Francis Marion University and the Morning News presented this year’s Marion Medallion awards at a ceremony held at the FMU Performing Arts Center on February 27, 2026. Michael Miller, President of the Greater Florence Chamber of Commerce, and Donna C. Isgett, President and CEO of McLeod Health, were this year’s recipients.
Miller has spent nearly 40 years in the media business with both newspapers and television. During the early 2000s, he served as the Market Leader for the Morning News and WBTW-TV Channel 13 under Media General. In 2014, he returned to Florence as the President of the Greater Florence Chamber of Commerce, where he has played a pivotal role in advancing economic development, strengthening partnerships between businesses and community leaders, and championing initiatives that enhance the quality of life across the area.
FMU President Fred Carter presented Miller with the award and praised his ability to bring people together for positive change.
“Mike quickly became our most successful catalyst for igniting productive change and providing advice to those committed to such change. He performs so much of this quietly, but persistently and persuasively,” said Carter. “I could speak forever in praise of Mike Miller’s accomplishments, but you all get it. Every aspiring city desperately needs a Mike. We got him at precisely the right time – twice. Count your blessings, Florence.”
Isgett has dedicated her career to advancing healthcare and improving patient outcomes across the region. She began as an emergency flight nurse, providing critical care in high-pressure situations, before transitioning into executive leadership positions. Prior to being named President and CEO of McLeod Health in 2021, she served in other leadership roles including Chief Operating Officer and Senior Vice President of Corporate Quality and Safety.
Kyla Fraser, President and Director of Local Advertising for the Morning News, presented Isgett’s award. During her remarks, Fraser lauded Isgett’s commitment both to healthcare and the community.
“Donna says that healthcare is only 20% of health. The other 80% is related to food, shelter, and feeling safe. Staying engaged in the community and contributing to that other 80% is something that she takes very seriously,” said Fraser. “Donna is undeniably someone of great influence in the Florence community.”
The Marion Medallion has been presented annually by FMU and the Morning News since 2012 to recognize Pee Dee-area citizens who have made sustained and significant contributions to improve the region and the lives of its residents. The award is given each year on or about February 27, Francis Marion Day.
Past Marion Medallion award recipients include:
2012
Kathy Baxley
Henry Johnson & Heyward King
2013
Bill and Olive Timberlake
Ralph Porter
2014
Henry Badie & Clyde Odom
Henry Brunson
2015
John and Vicki Kirby
Paige Alexander, Deanna Strickland
2016
Carlos Washington
Manna House
2017
Regi Armstrong
Carl Harmon
Courtney Graham (posthumously)
2018
W.O. “Billy” Powers
Help 4 Kids
2019
Chuck McNeil
Parking Lot Ministry
2020
Mayor Stephen Wukela
Allen Floyd
2021
Allie E. Brooks
Hope Health
2022
Jean Leatherman
Ellen Hamilton
2023
Tim Norwood
Jim Brown
Pat Gibson-Hye Moore
2024
Mirah Horowitz
Jayne Boswell
2025
Miracle League of Florence County
Debbie Wall
