WRAL-TV Anchor Renee Chou and her husband, Mike, join retired WRAL-TV Anchor Bill Leslie as he is presented the North Carolina Award, the state’s highest honor, on Friday, November 16, 2018.

On Friday night, November 16, 2018, retired WRAL news anchor and musician Bill Leslie received the state’s highest civilian honor, the North Carolina Award.

Leslie is among a group of six civilians that was honored for their contributions to our state.

Gov. Roy Cooper presented the North Carolina Award to him for his contributions in “fine arts.”

Leslie was honored for his years of service to journalism as well as his contributions to music in N.C.

While working in radio and television journalism, Leslie also pursued his passion for music.

Leslie has released eight successful albums inspired by N.C. and Scots-Irish heritage.

According to his website, Leslie’s albums entitled “Scotland – Grace of the Wild” and “Across the Water” have received extensive recognition. His work has also been featured on NPR’s popular radio program, The Thistle and Shamrock hosted by Fiona Ritchie.

Other community leaders that were honored that Friday night include activists, professors and museum curators.

These honorees joined the more than 250 men and women that have won the award previously.

The awards ceremony took place at the Raleigh Convention Center.

Thanks to WRAL.com Intern Yesenia Jones for this capcom story & to WRAL-TV’s Renee Chou & Bill Leslie for these capcom photos.