Creating an environment of service, community and dedication
David McMillin said his path to becoming CEO of Methodist Rehabilitation Center (MRC) in Jackson was shaped by two parallel commitments: a long career in leadership and a deep connection to MRC’s mission.
“I spent 35 years with Xerox Corporation, where I gained extensive experience in organizational manage-ment, operations and strategic planning,” said McMillin. “Those years taught me how to lead teams, navigate challenges, and build systems that help people do their best work.”
At the same time, McMillin had what he described as the privilege of serving on the Methodist Rehab Board of Trustees. His service began in 1999 and culminated with his role as Chairman of the Board. “For more than two decades, I witnessed firsthand the extraordinary impact this organization has on patients and families,” he said.
After retiring from Xerox, he was approached by the board in 2022 about stepping into the CEO role.
“I wasn’t pursuing a title—this was something deeper. It felt like a calling to serve an organization whose mission I truly believe in,” he said. “Leading Methodist Rehab has been one of the greatest honors of my life, and I’m grateful every day for the opportunity to support the people who make this hospital exceptional.”
McMillin believes that a successful leader begins with a clear sense of purpose.
“For me, leadership is about service—creating an environment where talented people can do meaningful work and ensuring that every decision reflects our mission. At Methodist Rehabilitation Center, that means putting patients first, investing in our staff and setting a standard of excellence that honors the trust families place in us.”
Successful leaders also listen more than they speak.
“They remain curious, value collaboration and never stop learning. And, most importantly, they approach their work with integrity and compassion,” he said. “In healthcare and especially in rehabilitation, people depend on us during some of the hardest moments of their lives.”
A native of Walnut, McMillin earned a Bachelor of Business Administration from the University of Mississippi and his Master of Business Administration from Millsaps College. Outside of work, McMillin values time that allows him to unplug and reset.
“Spending time with my wife, Lyn, is at the top of my list, and we especially enjoy traveling and visiting with our children and grandchildren. Exercise is a priority, and I always welcome a round of golf with friends. I like to read a wide variety of literature, and I especially appreciate historical biographies.”
McMillin said throughout its history, MRC has continued to carry out its commitment to providing exceptional patient care.
“Exceptional care begins with our mission—to restore ability and hope to those facing life-changing injuries and illnesses,” said McMillin. Methodist Rehab fulfills this mission through a combination of clinical expertise, evidence-based treatment, cutting-edge technology and genuine compassion. “Our interdisciplinary teams collaborate closely with patients and families to design individualized rehabilitation programs that focus on maximizing independence and quality of life.”
Another way Methodist Rehab provides care is through its Wilson Research Foundation which supports groundbreaking studies aimed at improving recovery for people with neurological and orthopedic injuries.
“Our research ensures that clinical practice is informed by ongoing scientific discovery, while our staff continually advance their knowledge through professional education and innovation. This integration of research, technology, and compassionate care is what truly sets us apart,” said McMillin.
In October, MRC celebrated its 50-year milestone with family members of its founders along with board members and community supporters. Ground was broken in December 1970 for what would become Mississippi’s first comprehensive rehabilitation hospital. The three-story, 60-bed center opened in May 1975 and has grown to a seven floor inpatient facility with multiple outpatient services and specialized programs including orthotics and prosthetics, outpatient therapy, pain management and physical medicine. The Center for Neuroscience and Neurological Recovery was added in 1998.
McMillin said since opening in 1975, Methodist Rehabilitation Center has achieved numerous milestones that have shaped the future of rehabilitation care in Mississippi and beyond.
“Among the most significant are the establishment of our nationally recognized clinical programs in brain and spinal cord injury, stroke and amputation rehabilitation; the creation of the Wilson Research Foundation in 1989, which continues to drive groundbreaking clinical research and advanced technology; and the expansion of outpatient and community-based programs that help patients continue progressing long after they leave the hospital,” said McMillin.
Even with its significant accomplishments, MRC, like other rehabilitation providers nationwide, faces ongoing challenges. One challenge is continuing to meet the growing demand for highly specialized rehabilitative care, but he said Methodist Rehab is well positioned to meet those challenges. “Additionally, as technology and medical science advance at a rapid pace, MRC remains committed to investing in the tools, training and research needed to stay at the forefront of innovation,” he said.
In the future, McMillin said, “Methodist Rehab will continue to offer more people the specialized care they need, right where they need it. We’re committed to supporting patients through every stage of recovery, and we’re excited about the new ways we’ll be able to serve Mississippi in the years to come.”
In the long-term, he said, “We envision building upon our 50-year legacy to further position Methodist Rehab as a leader in rehabilitation science—one that continues to influence best practices, train future specialists and pioneer new approaches that transform lives. As we look to the next 50 years, our focus remains steadfast: advancing the science of rehabilitation while providing hope and healing to every patient we serve.”