Colquitt County Medical Society presents annual Medical Staff Awards
MOULTRIE, Ga. – The Colquitt County Medical Society (CCMS) recently recognized three outstanding medical professionals during its annual awards ceremony, held at Colquitt Regional Health System’s Ameris Bank Medical Education Building. The event brought together physicians, residents, medical students, and health system leaders to honor individuals whose contributions reflect excellence in clinical care, service, and commitment to the community.
CCMS President Dr. Cory Porteus opened the evening by highlighting the ongoing dedication of the county’s medical community and the importance of recognizing exceptional service across all levels of healthcare. Porteus then presented the D.W. Adcock Physician of the Year Award to Dr. Catherine Brown, honoring her leadership, compassion, and commitment to advancing patient care in Colquitt County. Named for longtime physician and community advocate Dr. D.W. Adcock, the award acknowledges a physician whose service extends beyond clinical excellence to meaningful community impact. Brown, a hospitalist who has served Colquitt Regional and its patients for years through her bedside care, mentorship, and contributions to hospital initiatives, was recognized for her integrity, advocacy, and consistent dedication to improving care for families across Southwest Georgia.
Dr. Gary Swartzentruber presented the Medical Student of the Year Award to Emily Reagin, a third-year student at PCOM South Georgia. Selected by members of the Colquitt County Medical Association, the award honors a medical student who has demonstrated exceptional potential during clinical rotations. Reagin, a graduate of Valdosta High School and the University of Georgia, has completed rotations in both inpatient and outpatient settings, earning outstanding evaluations for her clinical ability, professionalism, and patient interactions. Several physicians noted that her name repeatedly rose to the top during committee discussions. Patient feedback consistently reflected appreciation for her compassion and attentiveness.
Reagin’s award presentation included comments from physicians who supervised her training. During her OB/GYN rotation, Dr. York shared that Reagin “experienced fetal loss and the joys of bringing a newborn into the world. Her passion for medicine has branched into a strong desire for women’s health. She will continue to perform well if she maintains the same standards both personally, professionally, and academically that she has built in the start of this clinical journey.” On her hospitalist medicine rotation, Dr. Cardwell remarked that she “always did what was asked of her and did it well.”
The evening also honored Jackie Tolliver, Colquitt Regional’s Director of Food and Nutrition Services, who received the Ellen Sutton Distinguished Service Award, named for Colquitt Regional’s longtime Medical Staff Coordinator, Ellen Sutton. The award recognizes a non-physician who has made significant contributions to the medical community through service, support, and dedication.
Tolliver was celebrated for her leadership, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to providing exceptional, patient-focused service through Colquitt Regional’s Food and Nutrition program. Her consistent reliability, collaborative spirit, and compassionate approach have made her an invaluable partner to clinical teams and a steady source of comfort to patients and families. Her selection underscores the vital role that non-physician leaders play in supporting high-quality healthcare and cultivating a warm, welcoming environment across the health system.
Colquitt Regional President and CEO Jim Matney commended the honorees and emphasized the importance of their contributions. “Each of these recipients represents the very best of our medical community,” said Matney. “Their dedication—whether at the bedside, in support roles, or early in their medical training—strengthens the care we provide and enhances the experience of every patient who walks through our doors. We are proud to work alongside such exceptional individuals.”
The Colquitt County Medical Society represents physicians serving the region by supporting professional development, strengthening physician networks, advocating for healthcare priorities, and promoting the well-being of both medical providers and the community. CCMS also sends delegates to the Medical Association of Georgia (MAG), which represents more than 8,000 physicians statewide and serves as a leading voice for patient care and medical practice.
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