During the February 2025 meeting of the North Carolina Coastal Resources Commission (CRC) in New Bern, former Division of Coastal Management (DCM) Deputy Director Michael “Mike” Lopazanski was awarded the Order of the Long Leaf Pine. This award, given by the Governor’s Office, recognizes significant contributions to the state and communities through exemplary service and accomplishments. It is considered North Carolina’s highest civilian honor.
Lopazanski retired in December 2024 after more than three decades in state government. The award was presented on February 27 by DEQ Secretary Reid Wilson, CRC Chair Renee Cahoon, and DCM Division Director Tancred Miller.
“Congratulations to former Deputy Director of our Division of Coastal Management Mike Lopazanski on this well-deserved honor,” said DEQ Secretary Reid Wilson. “I’m grateful for his outstanding service to our state.”
Cahoon noted that since she joined the CRC in 2002, despite constant changes in staff and leadership, Lopazanski has remained a steady presence. “Mike is such a dedicated steward of our coastal management program,” Cahoon stated. “He has served in many different roles during his career… Our citizens are extremely fortunate to have such good stewards of our Coastal Environment.”
Tancred Miller highlighted Lopazanski’s influence over his long career: “The Coastal Area Management Act celebrated its fiftieth anniversary in 2024. Mike is recognized for having been a central figure for more than two-thirds of this time.”
Lopazanski began as a policy analyst at DCM and advanced through several roles including Assistant Director before becoming Deputy Director.
CRC member Robert “Bob” Emory commented on Lopazanski’s long-standing role: “Mike has been one of the key stewards of North Carolina’s coastal program during his 34 years with the DCM.”
Former CRC member Robin Smith praised Lopazanski’s expertise: “The state’s coastal management program has benefitted from Mr. Lopazanski’s expertise… managing emotionally charged issues requires judgment, patience, and civility.”
J. Webb Fuller, Vice Chair of CRC’s Advisory Council remarked on Lopazanski’s commitment: “Mike has consistently demonstrated a profound commitment to preservation… His work showcases his ability to translate vision into tangible results.”
Miller added that “34 years in itself is a remarkable accomplishment,” recognizing Lopazanski as a cornerstone for most of CAMA’s history.
For more information about The Order of the Long Leaf Pine Award visit [Long Leaf Pine Society](https://longleafpinesociety.org/order-of-the-long-leaf-pine/).
