The
Powerof Personal Philanthropy Winter 2013
V i r g i n i a
www.support.vcu.edu
C o m m o n w e a l t h
U n i v e r s i t y
The
Powerof Personal Philanthropy Winter 2013
www.support.vcu.edu
Inside this issue 3 Massey introduces Research for Life Campaign 5 Fervor rises as ICA fundraising hits milestone 6 Brandcenter professor further aids her students 7 Final Four fever inspires new fundraising venture 8 Ophthalmologist gives back through scholarship 9 Memorial fund honors OT alumna’s work, legacy 10 VCU President Rao thanks donors at reception 11 St. Philip alumnae discussion marks anniversary 14 $1.5 million Altria gift boosts da Vinci Center 19
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On the cover
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Gold Line Call Center connects students, alumni
Virginia Commonwealth University President Michael Rao, Ph.D., visits with students staffing the Gold Line Call Center.
Editor: Melanie Irvin Seiler (B.S. ’96), miseiler@vcu.edu, (804) 828-3975 Nan Johnson, | The Power 2 Writer: of Personalnljohnson@vcu.edu Philanthropy
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The VCU Gold Line Call Center allows current students to reach out to university alumni, to update contact information and to raise money simultaneously.
Gold Line Call Center connects students, alumni With the ambitious goal of contacting each of the more than 165,000 living Virginia Commonwealth University alumni — or, at the very least, all 67,000 of those with a phone number in the database — students are manning the phones in a new fundraising initiative in support of the annual fund. The VCU Gold Line Call Center, which opened Sept. 17, operates six days a week and features current students reaching out to former students in an effort to reconnect alumni with the university while updating contact information and raising money at the same time. “We have so much to celebrate at VCU, from record numbers of graduates at all levels to unprecedented research and creative activity to faculty, staff and students who are excelling and elevating our national research university. These successes are possible because of our loyal and generous donors, who helped us complete the largest fundraising year in our history,” said VCU President Michael Rao, Ph.D. “They make a real difference at VCU — both with what we accomplish today and what we can achieve tomorrow.” While the use of phone banks as a fundraising tool isn’t new to universities, the Gold Line Call Center marks the first time in 10 years that a phone bank has been brought to campus with students serving as representatives for VCU. At least 40 students are employed as callers, working in rotating shifts. In addition to earning an income and helping to raise much-needed unrestricted donations for the university’s academic annual funds, the students also are learning valuable, real-world communications, marketing and interpersonal skills that can be applied to their future professional lives. “There’s definitely an advantage in having students making contact with our alumni,” said William “Ike” Tucker II (M.Ed. ’06; Cert. ’06), director of annual giving operations. “Students are the best ambassadors. There’s nobody who knows the university better than a student. They eat it, live it and breathe it.” Not only is the student-based initiative an ideal way to reconnect alumni with their alma mater, Tucker explained, but it is also designed for cost efficiency. “Opening this facility marks the first time in 10 years that we’ve taken a unified approach to universitywide fundraising. This unified approach helps us bring the entire alumni population into one initiative versus breaking it out by school. For the first time, we’re processing all phone numbers in our database and
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The majority of alumni households receive more managing it out of one office for than one phone call, and the campaign dollars are greater efficiency.” indicative of single and multiyear commitments. There’s another long-lasting benefit in bringing the center to campus, explains Michael P. Andrews (M.S. ’05), VCU’s direc163,744 calls made tor of annual giving strategy. “When our alumni have the chance to reconnect with the university through conversations with students working in the Gold Line Call Center, they’re excited to learn what’s happening on campus,” he said. pledges and gifts made* “They’re more likely to take part $371K in the fundraising effort, which raised so far means we’re able to report greater alumni participation and create a culture of philanthropy among our alumni.” 50% agreed to Alumni engagement, he said, a multiyear commitment 67,000 is a critical component of the potential alumni donors college and university ranking process for entities such as U.S. News & World Report, which *From Sept. 17, 2012, to Feb. 8, 2013; includes multiyear commitments oftentimes plays a major role in a student’s higher education selection. Manning the phones at the center are students from a variety of disciplines and backgrounds. Afternoon and evening shifts rotate six days a week, during each semester. “As VCU becomes the nation’s premier urban public research university, our private philanthropy, alumni engagement and renewed efforts to tell our story are more important than ever,” Rao said. “The Gold Line Call Center is moving the needle and very quickly. I am so proud of the leadership of the Gold Line, and especially the student-callers, who are making such a difference.” Catherine Cozzi, a sophomore art foundation student with a media studies minor, finds it fun and helpful to speak with alumni. Many have given her valuable advice, which she hopes to parlay into successful career development. “I spoke with a woman who worked at the Martin Agency — I dream of working there at some point in my life — who gave me advice about internships,” she said. “It’s surprising and quite interesting to hear what alumni have done, about the paths they’ve traveled and what they’ve learned, so I’ve had a lot of interesting conversations. It’s been a really awesome experience for me.” Through her conversations with alumni, Cozzi learned that giving back is less about the financial contribution and more about giving to the VCU legacy and helping students achieve similar dreams. Shayla Betts (B.S.W. ’12), an alumna and a current graduate student in the School of Social Work, has similar experiences. “Working at the call center has been wonderful. I’m able to share my VCU pride with people who graduated recently as well as those who graduated decades ago. Many of them are willing to share advice to help me further pursue my dreams,” she said. Both Betts and Cozzi feel fortunate to have a shared connection through their alumni phone contacts. So, the next time your phone rings, be sure to answer it. It might be a call you — and your alma mater — can’t afford to miss. To learn more, contact Michael P. Andrews (M.S. ’05), director of annual giving strategy, at (804) 828-0236 or andrewsmp@vcu.edu. More credit card gifts = less impact on the environment
