses in Cornelius, Davidson, Huntersville, Mooresville and the greater Lake Norman region. The Chamber works to strengthen the regional business community through advocacy, economic development, professional development, networking and community engagement.