Dean’s Reception: An Evening of Appreciation
By Roshaan Hajira
On November 23, the Faculty of Dentistry hosted its’ annual Dean’s Appreciation Reception in-person again after almost three years. Held at the Faculty Club, this special event celebrated the incredible contributions of the volunteers, instructors, donors, and undergraduate and graduate student award recipients at the Faculty of Dentistry that have defined the success of the school.
The event kicked off with a cocktail reception, and was followed by speaking remarks from students, faculty leadership, and Interim Dean Laura Tam.
“The person I was 5 years ago wouldn’t recognize the person I am today,” said Dave Dunbar. “Genuinely, it’s all because of the opportunities and unparalleled generosity of the Faculty of Dentistry’s supporters that allow students to make the most of their dental school experience.”
Dave is a fourth-year student at the Faculty and the recipient of the International College of Dentists Scholarship, which is an annual scholarship first awarded in 1956. Dave, along with second-year student Matthew-Mina Reyad, were invited as keynote speakers to share the impact their awards and bursaries have had on their educational experience.
“This past summer I had the opportunity to volunteer on a medical mission trip to Bolivia with a team of dentists, doctors, nurses and pharmacists,” said Matthew as he described how the Professor Forst Fuller Scholarship has helped him. “Within our team of four dentists and dental students we managed to provide care to nearly 200 patients in 6 days in rural villages, orphanages, prisons and clinical centers.”
Awards like these have a ripple effect; not only do they help the recipient, but they help to build and strengthen the U of T dentistry community as a whole. Also present at the event was Dr. Valerie Stavro (DDS 8T4), past U of T Dentistry Alumni Board President and long-time instructor in dentistry. Dr. Stavro established the Valerie Stavro Student Bursary in memory of her late father, Chris Stavro. “Small gifts are good too. It does not have to be millions of dollars,” said Dr. Stavro, “Every contribution is a move in the right direction.”
“We are all part of this vibrant and accomplished group that is making a difference in the world,” said Interim Dean Laura Tam as she addressed the community of volunteers, donors, instructors, faculty members, sponsors, students, and friends in the room. “This faculty is special–ranked as the best dental school in Canada by two separate bodies. That is quite an accomplishment, and it is in thanks to all of you.”
Photos from the reception can be viewed here.