Melanie Stewart ’93 honored by the Daughters of the American Revolution

Four people stand together indoors, smiling. One person holds a certificate from the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution. They are dressed in formal attire against a background of large windows and bookshelves.

LILLINGTON, N.C. — Longtime humanitarian, community advocate, and nonprofit leader Melanie Liles Stewart, affectionately known throughout North Carolina as “Mama Moses,” has been honored by the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) as a recipient of the distinguished North Carolina Women in History Award. The ceremony took place on May 16, 2026 and was conducted by Carolyn Comfort, Regent and members of of The Private John Grady DAR. Also honored was Lieutenant Colonel Sherry, Womack of Lee County North Carolina.

The recognition places Stewart among an esteemed group of women whose lives and contributions have left a lasting impact on their communities and the state of North Carolina. As part of this honor, Stewart’s achievements will be permanently preserved through the DAR’s Women in American History program, ensuring that her legacy of service will be recorded for future generations.

Stewart is the Founder and President/CEO of Mama Moses – The Underground Railroad, a faith-based nonprofit organization that has become a lifeline for thousands of families facing homelessness, hunger, domestic violence, medical crises, and other emergencies. Under her leadership, the organization has grown into one of the region’s most recognized grassroots humanitarian efforts, serving individuals and families across North Carolina.

A 1993 graduate of Campbell University, Stewart earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Religion with minors in Education and Philosophy. While at Campbell, she was awarded the prestigious Algernon Sydney Sullivan Award, one of the university’s highest honors recognizing outstanding character, leadership, and service. She also made history as Campbell University’s first Black Miss Campbell University and was instrumental in founding the university’s Gospel Choir.

Throughout her career, Stewart has received numerous awards and recognitions for her commitment to community service and humanitarian outreach. She has been recognized as Harnett County Woman of the Year, has led an organization recognized as Nonprofit of the Year, and has been listed in Who’s Who in America. Her work has been featured by major media outlets including Ebony Magazine, Essence Magazine, WRAL-TV, ABC11, and other regional and national publications.

For more than four decades, Stewart has dedicated her life to serving others. Her background includes work as a hospital chaplain, mental health specialist, minister, educator, and community organizer. Through Mama Moses – The Underground Railroad, she has mobilized thousands of volunteers, churches, businesses, and community partners to provide practical assistance and hope to those facing life’s most difficult circumstances.

“This recognition is deeply humbling,” Stewart said. “I accept it on behalf of every volunteer, donor, supporter, and community partner who has chosen to serve alongside us. None of this work is accomplished alone. Together, we have witnessed the power of compassion in action.”

Known for her signature encouragement, “Keep your hand on the plow, hold on,” Stewart continues to inspire others through a life marked by faith, perseverance, and service. While awards and honors are appreciated, she maintains that her greatest accomplishment is seeing lives changed and families restored through the collective efforts of a caring community.

The Daughters of the American Revolution established the Women in American History recognition program to honor women whose contributions have strengthened their communities, preserved history, and enriched the lives of others. Stewart’s selection reflects a lifetime dedicated to those ideals.

As her name joins the historical record, her legacy serves as a reminder that one person’s willingness to serve can transform the lives of countless others.