Frank A. Daniels Jr., board chairman and majorityowner of The Pilot, and his wife, Julia Jones Daniels, have received the N.C. Museum of History Foundation’s inaugural 2012 Philanthropy Awards.

The awards, presented during a Nov. 13 event at the N.C. Museum of History in Raleigh, recognize individuals and organizations for outstanding contributions to the preservation, study or understanding of North Carolina history. The awards also honor exceptional commitment, service and support to history museums or related sites.

The Danielses, who live in Raleigh, received individual philanthropy awards, and the State Employees’ Credit Union (SECU) Foundation accepted the corporate philanthropy award.

“We established these awards to show our appreciation of business partners and individuals who have made a difference to the Museum of History in significant and meaningful ways,” said Lyl MacLean Clinard, chairman of the Museum of History Foundation. “Our first award recipients truly exemplify some of the state’s finest representation of business and citizens who care about and share in preserving the rich history of the Old North State.”

For more than half a century, the Danielses’ generosity and leadership have greatly benefited the N.C. Museum of History, a foundation news release said. The couple’s financial gifts have helped open several exhibits, such as The Story of North Carolina.

Julia is a founder of the Museum of History Associates, a statewide support group, and has held many leadership roles in the organization. She is currently vice chairman of the Museum of History Foundation.

Frank, an active Museum of History Associates member, served as president and publisher of the News & Observer Publishing Co for 25 years.

“The Danielses were instrumental in helping the museum complete The Story of North Carolina, a much-needed, permanent exhibit that will educate future generations of visitors about our great state,” emphasized Ken Howard, museum director. “In addition, Julia’s leadership in the Museum of History Associates and Museum of History Foundation has been key to the success of these support groups.”

The N.C. Museum of History Foundation was formed in 2004 as a nonprofit, tax-exempt organization to support the N.C. Museum of History and regional museums in the Division of State History Museums.

The foundation raises funds for large exhibits, the museum’s endowment, and other operational needs. Individuals from across the state constitute the foundation’s board of directors.