Originally a native of Texas, Beck enrolled at the University of North Carolina Wilmington in 2002, graduating with a degree in finance from the Cameron School of Business in 2006. Shortly after completing his studies, he began his career in life and health insurance with the local firm Griffin Estep Benefit Group, where he continues to work today. It was a colleague and former president, Hank Estep, who introduced Beck to the NCAF family in 2008, appointing him as co-chair of the festival’s souvenir book committee. After several years in this role, Beck transitioned to co-chair and eventually chair of the festival banners committee, which later evolved into the broader Event Production Committee.

This committee merged with the Azalea Transport Committee, collectively overseeing the transportation and setup of all Festival-related materials, including banners, flags, podiums, pop-up displays, and even live azaleas during the Festival week. Despite the hard work involved, this experience allowed Beck to participate in nearly all major and minor events organized by the Festival, not only during the Festival week but throughout the year. His dedication and collaboration with various committee chairs and the board ignited a strong desire to join the board himself, a goal he achieved in 2019. Beck has greatly enjoyed his time on the board, gaining valuable insights into the efforts required to produce a successful Festival. He eagerly anticipates his role in the spring of 2025!