The community support for the proposed Methodist University Cape Fear Valley Health School of Medicine continues to grow, with the latest effort being a meaningful gift to the School of Medicine (SOM) from The Longleaf Pine REALTORS® Association. 

The $250,000 gift is yet another milestone for the School of Medicine, which will positively influence the future of healthcare in Fayetteville, Cumberland County and the entire Southeastern North Carolina region for years to come.

"We are incredibly grateful to The Longleaf Pine REALTORS® Association, this is a remarkably generous gift, and I know it's the largest gift made in their history," said Methodist University President Stanley T. Wearden in a press release. "I know this gift is because they recognize the value of the medical school and the transformative effect it will have on our entire region in terms of healthcare outcomes and economics, as well. They are not giving this gift because it will be beneficial to realtors, but, of course, having a new medical school will attract a lot of new talent to this area and that will be good for realtors, also, because people will be moving in and wanting to purchase homes."  

Chartered in 1946 and with offices in Fayetteville, Longleaf Pine REALTORS®, Inc. is a professional trade association serving the interests of over 2,400 members and business professionals.

"It is with immense pride that we, the Longleaf Pine REALTORS®, present this donation to the Methodist University Cape Fear Valley School of Medicine," said David Zeitz, president of the association in a press release. "Our association has always been committed to the betterment of our community, focusing on creating opportunities that foster growth, health, and prosperity. This donation marks one of the most historic investments we’ve ever made, and it underscores our unwavering belief in the power of education and our belief in this community."

Pending approval from the Liaison Commission on Medical Education – the school is currently a candidate program with the LCME – the SOM has a goal of welcoming its first cohort of students in 2026. It is expected to create more than 250 new jobs and graduate more than 100 doctors annually.

"Aligning with our strategic plan, this contribution not only strengthens the bond between real estate and community wellness but also highlights our commitment to building a healthier future," Zeitz continued in the release. "By investing in the education of future medical professionals, all those supporting this specific endeavor are laying the groundwork for a thriving, vibrant community that benefits us all. We celebrate this milestone and look forward to a future where our joint efforts continue to make a lasting impact."

The new Methodist University Cape Fear Valley Health School of Medicine is to be located on the Cape Fear Valley Medical Center in Fayetteville, combining the expertise and resources of both institutions to provide students with unparalleled educational and clinical experiences. It will create opportunities for students to learn in a collaborative and innovative environment, with access to cutting-edge technology in a brand-new facility. The new medical school will provide students with the opportunity to work alongside experienced faculty and health care professionals, gaining valuable real-world experience that will prepare them for their future careers.