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Through the Years of the FUNd Run with Becca Hughes and Kirsten Dean 

By Misty McMillan

There aren’t a lot of existing records for the early years of the FUNd Run. According to Becca and Kirsten, and I can attest, once you execute a few of these races, they all start to run together. It wasn’t until we reviewed some pictures that Becca, then director of the Foundation, remembered there was a 5K and a 10K that first year on November 16, 2002.  

“I would have never thought we had a 5K and 10K that first year and that it was in November,” said Becca. 

Having the FUNd Run in November would mean it came just one month after the Ritz that year which was held on October 5. 

That first FUNd Run course started at the hospital at the Dulin Center and meandered through the St. Andrews University campus. 

Becca remembers the fun she had and the relationships she built while training for the event. That first year, she put together a training and fundraising team. They met every Saturday morning to run and prepare for the race.  

Becca’s kids, Rachel and Walt, were 13 and 10 at the time. They too were up early on Saturday mornings to run – even when they’d rather sleep in.  

“There are some things that happen in your life that change you for the rest of your life and that’s what this FUNd Run did,” said Becca. 

One change was new friendships gained. She remembers her daughter Rachel becoming good friends with Emily Wood (Greg Wood’s daughter). They went to different schools but became friends because of the race, and they remained friends. Another life change is that Rachel continues to run to this day, including marathons. And it all started with this initial FUNd Run.  

Another thing that happened was on the Wednesday night before the Saturday race when Becca and her kids were putting in one last practice near the St. Andrews track. Becca accidentally tripped over a concrete parking block. She said Emily was with them and asked Rachel if she had just seen her mom flying through the air. Becca had torn a hamstring. She couldn’t immediately walk or run after the accident but realized she could skip. She ended up skipping through the 5K race on Saturday.  

Becca also held a bittersweet memory while reviewing pictures of her mom with her kids during the first race.  

“Mom was there cheering us on that first year, but she would pass that next year,” remembered Becca.  

Others were cheering them on too. Part of the team’s goals were not only to train but to fundraise. Getting people to support Rachel, Walt, and Emily was pretty easy. That first year the three of them raised $988.62 from supporters.  

I asked Becca how conversations started about the first FUNd Run. She had participated in a race with her previous job. But she credits Ruth Glaser, then COO of the hospital, who gave them a good vision for the race, and they ran with it. 


The FUNd Run was the first of its kind in our community and has become the longest lasting race at over 20 years. We realized while putting all the pieces together that they weren’t consecutive years. A few were skipped here and there in those early years. 


During that first year, they didn’t have a race company or chips in bibs like today, but Becca remembers having individuals out at the finish line manually keeping track of the time as runners crossed. 


Thank you, Becca, for taking the vision and keeping it going for so many years before passing the baton to our other longstanding Foundation Director, Kirsten Dean. 


I asked Kirsten if she was involved with the Foundation in 2002. She said she hadn’t joined yet. During that time, she was pregnant with Jennings but joined the Board the next year. After serving on the Board for many years, in 2011, Kirsten became the new director of the Foundation. 


Kirsten continued the format of the run to include a Half Marathon that started a few years earlier. It began at the hospital, went through St. Andrews, and out on the Hasty Road then beyond General McArthur’s on Barnes Bridge down to Plantation Road. 


Kirsten shared a story of one of our employees, Tammy Holloway, who injured her hip one year while running the half marathon. 



“Tammy wanted us to carry her over the finish line,” said Kirsten. “We probably shouldn’t have, but we did.” 

Kirsten was also instrumental in adding the Ribbon Walk in 2014 which included luminaries and ribbons of all colors to represent all types of cancers. The Ribbon Walk would be replaced a few years later by the 1-Mile Spirit Walk where Spirit Markers line the first mile of the race to honor or remember loved ones affected by cancer. We still promote these today. 


Moving the race Downtown happened in 2018 according to Kirsten. The race partnered with SpringFest allowing race participants to enjoy all the downtown festivities after the run. 


“We had to go virtual in 2020,” remembered Kirsten. 


Instead of racing together folks were encouraged to race at home and post pictures of their FUNd Run using the hashtag #ScenesFromMyFUNdRun. 


I joined the Foundation in 2022, and thought it was such an honor to be a part of the staple events these two great ladies had poured their blood, sweat, and tears into. 


