Bengtson receives North Carolina’s highest honor for lifetime of service

[lead]Given only to those who have made immense contributions to North Carolina through unparalleled service and accomplishments, The Order of the Long Leaf Pine award is the North Carolina governor’s highest honor – now bestowed upon NC State’s Dr. Mary Bengtson.[/lead]

Dr. Bengtson was given the award on Feb. 4, 2018, during the NC State Women’s Basketball game in recognition of her accomplishments.

“This is a most deserved award. Her impact on the state through her efforts with athletics and student health embody the spirit, not only of NC State, but of the award: extraordinary service and excellence,” said NC State Medical Director Julie Casani, “I’m so happy for her to be honored this way.”

As a member of The Order of the Long Leaf Pine, Dr. Bengtson joins a coveted roster of North Carolina “Ambassadors”, becoming a symbolic representative of the state after being enrolling in the society’s directory.