Lincoln Memorial University (LMU) Chairman of the Board of Trustees Pete DeBusk has been named the 2025 Hero of Southern Appalachia by the Museum of Appalachia. DeBusk was honored during a special ceremony at the Museum on Friday, Feb. 28, in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the Appalachian region and his lifelong commitment to service, perseverance, and self-reliance.
A native of Southern Appalachia, DeBusk’s journey from humble beginnings to a visionary entrepreneur and dedicated philanthropist reflects the very values this award seeks to celebrate. Raised in a family where financial resources were limited, DeBusk learned the importance of hard work and determination at an early age. His ambition led him to Lincoln Memorial University, where he earned a basketball scholarship and completed a Bachelor of Science in Biology.
After briefly attending veterinary school at the University of Georgia, DeBusk pivoted to the business world, working in marketing and later founding DeRoyal Industries, a global medical device manufacturing company. His business acumen and entrepreneurial drive have significantly impacted the health care industry, but it is his dedication to giving back to the Appalachian community that truly sets him apart.
Since becoming Chairman of the LMU Board of Trustees in 2000, DeBusk has played a crucial role in the University's growth and expansion. He was instrumental in the establishment of the LMU-DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine in 2007, helping to address the health care needs of rural and underserved communities. His leadership has led to the development of numerous academic programs, facilities, and opportunities that have enriched the lives of countless students and residents in the region.
“I thought, you know, I’d like to do something for the mountain people because that’s me – that’s who I am,” DeBusk said. “And I surely don’t want to go through life without giving something back, without helping some of these people.”
DeBusk’s contributions have been widely recognized, earning him accolades such as the KnoxBiz Health Care Heroes Lifetime Achievement Award and the East Tennessean of the Year award. Despite his many achievements, he remains deeply connected to his roots and committed to fostering opportunities for future generations.
“Pete DeBusk is one of the most extraordinary people I’ve ever known. His kindness, selflessness, and vision are unmatched—but what makes Pete truly special is the way he’s always thinking about others. His heart beats for the people of Appalachia. Creating opportunities and changing lives here isn’t just something he works on—it’s who he is,” said LMU President Jason McConnell, DBA. “My opportunity to serve at LMU and to be part of the incredible work happening here exists because of his vision and his heart. He has changed my life, just as he’s changed the lives of countless others. His impact on this university, this region, and on me personally is impossible to measure. There is no one more deserving of being named the 2025 Hero of Southern Appalachia. We are all better because of Pete.”
The Museum of Appalachia’s annual Hero of Southern Appalachia award honors individuals of Appalachian heritage who exemplify perseverance, fortitude, self-reliance, and service. DeBusk joins a distinguished list of past honorees who have left a lasting impact on the region.
Lincoln Memorial University is a values-based learning community dedicated to providing educational experiences in liberal arts and professional studies. The main campus is in Harrogate, Tennessee. For more information about the undergraduate and graduate programs available at LMU, contact the Office of Admissions at 423-869-6280 or email at admissions@LMUnet.edu.
