Pouring from the Heart, the School of Dentistry’s annual fundraising event, went virtual this year, Friday, April 16th, allowing alumni and friends from virtually any location to participate.
Gifts ranged from decorative and delicious to sporting and opulent. Flowers, jewelry, barbecue and a year’s supply of Belfonte ice cream (a Pouring from the Heart regular) were available.
Sports fans bid on a Los Angeles Lakers Kobe Bryant jersey, signed by the late basketball star, and a Superbowl helmet signed by Chiefs great Travis Kelce. And one lucky bidder won a luxury vacation to visit Sonoma wine country in California.
The auction was preceded by a program including some jazz performed by a an ensamble led by Dr. Andrew Moore; a lesson from Dr. Mike McCunniff on making the night’s signature cocktail; and words from Russell Melchert, interim dean of the school; dental hygiene students Katie Baker and Christina Hasiotis; 2020 DDS alumni Alia Emory and Ricky Atchison; and Dr. Eric Gottman, a faculty member who has worked with a variety of patients, including cancer survivors.
Dr. Mark Gregston, who will be president of the Dental Alumni Association in the coming year, was able to participate in the virtual event from Colorado. He said he enjoyed Dr. McCunniff’s “clever mixology presentation” and being able to peek in on some other parties. He also had the winning bids on some earrings and on the Travis Kelce helmet, especially nice as his sister and brother-in-law work for the Chiefs. He also said he was eager to get back to in-person meetings and hoped that would be possible for next year’s MDC.
Dr. Crystal Walker, who bought two “tables” for the event, is a big supporter of the school and Pouring From the Heart. She wanted to accommodate any members of her work team who wanted to stop by her house, and to support dental students after a difficult year. “I thought it went well,” she said. “It’s nice to be able to meet in person, but the virtual event was well done.” And she had the winning bid for a Holladay Distillery Tour, “so that should be fun.”
Dr. Kathi Matthes said she always attended the MDC but hadn’t been able to stay for Pouring fromthe Heart for a few years, being busy raising children and establishing her practice in Lee’s Summit. So it was convenient to have the opportunity to attend online this year. And, she said, “We won the wine country trip!”
It wouldn’t seem like MDC without Pouring From the Heart, and Friday’s event made sure alumni and friends were able to party with a purpose and support the school. Proceeds from the event help finance student-patient clinical experiences.
Enjoy some photos contributed by participants.