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Massey introduces Research for Life Campaign
Doug Buerlein photo
More than 1.6 million Americans will be diagnosed with cancer this year. While survival rates are on the rise, cancer remains one of the most critical areas of need for scientific research. Virginia Commonwealth University Massey Cancer Center is a national leader in cancer research, designated by the National Cancer Institute for excellence in development and translation of scientific knowledge from promising laboratory discoveries into new treatments for patients. With this solid foundation and a growing faculty of collaborative, cross-disciplinary researchers, Massey is seeking to bring its research enterprise to even greater heights through the $100 million Research for Life Campaign. “Research is the only true hope for saving and improving lives of cancer patients. Massey has a solid foundation, but we need to broaden and deepen our research operation,” said Dr. Gordon D. Ginder, director of the Massey Cancer Center. This is the goal behind the Research for Life Campaign, the largest fundraising campaign in Massey’s history and one that focuses on improving, extending and saving the lives of cancer patients through innovative research and exceptional cancer care. With more than $73 million raised, Massey launched the campaign to the public Nov. 8, establishing the goal to raise the remaining funds by June 2014. “Research for Life is a remarkable opportunity for our community to invest in Massey’s Massey Cancer Center Director Dr. Gordon D. Ginder (left) people, programs and places,” kicks off the Research for Life Campaign with Becky said Becky Massey, co-chair of Massey, co-chair, and VCU President Michael Rao, Ph.D. the Research for Life Campaign. “In some way, shape or form, Massey touches the lives of each and every person in Richmond and really throughout Virginia.” Research for Life will raise funds for three areas of focus: • People – $25 million for retaining researchers already contributing to advancing Massey’s mission and for recruiting 35 new physician-scientists and their teams will result in a top-caliber team of the brightest minds in cancer research, treatment, prevention and control. • Programs – With $50 million to be directed to increased resources for all five core research programs, Massey scientists will be better positioned to attain competitive grant funding. • Places – Massey has been charged with raising $7 million to support two floors of dedicated research space and the Shared Resource Laboratory in the VCU School of Medicine’s new James W. and Frances G. McGlothlin Medical Education Center, set to open spring 2013. This will add 27,000 square feet of new research space for Massey to house clinical research and administrative teams. New space is crucial to the growth of faculty and programs. Additionally, Massey is raising $18 million for annual operational support over the duration of the campaign through its annual fund and development events. The campaign’s success is paramount to meeting a key component of VCU’s Quest for Distinction, elevating Massey’s standing with the NCI to “comprehensive” status, the most prestigious recognition awarded by the federal government, and placing Massey among the most elite cancer centers in the country. “Cancer won’t wait and neither can we. Now is the time for our community to join forces to bring Massey even more to the forefront of the fight against cancer,” said C.T. Hill, co-chair of the Research for Life Campaign. To learn more, contact Lee Boykin, director of major gifts, at (804) 827-0600 or lboykin@vcu.edu. Winter 2013 | 5
Fervor rises as ICA fundraising hits milestone Enthusiasm continues to build as fundraising efforts for Virginia Commonwealth University’s new Institute for Contemporary Art hit the $20 million mark, more than 60 percent of the cost to build this privately funded venture. Recent gifts and pledges have helped put the 38,000-square-foot multidisciplinary institution one critical step closer to reality. “We could not have reached this tremendous milestone without the help of our tireless volunteers and the individuals on our campaign Abby W. Moore (left), School of the Arts Dean Joseph H. committee,” said Joseph H. Seipel, Seipel, and True F. Luck are longtime proponents of the ICA. dean of the VCU School of the Arts. “The creation of the ICA will be a communitywide effort, and we are grateful that the community has rallied behind us.” Part exhibition and performance space, part lab and arts incubator, the ICA was designed by internationally known Steven Holl Architects. His vision will transform the intersection of Broad and Belvidere streets into a hub of innovative arts activity as well as help bridge VCU’s campuses and serve as a gateway to Richmond, Va. “Since unveiling the design for the ICA in April 2012, our community has embraced the project wholeheartedly,” Seipel said. True F. Luck, a longtime benefactor of the arts and of VCU’s Massey Cancer Center, is a proud ICA contributor and is committed to its vision. “So many exciting avenues for collaboration between Richmond’s art museums are developing. Events will be coordinated with the Anderson Gallery and the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts,” she said. “The ICA is going to be such a landmark. To me, it’s not just going to be the entrance to VCU but to Richmond as well as the state of Virginia. People