My first FUNd Run stayed much the same, but last year, the race shifted to McDuffie Square. We re-certified the course to avoid some traffic and changed the start to Railroad Street. SpringFest had moved to Suds and Swine weekend, so we decided to create a FUNd Fest and invite the Cancer Survivors Celebration to join us after the race. 


It’s interesting to look at an event over 20 years and watch it change and grow. Sustaining an event like this for so long is a testament to the support from our communities. Our records show the first race raised around $14,000. Last year was one of our highest grossing years, topping $50,000 thanks to the continued support of our sponsors – especially Service Thread who has sponsored for many of the 20 years. Others have supported the FUNd Run over the years including Nic’s Pik Kwik, Hasty Realty, Wade S. Dunbar Insurance, Bill Evans/Trophy World, Boles Funeral Home, and so many others. 


Join us on April 26 to celebrate our 20th year. 

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Honoring the Future of Healthcare: 2025 Scholarship Recipients

By Chanel Carmichael • June 9, 2025
At Scotland Memorial Foundation, we are proud to support the next generation of healthcare professionals. These scholarships are more than financial assistance—they are a recognition of academic excellence, leadership, and a deep commitment to service. From aspiring nurses and occupational therapists to future radiologists and psychologists, SMF scholarships empower students to follow their passion and make a meaningful impact in the lives of others. This year, we are thrilled to recognize a group of outstanding students whose academic excellence, leadership, and compassion are paving the way for a brighter, healthier future. Join us in celebrating the 2025 recipients of our healthcare and community service scholarships. Bridget Norton Charles Jenkins Memorial Scholarship Recipient We’re excited to announce Bridget Norton as the recipient of the Charles Jenkins Memorial Scholarship! Bridget is currently pursuing her Master of Science in Occupational Therapy at The University of North Carolina at Pembroke, where she continues to shine as a future leader in healthcare. “I knew from a young age that I wanted to help people and make impacts just like my family has in both the healthcare field as well as farming.” Bridget’s academic achievements, leadership, and commitment to service make her a true inspiration. We can’t wait to see all she accomplishes next! Aislyn Pegues SMF Healthcare Nursing / Allied Healthcare Higher Education Scholarship Recipient Congratulations to Aislyn Pegues, who has completed over 60 hours of undergraduate study and is preparing to begin her Nursing degree at Coker University. Aislyn’s compassion and dedication to caring for others embody the spirit of this scholarship. “I am compassionate for others at their lowest point in life when it seems like the only hope is the dependency of others.” Her passion for healthcare and academic success are a powerful combination. We’re excited to see the impact she’ll make! Savanna Tunstall SMF Healthcare Nursing / Allied Healthcare Higher Education Scholarship Recipient We’re proud to recognize Savanna Tunstall, a dedicated CNA II at Scotland Memorial Hospital and nursing student at Richmond Community College. Savanna’s commitment to her community through volunteering and her pursuit of an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) make her a shining example of service and dedication. Let’s cheer her on as she continues her journey to becoming a nurse! Emily Jacobs Laurinburg Kiwanis Club Endowed Scholarship Recipient Emily Jacobs is currently studying Radiology at Robeson Community College and working as a Certified Pharmacy Technician with Scotland Health Care System. “I’m so glad I decided to become a Pharmacy Technician, because now I have decided to further my career in the medical field.” Her drive to grow and learn in the healthcare field is truly inspiring. We’re excited to see where her journey leads! Amber Baucom Scotland Memorial Foundation Merit-Based and Community Service-Based Scholarship Recipient With a strong academic record, leadership roles in Beta Club and NHS, and hands-on experience as a Junior Volunteer at Scotland Memorial Hospital, Amber Baucom is already making a difference. She’s headed to UNC Charlotte to major in Nursing. “I’m excited to start my nursing journey and make a difference in the lives of others.” We’re proud to support Amber as she turns her passion into a lifelong career. Mia McLean W.R. Dulin Memorial Scholarship Recipient Mia McLean stands out for her academic excellence, leadership in Beta Club and NHS, and deep compassion for her community. She’s headed to Winston-Salem State University to major in Biology, with a focus on Gynecology. “I want to help impact the lives of women by supporting their health and providing preventive care.” Mia’s vision for women’s health is powerful and inspiring. We’re honored to support her journey. Terrance Graham SMF Allied Health/Nursing Scholarship Recipient As Senior Class President, Beta Club President, and a proud member of the Native American Student Association, Terrance has led with purpose and passion. He’s maintained A Honor Roll status, excelled in athletics and the arts, and is headed to North Carolina A&T State University to study Psychology. “I feel a deep calling to become a therapist… to listen without judgment and offer reassurance during difficult times.” Terrance, your leadership and empathy are truly remarkable. We can’t wait to see the difference you’ll make. Logan Blue Allied Health/Nursing Scholarship Recipient With over 153 volunteer hours, Logan Blue has made a lasting impact through service to local schools, churches, and hurricane relief efforts. She’s headed to UNC Pembroke to major in Biomedical Sciences, with a clear vision for a future in healthcare. “I knew I wanted a career in healthcare because I can thrive and help others.” Logan’s dedication to service and science is inspiring. We’re proud to support her journey. Each of these remarkable students represents the heart of our mission: to support those who are committed to caring for others. Their stories remind us that the future of healthcare is in good hands.

