The new FoMD recognition wall
On September 20, the Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry unveiled a renovated recognition wall to honour the lifetime contributions of many philanthropists―individuals, families, alumni, foundations and their communities of donors that have provided $25,000 and above to support the faculty's research, education initiatives and health-care solutions.
The wall is located on the second floor of the 112th-street entrance of the Walter C. Mackenzie Health Sciences Centre. This project became a reality as a result of the vision of the faculty's Dean Richard Fedorak, to celebrate the outcomes of giving through a 'living' wall.
The unveiling event gathered almost a hundred supporters and partners whose names are on the wall. Guests enjoyed a reception that included words from Acting Dean Dennis Kunimoto; Verna Yiu, President and CEO of Alberta Health Services (AHS); David Eisenstat, chair of the faculty's Department of Oncology; and Dylan Taylor, facility medical director for the Kaye Edmonton Clinic, the University of Alberta Hospital and the Mazankowski Alberta Heart Institute.
"Every gift counts. We owe much of our progress and outcomes to families who have established awards in memory of a loved one; to our alumni who have contributed to the work of their alma mater; to every individual who has come forward to make a difference in health; to the foundations and organizations that have partnered with us to fight illnesses; and to those donors who contribute through these foundations," Kunimoto said to the supporters.
"Your names are a central part of our story and your contributions will inspire future generations."
Verna Yiu expressed the importance of the partnership between the Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry and AHS, as well as her gratitude to those who contribute to improve health care with their donations.
"We know the scholarships, awards and bursaries for students and researchers will have a lasting legacy, because that generation is going to be looking after us when we need it the most," added Yiu.
The faculty expects to frequently update the wall as new contributors help learners, mentors, researchers and clinicians change the face of health in Canada.
Find more photos of the unveiling event here.