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In recognition of over 30 years of unwavering dedication and outstanding service to Nags Head, Dare County and the State of North Carolina, former long-time elected official Renée Cahoon has been bestowed with the prestigious Order of the Long Leaf Pine.

The award, considered to be North Carolina’s highest honor for state service granted by the Office of the Governor, was presented to Cahoon during the January 3, 2024 Nags Head Board of Commissioners meeting.

Since its creation in 1963, the Order of the Long Leaf Pine has been awarded to individuals whose exemplary service, extraordinary achievements and substantial contributions to their communities and to the state make a significant impact in North Carolina.

“A stalwart public servant, Cahoon has played a pivotal role in the managed growth and resulting success of Nags Head,” stated a Town of Nags Head news release. “Her three decades of service have left an indelible mark on the community, with a legacy characterized by tireless advocacy, visionary leadership, and a commitment to the betterment of the lives of the town and its neighbors on the coast.”

During the presentation, North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper provided a video tribute in which he thanked Cahoon for her decades of service and for her work as chair of the state’s Coastal Resources Commission. A member since 2002, Cooper named Cahoon as the commission’s chair in 2017, a position she still holds.

Throughout her career, Cahoon has been a driving force behind numerous initiatives aimed at “keeping Nags Head, Nags Head,” working to preserve the town’s values as a family-oriented beach community, noted the release.

“Although there has been significant change in the community and throughout the Outer Banks, Nags Head remains true to itself largely due to Renée’s contributions,” said Nags Head Mayor Ben Cahoon. “She has been a driving force in resisting the pressure for Nags Head to become more intensely developed, as can be seen in other beach communities along the east coast.”

“The recognition of Renée Cahoon with the Order of the Long Leaf Pine stands not only as a tribute to her decades of exceptional service, but also as an inspiration to all who wish to make a meaningful impact through public service,” the release continued. “As we celebrate her remarkable 30 plus years of dedicated leadership, we are reminded that the spirit of community and selfless commitment can truly shape the future.”

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