will visit from all over the world.” Features of the ICA include 10,000 square feet of exhibition space for contemporary art in all media, a 250-seat performance space, a state-of-the-art classroom for up to 35 students, an entry forum for social and community events, a sculpture garden with reflecting pool and outdoor space for events, performances and installations, meeting rooms, on-site parking and a café. The addition of the ICA is a logical next step in the further development of Richmond’s robust arts landscape, said ICA donor Abby W. Moore, especially because VCU is home to the nation’s top-ranked public art school graduate program. “It’s not right for the standing of the university not to have an institute like this,” he said. “The university is such a big part of the community of Richmond and beyond and it behooves us to make it better.” Moore has been collecting art since he was a teenager and made a point early in his collecting days to buy only when he could meet the artist. Recently, he gave away the first piece he ever bought — a piece created by a VCU graduate — to his grandson for his birthday. “He loves it. It’s hanging in his bedroom.” Moore is grateful that his love of art has spread to his children and their children. “There’s a lot of enthusiasm and excitement about the ICA — we just raised $6 million in five months,” said Julia Carr, executive director of development for the VCU School of the Arts. “We feel like we’ve barely tapped the potential for support of this important project and we look forward to continuing to work to fulfill our campaign goal.” To learn more about the Institute for Contemporary Art, contact Julia Carr, executive director of development, at (804) 828-4676 or carrj@vcu.edu. 6 | The Power of Personal Philanthropy
Brandcenter professor further aids her students In 2009, Caley Cantrell, communications strategy professor at Virginia Commonwealth University’s Brandcenter, did something she never thought possible: She created a scholarship to help her graduate students pursue their career dreams. “We know grad students may have already depleted their financial resources while undergraduates,” she said. “As faculty, we believe in the Brandcenter program, which gives our students the best learning environment and the best course work to prepare them for jobs in marketing and advertising. If I believe that, why wouldn’t I want to help them meet those goals through a scholarship?” Cantrell admits she was a bit concerned that the scholarship award wouldn’t be big enough to make a difference but realized every bit of aid helps. She encourages others not to hesitate about making similar gifts to support VCU students. “Don’t be thrown off by how many commas or zeros are ‘supposed’ to be in a scholarship,” she said. “If you had asked me about this years ago I’d have said, ‘No way, it won’t be enough,’ but scholarships come in all shapes and sizes.” Helayne Spivak, director of the Brandcenter, is especially grateful for philanthropic support from her faculty colleagues. “It is even more special that the Cantrell Scholarship comes from someone who is actively involved with our students on a daily basis. As the head of the communications strategy track, Caley knows the students well beyond their scholarship application — she knows their dreams, hopes, struggles and goals,” Spivak said. “To have a scholarship come from someone that you interact so closely with is something that is very dear to the entire Brandcenter community.” Based on merit and financial need, the Cantrell Scholarship is awarded annually to a first- or second-year communications strategy student in the Brandcenter. The student receives between $1,000 and $1,500. Rachel West (B.A. ’10), the scholarship’s fourth and most recent recipient, is a daughter of a retired Army officer who paid her Brandcenter tuition through the GI Bill. “My parents gave me my undergraduate education in theater at VCU, and they graciously offered to cover what’s over and above the GI Bill’s housing stipend for my graduate education. This scholarship is a chance for me to start paying them back for being so incredibly selfless.” West feels as though she belongs at the Brandcenter. A scholarship created by Brandcenter professor “I’m doing so many interesting Caley Cantrell (left) helps Rachel West (B.A. ’10), the most recent recipient, pursue her career dreams. things that I never would have done. Before grad school, I sold textbooks for a living,” said West, who considers Ft. Bragg, N.C., home. “Already in the two months I’ve been here, we’ve created a new super hero, launched an Indian car in the U.S. and started a project for the natural food store Ellwood Thompson’s. I’m constantly working on different things. It’s hard to get bored!” The scholarship, West said, gives her the drive to do even better in her studies. “Scholarship support will always be a focus for us here because our ultimate goal is to see our students succeed,” Spivak said. “Certainly scholarships are a huge part of that by allowing them to focus their attention on our full-time, two-year program.” To learn more about the Brandcenter, contact Helayne Spivak, director, at (804) 8278860 or hspivak@vcu.edu. Winter 2013 | 7
Final Four fever inspires new fundraising venture Like most Virginia Commonwealth University basketball fans, Brian Marks (B.S. ’00) feared the worst once the Rams showed the world their mettle in the 2011 Final Four. “I was concerned that we’d lose Shaka Smart,” he said. “We’d become this picking ground for other large universities to take our coaches, and we just assumed Smart would be next.” To help show Smart that the fans and alumni were behind him, Marks created a Web-based fundraising mechanism where T-shirts were sold with a portion of the proceeds benefiting a fund to “save” the now legendary coach. Marks’ “Save Shaka” campaign launched the Friday night before the Butler game, and in less than 48 hours 300 pledges to buy shirts had come in. The campaign got a boost thanks to a Yahoo! Sports mention and Facebook shares. “We lost Saturday night to Butler and coach Smart re-signed with VCU that Monday,” Marks said. “The problem of ‘saving Shaka’ was solved. So, I got stuck with a box of T-shirts but quickly realized this fundraising tool was