A crowd gathered at the University of South Alabama's Health Mapp Family Campus in Fairhope last week for the unveiling of a new sculpture honoring a local family's contributions to the university's …
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A crowd gathered at the University of South Alabama's Health Mapp Family Campus in Fairhope last week for the unveiling of a new sculpture honoring a local family's contributions to the university's initiatives in academic medicine and wellness.
The Mapp Family Campus is home to Baldwin Family Medicine, USA Health specialty care providers and the Baldwin County Surgery Center. Now, a statue stands outside in the property's courtyard to commemorate the Mapp family, longtime supporters of the university.
The sculpture, designed by artist Casey Downing Jr., depicts Louis Mapp and patient Cullen Potter — whom Mapp met as a volunteer in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) at USA Health Children's and Women's Hospital.
"The bond between Louis and Cullen is something that the Hallmark Channel could make a movie about. This statue will be permanently displayed along the walking path of this campus," said Joe Bonner, president of the University of South Alabama. "It is an inspiration to all of us to follow in the Mapps' footsteps."
"My time in the NICU was something I'll never forget, and I have so much admiration for all the caregivers," Louis Mapp said. "They're wonderful. They were all so serious and dedicated, and it was a real privilege to volunteer there."
Originally from Hattiesburg, Mississippi, the Mapps are philanthropists who have donated over $6 million to various causes in both Mississippi and Alabama, including significant contributions to USA Health Children's & Women's Hospital, the same place where Louis Mapp served as a volunteer.
The Mapps also played a vital role in the development of USA's Health Mapp Family Campus. When the university was seeking land in Fairhope for a potential campus, the Mapps already owned two suitable tracts. Louis Mapp offered the more desirable one: a $2 million corner parcel at the intersection of Alabama 181 and Alabama 104.
"We are truly honored that Louis and Melinda Mapp have shared their time, talents and resources with our patients, staff and the entire USA Health community for many years," said Owen Bailey, CEO of USA Health. "We would not have the presence we have in Baldwin County today were it not for their unwavering commitment to academic medicine and their hearts for helping others."