Students share their inspiration
David Sarrett, D.M.D, M.S., dean of the VCU School of Dentistry, believes every new dental and dental hygiene student is considered a gift to the school.
During a welcoming luncheon at the beginning of the D1 and DH1 year, all new students are praised for the outstanding academic achievements and volunteer work that gained them admission and distinguished them from the other 2,500 applicants. Jim Doyle, director of donor and alumni engagement, asks the students to reflect on the many individuals who inspired them to become dental professionals. Students share stories and names of relatives, friends, neighbors and dentists who encouraged them to continue their education.
Sarrett then sends a personal note to the students’ “inspirations” thanking them for their role in the students’ educational path.
“[These students] are the greatest gift the school could ask for – a member of the next generation of the profession, inspired to improve lives through better oral health,” Sarrett said.
For many recipients, the inspiration card is their first communication from the school. For some, the card marks the first time they’ve realized their impact on a student’s professional aspirations. Parents and grandparents often report that they have framed the special note as a memento.
Categories Schoolwide News