Major: English

Every day when he arrives to work, Mac Bowman ’73, M.D., is “excited by the possibilities.” His enthusiasm for his life’s calling is just as strong now as it was when he began practicing medicine.

Bowman is a cardiologist and director of cardiovascular services for University Health Care System in Augusta, Georgia. He was named a “Hospital Hero” in 2016 by the Georgia Hospital Association for his work promoting preventative cardiac care and founding the “Heart Cart,” to provide free heart screenings. The Heart Cart began by providing free screening and education to first responders. Next, Bowman’s team began working with area schools to provide free heart screenings to local student-athletes. 

Balancing a jam-packed life is something Bowman has been doing since his cadet days. VMI taught him to prioritize by balancing a “tremendously hectic” schedule – the combination of VMI’s military requirements, football practice and academic studies – and to “do it every day.”

After graduating from VMI, Bowman attended Medical College of Georgia on a U.S. Army scholarship. In 1986, Bowman settled his young family in Augusta and soon began to work at University Hospital.

He remains committed and enthusiastic about his life’s calling – treating, helping and educating people. From medical to emotional support “God always gives me something to take into a patient’s room ... I know every day I set foot in this hospital, I’ll have a chance to make a difference in somebody’s life,” he said.