UMMC Office of Development

The University of Mississippi Medical Center was honored to welcome Christopher Swafford, President and CEO of Mississippi Blood Services to UMMC for a behind-the-scenes look at the education, innovation and collaboration shaping the future of health care in Mississippi.

The visit included tours of the School of Medicine, School of Health Related Professions, the new School of Nursing building set to open in January and The MIND Center, highlighting the exceptional work taking place across our academic health center.

Thank you to Dr. Norma Ojeda, Dr. Molly Ratcliff, Dr. Michelle Palokas and Dr. Kevin Sullivan for sharing their expertise and providing an inside look at the programs, facilities and research that are preparing tomorrow’s health care leaders and advancing patient care today.

Some of the most meaningful work at CCRI happens long before a transplant ever begins. Today for Meet the Team Monday, we’re celebrating Jennifer Rouse, Sonia Parker and Christy Luckett, the pre-transplant coordinators who guide patients and families through every step of the bone marrow transplant process. Their calm presence, clear communication and deep compassion make an overwhelming time feel a little more manageable. Get to know the team behind this life‑changing work.

🧠 A major milestone for the future of neurological research and patient care at University of Mississippi Medical Center.

A planned $1 million gift from the late Catherine Powell Klipple has helped dedicated building funds for the future centralized MIND Center reach $10 million.

This generous contribution honors Klipple’s lifelong commitment to service while supporting continued research, innovation, and compassionate care for patients affected by neurodegenerative diseases. 💙

Every step forward brings hope to patients and families across Mississippi and beyond.

🔗 Read more at the link in bio.

There’s still time to support Costco Wholesale’s annual fundraising campaign benefiting Children's of Mississippi through May 31.

Thanks to the generosity of employees, members, suppliers, and communities, Costco has raised more than $690 million to support children’s hospitals across the U.S. and Canada. They are helping fund critical treatments and programs that bring comfort and joy to kids during difficult times.

Every donation helps make a difference for children and families throughout Mississippi. Join us in helping create big change for all kids before the campaign ends! 💙

🎗️ Big news for cancer care in Mississippi!

Trustmark has pledged a transformative $2 million gift to support the campaign for the UMMC Cancer Center and Research Institute.

This investment will help expand access to advanced treatment options and bringing hope to patients and families across our state. 💙

Together, we’re building a stronger future for cancer care in Mississippi.

🔗 Read more at the link in bio.

On your next Costco run this month, donate at the register to support Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals and Children’s of Mississippi. Your donation helps provide life-changing care for kids right here in our community. Every dollar makes a big difference for local children and families!

💙🐻 FOR THE KIDS 🐻💙

BruinTHON was the first dance marathon benefitting Children's of Mississippi and continues to make a lasting impact through student-led fundraising at Saint Joseph Catholic School.

Students spend the entire school year fundraising before celebrating their efforts during an exciting eight-hour Dance Marathon each spring.

Students who meet their dancer minimum take part in games, activities, and powerful moments with families served by Children’s of Mississippi, reminding everyone why they dance.

✨ In 2025 alone, BruinTHON raised $18,581.88
✨ Bringing their ALL-TIME total to an incredible $188,581.88

Thank you to the students and staff of Saint Joseph Catholic School for supporting children and families across Mississippi. 💙

Happy Nurses Day! 💙

Today we celebrate the incredible nurses and nursing students at UMMC whose compassion, resilience, and dedication make a difference every single day. Whether at the bedside, in the classroom, or out in the community, you embody what it means to care with both skill and heart.

Your long hours, sacrifices, and commitment to healing do not go unnoticed. You are the steady hands, the comforting voices, and the advocates patients rely on in their most vulnerable moments.

We’re also deeply grateful for the families, friends, donors, and teachers who stand behind you. Your encouragement, guidance, and generosity make it possible for these future and current nurses to thrive. It truly takes a community to support such an important calling.

Thank you for all that you do, today and every day! 💉✨

📣 We’re now accepting submissions for our 2027 Patient Ambassador program!

Each year, this special program highlights 12–14 patients who represent Children’s of Mississippi by sharing their stories across a variety of platforms. As we begin selecting ambassadors for 2027, we invite former and current patients who are interested in participating to apply.

Patients must be between the ages of 1-17 years, a former or current COM patient and able to serve for one year.

If you would like your child to be considered, please review and complete the Family Interest Form: https://www.umc.edu/Development/Community/Get-Involved/Join/PA-Nom-Form.html

⏳ Applications are only open for a limited time. Be sure to submit your form by May 13!

Help us spread the word by sharing this post with families who may be interested. 💙

For questions, please contact: Amber Magee, Development Specialist. Phone: 601-213-8054 | Email: [email protected]

We are incredibly grateful for the support from Harrison’s Happies to Children's of Mississippi 💙

Harrison’s Happies was created in loving memory of Harrison McClain, whose strength and spirit continue to inspire so many. Through this meaningful initiative, in-kind donations are provided to the pediatric neurology department where Harrison received care, bringing comfort, joy, and support to children and families walking a similar journey.

Thank you, Harrison’s Happies, for partnering with Children's to honor Harrison’s legacy and make a lasting difference. Your generosity and compassion mean so much. 💫