UNC Law Recognizes Richard Stevens for Lifetime Achievement and Brian Meacham for Alumni Leadership

Smith Anderson attorneys Richard Stevens and Brian Meacham were recognized at the University of North Carolina School of Law Alumni Association's 2026 Awards Dinner, celebrating their longstanding contributions to the legal profession, higher education, and public service.

Richard received the Lifetime Achievement Award, recognizing his distinguished career and decades of leadership across law, government, and higher education. A 1974 graduate of UNC School of Law, Richard has devoted much of his career to public service and advancing North Carolina's institutions. He served in the North Carolina Senate from 2003 to 2012, including as co-chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, and previously spent 16 years as Wake County Manager. His deep ties to UNC include two terms as chair of the university's Board of Trustees, along with numerous other leadership and advisory roles. In 2024, UNC-Chapel Hill awarded Richard an honorary Doctor of Laws degree in recognition of his contributions to the university and the state. UNC featured this year’s Lifetime Achievement Award winners in a special video presentation, including an interview with Richard reflecting on his career and service to the university and the state.

Brian, a Smith Anderson partner and 2003 graduate of UNC School of Law, was also recognized for eight years of service as an officer of the UNC Law Alumni Association, including the past two years as president. Throughout his involvement, Brian has helped strengthen connections between the law school and its alumni community. He continues to serve on the association's Board of Directors and chairs its Nominating Committee.

Together, these recognitions highlight the leadership and commitment to service that Smith Anderson attorneys bring to the legal profession and broader community.

Read more about the 2026 UNC Law Alumni Association award recipients.