On the evening of May 31, 2024, the Douglas-Coffee County Chamber of Commerce proudly hosted a spectacular ribbon-cutting ceremony for the grand opening of the renowned Medical Institute of South Georgia. Founded by Dr. Tracy McClelland and her husband, Leroy McClelland, this event marked a significant milestone in their journey of dedication, tenacity, and unwavering commitment to healthcare education.
The Medical Institute of South Georgia, which began as the Ycarte Health Career Center, has been transformed into a non-profit organization under Dr. McClelland’s visionary leadership. This transition ensures that the institute will continue to educate and change the lives of its students for years to come, carrying on Dr. McClelland’s legacy long into the future.
As a long-standing member of the Chamber of Commerce Board and the current Past-Board Chair, Dr. McClelland’s ribbon-cutting ceremony was a heartfelt occasion for the Chamber. Chelsea Graham, Member Relations Director at the Chamber, opened the ceremony with a warm welcome and introduction, recounting the inspiring history of the Medical Institute of South Georgia and Dr. McClelland’s invaluable service to the Chamber.
The event was blessed by Pastor Rueben Speight of Greater Destiny International Ministries, Dr. McClelland’s spiritual leader, who offered a prayer over the facility, its staff, and students. Mayor Tony Paulk highlighted Dr. McClelland’s remarkable tenacity, perseverance, and success, celebrating her impact on the community.
Matt Seale, CEO of the Chamber and EDA, shared a heartfelt anecdote about his first encounter with Dr. McClelland, expressing how deeply her testimony and vision had inspired him. Dr. McClelland then took the stage to share the history, mission, and vision of the Medical Institute of South Georgia, recounting her journey in healthcare education with passion and emotion.
Additional speakers included Myrtice Edwards, JoAnne Lewis, and Angie O’Steen, all dear friends of Dr. McClelland, and MISG student Ashley Ortiz. Their testimonies highlighted the profound impact Dr. McClelland has had on their lives and the lives of many others. Johnny Jackson, Board Chair of the Medical Institute of South Georgia, spoke about his journey as Chairman and acknowledged the dedicated board members.
Dr. McClelland concluded the ceremony with a heartfelt tribute to her husband, Leroy, recognizing his hard work in constructing the new facility and his ongoing support behind the scenes. With a large gathering of family, friends, MISG students and staff, and many community leaders, Dr. Tracy McClelland and Leroy McClelland proudly cut the ribbon, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the Medical Institute of South Georgia.
Following the ceremony, Dr. McClelland led tours of the new facility while guests enjoyed refreshments and a video highlighting student success stories. The new facility is located at 810 N. College Avenue, and the public is encouraged to visit and explore this state-of-the-art educational center.
For more information, please visit www.mis-ga.org.