Childress enters Horatio Alger Association

DAVIDSON COUNTY — Richard Childress, chairman and CEO of Richard Childress Racing and a resident of Davidson County, was among 11 people inducted April 11 into the Horatio Alger Association of Distinguished Americans as recipients of its 2026 Horatio Alger Award.

The annual award, in its 79th year, recognizes people who have reached the pinnacle of success in their chosen fields despite facing significant challenges in life, said Lesley Albanese, CEO of the Horatio Alger Association.

The Horatio Alger Association also helps young people envision the opportunities made possible through the American free-enterprise system and since 1984 has awarded need-based scholarships to high school students.

Childress rose to prominence in the sport of racing after buying a taxicab early in his career for $20 to use as his first race car. Richard Childress Racing has since earned more than 200 NASCAR wins and six NASCAR Cup Series championships.

In an interview with Racing America, Childress spoke about receiving the award stating, “Throughout my life, I’ve learned how important it is to find your passion and pursue it with relentless dedication. You have to be willing to put everything on the line. My passion for racing began when I was just a kid at the track, and that spark has stayed with me ever since, pushing me to chase success in the sport I love. But passion alone isn’t enough. Surrounding yourself with people who share your drive is a source of strength that leads to success. That’s why being part of the Horatio Alger Association is so meaningful. This community of dedicated members works together to uplift young people as they follow their dreams. I’m honored to join in that mission.”

In 2008, the Childresses partnered with Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center to establish the Childress Institute for Pediatric Trauma. This has grown into a nationwide initiative dedicated to preventing childhood trauma and life-threatening injury.

Another area resident, Doug Witcher of High Point, also was inducted into the association. Witcher is chairman of the board of Smart Choice and a noted philanthropist in the High Point community.

“The members of the Horatio Alger Association are individuals who represent the boundless possibilities for human achievement in a free society. Horatio Alger Members have faced significant challenges, and yet, have achieved great success through resilience and service to others,” Albanese said. “The 2026 Horatio Alger Award recipients exemplify this special bond that joins the association.”