CPRMC Radiologist Dr. Gregory Connor Awarded South Carolina’s Highest Civilian Honor – The Order of the Palmetto
HARTSVILLE, South Carolina (August 2025) Carolina Pines Regional Medical Center proudly announces that Dr. Gregory S. Connor, MD, esteemed diagnostic radiologist and dedicated community physician, has been awarded The Order of the Palmetto, South Carolina’s highest civilian honor. Presented by Governor Henry McMaster, the award recognizes Dr. Connor’s lifetime of extraordinary achievement, service, and contributions to the state and its citizens.
With a distinguished medical career spanning more than five decades, Dr. Connor’s impact on our community and beyond is immeasurable. After graduating from the University of Illinois College of Medicine in 1973, Dr. Connor began serving the Hartsville community in 1975 as a family physician before later completing a residency in diagnostic radiology. Since then, he has been a cornerstone of Carolina Pines Regional Medical Center, offering exceptional skill, compassion, and leadership in patient care.
Throughout his career, Dr. Connor’s dedication extended far beyond the reading room. Known for personally sitting with patients to explain imaging results, he offered not only clarity but comfort - transforming what could be moments of uncertainty into experiences of reassurance and trust. His leadership was pivotal in establishing Carolina Pines’ mammography program, ensuring compliance with the Mammography Quality Standards Act and elevating breast cancer detection and treatment in the region.
A committed mentor, Dr. Connor has guided countless radiologic technology students, generously sharing his knowledge and inspiring future generations of healthcare providers. His approachable nature, kindness, and deep compassion for both patients and colleagues have left a legacy that will endure long after his retirement.
“This honor is a testament to the fact that Dr. Connor’s contributions have been felt not only within our hospital walls but across the entire state,” said Dr. Brian Sponseller, CEO of Carolina Pines Regional Medical Center. “The Order of the Palmetto is a fitting recognition for a physician whose career has been defined by service, excellence, and an unwavering commitment to improving the lives of others.”
Behind his decades of service stands his greatest partner - his wife, Barbara. The two met while Barbara was a nursing student at the Medical University of South Carolina, and together they have built a life rooted in compassion, service, and love for their community. Barbara has been by Dr. Connor’s side every step of the way, sharing in the joys and sacrifices that come with a life devoted to medicine and community care.
While his professional achievements are vast, Dr. Connor’s proudest role is that of husband, father, and grandfather. His devotion to his family mirrors the dedication he has shown his patients - steadfast, wholehearted, and guided by love.
As Dr. Connor prepares for a well-earned retirement, Carolina Pines Regional Medical Center joins the State of South Carolina in celebrating his extraordinary career and congratulating him on this remarkable achievement.
About The Order of the Palmetto
The Order of the Palmetto is the highest civilian honor awarded by the Governor of South Carolina. It recognizes individuals for their lifetime of extraordinary achievement, service, and contributions to the state and nation. Recipients have made a significant positive impact on South Carolina, often through selfless giving of time, resources, and goodwill.
About Carolina Pines Regional Medical Center
Carolina Pines Regional Medical Center, located in Hartsville, South Carolina, offers quality inpatient and outpatient healthcare services to the residents of the Pee Dee region. Our mission is to provide compassionate, quality care close to home, guided by a patient-first approach that has made us a trusted partner in our community’s health.