In a ceremony highlighting the achievements of its residents, North Carolina Governor Josh Stein recognized ten individuals for their exceptional contributions across various sectors—public service, academia, banking, law, and sports. The Governor's office reported that eight inductees were awarded the Order of the Long Leaf Pine, and two received the Laurel Wreath award.
The Order of the Long Leaf Pine, a prestigious honor in North Carolina, was bestowed upon individuals with notable careers in government and other areas. Among the recipients, John Lucas, Sr. posthumously received the award, acknowledging his impact as former Principal of Hillside High School. Jim Johnson, a distinguished professor at UNC Chapel Hill, and Sue Henderson, with her banking background, joined the ranks of honorees. Also honored were Janice Cole, Hertford Town Manager and former U.S. Attorney; Lora Cubbage, Greensboro's Deputy City Attorney; Randy Woodson, Chancellor at North Carolina State University; as well as Steve Troxler, the state's Commissioner of Agriculture, and former U.S. Representative G.K. Butterfield.
According to Governor Stein, "North Carolina is full of outstanding individuals who have contributed to our state through careers in government, law, business, philanthropy, and sports." This quote, obtained from an official press release on the North Carolina Office of the Governor website, underscores the diversity of service and accomplishment recognized by the awards.
The Laurel Wreath, an emblem of honor for extraordinary contributions to athletics, was presented to two North Carolinians: Erin Matson, the field hockey coach at the University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill, and Parker Byrd, a baseball player at East Carolina University. Matson's coaching credentials, and Byrd's performance on the field, represent the prowess North Carolina possesses in cultivating sports talent. The honorees were celebrated for their commitment and achievements which, according to Governor Stein, exemplify "the best of our state."
