On April 24, 2025, McGuireWoods Consulting senior advisor G. K. Butterfield was inducted into the North Carolina Order of the Long Leaf Pine for his outstanding career in public service.
This honor was presented by Gov. Josh Stein, and Butterfield was one of eight individuals to receive this prestige, among the most distinguished awards conferred by the governor of North Carolina.
“North Carolina is full of outstanding individuals who have contributed to our state through careers in government, law, business, philanthropy, and sports,” said Gov. Stein in a press release. “This group exemplifies the best of our state, and I am pleased to honor them today.”
Congressman Butterfield represented the first district of North Carolina for over 18 years.
During his years in Congress, he served on the Committee on Energy & Commerce, overseeing energy distribution, renewable energy and consumer protection, among others. In addition, the congressman served as the senior chief deputy whip under Congressman Jim Clyburn.
Congressman Butterfield also served as the Chairman of the Congressional Black Caucus for the 114th Congress. During his chairmanship, he worked directly with the Obama administration to address issues acutely affecting the African American community. He also founded CBC Tech 2020 to address inequities among Fortune 500 companies relating to African Americans serving on boards of directors and in C-suites.
“G.K. Butterfield’s induction into the Order of the Long Leaf Pine is a testament to a lifetime of integrity, leadership and commitment to public service,” said Ryan Bernstein, director of the federal public affairs team. “We are proud to call him part of our team and celebrate this well deserved recognition of his remarkable contributions to North Carolina and the nation.”
Congressman Butterfield has been a McGuireWoods Consulting senior advisor for three years and continues to promote excellence with his work at the firm.
“After serving in positions of public trust for more than 30 years, the honor bestowed upon me by Governor Stein will be cherished and appreciated for a lifetime,” Butterfield said. “Governor Stein has been a family friend for decades which makes this award even more special.”
