Dr. Bryan Taylor, the outgoing Superintendent of Hickory Public Schools, was recently honored with the prestigious “Order of the Long Leaf Pine” award, bestowed upon him by North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper. Dr. Taylor received the award on July 13.

The Order of the Long Leaf Pine is one of the highest civilian honors in the state of North Carolina and is reserved for individuals who have displayed exceptional service and outstanding contributions to their community, making a significant impact on the lives of others.

The award was presented to Dr. Taylor on behalf of Governor Roy Cooper in recognition of, as stated in a news release from Hickory Public Schools, his unwavering commitment to improving education within the Hickory Public School District. The news release says under Dr. Taylor’s visionary leadership and guidance, the district has had ongoing success.

In May, Dr. Taylor announced his retirement as Superintendent. The retirement is effective on August 1. Dr. Taylor has spent 30 years in public education, 22 as an administrator at various levels. Earlier this month, Dr. Jennifer Griffin was named as the new Superintendent of the Hickory Public Schools.