powerful. Anybody can launch their own T-shirt and start a movement.” Today, Marks’ Bonfirefunds.com provides a no-risk mechanism for fundraisers to design and sell T-shirts in support of their causes. A Brian Marks (B.S. ’00) sports his “Save Shaka” camfund simply has to sell a minimum paign T-shirt, which ultimately led to his creation of the Web-based fundraising tool Bonfirefunds.com. of 50 shirts and the cause receives $15 per shirt. “We have a simple tagline — ‘don’t be mean to others and don’t break any rules or laws’ — other than that, anyone can create a fund,” Marks said. “Several VCU funds have been created and more interest is coming from groups within the university.” Bonfirefunds.com is a great example of the entrepreneurial spirit of generous VCU alumni, said Michael P. Andrews (M.S. ’05), director of annual giving strategy, who is working with Marks to integrate the platform as a VCU fundraising tool. “Brian found a creative way to give back to his alma mater that has the potential to make a huge impact. His effort is helping the university raise money for a variety of programs. When our alumni and donors purchase T-shirts for VCU causes through Bonfirefunds.com, the transactions are counted as a university donation. They get something tangible to display their pride while making a gift.” Marks may be an entrepreneur, but his heart is committed to giving back to his community. After graduating from VCU he spent a decade in medical equipment sales at a national powerhouse brand. “I worked 60 to 80 hours a week every week. Somehow, my wife stayed with me while she raised our two daughters without me,” he said. “A lot of what I was missing was the ability to give back. I was working a lot for my family and myself. It was ‘protection mode.’ I don’t come from money so there’s paranoia about being protected. You get caught up in that. You get lost.” Scan this QR To make a gift to the annual fund, contact Michael P. Andrews code using your (M.S. ’05), director of annual giving strategy, at (804) 828-0236 or smartphone to visit Bonfirefunds.com. andrewsmp@vcu.edu. 8 | The Power of Personal Philanthropy
Ophthalmologist gives back through scholarship
Skip Rowland photo
After completing his ophthalmology residency in 1958 at New York University’s Post-Graduate Medical School at Bellevue Hospital in Manhattan, Dr. Joseph Gazala considered relocating to Richmond, Va. His mentor, George Wise, a professor and close friend of the well-known and respected chair of the ophthalmology department at the Medical College of Virginia, DuPont Guerry III, told him to make the move so that he’d have the opportunity to work with Guerry. Before making his decision, however, Gazala did a bit of unscientific market research. He picked up the phone and started calling ophthalmologists in Richmond in hopes of finding a doctor who could fix his broken glasses. Gazala, a native of Baghdad, quickly discovered he’d have to wait several weeks for an appointment. Richmond, he concluded, was in sore need of eye doctors. The decision was made. Gazala and his Brooklyn-born wife, Rose, made the move south to start his private practice. “We quickly discovered that Richmond is such a beautiful city,” Gazala said. “Near Washington, D.C., near the beach and near the mountains, it provided the best of everything a young family would love to have. We were very proud when one of our two daughters graduated from the University of Richmond and the other from the University of Virginia. Richmond is our favorite home. We still love it.” Gazala joined the staff of the Richmond Eye, Ear, Nose and Throat Hospital, where he did most of his surgical work. He was also an assistant clinical professor in the VCU Department of Ophthalmology, becoming friends with Guerry. The two co-authored articles for several ophthalmological journals before Gazala retired in 1989 after 33 years of private practice. Over the years, Gazala became aware of the many publications produced by the VCU School of Medicine about gifts made in support of its work, faculty, research and students. Several reminded him of his financial hardship during medical school. “I started thinking about how my wonderful wife and I would feel if we could lend a helping hand to some medical student living under similar circumstances,” he said. In a display of gratitude for the university and his long career in Richmond, Gazala and his wife made a $100,000 gift to establish the Joseph R. and Rose Gazala Scholarship in the School of Dr. Joseph Gazala hopes his gift helps students Medicine. Based on merit and need, the and inspires his children. scholarship will be awarded for the first time in 2013. The Gazalas hope the scholarship reminds his two daughters and their families “to be forever thankful for living in this great country and to be always ready to do what they can in support of their communities and educational institutions.” This generous gift is a display of the Gazalas’ devotion to quality patient care. “Dr. Gazala has demonstrated an enduring commitment to medical education and to our medical students,” said Dr. Jerome F. Strauss III, Ph.D., dean of the School of Medicine. “For many years, even with his busy practice, he helped train future physicians by serving as a clinical faculty member in our Department of Ophthalmology. And now, he and his wife, Rose, have stepped forward with a remarkably generous gift to establish a scholarship that will provide financial support for our students for generations to come.” To learn more about the School of Medicine, contact Tom Holland, associate dean for development, at (804) 828-4800 or teholland@vcu.edu. Winter 2013 | 9
Memorial fund honors OT alumna’s work, legacy
Photo courtesy of CHKD
