08/11/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 08/11/2026 13:55
Department of Natural and Cultural Resources Secretary Pam Brewington Cashwell today joined business leaders, local elected officials and tribal leaders in Robeson County for the 11th and final visit in a series of Rural Listening Sessions held across the state this year.
Secretary Cashwell and other cabinet agency secretaries have been on the road with Governor Josh Stein's Rural Listening Tour to hear directly from rural North Carolinians about their concerns and priorities as Gov. Stein's administration works to strengthen communities across the state.
Secretary Cashwell welcomed attendees to the event held at Robeson Community College and then led a roundtable discussion on subjects including jobs, education, health care and public safety.
"North Carolina has the second largest rural population in the country, and our rural areas are home to many tribal communities as well," Secretary Cashwell said. "It is especially meaningful to me to conduct this listening session in Robeson County, which many members of the Lumbee tribe call home. I'm grateful to everyone who spoke with us today about how we can work together to improve issues affecting our rural communities."
About the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources
The N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR) manages, promotes, and enhances the things that people love about North Carolina - its diverse arts and culture, rich history, and spectacular natural areas. At more than 100 sites across the state, the department enhances education, stimulates economic development, improves public health, expands accessibility, and strengthens community resiliency. For more information, please visit www.dncr.nc.gov.