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"I grew up on East Locust Street," McMillan said. "We were one of the first black families in the area, but I managed to grow up with some wonderful friends."
Parents in her neighborhood spent quality time with neighborhood children, organizing trips to the zoo, circus, baseball and football games. Occasionally, though, name-calling came between the friends, especially certain names.
Today, McMillan is a general practitioner with Yorktowne Family Medicine in West Manchester Township. After graduating from William Penn Senior High School in 1968, she earned her bachelor's degree in medical technology from York College.
She then earned her medical degree from Hahnemann Medical College in Philadelphia and completed her residency in family medicine at Lancaster General Hospital.
With the support of her family and many members of the community, she returned to York in 1987.
"I worked hard to respect myself and the people I served," she said.
If she could pass along one message to other young black professionals, she said it would be to believe that there is a place for them to succeed in York.
"If this has been your home, don't wait for someone to validate your purpose," she said. "Validate yourself."
How would you describe your impact on your community and/or profession? "I hope that young black professionals look at me and gain positive feelings about the viability of having a career in York."
Who is your inspiration and why? "I attribute my success and good life to the blessings of Jesus Christ. My medical calling was his calling for my life."
"My father who was a minister, moved back to the city to live. (Her father was born in York.) Over the years, he would also serve as executive director of Crispus Attucks. He, along with my mother, who cared for senior citizens, set an example of community service I still try to emulate today."
Is there anyone following in your footsteps? "I don't want anyone walking in my footsteps. I prefer to always have people walking by my side."
DR. DEBORAH MCMILLAN BIOGRAPHY
Occupation: General practitioner with Yorktowne Family Medicine in West Manchester Township
Born: Aug. 18, 1950
Birthplace: Long Island, N.Y.
Current home: West Manchester Township
Marital status: Husband, Leighton McMillan (married 38 years)
Children: Eyana McMillan, Nate McMillan, Leighton Jr. McMillan, Brandon McMillan and Jonathan McMillan
Education: Graduate of William Penn Senior High School in 1968, York College in 1973 and Hahnemann Medical College in Philadelphia in 1981
