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ALBANY, Ga. (WALB) - Phoebe Putney Health System has honored Cynthia Merchant with the prestigious Lemuel Griffin Community Service Award. Merchant, a lifelong advocate for community health and wellbeing, was recognized during a ceremony Thursday evening on Phoebe’s main campus.

Merchant currently serves as CEO of Horizons – South Georgia’s Cancer Coalition, providing vital cancer care services to uninsured and underserved residents. She is also the founder of Strive 2 Thrive, an anti-poverty organization, and has a long history of civic leadership, including serving on numerous nonprofit boards and as the first woman on the Lee County Commission.

“Cynthia exemplifies service above self and embodies the same spirit that Lem Griffin represented,” said Bruce Melton, PPHS Board Chair.

The award includes a $10,000 donation to a nonprofit of the recipient’s choice; Merchant selected Horizons to continue supporting cancer care initiatives in southwest Georgia.

Nominations for the 2025 award are now open at www.phoebehealth.com/lemgriffinaward.

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