Martina Ballen and Brianna Pinto receive ACC UNITE Awards for justice efforts

Josh Borfitz Associate Athletic Director/Controller | University of North Carolina Athletics Website

By Chapel Hill Review

Oct 16, 2024

Tar Heels Martina Ballen and Brianna Pinto have been honored with the ACC UNITE Awards for their contributions to social and racial justice, as announced by the Atlantic Coast Conference. This recognition comes during the ACC's 2024 Fall Unity Week from October 11-20, a period dedicated to acknowledging individuals affiliated with league member institutions who have made significant impacts in these areas.

The UNITE Award, established by the ACC's UNITE Committee, formerly known as CORE - Champions of Racial Equity, celebrates those who exemplify the mission to promote racial equity and social justice through education, partnerships, engagement, and advocacy. It recognizes individuals who have contributed to creating meaningful change by improving systems and structures while also being pioneers or advocates for minorities within their communities or institutions.

ACC Commissioner Jim Phillips stated, "We are incredibly honored to recognize the fourth annual UNITE Award recipients and are thrilled to celebrate these deserving individuals." He praised the awardees from all 18 member schools for their significant contributions throughout their careers.

Martina Ballen serves as a senior associate athletic director and chief financial officer for UNC Athletics since 2011. She is noted as the first African-American woman to hold a senior administrative position in Carolina's Department of Athletics. Ballen has played a key role in establishing the Tar Heel Trailblazer award program, which honors influential figures in Carolina athletics.

Brianna Pinto, a former women's soccer player at UNC (2018-2020) and current midfielder for North Carolina Courage, has led her team to multiple championships and received numerous accolades throughout her college career. Beyond her achievements on the field, Pinto runs the Pinto Futbol Foundation aimed at promoting soccer in underserved communities while working towards increasing diversity in sports. She is also involved with U.S. Soccer Athlete Council and other initiatives focused on supporting women and minorities.

The full list of 2024 UNITE Award recipients includes representatives from each ACC member institution:

- Boston College: Blake Bolden & Justin Simmons

- California: Marshawn Lynch & Charmin Smith

- Clemson: Mary Kennerty & Marion Reeves

- Duke: Troy Austin & Michelle Staggers

- Florida State: Tiffani Brown & Terance Mann

- Georgia Tech: Grover Hinsdale & Dr. Shaday Word-Daniels

- Louisville: Angel McCoughtry & Judge Derwin L. Webb

- Miami: Dr. Marvin P. Dawkins & Shirelle Jackson

- North Carolina: Martina Ballen & Brianna Pinto

- NC State: Chester Grant & Ronnie Laughlin

- Notre Dame: Dorene Dominguez & Art Velasquez Jr.