MOUNT OLIVE – Dillon Black, a native of Shelby, graduated from the University of Mount Olive in December with an MBA in Healthcare Management.

At 34 years old, Black has built a successful career in physician recruitment and healthcare operations, driven by a passion for leadership and improving community health.

Professionally, Black has established himself as a leader in healthcare recruitment, currently serving as the Director of Physician Recruitment and Relations at UNC Health Wayne.

In this role, he has helped increase primary care physician recruitment by 400% across the 316-bed community hospital and its 14 associated clinics. His work focuses on strengthening team dynamics, improving efficiency, and making informed decisions that benefit both providers and patients.

Black credits the University of Mount Olive’s MBA program with helping him develop the strategic, financial, and leadership skills necessary to advance in healthcare administration.

“I chose the University of Mount Olive because I’ve met many exceptional professionals who are UMO alumni, and they always speak highly of their experiences,” Black said. “From my first call with UMO, everyone was incredibly kind and welcoming, and the personal touch made a lasting impression. The dean even called after my acceptance into the program. That level of care and connection is rare, making UMO feel like home for me.”

During the program, Black tackled projects that prepared him for the complexities of healthcare leadership.

“My education at UMO has been a critical step in my career journey,” Black said. “The MBA program has equipped me with essential leadership, financial, and strategic skills directly applicable to high-level decision-making. The program has also given me the confidence to take on more complex challenges and continue growing as a leader.”

Looking ahead, Black plans to pursue the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE) credential to further enhance his expertise.

“I want to ensure I’m equipped to make meaningful contributions to my organization and community,” Black said. “My MBA degree is a cornerstone for shaping my future goals. UMO’s emphasis on practical, real-world application has given me a competitive edge in my career. On a personal level, earning my MBA has shown me the value of perseverance and continuous growth, which will carry over into all aspects of my life.”

Black credits his wife, Amy, for being his greatest source of support throughout his journey.

Married for 11 years, the couple has been together since high school, and Amy has stood by him every step of the way.

“Amy has done everything for me — emotionally, mentally, and practically,” Black said. “Her belief in me, even during self-doubt, has been my rock,” Black shared.

For those considering UMO’s online MBA program, Black highly recommends it for its supportive and personalized learning environment.

“Even in an online format, the professors are approachable and truly invested in your success,” Black said. “The coursework is rigorous but manageable, and the ability to apply what you learn in real-world situations makes it both relevant and practical. UMO’s small but tight-knit community ensures that you never feel like just a number, and the relationships you build with faculty and peers make a lasting impact. The flexibility and personal attention set it apart from larger, more impersonal institutions, and I believe the program has given me a strong competitive edge in my career.”