Kathryn Lawrence Dragas’ (M.S.O.T. ’01) interest in occupational therapy was piqued when she volunteered at the Children’s Hospital of the King’s Daughters in Norfolk, Va. At the time she was employed as an accountant but quickly realized her interest in serving children with special therapeutic needs. She turned to Virginia Commonwealth University’s School of Allied Health Professions, where she focused her attention on getting a master’s degree in occupational therapy. “Kathryn was very clear about what she wanted to do, which was to specialize in pediatric occupational therapy, and so she had thoroughly researched schools,” said William Dragas, Kathryn’s husband. “VCU was in the top 20 occupational therapy departments in the country at that time and the department’s Dr. Shelly Lane had coauthored the most current text on sensory integration used throughout the country.” Dragas and Lane’s student-teacher relationship developed into a professional friendship once Dragas started to practice in Norfolk. “Kathryn had a true passion for understanding sensory integration and processing,” Lane said. She also had a passion for research and often hosted Lane to present workshops to her colleagues at CHKD. After Dragas died in 2009, three of her classmates established the Kathryn Lawrence Dragas Memorial Scholarship as a lasting tribute to her work and their friendship. “Kathryn was always very giving of herself,” said Fiona Bessey-Bushnell (M.S.O.T. ’01). “She was always willing to help out and support others. She was an excellent student as well, so honoring her with a scholarship just made sense.” Endowed and awarded annually since 2010, the The Dragas scholarship honors the late Dragas scholarship is available to anyone applying Kathryn Dragas while aiding students interested in the same career path. to the occupational therapy program with preference given to those pursuing a career in pediatrics. “The scholarship is about helping others, but it’s also an opportunity for healing,” said Bessey-Bushnell, who worked with classmates Cassie Lorie (M.S.O.T. ’01) and Selena Isabelle (M.S.O.T. ’01) to raise funds for the scholarship. “Some of our classmates had lost touch and it was a chance for us to renew those connections again,” Bessey-Bushnell said. William Dragas, too, had an opportunity to heal by naming the Kathryn Lawrence Dragas Sensory Processing and Stress Evaluation Laboratory on the VCU campus in his late wife’s honor. The Theater Row lab in downtown Richmond, Va., where Lane works, enables researchers to investigate and gather data on changes in cortisol, electrodermal activity and heart rate in response to everyday sensation. “Dr. Lane is one of the reasons Kathryn chose the program at VCU,” he said. “I wanted to do something unique to me in my grieving process. I thought about it for months. The work of the lab impacts the population that Kathryn entered the field for in the first place. Like all correct choices, the decision to give to the lab was pretty easy to make.” Memorial giving, such as the scholarship and lab gifts generously made in Kathryn Dragas’ name, helps both students and the university, said Cecil Drain, Ph.D., dean of the School of Allied Health Professions. “We are so grateful to celebrate Kathryn Dragas’ life and professional commitment in such an impactful way.” Memorial giving also helps those left behind, Dragas said. “It perpetuates the work, and that’s what Kathryn would want to be remembered. It works both ways.” For more information, contact Jessica Feinberg-Gurganus, assistant dean for development and external affairs, at (804) 828-3269 or jfgurganus@vcu.edu. 10 | The Power of Personal Philanthropy
CSI Studios photo
Ted (left) and Laura Lee Chandler catch up with Monica Rao and VCU President Michael Rao, Ph.D.
VCU President Rao thanks donors at reception More than 400 donors, alumni and friends gathered Oct. 17 at the Country Club of Virginia for the President’s Reception. Guests heard an update about the accomplishments at Virginia Commonwealth University from President Michael Rao, Ph.D. This was Rao’s first President’s Reception, where President’s Club, Founders’ Society and planned giving society members were in attendance. Rao thanked donors whose generosity helped make last year the largest fundraising year in VCU history, with more than $120 million raised.
Rise in student scholarships takes center stage Each year, the Virginia Commonwealth University School of Dentistry hosts the Friends of Dental Education Dinner to thank donors, alumni and friends for their generous and continual support. On Nov. 1, nearly 200 friends gathered at the historic Hippodrome Theater to celebrate. In its 100-year history, the Hippodrome’s main stage has hosted Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong. It was only fitting that the stars of the School of Dentistry — the dental students — took to the stage throughout the evening to treat guests to a variety of musical stylings. Dean David C. Sarrett, D.M.D., thanked alumni and donors for continuing to support the school’s top priority: student scholarships. In the spring, 103 dental and dental hygiene students received more than $130,000 in scholarship awards — up $40,000 from the previous year. Winter 2013 | 11
Scholarship donors, recipients gather at event
Chris Ijams photo
In early November, almost 300 scholarship donors and recipients were united at the 14th annual Monroe Park Campus Endowed Scholarship Dinner at the Commonwealth Club. The event, hosted by the VCU Foundation, the School of Business Foundation and the School of Engineering Foundation, recognized the more than 400 endowed scholarships on the Monroe Park Campus. Guests enjoyed dinner and remarks from VCU Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs Beverly J. Warren, Ed.D., Ph.D., and VCU President Michael Rao, Ph.D. Scholarship student Emilyclaire Walker (left) thanks donor Virginia Arnold, Ph.D., for her philanthropy. Rao commended the donors in the room, adding that through their generosity Monroe Park Campus students have access to 20 percent more scholarships than just five years ago. “Our strategic plan is about student success and this is an important connection with our strategic plan,” he said. “If you want to be a part of VCU, you must lead in your field, you must be the very best.” Additionally, the crowd heard from two students, Samantha Testa, recipient of the Fierro Family Italian American Cultural Association of Virginia Scholarship, and the School of Business Alumni Association Scholarship and Qasim Kazmi, recipient of the Miles F. Johnson Award of Excellence and the Marcus and Carole Weinstein Honors Scholarship. “It is my privilege and honor to receive these scholarships,” Kazmi said. “They are the motivation to push the envelope and never stop going. Thank you for investing in my future.”