Jersey Mike's Month of Giving

March 10, 2025
Eat a Sub: Help a Patient Since 2013, Jersey Mike’s Subs in Laurinburg and Pembroke have raised almost $200,000 through the Scotland Memorial Foundation to support Scotland Cancer Treatment Center patients. Last year, customers eagerly stood in line to purchase their sub and helped raise over $24,000. Franchise owner Ron Gibson chose to support Scotland Cancer Treatment Center to honor his mom and dad who he lost to cancer. Since then, other family members have faced similar battles, so Ron and his family know firsthand the needs of patients seeking treatment. “Many of our patients need help with transportation, medication, wigs, and more,” said Jennifer Wilkes, director of the Cancer Center. “Jersey Mike’s financial support is vital to us providing the additional help our patients need.” The Cancer Center had 10,800 visits last year. Through donations from individuals and businesses like Jersey Mike’s, these patients were assisted with $58,000 this past year. During the month of March, customers are encouraged to donate or round up when buying their meal. On March 26, 100 percent of sales will support cancer patients. Orders can be placed by phone ahead of time. Order placed on the mobile app must be placed on March 26 to count towards the Day of Giving. “This is always such an exciting day to see all our friends and family come out to support such a worthy cause,” said Misty McMillan, executive director of the Foundation. “I’m always amazed at the smiles that are on each face while they wait in long lines. That’s true generosity.” The Day of Giving at Jersey Mike’s locations at 12280 McColl Road in Laurinburg and 409 West Third Street in Pembroke will benefit the Scotland Cancer Treatment Center. The Laurinburg location can be reached at 910-266-0013 and the Pembroke location can be reached at 910-521-4055.

Highland Society Members Honored at Dinner

February 26, 2025
Almost 100 donors came out to be recognized for their support of the health of our communities. “We have such generous folks in our communities, I’m grateful to be in a position where I see this generosity every day,” stated Misty McMillan executive director of the Foundation. We recognized 23 new Highland Society members with a Highland Society pin. They joined 143 other donors who reached the $1,000 level. Together these donors contributed around $650,000. Our new Highland Society Donors: Angelo’s Care Home, Inc. Baker Roofing Charlie Wallace – State Farm Insurance Dysphagia Voice Therapeutics PLLC Lab Corp of America Holdings Marlboro Academy LeQuinton Ellerbe Tyler & Whitney Graves Brandy Alfredson Hubert & Christi Meggs Emory Campbell Jamie Adams Travis Wallace & Jill McLester La’Toscha Campbell Mary Smith Nancy Ellerbe Rebecca Taylor Tamra Lowry Rhetson Companies Inc. Scotland Christian Academy Town of Pembroke, North Carolina Trinity Presbyterian School Valley Radiology We also recognized our Skye Club members who hold a lifetime membership in the Highland Society. This group has given a lifetime of $25,000 or more. We have 119 members and inducted 5 new members this year. Our new Skye Club members: Anonymous Apollo MD David & Jeannie Pope Derek & Dr. Shelly Lowery Priority One Home Healthcare A new part of our program began last year where we recognize a Friend of the Foundation for their efforts in volunteering and a Family of the Year for their philanthropic efforts. This year we named Allen and Meg Johnson our Friends of the Foundation for their work in the FUNd Run and Ritz. We recognized Alan Love and the Love Family for their generosity over the years, especially for our Scotland Cancer Treatment Center. During the evening, we heard from Richard, one of our patients who was helped in so many ways through our Community Health workers. The Foundation, through the generosity of our donors, helped provide $250,000 to support Community Health Workers and Paramedics to provide assistance and transportation for patients. Special thanks to Nancy Adcock, our Outreach Committee Chair, for her assistance with the event.
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