The Jacksonville-Onslow Chamber of Commerce presented Onslow Memorial Hospital president and Chief Executive Officer Dr. Penney Burlingame Deal the 2025 Marine Chevrolet Jacksonville-Onslow Woman of the Year Award during its annual membership celebration in July.
Deal was recognized as a dynamic leader whose commitment to community service, professional achievement and personal growth has been evident throughout her career, said Victoria Morales, OMH public relations and marketing manager.
As hospital CEO, she has not only led significant business accomplishments, including a $17 million financial turnaround and a partnership with UNC Health, but she has also fostered a culture of service, encouraging her team to engage in various outreach projects, Morales said.
Deal also serves on several local and state boards, including the Jacksonville-Onslow Economic Development Board and the N.C. Healthcare Association.
“It was so fitting for Dr. Penney Burlingame Deal to be honored as the Jacksonville-Onslow Chamber of Commerce Woman of the Year,” said Laurette Leagon, president of the Jacksonville-Onslow Chamber of Commerce. “Her commitment to the hospital, the community and the chamber is unparalleled.
“Under her leadership, Onslow Memorial Hospital is a strong supporter of the chamber, whether it be volunteering, serving on the board and committees or sponsoring signature events.”
Deal’s presentations in the chamber’s Leadership in ACTION program are also a standout, Leagon said. Burlingame Deal said receiving the award leaves her “deeply humbled” and “overflowing with gratitude.”
“This honor truly belongs to our incredible community, and my heart is especially full as I acknowledge the Onslow family, whose unwavering support, warmth and encouragement have been my guiding light,” Deal said. “No one thrives in a vacuum, and I am profoundly blessed by a community and a family that love, inspire and champion one another every single day.”
Other community leaders recognized during the chamber’s annual membership celebration included Ricky Maready, the 2025 Sanders Ford Jacksonville-Onslow Golden Eagle Man of the Year; the Rev. Joel D. Churchwell, the 2025 Coastal Carolina Community College Jacksonville-Onslow Civic Honoree; and Everett Dula, the 2025 Jacksonville-Onslow Ambassador of the Year.