MCV Foundation celebrates rise in scholarships This fall, the MCV Foundation hosted the eighth annual MCV Campus Endowed Scholarship brunch on Nov. 4 in the Grand Ballroom of the Jefferson Hotel. More than 330 donors, scholarship recipients and guests enjoyed the event. MCV Foundation President Bill Kotti, Ph.D., shared with the crowd that private philanthropy had created 25 new MCV Campus scholarships for the 2012-13 academic year, bringing the total number of endowed scholarships for the campus to 244, which is an increase of 60 scholarships in the past two years. Virginia Commonwealth University President Michael Rao, Ph.D., spoke about the important role scholarships play in attracting excellent students who will go on to become the health care providers of the future. Two student speakers, the School of Allied Health Professions’ Peter Long-Innes, who holds the HCA Scholarship for Emerging Healthcare Leaders, and the School of Dentistry’s Julia Niculescu, who holds the J. Marvin Reynolds Prosthodontic Scholarship, shared their perspectives on how scholarships can change lives for the better. 12 | The Power of Personal Philanthropy
School of Business honors 75 years of ‘legends’
Jay Paul photo
Alumni and faculty gathered Oct. 26 to honor Virginia Commonwealth University School of Business Faculty Legends. The legends, inaugurated as part of the school’s yearlong 75th anniversary celebration, include retired faculty, former deans and current faculty with at least 25 years of service. The earliest legends in attendance, both of whom joined the school in 1955, were John Lambert, emeritus professor of management, and H. David Willis, emeritus professor of accounting. Emotions ran high as friendships were renewed and alumni said thank you to the professors who shaped their lives and careers. Oil portraits of the four former deans and the school’s founder, Henry Hibbs, were on Legendary faculty member Chuck Gallagher (center) and his display at the event and now hang wife, Suzanne, share a laugh with former VCU Rector Thomas G. Snead Jr. (B.S. ’76). in the Snead Hall boardroom.
Event celebrates medical center’s No. 1 ranking On Sept. 24, the MCV Foundation hosted a celebration commemorating the Virginia Commonwealth University Medical Center’s designation as the No. 1 hospital in Virginia by U.S. News & World Report. The celebration highlighted the four programs ranked in the top 50 in the nation — nephrology, pulmonology, orthopaedic surgery and urology — that led to the VCU Medical Center’s ranking. The medical center also ranked “high-performing” in cancer, cardiology and heart surgery, diabetes and endocrinology, ear, nose and throat, gastroenterology, geriatrics, gynecology, neurology and neurosurgery, and rehabilitation medicine. Guests included members of the MCV Foundation board, the VCU Board of Visitors, grateful patients and VCU Medical Center and university leaders. MCV Foundation President Bill Kotti, Ph.D., welcomed the group and turned the program over to Dr. John Doswell Dr. Robert Adelaar (left), chairman of the Department II (D.D.S. ’79), MCV Foundation chair of Orthopaedics; Dr. Todd Gehr (H.S. ’87), chairman of and VCU rector, who spoke about the the Division of Nephrology; Dr. Lance Hampton, chairorigins of the MCV Campus and how far man of the Division of Urology; and Dr. Alpha Fowler (H.S. ’76), chairman of the Division of Pulmonary it has come in nearly 175 years. Disease and Critical Care Medicine, represent their VCU President Michael Rao, Ph.D., respective departments. emphasized the VCU Medical Center’s core mission of restoring health. John Duval, CEO of MCV Hospitals, and Dr. Jerome F. Strauss III, Ph.D., dean of the School of Medicine, also addressed the crowd. The celebration ended on a high note with a check presentation from the MCV Hospitals Auxiliary. Jo Ann Burton, president, presented a $500,000 check supporting the VCU Medical Center as it continues on its journey of excellence. Winter 2013 | 13
(From left) Panelists Arlethia Rogers, R.N. (Dipl. ’60; B.S. ’96), Nancy Langston, Ph.D., R.N., FAAN, dean of the School of Nursing, and Lillian Epps-Johnson, R.N. (Dipl. ’51), discuss the St. Philip School of Nursing.
