Ward and Smith attorney Christina Cress has been named to the Wilmington Chamber of Commerce’s 2025 40 Under 40 Awards List, which honors rising leaders who are making a meaningful impact in Brunswick, New Hanover, and Pender counties.
The annual 40 Under 40 list recognizes professionals under the age of 40 who demonstrate exceptional leadership, innovation, and a strong dedication to service. Honorees include nonprofit advocates, church leaders, entrepreneurs, and civic changemakers whose efforts are helping shape the future of southeastern North Carolina.
As leader of Ward and Smith’s Energy + Utilities Practice and a Board Certified Specialist in Utilities Law, Christina is a trusted advisor to clients navigating some of the most complex issues in the state’s evolving energy landscape. Her practice spans electric and natural gas rate cases, utility regulatory compliance, utility resource planning dockets, and energy and utilities policy issues.
Christina’s background includes serving as a staff attorney at the North Carolina Utilities Commission, where she played a pivotal role in implementing statutorily-created energy programs and gained firsthand insight into the regulatory process. Today, she brings that knowledge to bear in guiding clients through high-stakes utilities and energy matters with clarity, precision, and strategic foresight.
Beyond her legal work, Christina is recognized for her commitment to community service and civic involvement—qualities that influence both her practice and her broader community.
Christina and her fellow honorees will be celebrated at the Wilmington Chamber’s 2025 40 Under 40 Awards event on Wednesday, October 1, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at The Pointe 14 Theatre. The evening will include a VIP reception and formal recognition of the award recipients.
With this honor, Christina joins her colleague Chris Edwards, who was previously named to the Wilmington Chamber’s 2024 40 Under 40 Awards list, making her the second Ward and Smith attorney to receive this recognition. Together, their achievements underscore the firm’s deep connection to the region and continued investment in community leadership.
