STUDENT SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS and donors gathered Monday, Oct. 14, in Pierson Auditorium for the School of Dentistry’s annual scholarship celebration. Students and donors enjoyed meeting each other, participating in a cross-generational trivia game and hearing about the impact scholarships have made on students’ lives.
“Your donations make impacts that reach well beyond our short time at UMKC,” said fourth-year dental student Justin Harper. “The relief from educational debt allows students like me a foot in the door when it comes time to buy into or start a practice, allowing us to impact countless lives in our communities.”
“(I) look forward to one day returning alongside my classmates to attend this event again, next time in the role of supporters of the dental program and future students,” Harper added. Crystal Walker (DDS ’04, PEDO ’06), Rinehart Foundation chair, inspired donors and students with her personal story.
“I remember sitting here as a student at the scholarship dinner and feeling so thankful, and also a little in awe of those in the room who had donated to make all of the scholarships possible,” Walker said. “I was a scholarship recipient for all four years of dental school and am so thankful for those who came before me to help me be successful and achieve my dream of becoming a dentist. As a matter of fact, I was a recipient of the Myrtle Rinehart Scholarship, Dr. Rinehart’s wife, and now here I am as chair of the foundation for which he is named.”
Walker reminded those in the room that the ongoing tradition of support at the School of Dentistry is in their hands.
“I hope as you consider giving to your favorite charities, you keep the Rinehart Foundation as a priority,” Walker said. “Because as you can see tonight, you are truly changing the lives of UMKC School of Dentistry students through your generosity.”
This year, the school distributed an outstanding 407 scholarships to 210 students, totaling $1,558,782.77 in educational support – once again breaking the school’s and the Rinehart Foundation’s record in scholarship support.