St. Philip alumnae discussion marks anniversary A panel discussion marking the 50th anniversary of the closing of the St. Philip School of Nursing stirred both painful and fond memories for alumnae. The St. Philip School of Nursing at the Medical College of Virginia was established as one of the first nursing schools for African-American women in Virginia during the era of racial segregation. The discussion, the 2012 Jackie Denise Jackson Memorial Cultural Diversity Lectureship on Sept. 12, drew more than 150 people to the VCU School of Nursing’s Younger Auditorium to hear from leaders in higher education and from St. Philip alumnae, who shared their experiences related to segregation and desegregation in higher education. Pia Jordan, lecturer in the Communications Studies Department at Morgan State University and daughter of St. Philip alumna Louise Lomax Winters (Dipl. ’42), provided the keynote address, recounting her mother’s journey from the segregated nursing school to Alabama, where she made history in becoming one of 29 black nurses who served at the Tuskegee Army Air Field during World War II. Jordan noted that two other St. Philip alumnae, Mencie Trotter (Dipl. ’40) and Della Bassette (Dipl. ’41), also were among the nurses who served there. Other panelists were VCU School of Nursing Dean Nancy Langston, Ph.D., R.N., FAAN; Arlethia Rogers, R.N. (Dipl. ’60; B.S. ’96); Ed Peeples Jr., Ph.D. (B.S. ’57), VCU professor emeritus and civil rights advocate; and St. Philip alumnae Lillian Epps-Johnson, R.N. (Dipl. ’51) and Jessye Spencer, Ed.D., Ph.D. (Dipl. ’54; B.S. ’55; M.Ed. ’79). In the audience were the first recipient of the Louise Lomax Winters Scholarship, which was established by Jordan, and four current recipients of the St. Philip School of Nursing Alumnae Scholarship Endowment Fund, supported through the gifts of many St. Philip alumni. “This is my first year being a recipient of the St. Philip Alumnae scholarship. It was a great honor to receive this award,” said recipient Ashley Jones, who plans to graduate in May. “My family and I greatly appreciate the aid. I admire the spirit and strength of the St. Philip alumnae and I hope that I, too, will develop such character in my nursing career. These ladies are truly inspirational, and I have enjoyed getting to know them over the years.” For more information about the School of Nursing, contact Kelly Gotschalk (B.F.A. ’90; M.A. ’97), director of annual giving and alumni engagement, at (804) 828-2993 or kjgotschalk@vcu.edu. 14 | The Power of Personal Philanthropy
Planned giving donors celebrate at ‘Noises Off’ About 60 Heritage Society and MCV Society guests attended a performance at Virginia Commonwealth University of Theatre VCU’s “Noises Off” in September. The group enjoyed a pre-performance reception at the Scott House before walking to the W.E. Singleton Center for the Performing Arts for the show. Thomas C. Burke Jr. (B.S. ’79; M.P.A. ’95), VCU Foundation executive director, thanked the crowd for their support. Heritage Society membership is accorded to those who have made provisions for VCU’s Monroe Park Campus in their estate plans. MCV Society membership is accorded to those who have made estate provisions for the MCV Campus through the MCV Foundation. These gifts include charitable remainder trusts, charitable gift annuities, charitable lead trusts, life insurance and bequests.
Development team welcomes new members Amy Gray Director of student and young alumni engagement Office of Development and Alumni Relations (804) 828-8191 acgray@vcu.edu Formerly: Admission counselor and adviser, student ambassador program, University of Richmond
Sarah Hale Assistant director of communications and alumni relations VCU Life Sciences (804) 827-1164 smhale@vcu.edu
Christina Leslie-Helmke (B.A. ’12) Development assistant College of Humanities and Sciences (804) 827-1306 leslieck@vcu.edu
Kenny Melvin (B.S. ’12) Assistant director of development School of Medicine (804) 828-4800 melvinkj@vcu.edu Formerly: Assistant director of development for gifts administration, MCV Foundation
Ethan Scott (B.S. ’08) Development assistant School of Nursing (804) 828-3620 scottem2@vcu.edu Formerly: Computer technician, VCU Information Technology
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At an October reception, Virginia Commonwealth University Libraries congratulated author and VCU alumnus Tom Robbins (B.S. ’59) on receiving the 2012 Literary Lifetime Achievement Award at the Library of Virginia’s 15th annual Literary Awards Celebration. His friends and relatives, members of the VCU Friends of the Library, and other supporters gathered in the James Branch Cabell Library Special Collections and Archives, where his papers are kept, to celebrate his accomplishments. In addition, Robbins was a guest of honor at the 10th annual James River Writers Conference, of which VCU Libraries was the principal sponsor.
Clement Britt photo
VCU Libraries recognizes alumnus for achievement
Tom Robbins (B.S. ’59) (center) receives congratulations from VCU Friends of the Library Board President Jim Moore (left) and University Librarian John Ulmschneider.
