Philanthropic Legacy
CREATE Founder George McLean believed that by joining together, communities could cultivate leaders who would make a difference for us all. Whether through funding early childhood education, granting scholarships, developing leaders, or enhancing college and career readiness, community development is key to the long-term regional success.
Honoring Visionary Philanthropic
Leadership
McLean Award for Philanthropy
2025
Sarah Young, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Mississippi
Sarah Young
Described as “the hands and feet of Christ in our community,” Sarah Young has been generous with her time, talent and treasure, willing to share even when not asked.
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Mississippi
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Mississippi continues its mission of creating a healthier Mississippi.
- 2024 | Jim and Lisa Hawkins; Sam and Mary Pace; Orma and Terre Smith
- 2023 | Dan & Frances Brasfield; Albert & Billie Green; Barry Wax
- 2022 | Elizabeth “Betsy” Brown; Hull Davis Family, Larry and Judy Kirk; Jack and Lisa Reed; Heywood and Sue Washburn
- 2021 | Ed and Becky Meek
- 2020 | VM Cleveland
- 2019 | Ted and Lynn Moll
- 2018 | Mossy Oak
- 2017 | alrymple Family
- 2015 | C.C. Clark and Company; Julie and Michael Waldorf
- 2014 – Toyota Motor Manufacturing MS
- 2013 | Babs and Mickey Holliman; BNA Bank
- 2012 | Ruby Kathryn and Aubrey Patterson
- 2011 | Christy and Milton Sundbeck; Renasant Bank
- 2010 | Crane Family; Jane and Frank Spain
- 2009 | Rosemary and Sandy Williams; Nancy Ann and Kenneth Williams
- 2008 | Jim and Claiborne Barksdale; Anne J. Stephens
- 2007 | Brevard Family; William Raspberry
- 2006 | North Mississippi Health Services; Hassell Franklin
- 2005 | Corinne and Benjamin Price; BancorpSouth
- 2004 | Barbara and Bobby Martin; Kenny Dill and Family
- 2003 | Frances and Jack Reed; The Hancock Foundation
- 2002 | Carpenter Foundation
- 2001 | Phil Hardin Foundation