Celebrating community contributions: the 2024 Arbor Awards

By Rachel Boutet

The 2024 honorees of the prestigious Arbor Awards from the Faculty of Dentistry have been selected, celebrating three individuals who exemplify outstanding volunteerism.

Bobby Chagger 9T6, Norma Chou 7T4, and Joel Rosenbloom, assistant professor, teaching stream, and director of student life at the Faculty, are this year’s Dentistry recipients.

“Our Dentistry community runs on the fuel of volunteers,” says Selina Esteves, director of advancement. “These individuals have contributed years of commitment and dedication. Their efforts have positively impacted the experiences of our students, Faculty members, and alumni. They are simply amazing!”

Chagger is being recognized for the hours and effort he’s contributed as a member of both the Faculty’s Dean’s Advisory Council and Campaign Cabinet. Both of these teams provide foundational insights for the Defy Gravity fundraising campaign for the Faculty.

“One of the most remarkable aspects of dentistry is that it has no singular face; it is a profession that embraces and welcomes people from all cultures and races,” says Chagger. “This inclusivity creates a true family—one that thrives on diversity and mutual support. Being involved with the Dean’s Advisory Council and now the Campaign Cabinet is my way of giving back to a profession that has shaped my life in countless ways. I am deeply invested in fostering a thriving environment for future generations of dental professionals. Supporting the Faculty of Dentistry and contributing to its advancement is both a privilege and an extension of my belief that we all have a role in shaping the future of our fields for the better.”

Chagger says receiving the award is a powerful reminder that empathy, care and a strong social conscience are not just valued – they are vital.

“This recognition affirms that we, as individuals, hold the power to inspire and initiate positive change within our communities. It serves as a testament to the idea that meaningful contributions, whether through time, expertise, or mentorship, can leave a lasting impact. For me, this award symbolizes the importance of leading with purpose and staying true to the values that make our professional journeys not only successful but deeply fulfilling.”

Chou has been committed to organizing her class reunions for the graduates of 1974, a feat that requires a lot of time and effort, but is important in keeping the group connected over the years.

“My classmate Dr. Aldo Boccia was always our class reunion organizer, but sadly passed away in 2016 after our 40th reunion,” says Chou. “As our 45th was approaching, Dr. Tim Milligan and I took over from Aldo as best we could. We felt that it was important for those of our classmates who are interested to get together to visit, relive old times and rekindle friendships for the future. For our 50th, the same committee reconvened with myself again as the person mostly running the show, sending out emails to the classmates and handling all correspondence and funds. It has been really enjoyable and interesting, reconnecting with people I had not seen for so many years.”

Chou says she was truly surprised to have been nominated for this award.

“I never expected such an honour for this activity other than maybe ‘most pushy person of the year’ from my fellow committee member,” she quips.

Rosenbloom is being recognized for his work coaching the U of T Dental Hockey Club (DHC) team over the past few years.

“I became involved when the team was choosing the organization to fundraise for and it was decided to be the CAMH dental clinic,” says Rosenbloom, who also works at the CAMH clinic where students do rotations. “I had a son in house league hockey, so the timing was great as he could attend some DHC games with me. Primarily, I am involved to promote CAMH and mental health, but I also get to know the players on a completely different level and am in absolute awe of their skills on ice. I have become an avid hockey fan of DHC as a result.”

Rosenbloom adds that the recognition means a lot to him, as he’s involved in many student activities at the Faculty.

“I do it all 100 per cent because I love it and am thrilled to support students as they take on different roles. This is just another way to give back and support the next generation of dentists and have a ton of fun along the way.”

Top photo: Chagger, Chou and Rosenbloom