Governor Josh Stein recognized 12 North Carolinians for their service to the state during a ceremony on Mar. 10, inducting them into The Order of the Long Leaf Pine. The award is given to individuals who have demonstrated exemplary service to North Carolina.
The recognition highlights the importance of community service and dedication across various fields in the state. The honorees include educators, nonprofit founders, public servants, and law enforcement officers.
“These North Carolinians have selflessly spent their careers serving others and strengthening our communities,” said Governor Josh Stein. “I am proud to honor them today for their dedication, service, and talent.”
This year’s recipients are Karen Brinson Bell from Transylvania County; Kimberly Welborn from McDowell County; David (Woody) Clinard and Julia Clinard Townsend from Forsyth County; Edward Finley from Wake County; Juvencio Rocha Peralta from Pitt County; Jenni Johnson, Polly Jones, Jim Clark, DeVetta Holman-Copeland, Beverly McIver, and Officer Percy Evans—all representing counties across North Carolina.
Each recipient will also receive a longleaf pine tree seedling donated by Trees for the Triangle, a local nonprofit focused on improving ecological and social resilience in the region.
The Office of the Governor of North Carolina serves the entire state according to its official website. As chief executive, it executes state laws and leads the Council of State according to its official website. Josh Stein has served as the state’s 76th governor according to its official website. The office also influences policy through budget direction and granting pardons according to its official website, as well as serving as commander in chief of the National Guard and appointing executive officials according to its official website.
The presentation of these awards reflects ongoing efforts by state leadership to recognize outstanding contributions that benefit communities throughout North Carolina.