Gov. Stein announces NC Awards recipients, highlights education, DMV improvements

August 21, 2026 - 02:57

Governor Josh Stein used his monthly N.C. Strong Update on Tuesday, August 20, to shine a light on both the people and the systems that keep the state moving forward. The address, delivered from Raleigh, served a dual purpose: honoring the latest recipients of the North Carolina Award and detailing recent state investments in public schools and driver services.

The North Carolina Award, the highest civilian honor the state bestows, went to a group of individuals whose work spans the arts, science, public service, and industry. Stein praised the honorees for their lasting contributions, noting that their achievements reflect the best of the state's character. While the governor did not read the full list of names during the live broadcast, his office released the complete roster afterward, highlighting several educators, a longtime public health advocate, and a pioneer in coastal conservation.

Beyond the ceremony, Stein used the platform to double down on his administration's priorities. He pointed to recent budget allocations that funneled additional funding into early childhood literacy programs and teacher pay raises, calling them necessary steps to keep North Carolina competitive. He also addressed the ongoing overhaul of the Division of Motor Vehicles, acknowledging past frustrations with long wait times and outdated systems. Stein reported that new online services and expanded appointment slots have already cut average visit times by nearly half in several busy counties, with more changes expected before the end of the year. The governor framed both issues as connected, arguing that strong schools and a functional DMV are basic building blocks for a thriving economy. He closed by thanking state employees for their work on the DMV improvements and urged residents to take advantage of the new digital tools.