Commenting on the award from the Community Foundation, Mervyn McCall, Chair of the Judging Panel, said;
“This is a wonderful award, given to a person who epitomises inspirational by their achievements, and the difference they are making. The panel unanimously chose Dr Terry Cross OBE as the recipient this year. As well as being a well-known businessman, Terry has supported local charities throughout his life, and is a great community supporter, making a remarkable difference in bringing about social change in his local area. In 2018, Terry founded the David Cross Foundation for Peace and Reconciliation, in memory of his son, David, who tragically died at the age of 33 from malignant melanoma, an aggressive form of skin cancer. He remains a keen supporter of research into the early detection of skin cancer.
Since 2019, Terry has awarded over 20 grants to local charities and community groups through his trust, and his passion for supporting young people and Cross Community projects is making a huge difference in improving the employment prospects of many young people,” Mervyn added.
Reflecting on the Philanthropist of the Award, Dr Cross said;
“I am honoured to be this year’s recipient of the Philanthropist of the Year Award. In any democratic society, tolerance and respect for other views and perspectives is something that must be consistently fostered to ensure that new generations can continue to enjoy the benefits that accompany a peaceful society. Maintaining good community relations takes effort. It requires individuals to see situations from other people’s perspectives. By building understanding, we can build trust.”
Dr Cross continues to generously support research programmes at the Ulster University of around melanoma as well as many early detection projects highlighting the dangers of excessive sun exposure and other risk factors. He is guided by and keeps close to grass roots by his Trustees; Rev Stanley Gamble, Rev Bill Shaw and Fr Gary Donegan. He has been President of the Red Cross NI since 2008.
The first recipient of the Philanthropist of the Year Award made in 2020 by the Community Foundation was Alan Nappin.
Dr Terry Cross OBE (centre) with Suzanne Lagan, Community Foundation NI Trustee, Gordon Milligan, Institute of Directors Northern Ireland chairman, Siofra Healy, Community Foundation NI, Director of Philanthropy, and Mervyn McCall, Chair of the Judging Panel.
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