Dr. Nolo Martinez, interim director of the Center for New North Carolinians (CNNC), has been recognized by The Business Journal as one of the "Triad's Most Influential" people. The article states, "As a chief aide to former Governor Jim Hunt on Latin American affairs, Martinez played a key role for the state in advancing trade with Central America and the Caribbean. Now as acting director of the CNNC, he uses his knowledge and contacts to help the Triad address social and economic issues pertaining to minorities and immigrants. He is also a founding member of the Latino Professionals Forum." Martinez recently helped garner funds for the "Thriving at Three" initiative.