As the specially selected wines were poured into glasses, guests poured out their generosity at this year's party with a purpose. The annual Pouring from the Heart gala hosted by the School of Dentistry's Rinehart Foundation kicked off the Midwest Dental Conference on Thursday evening, April 11. Funds raised from the event aid student-patient clinical experiences at the dental school. Each procedure helps a patient receive necessary treatment, while each student gains crucial hands-on experience with the community as they prepare to receive their degrees and join a practice. Gifts go to senior dental and dental hygiene students.

UMKC alumnus Steven St. John (B.A. '96) - radio personality for local radio station 610 Sports - was the evening's emcee and led attendees in a fun-filled night with a silent auction, a live auction led by the Nigro Brothers, a fne jewelry drawing and an energetic game of Heads or Tails to finish off the evening.

As part of the event, UMKC School of Dentistry student Sophie Rosen introduced guests to a very special patient whose life was changed by Pouring from the Heart funds. Rosen's patient, who has a genetic disorder that caused him to be born without teeth, was able to receive dentures through Pouring from the Heart treatment vouchers. As a result, he could break out his smile at school and finally feel like a carefree 7-year-old.

The school would like to thank the steering committee, attendees and especially the donors. Because of them, the School of Dentistry raised more than $75,000 for a special and important cause.