Have you met Justine Zahara? She is our Associate Director of Faculty Development. She is the fundraiser for the school and the Dentistry for Life campaign. Justine was recently the recipient of some top awards in fundraising across campus. During the Advancement Front Line World Cup (U of A Fundraising Awards), she received medals for Most Personally Scheduled Visits with donors; MVP Most Major Gifts closed; MVP Sweeper Most Planned Gifts closed; and Top Scorer Highest Dollar Value of Gifts closed. Let's get to know her.
How long have you worked here?
I've been with the U of A for almost 5 years and with the School of Dentistry for nearly 2 years.
What is one of your proudest moments at work?
Helping people to give back and make a difference through philanthropy makes me proud. My favourite moments are when we celebrate and thank donors and hear their stories on what inspired them to give.
Tell us something we don't know about you?
A little known fact is that I studied film and television producing in California before deciding to pursue a career in fundraising.
If you weren't doing what you do now, what would you be doing?
If I won the lottery I would be travelling the world and giving back through philanthropy.
What's the best advice somebody has ever given you?
People seldom regret the opportunities that they've taken, but regret the ones that they choose not to take.
Favourite quote, movie or book?
Back to the Future, Star Wars, even the original Jurassic Park. I think any movie is elevated by featuring John Williams' classic score. I like movies that follow the hero's journey, inspire the imagination, and make the viewer feel like they can make a difference in their world.