Achievers & Accolades

CCS superintendent presented with Order of the Long Leaf Pine during retirement celebration

By Staff Report, posted 1 month ago
Dr. Ashburn poses with Dr. Connelly after presenting him with the Order of the Long Leaf Pine during his retirement celebration.
Photo provided by: CCS 

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.

Ico insights

INSIGHTS

SPONSORS' CONTENT

In The Current Issue

Wrapping up nicely: Major construction finishes up on new R & R Brewing location coming soon to downtown Clinton

Since announcing their intention to move into the historical Henry Vann building in 2023, the R & R team has been busy working with local and state historical preservation organizations to renovate the building.


Rich in memories: Rich Farm & Venue offers affordable space with modern amenities for customers to reserve for their special celebrations

Rich Farm & Venue is a 37-acre space with amenities suitable for any occasion such as weddings, birthday parties and more. Photos provided by Rich Farm & Venue. Rich Farm & Venue in the town of Roseboro combines affordable prices and


A novel concept: New bookstore and wine bar coming to downtown Fayetteville

Kellie Artis is the owner of Bound & Vine, a soon-to-open independent bookstore and wine bar. Photo by GFBJ. Bookworms and wine lovers are in for a treat as downtown’s newest tenant prepares to open later this year. Kellie Artis is the