The Commission

Traci Rouse

Traci Rouse serves as a Vice President at Merit Health Wesley, a 211-bed healthcare facility in Hattiesburg, MS. She is responsible for the communications and marketing for the healthcare entity and brings a strong blend of skills and knowledge, including strategic planning, hospital and clinic operations, brand development and marketing expertise. Prior to her role at Merit Health Wesley, she served for 10 years as the Communications Director for the Hattiesburg Convention Commission.

Rouse has received many awards in recognition of her work in Hattiesburg, including the Bud Kirkpatrick Award for Public Relations Practitioner of the Year. She was also recognized twice as one of the Pine Belt’s Top 20 Business Leaders under 40. She has served in many leadership positions, including President of the Junior Auxiliary of Hattiesburg, President of the Pine Belt Chapter of Public Relations Association of Mississippi and President of the Delta Delta Delta Alumnae Association. She has also served on the Board of Directors of many community organizations throughout the Pine Belt.

Rouse received both her Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication and her Masters of Science degree in Public Relations from the University of Southern Mississippi. While at USM, she served as President of Delta Delta Delta and received the Dr. Tom Shoemaker Outstanding President Award for her service. Since graduating, she has served on the Alumni Association Board of Directors, Business Advisory Council for the College of Business and the Arts Gala Committee for the College of Arts and Letters.

She is married to Wes Rouse, of Hattiesburg. They enjoy spoiling their daughter Rebecca.

Tracy Rouse