Unfurling a year of reflection and celebration

As the calendar turned its page to Jan. 1, 2024, MUSC was poised to embark on a yearlong celebration commemorating its remarkable 200-year history. The very first event marking this momentous occasion was the raising of the MUSC Bicentennial flags across the entire system, a symbolic gesture heralding the beginning of a year filled with reflections on MUSC's past, a celebration of its present and anticipation of the future.

Established in 1824, MUSC's origins trace back to modest settings, where first classes convened on Nov. 8.
Over the ensuing two centuries, the institution has flourished into the state's only comprehensive academic health system, providing superior educational opportunities, conducting groundbreaking research and offering exemplary patient care.

The flag-raisings on Jan. 1 served as a poignant reminder of the perseverance and innovative spirit of MUSC's founders. President David J. Cole, M.D., FACS, expressed his enthusiasm for honoring the institution's enduring legacy. "We are excited to celebrate the 200-year journey of contributions, milestones and firsts that MUSC faculty, leaders, students and staff have made to the health care landscape in South Carolina."

The president, along with MUSC Health CEO Patrick Cawley, M.D.; University provost Lisa Saladin, PT, Ph.D.; College of Medicine Dean Terry Steyer, M.D.; VP of Research Lori McMahon, Ph.D., and Regional Health Network CEOs Scott Broome, Catawba Division; Matt Littlejohn, Midlands Division; Walter Bennett, Orangeburg Division; and Jay Hinesley, Pee Dee Division, were part of their respective ceremonies held at central locations.

These special events have been compiled into a video that will be shared with all employees throughout the system so that they, too, can participate in the moving ceremonies. MUSC Bicentennial flags are being flown at all Charleston area medical facilities as well as Columbia Downtown and Columbia NE, Laurel Street Medical Pavilion, Kershaw, Black River, Lancaster, Florence, Marion, Chester and Orangeburg.