Foundation News

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.
By Misty McMillan April 17, 2025
Article
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.
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.
February 10, 2025
Scotland Memorial Foundation and Scotland Health Care System partnered with the Scotland County Health Department to host their annual Women’s Health Event – Healthy TogetHER on February 6 at The Highlands. Over 160 women registered for the new format evening event which included local vendors, chair massages, facials, free health screenings, and more activities geared toward women and their health. Dr. Hannah Woriax, surgical oncologist, spoke to those in attendance about the importance of breast health and regular self-checkups. She also answered questions from the audience and encouraged them not to skip their mammograms. Sandra Wilkes, a registered dietitian nutritionist held a cooking demonstration and challenged women to make healthy eating choices. She warned against TikTok fad diets but instead encouraged women, as they lined up to try the freshly made cabbage soup, to find food they enjoy making it easier to maintain healthy eating habits. During the night participants could graze the spread of healthy food options including grilled chicken, pasta salad, fruits, and vegetables. Guests could also paint small art pieces which studies show help reduce stress levels. Each woman in attendance received a goodie bag with a healthy eating plate designed to aid in portion control. The first 20 women registered received a plush bathrobe. Throughout the night door prizes were given away including a Michael Kors purse from Scotland Health partners in Imaging and Mammography. “Any time you change the format of an event, you don’t always know how it will be received,” said Misty McMillan, executive director of the Foundation. “This event proved to be a success, and I think the women in attendance not only got to learn about their health but experience it.” According to McMillan, one attendee when leaving the event shared that she felt better than when she came. “That’s what it’s all about – how we can make our neighbors and communities feel better.”
January 13, 2025
Scotland Memorial Foundation is committed to improving the health of the communities we serve by advancing educational opportunities in the healthcare field for local students, who will hopefully return home for careers with Scotland Health Care System. The following scholarships are available: W.R. Dulin Memorial Scholarship- $2,500 (One merit-based scholarship will be awarded to a Scotland High School Senior) Scotland Memorial Foundation Scholarship - $2,500 (One merit-based/community service-based scholarship) Scotland Memorial Foundation Allied Health/Nursing Scholarship - $1,500 (Two scholarships will be awarded) SMF Nursing/Allied Health Healthcare Higher Education Scholarship - $2,500 (Two scholarships will be awarded) Charles Jenkins Memorial Scholarship - $2,500 (One scholarship will be awarded) Laurinburg Kiwanis Club Endowed Scholarship for Scotland Health Care System (Scotland Health Employees only) The Joyce Smith Scholarship & Ruth Bisbee Scholarship - $1,500 (Two scholarships will be awarded) Recipients of the first 6 scholarship awards (listed above) will be reviewed and selected by the Foundation Scholarship committee with Scotland Memorial Foundation Board approval. Recipients of The Joyce Smith Scholarship & Ruth Bisbee Scholarship award will be reviewed, selected, and approved by Scotland Health Care System Auxiliary Manager. Visit our Scholarships page for eligibility requirements and to start your application today!
January 9, 2025
Sherry Hunt Smith, pictured in the middle, has been with Scotland Health for well over a decade. She began working in housekeeping and has continued to grow during her time here. In her heart, she always loved taking care of people. When she heard about the Legacy Scholarship, she saw it as her opportunity to become a nurse. Last year, the Foundation was able to seed the Greg Wood Legacy Fund with $150,000 because of your generous donations. We've continued to add to this fund over the last year to aid in growing our workforce pipeline. This scholarship pays for education and a stipend to supplement reduced work hours while in school. Three students will graduate from the program this year and seven others will graduate next year. Sherry emotionally told her story to the Foundation Board recently of how this wasn't only a positive change for her but her whole family and their future. Accompanying Sherry are (l) Rachel Moore, and (r) Christi Meggs, VP of Human Resources.