Scotland Health CEO David Pope Named Richmond Community College Foundation’s 2026 Distinguished Citizen of the Year

Scotland Health president and CEO, David Pope, received the Richmond Community College Distinguished Citizen of the Year Award from Richmond Community College president Brent Barbee

The Richmond Community College Foundation has named David Pope, President and CEO of Scotland Health, as its 2026 Distinguished Citizen of the Year, honoring his leadership, community impact, and continued dedication to improving health care throughout the region. Pope was formally recognized during the RCC Foundation Gala on Saturday at the Cole Auditorium, an annual spring fundraiser where donations directly support students working to build better futures—particularly those who may not qualify for federal financial aid. The semi-formal evening featured dinner, entertainment, dancing, and a celebration of this year’s honoree.

During the event, Dr. Wendy Jordan, RCC Associate Vice President for Development, shared her first memorable interaction with Pope, recalling his warmth, generosity, and genuine engagement even during an impromptu first meeting. She described him as approachable, community-minded, and instantly supportive of the college’s mission.

Scotland Health Board of Trustees Vice Chair Guy McCook provided an overview of Pope’s tenure and influence since joining Scotland Health in 2019. He highlighted Pope’s leadership throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, his commitment to expanding access to high-quality care in rural communities, and his guidance in advancing major projects such as expanded community health services, maternal health support, new surgical and endoscopy facilities, enhancements to Laurinburg Family Practice, and the launch of a mobile 3D mammography unit. McCook also recognized Pope’s servant-leadership style, noting his tendency to redirect praise to his team and his day-to-day actions—large and small—that demonstrate a deep commitment to the people he serves.

RCC President Brent Barbee praised Pope as an invaluable partner in strengthening the region’s healthcare workforce. Barbee emphasized how seamlessly Pope collaborates with the college on initiatives like the Legacy RN Scholarship program, which provides full tuition and paid clinical hours for teammates pursuing nursing degrees. He described Pope as a leader who always makes time for students, faculty, and staff and as someone who consistently seeks new opportunities for partnership. Barbee concluded by affirming that Pope is profoundly deserving of this year’s Distinguished Citizen recognition.

In his remarks, Pope expressed gratitude to the RCC leadership, faculty, and staff—across all academic programs—and thanked his wife Jeannie and their daughters for their support. He reflected on the values he learned growing up in a rural community and spoke about the power of genuine partnerships, especially in small towns where collaboration is essential. Pope addressed the persistent health disparities impacting rural counties, noting that a person’s zip code remains one of the strongest predictors of health outcomes. He emphasized the need for homegrown solutions and the responsibility shared by local institutions, including RCC and Scotland Health, to create meaningful change for the people of this region.

“This is where we make our work,” Pope said. “This is where we hold the line. Let us not grow weary in doing good… for at the proper time we will reap the harvest if we do not give up.”