Greenville Welcomes New Dean at USC Medical School

Greenville Welcomes New Dean at USC Medical School

Greenville, South Carolina, has a new leader at the helm of the University of South Carolina (USC) School of Medicine. Dr. Phyllis MacGilvray has been appointed dean, marking a significant achievement as she becomes the first board-certified Lifestyle Medicine physician to lead an American College of Lifestyle Medicine platinum-certified medical school.

Dr. MacGilvray’s Journey

Dr. MacGilvray is not new to the school. Until recently, she served as the senior associate dean for academic affairs at the School of Medicine Greenville from 2022 to 2024. In this position, she oversaw key areas such as undergraduate medical education and a special program aimed at tackling the nationwide shortage of physicians.

Having lived and worked in South Carolina for over two decades, Dr. MacGilvray has a rich background in family medicine. With her leadership at Prisma Health Upstate, she has increased the number of residency opportunities for medical students, which could be vital for future healthcare efforts in the region. Her efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic were especially noteworthy, as she worked to improve staff morale and boost efficiency within healthcare services amidst challenging times.

A Vision for the Future

In her new role, Dr. MacGilvray expresses excitement about leading the medical school as it continues to grow. “I am honored to have the opportunity to lead our medical school into the next chapter of our very exciting journey,” she stated. Her commitment to students, faculty, and staff indicates a strong focus on cultivating a thriving academic and healthcare environment.

Founded in 2012, the USC School of Medicine Greenville aims to offer a unique educational experience focused on holistic and patient-centered care. Dr. MacGilvray’s leadership is expected to enhance the mission of training compassionate and skilled physicians, key to improving healthcare across South Carolina and beyond.

Community Impact

Dr. MacGilvray’s background and deep ties to the community are anticipated to play a crucial role as she navigates the school’s future. Her experience from various institutions, along with her Lifestyle Medicine certification, aligns well with the school’s innovative approach to medical education.

As the community looks on, it hopes her leadership will inspire the next generation of doctors, paving the way for a healthier future for residents in the Upstate and surrounding areas.