CONCORD, N.C. -- Wednesday evening, Jeff Gordon added another honor to his illustrious resume.

North Carolina Governor Pat McCrory awarded Gordon with the highest honor he can bestow -- the Order of the Long Leaf Pine.

It is bestowed upon outstanding North Carolinians who have a proven record of service to the state. Past recipients include Hendrick Motorsports owner Rick Hendrick, award-winning journalist Charles Kuralt, Rev. Billy Graham and basketball legend Michael Jordan.

“Jeff Gordon has been a tremendous ambassador of motorsports, NASCAR and North Carolina,” McCrory said. “We are not only recognizing Jeff tonight for his performance on the racetrack, but also for his philanthropic work in communities across our state and nation.”