Century Furniture Announces Inaugural “Heart of the Company” Award Honoring Legacy of Chris Ward

[Hickory, North Carolina] —Century Furniture proudly announced the inaugural recipient of its newly established “Heart of the Company” Award, honoring Senior Customer Service Manager and 34 year veteran Melissa Eckard for her exceptional dedication, compassion, and commitment to the company and its people.

The award was created in memory of Century Furniture’s former Vice President of Finance, Chris Ward, who passed away unexpectedly in March. Ward was widely respected throughout the organization not only for his leadership and professionalism, but also for the kindness, integrity, and genuine care he showed to colleagues across every level of the company.

The “Heart of the Company” Award recognizes employees who embody those same qualities — individuals who consistently lead with humility, selflessness, positivity, and an unwavering commitment to others.

Melissa Eckard was selected as the inaugural recipient for the meaningful impact she has made on her coworkers and the Century Furniture community through her dedication, support, and servant-hearted approach.

“Chris Ward represented the very best of Century Furniture,” said Alex Shuford, President and CEO of Century. “He led with both excellence and compassion, and his influence was felt far beyond his role within the company. Melissa exemplifies those same values every day, making her a fitting first recipient of this award created in Chris’s honor.”

The company hopes the award will serve as a lasting tribute to Ward’s legacy while recognizing employees who help shape Century Furniture’s culture through acts of kindness, leadership, and service.

“Melissa’s impact on those around her reflects exactly what this award stands for,” said Shuford. “Her dedication to our company, and willingness to support others make her truly deserving of this recognition.”

The presentation of the inaugural “Heart of the Company” Award which took please in High Point, NC during the High Point International Furniture Market marks a meaningful moment for Century Furniture as the organization continues to honor Chris Ward’s memory and celebrate the people who carry forward the values he exemplified.
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About Century Furniture:
Century Furniture, LLC, based in Hickory, NC, is a third-generation, family-owned company committed to the ideal of creating furniture of such impeccable quality that it brings joy not only to the people who own it, but also to the craftspeople who build it. Their commitment and dedication can be seen in every piece of furniture that carries the Century name.

For more information, please contact:
Alexa Keaney Smith
Director of Marketing
Email: asmith@centuryfurniture.com
Phone: (336) 884-4954