Maddox awarded Order of Long Leaf Pine

“To be recognized as a recipient of the Order of the Long Leaf Pine for positively impacting students and the industry of agriculture is humbling and an honor,” Maddox said.

“Having worked in both the public and private sector has allowed me to engage with dedicated individuals committed to the advancement of this great industry. Working with young agriculturalists at the University of Mount Olive, who will be the future of this industry, allows me to give back to those in my past upon whose shoulders I have stood.”

Maddox’s career has spanned more than 40 years, including her work as an assistant professor of agriculture education, director of the Lois G. Britt Agribusiness Center and chair for the Division of Agriculture at UMO, said Rhonda Jessup, UMO director of public relations.

Before working at UMO, Maddox worked at N.C. State University and the N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. She also worked in the Soil Science Department at NCSU, in research, as a horticultural agent and county extension director for Cooperative Extension in Pender County; as superintendent of the Horticultural Crops Research Station in Sampson County and as director of the Division of Research Stations with the Department of Agriculture. She retired as a state employee in 2007.

She has also been a member of the Wayne County Cooperative Extension Advisory Board, Wayne Extension Community Association Advisory Board, Tobacco Farm Life Museum Board of Directors and participated in the Karl Best Leadership program and Leadership Wayne.

“Dr. Maddox has touched the lives of so many North Carolinians in such a positive way,” Croom said. “Her work at the University of Mount Olive has been instrumental in guiding the growth and direction of the Lois G. Agribusiness Center and the School of Agriculture and Biological Sciences.”

Croom also credited Maddox having a vast network of both agricultural and non-agricultural partners in education, enabling her to secure over $6 million to provide scholarships and educational opportunities for students.

“Aside from her professional contributions to agriculture, Dr. Maddox is generally an outstanding person and leader,” he said. “The countless hours she has donated to farmers and students are staggering. She is a master relationship builder, having created bonds with so many across our state.

“Former students call her friend, mentor, coach and even mom. The Old North State is a better place because of the investment Sandy Maddox has made in it.”