AT THE CU SCHOOL OF DENTAL MEDICINE
thank you We are at the forefront of innovation in oral health education, research and patient care at the University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine. Because of our remarkable alumni, faculty, staff and students, we are leading by example when it comes to exceptional education, exciting research and patient-centered care. This impact report showcases the importance and purpose of this healthcare profession: teaching our students to become future-ready practitioners and providing quality care for our patients.
older adults and special needs patients. Your philanthropy is fueling next-generation research and new discoveries. No matter where you have designated your gift, your generosity is changing lives. And, for that, we are grateful. Thanks to your partnership, we are poised to climb to even greater heights.
With gratitude, Denise Kassebaum, DDS, MS Professor and Dean, CU School of Dental Medicine
You have generously contributed to support student success through scholarships and have funded vital dental care for at-risk
FUELED BY PHILANTHROPY Philanthropy is central to our success, strengthening our ability to attract and retain the best students and faculty. You have helped us accomplish many things including: • Provided patient care funds to support at-risk patients, including veterans, older adults and special needs individuals. • Awarded scholarships to future leaders in dentistry. • Fueled leading-edge research to change the dentistry of tomorrow. • Funded dental curriculum enhancements that will prepare students to be at the leading-edge of their profession.
by the numbers *giving to the CU School of Dental Medicine since 2017
396
total benefactors*
$
1
$1,359,455.68
88
total giving*
ST
first time benefactors*
YOU’VE MADE THIS POSSIBLE In the past year, philanthropy has supported the next generation of leaders in dental medicine through scholarships, student awards and fellowships. This support allows us to attract and retain high-caliber students who will provide outstanding care to patients. Every year, more than 2,200 individuals apply to our DDS program, demonstrating our reputation as a high-quality institution. In 2018, we welcomed the most diverse student body in our history. The class consists of students who are 52% female, 43% from a minority population and 30% first-generation students. Our clinical program continues to grow as we ensure care for underserved patients including older adults, special needs patients and veterans. In the last year, we delivered care for more than 100,000 patients, 80,000 of which were through school-based clinics. Through the ACTS program, we saw patients at more than 20,000 clinical visits in our community. This program was created by Dr. Larry Meskin, former dean of the CU School of Dental Medicine, over 30 year ago. It gives our students the opportunity to travel to 40 clinical sites across Colorado to provide care in partnership with community health organizations. We have 75 ACTS preceptors who mentor our students and empower them to become the practitioners of tomorrow. In 2019, our students and preceptors provided more than $3.5 million in dental care to more than 22,000 patients throughout the state. This program is an integral part of the student experience and a deciding factor for students choosing the CU School of Dental Medicine. Philanthropic support also allows us to invest in leading research that will change the dental medicine of tomorrow through the development of new technologies and techniques to better care for our patients. Precision dental materials created by our scientists are opening up new avenues in healthcare delivery with applications in dental medicine, orthopedics, pharmacy, ophthalmology and aerospace. Currently, the CU School of Dental Medicine is ranked #11 in National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research funding among public U.S. dental schools. Over the last academic year, we have made significant changes to our dental curriculum. Our faculty are leading innovators, making great strides in virtual reality simulations and haptics – hands-on learning technologies that are elevating the care available to patients. Our faculty are also preparing future leaders by helping our students improve their fine motor skills and grow their confidence in treating patients.
DIJANA ELMEJDOUBI Dijana was working as a quality control chemist in the pharmaceutical industry when she decided to pursue a career in dentistry. Because her family relied on her income, it was important that she receive financial aid. After Dijana completed her first semester, she was awarded a scholarship to help with expenses. She now hopes to help underserved communities when she begins her career as a dentist.
“I was really happy that I was given a chance to apply and get this scholarship. I hope when I’m done that I’ll be one of those people who will provide scholarships for one of the students—or two or three who are in the program and are trying hard to make it.” - Dijana Elmejdoubi, Class of 2021
JEAN GRAHAM Jean Graham started as a patient at the CU Cancer Center battling throat cancer. Her treatment lasted months, causing her dentures to stop fitting properly. Living on a fixed Social Security income, Jean knew that buying new dentures would be financially difficult and sought help at the CU School of Dental Medicine. The Generations Clinic fund was created by Drs. Max and John Raabe. As third generation dentists, the Raabe family saw a growing need to provide access to quality dental care for older adults who are in-need and unable to pay for care. They are also committed to helping train the next generation of dental health professionals. This fund made Jean’s care possible and continues to provide dental care with dignity for seniors without means.
“I thought I was too old to get help with my dentures. I’m 85, and just so surprised and thankful for the financial assistance.” - Jean Graham, Generations Clinic patient
CU Anschutz Office of Advancement | advancement@cuanschutz.edu | 303.724.6336 If you would prefer to receive these updates electronically, please email advancement@cuanschutz.edu