More Than a Gift: What Drives Donors to Support the Faculty
March 26, 2026, marks U of T Giving Day. This campaign unites the University community — including alumni, students, faculty, staff and friends — to support students, research and campus initiatives. From March 1 to March 26, every dollar donated to U of T Dentistry’s featured funds will be matched dollar-for-dollar, up to $1,000, while matching funds last — doubling the impact of each gift.
In honour of Giving Day, we caught up with four members of the U of T Dentistry community to find out what drives them to give.
For Anuradha Prakki, associate dean, undergraduate education, giving is about building a brighter future for the U of T Dentistry community.
“Giving Day reminds me that our Faculty is built the same way a shoreline forms — through many, countless small grains coming together,” she says. “Contributing is my way of nurturing the community I care deeply about.”
Even a small gift, she notes, can make a meaningful difference. “Every gift matters. When each of us adds our own “grain,” we help shape a stronger future for our students and the profession.”
Robert De Miglio 9T9, alumnus and instructor, says participation is about possibility.
“It allows our students to reach their maximum potential — in their studies, community efforts, and research,” he explains. “It creates a win-win for students, the University, and the connected community around us.”
He believes generosity builds momentum. “When donors see their positive impact, they become more open to giving. That leads to more support for research, students in financial need, and the technologies our students use every day.”
For Maria Zych, Faculty of Dentistry librarian, Giving Day is personal.
“I get to know our students through the Library, and my work is very rewarding,” she shares. “Knowing I can also help them outside of my role is especially meaningful, and I enjoy giving back.”
And Tanvi Sharma, DDS4 student and Giving Day 2026 ambassador, thinks supporting U of T Dentistry is an act of gratitude.
“This Faculty has shaped my growth in so many ways — as a student, as a professional, and as a person. Giving back is my way of saying thank you and being part of the cycle of generosity that keeps this community strong. My contribution may be small, but many small contributions together create a big impact.”
As a student, she witnesses the power of philanthropy daily. “Donor support is visible everywhere — in the technology we use, the scholarships students apply for, and the programs that make student life richer and more meaningful. Every bit of help counts. It may support a student, strengthen a program, or improve patient care.”
Join us
As we reflect on this past year's 150th anniversary celebrations, Giving Day offers each of us an opportunity to shape what comes next. To explore the priority funds eligible for the U of T Giving Day match and what might be most meaningful to you, click here or reach out to Hannah Koschanow at h.koschanow@dentistry.utoronto.ca and Ben Kaskiewicz at ben.kaskiewicz@dentistry.utoronto.ca.
And, join the Advancement team in the lobby on the morning of Thursday, March 26 to learn more about how you can make an impact at U of T Dentistry. There will be treats, coffee, and opportunities to win Dentistry swag — including a limited edition 150th Anniversary coffee table book!
Top photo: Tanvi Sharma (Jeff Comber)