LUMBERTON — Through a strong partnership between the Public Schools of Robeson County and UNC Health Southeastern, 1,213 student-athletes received sports physicals on Friday, May 8, helping ensure students are healthy, safe and prepared for the upcoming athletic seasons.
The annual event brought together healthcare professionals, district staff, volunteers, coaches and student-athletes in a collaborative effort focused on student wellness and success.
“It is truly an incredible feat to come together as a community and provide care for over 1,200 athletes,” said Orthopedic Surgeon James Slauterbeck, M.D., of UNC Health Orthopedics at Southeastern Health Park. “The scale of coordination, dedication, and volunteerism required to accomplish this reflects the strength of UNC Health Southeastern and the commitment everyone has toward the health and safety of our local students.”
The large-scale event highlighted the importance of community partnerships in supporting students both inside and outside the classroom.
“We are grateful to UNC Health Southeastern and every volunteer, healthcare provider, coach, and staff member who dedicated their time to help ensure our students are healthy, safe, and ready to succeed both academically and athletically,” said PSRC Superintendent Dr. Freddie Williamson.
The district also extends special appreciation to PSRC Board of Education Member Vonta Leach and the Beta Nu Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity for preparing lunch and supporting participants throughout the day.
Just as athletes depend on working together to succeed on the field, Public Schools of Robeson County and UNC Health Southeastern came together to help support students and make sure they are healthy, safe, and ready for a successful season.
“Events like this are a reminder that supporting students takes teamwork,” Dr. Williamson said. “Together, we are making a difference for our students every day.”
“This was an incredible example of what can happen when healthcare, education and community partners come together with a shared purpose,” said UNC Health Southeastern President and CEO Chris Ellington. “We are proud to help remove barriers for families and support the health and safety of student-athletes across Robeson County.”
The UNC Health Southeastern Foundation also contributed to the success of the event.
“This was a tremendous team effort and a meaningful investment in our community’s children,” said Sissy Grantham, executive director of the UNC Health Southeastern Foundation. “The Foundation was honored to support this initiative because we believe healthy students are better prepared to learn, grow, compete, and succeed.”
Now in its second year, the event continues to build on a strong partnership between the school district and hospital system and the shared commitment of student well being.
“I want to encourage all student-athletes to continue taking advantage of this opportunity that the Public Schools of Robeson County and UNC Health Southeastern provides annually,” said PSRC Athletic Director Glenn Patterson.
(Photo by UNC Health Southeastern)