Achievers & Accolades

Robert C. Pinson awarded the Order of the Longleaf Pine

By Staff Report, posted 2 weeks ago
The award was presented by Representative Diane Wheatley and Cumberland County Commissioner Kirk deViere in recognition of Pinson’s longstanding leadership, service to the State of North Carolina and transformative contributions to the arts, nonprofit and civic sectors throughout Cumberland County and beyond. Photo provided by the Arts Council.

Robert C. “Bob” Pinson, president and CEO of the Arts Council of Fayetteville/Cumberland County, was recently awarded the Order of the Longleaf Pine during a special celebration attended by Arts Council Board members, family, elected officials and staff.

The award was presented by Representative Diane Wheatley and Cumberland County Commissioner Kirk deViere in recognition of Pinson’s longstanding leadership, service to the State of North Carolina and transformative contributions to the arts, nonprofit and civic sectors throughout Cumberland County and beyond.

The Order of the Longleaf Pine is among the most prestigious honors granted by the Governor of North Carolina and is awarded to individuals who have demonstrated extraordinary service and dedication to their communities and the state.

Pinson has served the Arts Council for 15 years, including the last six years as president/CEO. Under his leadership, the organization expanded its role as a driver of arts, culture, tourism and economic impact throughout the region. His tenure has included major investments in grantmaking, public art, arts education, cultural partnerships and creative placemaking initiatives, including the development of ArtsXL, the Arts Council’s new downtown creative hub.

“Bob’s leadership has shaped the trajectory of arts and culture in Cumberland County for more than a decade,” said incoming President/CEO Kennon Jackson, Jr. in a press release “His commitment to community,  collaboration, and public service has strengthened our region and enriched the lives of countless residents.”

During his career, Pinson has championed the role of the arts as essential infrastructure for thriving communities, helping position Fayetteville and Cumberland County as a regional destination for arts and culture.

“This recognition is deeply meaningful,” said Pinson in a press release. “I’m incredibly grateful to have served alongside dedicated artists, nonprofit leaders, educators, elected officials, board members, staff, and community partners who believe in the power of the arts to strengthen our community.”

Ico insights

INSIGHTS

SPONSORS' CONTENT

In The Current Issue

Envisioning a better downtown: Cool Spring Downtown District's Amplified District Reenvision Awards honor downtown visionaries

Graphic courtesy of CSDDThe Cool Spring Downtown District is recognizing members of the downtown Fayetteville community with their Inaugural Amplified District Awards. While an award ceremony and town hall was intended for June 4, the Cool Spring Dow


ERA Strother bets on downtown Fayetteville with Hay Street move

ERA Strother Real Estate recently relocated its long-time office headquarters to 229A Hay St., trading its Ray Avenue site for a street-level presence on Hay Street.


Beyond the balance sheet: Looking beyond traditional banking to examine the bigger picture of growth opportunity and long-term success

The Greater Fayetteville Business Journal is excited to announce our second Power Breakfast for 2026: Beyond the Balance Sheet, a banking-focused event exploring the relationship between bankers and businesses. This event will have a regional fo