The UNC Health Rockingham Auxiliary will honor Steve Eblin, President and CEO of UNC Health Rockingham, as the 2025 recipient of its prestigious Star Award at the 2025 Annual Tree of Life Lighting Ceremony. This recognition comes as Eblin prepares to retire on December 18, 2025, after more than four decades of dedicated service in healthcare leadership.
Eblin joined UNC Health Rockingham in October 2019 and has since led the hospital through a period of remarkable change. The Auxiliary Board unanimously selected Eblin for the award, citing his exceptional dedication and outstanding leadership to UNC Health Rockingham and the Eden community.
“Steve has been a steady and visionary leader for UNC Health Rockingham during some of the hospital’s most transformative years. From guiding the hospital through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic to strengthening our culture and improving the quality of care, his leadership has made a lasting impact,” said Auxiliary President Dorrie Coleman. “He has helped recruit outstanding physicians, built trust across teams, and ensured our community continues to receive exceptional care. The UNC Health Rockingham Auxiliary Board is proud to honor him as our Star Award recipient this year.”
Upon receiving the award, Eblin shared, “It’s incredibly humbling to be recognized by the UNC Health Rockingham Auxiliary, a group of dedicated volunteers that play such a vital role in supporting our hospital and community. It has been a privilege to serve alongside such a dedicated team and to contribute to the health and well-being of the Eden and greater Rockingham County community. I am confident that UNC Health Rockingham will continue to thrive and deliver exceptional care in the years ahead.”
The formal celebration honoring Eblin and his contributions will be held on Tues., December 2, 2025 at 5:30 p.m., hosted by the UNC Health Rockingham Auxiliary in the Day Hospital lobby. Following the ceremony, the hospital’s annual tree lighting and caroling festivities will be held. The event will bring together hospital staff, volunteers, and community members to express their appreciation for his
leadership and legacy.
Those who wish to honor a loved one with a Lovelight or Starlight on the Tree of Life at UNC Health Rockingham may continue to do so throughout the month of December. Please contact Carla Estes-Porter at (336) 627-6180 or visit the Small Pleasures Gift Shop near the Main Entrance of the hospital to make a gift. Lovelights are $5 and Starlights are $100. Honorees are sent an acknowledgement card, and their names are recorded in the Book of Honor and Memory. Donors and their honorees are invited to attend the ceremony.
