CHAROTTE — The Order of the Long Leaf Pine, one of North Carolina’s highest honors, recently recognized a group of national leaders, C-suite executives and a former Carolina Panther.
North Carolina Gov. Josh Stein presided over the ceremony, which took place at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte.
The prestigious award pays tribute to individuals who have made special contributions to the state. All of the newest recipients recognized on Wednesday represent Mecklenburg County.
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Gov. Stein commenced the ceremony. He introduced former Clinton administration chief of staff Erskine Bowles, a prominent figure in North Carolina politics and business, among the honorees. Stein noted Bowles’ dedication to his home state.
“He would later return to Washington to lead a bipartisan commission to reduce the federal deficit. And even amid his impactful career in federal government, Erskine never forgot his North Carolina roots,” Stein said.
Other individuals honored from Mecklenburg County included former Mayor Compare Foods Omar Jorge, CEO Richard Vinroot and former Congresswoman Beverly Earle.
Former Carolina Panthers wide receiver Steve Smith Sr., who spent 13 seasons in Charlotte, was also recognized. Gov. Stein highlighted Smith’s impressive career with the Panthers.
“He was selected to the Pro Bowl five times and even today he remains the Panthers all-time leader for touchdowns and receiving yards. We are so grateful that Steve chose to keep Charlotte as his home,” Stein said.
David Tepper, a “newer” North Carolinian, was honored for his philanthropic efforts, particularly following Hurricane Helene. His contributions included hosting the “Concert for Carolina” at Bank of America Stadium weeks after the hurricane.
Gov. Stein praised Tepper’s charitable commitment. “David is committed to philanthropy across this state and across the country. During a time when food access is a major topic, the Teppers’ commitment to supporting NC food banks has made a difference for countless families,” Stein said.
Outgoing Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles was also on the list of honorees but was not in attendance at the ceremony. Lyles is set to retire at the end of the month.
You can find a full list of recipients below:
· Crandall Bowles, Mecklenburg County – Former CEO of Spring Industries; first woman to chair the University of North Carolina Board of Governors
· Erskine Bowles, Guilford County – Former White House Chief of Staff under President Bill Clinton; former President of the University of North Carolina System
· Mike Clement, Mecklenburg County – Managing Partner and Founder of Strait Insights, former Director of Global Corporate Communications for Bank of America
· Malcomb Coley, Mecklenburg County – Former Central Private Leader and Charlotte Managing Partner at Ernst & Young
· Beverly Earle, Mecklenburg County – Former United States Representative
· Omar Jorge, Mecklenburg County – CEO of Compare Foods Supermarkets
· Vi Lyles, Mecklenburg County – Mayor of Charlotte
· Steve Smith Sr., Mecklenburg County – Former Carolina Panthers and Baltimore Ravens wide receiver, founder of the Steve Smith Family Foundation supporting behavioral health care access
· David Tepper, Mecklenburg County – Owner of the Charlotte Panthers and Charlotte FC
· Richard Vinroot, Mecklenburg County – Former Mayor of Charlotte
· Ricky Woods, Mecklenburg County – Senior Minister of First Baptist Church-West, founding member of CLT Equitable Communities
· Rafael Prieto Zartha, Mecklenburg County – Journalist and National Association of Hispanic Journalists Hall of Fame inductee