Charlie Brady Honored with The Order of the Long Leaf Pine

Blue Ridge Conservancy congratulates Charlie Brady, outgoing Executive Director, who was recently awarded The Order of the Long Leaf Pine by the state of North Carolina and Governor Josh Stein. This honor recognizes North Carolinians who have demonstrated extraordinary service and impactful contributions to the state. Those who are named become honorary state Ambassadors with their names and award dates recorded on a roster maintained by The Order of the Long Leaf Pine Society.

Former BRC Board member Dale Caveny presented the award, stating: "This honor is in recognition of Charlie's lifetime of service to the people across our region and state. He has impacted countless lives and his work in land preservation will ensure that people will have access to natural spaces in the future." 

"As a native of North Carolina I am deeply touched and honored to be awarded The Order of the Long Leaf Pine,” said Brady. “I never imagined being selected and am deeply grateful to everyone who had a role in supporting my nomination. The award is about something larger. It is really a testament to the incredible conservation successes of Blue Ridge Conservancy over the last eight years."

Brady has served as BRC’s Executive Director since 2017, navigating the Conservancy through a pandemic and overseeing the transition to the new 46-acre Conservation Campus to provide recreational and educational opportunities to the High Country community. During his tenure, BRC protected 5,500 acres of significant land, an accomplishment celebrated by the staff and board’s “5500 Campaign to Honor Charlie Brady,” where over 70 supporters and friends donated $165,000 to thank Charlie for his steadfast service.