College Dedicates Practices in Honor of Alumni Gifts

College Dedicates Practices in Recognition of Generous Alumni Gifts

Ten years ago, the College of Dentistry set into motion a plan to invest in its future. The building, which had been primarily untouched since its completion in 1976, was in need of major renovations. Thus, the college launched the Legacy Project, a $20 million capital campaign.

Through the generosity of alumni and friends, the college raised more than $12 million during Phase I of the campaign. As a result, the college was able to remodel 40% of the building, providing students with state-of-the-art classrooms and three brand new comprehensive care clinics that focus on patient-centered treatment.

“The generous support we receive from our alumni is critical to the continued success of our college,” said Paul M. Mullasseril, D.D.S., M.S., dean of the college. “Gifts such as these allow us to continue to attract and retain the brightest students and top faculty, all the while contributing to our goal to become one of the top clinical education program in the nation.”

In the fall of 2021, the college was pleased to recognize the generosity of two very special families, and hosted dedication ceremonies to name practices in honor of their generous gifts.

On Aug. 26, 2021, the college dedicated the Harroz Family Practice in recognition of the generous support of Dr. Edward Harroz, Jr. (Class of 1981) and Dr. Edward Harroz, III (Class of 2007). “I am grateful for the opportunity provided by the OU College of Dentistry to educate myself to serve the public and provide for my family,” said Dr. Edward Harroz, Jr. “I consider it an honor to help maintain a quality institution. Further, I am thrilled that part of my family’s legacy will be established with the college forever.”

On Oct. 29, 2021 the college dedicated the Brown and Hookom Family Practice in recognition of Dr. S. Kelly Brown (Class of 1976), Dr. Nathan K. Brown (Class of 2007) and Dr. Matthew Hookom (Class of 2009).

“The difference between success and significance is legacy,” said Dr. S. Kelly Brown. “What better way to invest in legacy than by giving back to the institution that trained me and my family how to serve others while making a wonderful life.”

Both practices are located within the Dr. Frank J. Miranda Comprehensive Care Clinic. Dr. Miranda and his wife, Joan, were in attendance at both dedication ceremonies.

“Having a clinic named in my honor was most definitely the highlight of my career in education,” said Dr. Miranda, who retired from in 2016 after a 42-year career with the College of Dentistry. “To have three families that include five of my former students request that their dedicated practices be placed in the Miranda Clinic is icing on that cake. I could not be more humbled and honored.”

From left: Drs. Edward Harroz, Jr. and Edward Harroz, III From left to right: Drs. Matthew Hookom, Kelly Brown, and Nate Brown

For more information about Phase II of the Legacy Project or a way to contribute your legacy at the OU College of Dentistry, please contact Taylor Linge, director of advancement, at Taylor-Lingle@ouhsc.edu.