Dr. Stanley Ekins was appointed to the Order of the Long Leaf Pine by Governor Roy Cooper in recognition of his extraordinary service to East Carolina University and Eastern North Carolina over more than 30 years.
Representative Gloristine Brown of North Carolina's 8th District presented the award to Mr. Eakins at the College of Business' year-end social and retirement awards ceremony on April 23.
“Dean Ekins, you are a very deserving person, and we thank you for your leadership and contributions to North Carolina State,” Brown said.
Mr. Eakins served as dean of the College of Business for more than eight years from 2010 to 2018, including a period as acting dean. Ekins came to East Carolina University in 1990 after earning his doctorate at Arizona State University. Before he entered the university, he served as vice president of a bank and chief financial officer of a multi-million dollar construction and development company.
The Order of the Long Leaf Pine is considered one of the highest honors a governor can bestow, recognizing citizens for exemplary service to the state.
“Stan influenced so many students who went on to become successful business leaders, many of whom live and work in North Carolina,” said Mike Harris, interim dean of the College of Business. . “His lifelong commitment as a scholar, mentor, and leader was truly extraordinary.
As dean, Ekins' goals for the university focused on three areas: strengthening leadership programs, engaging learning, and building entrepreneurship programs.
Stan Eakins receives the Long Leaf Pine Medal from Congressman Gloristine Brown at the College of Business' year-end social retirement awards ceremony on April 23.
(Photo by Chad Winstead)
During his tenure, Ekins led efforts to achieve these goals, which resulted in a first-of-its-kind professional and leadership development curriculum. Collaborative work spaces, including redesigning classrooms and opening a student technology center. Top 50 ranked Miller School of Entrepreneurship is home to the Pirate Entrepreneurship Challenge, Isley Innovation Hub, and Crisp Small Business Resource Center. These efforts lead to student success, public service, and community transformation.
“Stan's legacy will always be tied to the three goals he carried out,” Harris said. “His influence will continue to guide the university today and into the future.”
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