Governor Stein Awards The Order of the Long Leaf Pine to NC Leaders

In a ceremony that shines a spotlight on the incredible contributions of North Carolinians, Governor Josh Stein today awarded The Order of the Long Leaf Pine to several outstanding individuals whose dedication and service have left an indelible mark on their communities. This prestigious honor celebrates their remarkable leadership and commitment to improving the lives of those around them.

“These exceptional North Carolinians have strengthened our state through their leadership, service, and dedication to their communities,” said Governor Josh Stein. “I am proud to honor them today for the lasting impact they have made across the Triad and throughout North Carolina.”

The Order of the Long Leaf Pine Honorees

Valencia Abbott, Rockingham County – Recognized for her excellence in education, Abbott is a social studies teacher at Rockingham Early College High School and has been named the 2025 North Carolina History Teacher of the Year, as well as the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History 2025 National History Teacher of the Year.

Kevin Baker, Guilford County – As the executive director of the Piedmont Triad Airport Authority, Baker has significantly contributed to the growth and development of regional transportation.

Bishop Larry Brown, Moore County – Bishop Brown serves as a minister at Taylortown’s House of Prayer, offering spiritual guidance and support to his community.

Judge Julianna Earp, Guilford County – Formerly a Special Superior Court Judge for Complex Business Cases on the North Carolina Business Court, Judge Earp has played a pivotal role in the state’s judicial system.

Lara Gerald, Forsyth County – Gerald is the president of the Kate B. Reynolds Charitable Trust and a former North Carolina State Health Director, contributing to public health initiatives.

Deena Hayes-Greene, Guilford County – A member of the Guilford County Board of Education, Hayes-Greene is also the co-founder and managing director of the Racial Equity Institute, advocating for social justice and educational reform.

Allen Joines, Forsyth County – The longstanding mayor of Winston-Salem, Joines has been instrumental in the city’s development and prosperity.

Stephen Lee, Guilford County – Lee, a former career and technical education teacher at Northern Guilford Middle School, has made significant contributions to education.

Kelly A. Moore, Guilford County – As the Greensboro Police Department Director of Forensic Services, Moore has enhanced the department’s forensic capabilities.

Paula Rakestraw, Rockingham County – A former executive director of the Rockingham County Partnership for Children and current Board of Education member, Rakestraw has dedicated her career to improving educational opportunities for children.

Michael Regan, Wake County – Regan, who previously served as the Secretary of the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality and worked with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, has made significant strides in environmental protection.

Judge Michael L. Robinson, Forsyth County – Former Chief Judge of the North Carolina Business Court and Special Superior Court Judge for Complex Business Cases, Robinson has contributed to the state’s legal landscape.

Tim Tsujii, Forsyth County – The Forsyth County director of elections, Tsujii was recognized with the 2026 U.S. Election Assistance Commission Clearinghouse Award for his exemplary work in election management.

Officer Michael Smith and Sergeant Liam Whelan, Forsyth County – As members of the Winston-Salem Police Department, Smith and Whelan have shown dedication to public safety and community service.