Black & Gold Ball brings in more than $75,000
Bridget Hazel photo
During the winter months, the Verizon Wireless Arena at the Stuart C. Siegel Center is one of the busiest buildings in Richmond, Va., with Virginia Commonwealth University basketball games bringing out record crowds in recent years. The building got a warmup for those record crowds in October when VCU Athletics teamed with Markel and D&H Construction to host the third Athletic Director Ed McLaughlin (left) joins donor Kevin annual Black & Gold Ball. The McFadden and VCU President Michael Rao, Ph.D., in sporting event raised more than $75,000 black-and-gold bow ties at the ball. for VCU’s Ram Athletic Fund. The black-tie-optional event featured a casino, dancing and wine tasting. Guests who purchased tickets to the VIP reception, sponsored by Acme Paper & Supply, enjoyed an exclusive dinner with VCU President Michael Rao, Ph.D., and Athletic Director Ed McLaughlin. Guests arriving at the ball were greeted by members of the VCU baseball team as part of a red-carpet entrance. Several attendees won prizes, including gift certificates and the use of a suite at a men’s basketball game. “We take great pride in these types of fundraising events, and I’m extremely excited about the response we received from the VCU community,” McLaughlin said. “The primary goal of the Ram Athletic Fund is to provide scholarship aid to our 16 varsity sports as well as raise funds to support facility improvements and other initiatives inside the department. This event plays a critical role in our continuing quest to enhance the student-athlete experience at VCU.” For more information about the Ram Athletic Fund, contact Vic Cegles, director, at (804) 828-4771 or vpcegles@vcu.edu. 16 | The Power of Personal Philanthropy
Luncheon commemorates late donor’s biography
CSI Studios photo
To celebrate the publication of “Rev. Robert B. Lantz – A Transformative Life,” the Department of Patient Counseling in the Virginia Commonwealth University School of Allied Health Professions held an October luncheon at The Bull and Bear Club in Richmond, Va., during Pastoral Care Week. Attendees included Michael J. Kurtz, Ph.D., the book’s author, and Katherine I. Lantz, Lantz’s widow. These special guests were joined by Russell H. Davis, Ph.D., who joined the department in 2012 as the second holder of the Rev. Robert B. Lantz chair, as well as other school and department leaders. In addition, patient counSchool of Allied Health Professions Dean Cecil B. Drain, seling students in attendance each Ph.D. (left), celebrates with author Michael Kurtz, Ph.D., received a copy of the biography. donor Katherine I. Lantz and Russell H. Davis, Ph.D., who holds the Rev. Robert B. Lantz chair. Lantz (Cert. ’64) completed his training toward certification in clinical pastoral education from the program in patient counseling. In recognition of the education he received, in 2001 Lantz pledged $100,000 to establish the Robert B. Lantz Professorship in Patient Counseling. That pledge was fulfilled in 2006. Before his death in July 2008, he included in his estate plan a bequest of nearly $1 million to transform the professorship into an endowed chair. His gift is the largest ever to the School of Allied Health Professions by an individual.
Evening at VCU Rice Center showcases facility On a spectacular fall evening, about 40 friends and potential donors gathered at Virginia Commonwealth University’s Inger and Walter Rice Center for Environmental Life Sciences along the James River in Charles City County, Va., to hear about its mission and vision for the future. Thomas F. Huff, Ph.D., vice provost for life sciences at VCU, spoke enthusiastically, outlining the rapid development of the center’s programs focused on environmental research, education and public outreach. Special emphasis was placed on how, since its inception, a critical element of the Rice Center’s mission has been the application of research to inform public policy. Many Rice Center research studies involve water quality, endangered species, or wetland mitigation and restoration — all topics of significant environmental concern. Particular emphasis was made on how VCU researchers are delving into water quality issues surrounding algal blooms in the James and have taken the lead in a major study to better understand and regulate nutrients flowing into the river and the Chesapeake Bay. Huff noted that the next phase of development on the property is under way, with architectural plans for a state-of-the-science research building and overnight lodging for students and scientists already laid out. These new facilities will enable an unprecedented expansion of the research capacity at the Rice Center and its ability to contribute to the critical environmental and ecological issues facing not just Virginia, but the nation and the world. Attendees enjoyed a reception with the lovely view of the river as a backdrop, and most opted to tour part of the property and to spend time at the wetland site as well as the research pier, watching the sun set and appreciating the beauty of the James. For more information about the VCU Rice Center, please contact Catherine Dahl, director of development, at (804) 827-7372 or ccdahl@vcu.edu. Winter 2013 | 17
Fraizers host new dean of School of Education In September 2012, Elizabeth and Michael D. Fraizer hosted a reception in their home to welcome the new dean of the Virginia Commonwealth University School of Education, Christine Walther-Thomas, Ph.D., to introduce her to community leaders and to begin dialogue on opportunities to work together to support education in the region. Michael Fraizer currently serves on the VCU Board of Visitors and the VCU School of Education Advancement Council. In addition, the Fraizers founded the Mary and Frances Youth Center at VCU in 2007. Walther-Thomas, who worked as the chair of the Department of Special Education at the University of Kansas before joining VCU in June 2012, was introduced to guests by VCU President Michael Rao, Ph.D. In her comments, she shared her (From left) Elizabeth and Michael Fraizer, Scott and Christine vision for the school and her Walther-Thomas, Michael and Monica Rao, and Provost and Senior excitement about partnering Vice President for Academic Affairs Beverly Warren, Ed.D., