The definition of the word “community” according to the Oxford Learner’s Dictionary is: “A body of people who live in the same place, usually sharing a common cultural or ethnic identity.”
In the last six months, I have gotten a different appreciation of the meaning of the word “community,” through my interactions with many of you.
This is why, I wish to dedicate this message to all of you, our alumni, and supporters of the Dr. Gerald Niznick College of Dentistry and the School of Dental Hygiene and to express my gratitude for your engagement with our fundraising campaign.
I know that for some, their personal experiences while receiving their dental hygiene or dental education training was challenging at times, but this has not stopped individuals from supporting the vision and mission of the college.
The support has not been provided only by “a body of people who live in the same place,” it has spanned nationally and internationally. The engagement has also reached across professions with the Manitoba Dental Hygienists Association, sponsoring our new clinic dispensary; for that I personally wish to extend my thanks to our fellow oral health-care providers.
I am happy today, to share with you some exciting news about the progress of our campaign and an update on the building of our new dental clinics!
Thanks to the remarkable generosity and support from our alumni, we have achieved significant milestones that bring us closer to realizing our vision.
We have received contributions from 90 donors. These generous individuals have made 139 gifts. And 20 operatories have already been named in recognition of their generosity.
This incredible show of support is just the beginning. The enthusiasm and commitment shown to our mission have set a strong foundation for the continued success of this campaign. We look forward keeping this momentum going as we engage in the start of construction in the upcoming months.
I am also deeply grateful for the dedication of our volunteer fundraisers. Thank you Dr. Patricia Kmet, Dr. Tim Dumore, Dr. Aaron Kim, Dr. Billy Wiltshire, and professor Mary Bertone. Your contributions are making a profound impact, and together, we are creating a legacy that will benefit generations to come. It takes a village to raise a building and all contributions matter!
I look forward welcoming the classes of 1984, 1999 and many others at the college on our September 21, 2024, Homecoming Day and sharing more news with you at our upcoming Alumni of Distinction Dinner on September 27, 2024.
To learn more about how you can get involved, please contact our dedicated fundraiser, Brooke Karlaftis. Brooke can be reached by email at brooke.karlaftis@umanitoba or by phone at 204-474-7835.
Wishing you all a healthy and happy summer.
With appreciation,
Dr. Anastasia Kelekis-Cholakis
Dean, Dr. Gerald Niznick College of Dentistry