Julia Harrison, Over 33 Years of Service

Julia Harrison, darkroom technician in South Central Regional Medical Center’s Radiology department, has been a valued employee for over 33 years. As a darkroom technician, she assists the radiologic technicians by processing film, ordering supplies, and assisting with patient care when needed. “I started work at South Central in 1955 and worked in the Laundry and Housekeeping departments until 1964. I wanted to spend more time with my children, so I took a position as a teacher’s aide at Roosevelt Elementary School. In 1968, I returned to South Central in the Radiology department and have been here ever since—33 1/2 years,” stated Harrison proudly.

Harrison graduated from Benson High School and attended Piney Woods when it was a junior college. Her sister-in-law, Erma Thompson, was an employee of the hospital who constantly talked about her job and how she loved working there. This encouraged Harrison to apply at the hospital.

Over the years, Harrison has seen a great many changes at South Central. “When I started, we only had regular X-ray machines. Now we have all of the latest technology, CT, MRI, ultrasound, nuclear medicine, and interventional radiology,” she added.

“I like my job, and working here has helped me raise and educate my three children: Fred, a machinist at Howard Industries; Phyllis, a radiologic technologist at Laurel Bone and Joint Clinic; and Vivian, a RN at Singing River Hospital,” she said with special pride.

Kathy Sumrall, Director of the Radiology department, said, “Julia and I have worked together for 33 years. Not only is she a good, solid employee you can count on, but we are also the best of friends.”

When asked how she felt about working at the hospital, Julia said, “I think that South Central is the best hospital around—both as an employer and as a health care provider.”

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