Fowler honored with Order of the Palmetto

By Tracy Stanton

Ronald M. Fowler, a member of the McLeod Health Board of Trustees and previous Chairman of the Board, was presented The Order of the Palmetto, on Friday, May 1, 2026. The Honorable Kevin Hardee, South Carolina House of Representative for District 105, presented the honor alongside his wife, Tina Hardee, Horry County Auditor, and Dr. Tarek Bishara, Chairman of the McLeod Health Board of Trustees, on behalf of the Office of Governor Henry McMaster.

Fowler received the highest civilian honor bestowed to a South Carolina citizen at a gathering of family, friends, and McLeod Health Board of Trustees and Emeritus members. “Tonight is a special event for McLeod Health and for all of us who have had the honor of working alongside individuals who give so much of themselves for the good of others,” said Dr. Bishara who offered the welcome. “We are gathered here to recognize one such individual — a man whose dedication has strengthened this organization and touched countless lives across our region.”

Dr. Bishara also thanked Fowler’s family stating, “Your support of him throughout his years of service has truly contributed to this achievement, and your presence tonight reflects the love, pride, and admiration that surrounds him.”

Dr. Bishara then introduced Representative Hardee who represents the district that Fowler calls home. “We are honored to have Kevin with us, accompanied by his wife, Tina, who also represents the district. They will present this honor to one of his own constituents, whom he admires as a friend and mentor.”

Before presenting the honor, Representative Hardee offered remarks on Fowler’s contributions to the region. “It is truly an honor to recognize a man whose leadership has strengthened not only McLeod Health, but the entire Pee Dee and Coastal regions and the State of South Carolina. We are pleased to celebrate Mr. Fowler, whose service reflects the very best of what it means to be a South Carolinian — dedicated, humble, compassionate, and committed to the well being of others.

“The Order of the Palmetto is reserved for individuals who have made exceptional contributions that elevate communities, improve lives, and leave a lasting impact on South Carolina. The circle of recipients, vetted and approved for this distinction by the Office of Governor McMaster, now hails the inclusion of Mr. Fowler who is unquestionably one of those individuals whose life reflects the merits of this honor.

“As past Chairman of the McLeod Health Board of Directors, Mr. Fowler helped guide this organization through periods of growth, innovation, and challenge. His leadership was steady, thoughtful, and always grounded in the mission of providing the highest quality care to the people of this region. But his influence extends far beyond the boardroom. He has been a mentor to many, a champion for access to healthcare, improvements and strengthening education and a tireless advocate for the needs of patients, students and families. He has given generously of his time, his expertise, and his heart — never seeking recognition, always focused on service.

“Those who know Mr. Fowler also know that he leads with integrity. He listens carefully. He treats everyone with respect. And he believes deeply in the responsibility we all share to make our communities stronger. Tonight, we honor not only his accomplishments, but the spirit in which he has served — with humility, with purpose, and with a genuine desire to make life better for others,” added Representative Hardee.

Following his remarks, Representative Hardee, Tina Hardee and Dr. Bishara formally presented The Order of the Palmetto to Fowler. “On behalf of the Office of the Governor of the State of South Carolina, and with deep appreciation for your decades of service, leadership, and dedication, it is our privilege to present you with the Governor’s Order of the Palmetto. This award symbolizes the gratitude of our state and the countless individuals whose lives have been touched by your work. Your legacy is one of service, compassion, and unwavering commitment to the people of South Carolina.”

In closing, Dr. Bishara said, “On behalf of the entire McLeod Health Board of Trustees, thank you Ronald once again for your years of steady leadership and for the example you continue to set for all of us. We thank each of you for being here tonight to celebrate this extraordinary achievement and to honor a man who has given so much to McLeod Health and to our state.”

Former McLeod Health recipients of this honor include: Mr. Rob Colones, previous President and CEO of McLeod Health, in 2022 presented by Governor Henry McMaster; Mr. Laurence McIntosh, previous McLeod Health Board Chairman, in 2002 by Governor Jim Hodges; Mrs. Dot Johnson, Nurse and McLeod Advocate, in 1997 awarded by Governor David Beasley; Dr. Conyers O’Bryan, Jr. in 1994 by Governor Carroll Campbell; Dr. William Hester, McLeod Physician and Medical Director of the Residency Program, in 1990 presented by Governor Carroll Campbell; and Dr. John M. Wilson, a Darlington Physician, in 1988 awarded by Governor Carroll Campbell.