Campbell Divinity Professor Michael Cogdill was awarded the Order of the Long Leaf Pine during Friday night’s Divinity School commencement ceremony. Cogdill, the founding dean of the Divinity School and professor of Pastoral Care, is retiring this year after 36 years at Campbell.
Following his commencement speech, Cogdill was presented with an Order of the Long Leaf Pine award and official certificate by North Carolina Senator Jim Burgin.
“I am deeply honored to be included in the list of distinguished North Carolinians who have received this prestigious award,” Cogdill said. “It helps me to believe that I have put my faith into active service and ministry for the good of others. I thank the leadership of Campbell University for nominating me for this special recognition.”
A native of South Carolina, Cogdill earned academic degrees from Mars Hill College (BA in Religion), Southeastern Seminary (MDiv, DMin) and North Carolina State University (MS). During his 14 years as dean, he led the development of an innovative curriculum, the building of a solid endowment, the achievement of the school’s full accreditation and the strengthening of church ties throughout Baptist and other circles. He also saw the creation of a Doctor of Ministry degree program and helped guide the work of the Butler Chapel Campaign Cabinet resulting in the building of Campbell’s first-ever chapel.
Cogdill has been the recipient of numerous honors while at Campbell, including being named Professor of the Year in 1992. The Order of the Long Leaf Pine is one of the highest honors the governor can bestow. It is typically presented to outstanding North Carolinians with a significant record of service to the state. A few of its most notable recipients to date include Maya Angelou, Billy Graham, Coretta Scott King and Andy Griffith.