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 involvement and public service in strengthening local communities across the state. The honorees come from various backgrounds, including education, law enforcement, nonprofit leadership, and public administration.
“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 include Karen Brinson Bell of Transylvania County; Kimberly Welborn of McDowell County; David (Woody) Clinard and Julia Clinard Townsend of Forsyth County; Edward Finley of Wake County; Juvencio Rocha Peralta of Pitt County; Jenni Johnson, Polly Jones, Jim Clark, DeVetta Holman-Copeland, Beverly McIver, and Officer Percy Evans—all representing counties across North Carolina. Each honoree will also receive a longleaf pine tree seedling donated by Trees for the Triangle.
The Office of the Governor of North Carolina serves the entire state and executes state laws as its chief executive while leading the Council of State according to the official website. Josh Stein has served as the 76th governor according to the official website. The office also influences policy through directing budgets and granting pardons according to the official website, as well as serving as commander in chief of the North Carolina National Guard and appointing executive officials according to the official website.
The Order of the Long Leaf Pine remains one of North Carolina’s most prestigious awards for public service. Honoring these individuals reflects ongoing efforts by state leadership to recognize those who contribute significantly to their communities.
