Cumberland County Schools (CCS) Superintendent Dr. Marvin Connelly, Jr., was awarded the prestigious Order of the Long Leaf Pine Thursday evening during a retirement celebration attended by more than 300 guests from across the state.
The award, North Carolina’s highest honor for state service, was presented on behalf of Gov. Josh Stein by Dr. Elena Ashburn, senior advisor for education policy in the Office of the Governor.

“Governor Stein regrets that he could not be with us this evening to honor Dr. Connelly himself,” Ashburn said in a press release. “He shares his congratulations and deep gratitude to Dr. Connelly for all he has done to advance education in our great state.” 

Ashburn described the award as a recognition reserved for individuals who have made significant contributions to their communities and the state through exemplary service and exceptional accomplishments.

“As we have heard this evening and as we each know from our own interactions with Dr. Connelly, his deep commitment and service to North Carolina makes it clear that he is an exceptional candidate to receive the Order of the Long Leaf Pine,” Ashburn continued in the release. 

Dr. Connelly, who will retire effective July 1 after more than 34 years in public education, has served as CCS superintendent since 2018. He was recognized for his transformational leadership, dedication to student success and legacy of fostering strong community partnerships.

Due to space limitations at Thursday’s event, CCS is inviting students, families, staff and community members to a community drop-in celebration on Thursday, May 22, from 3 to 6 p.m. at the Dr. William "Bill" Harrison Educational Resource Center, 396 Elementary Drive, Fayetteville, N.C. 28301. Light refreshments will be served, and all are welcome to stop by and share their well wishes.

To read more about Thursday evening’s celebration and Dr. Connelly’s legacy, click here.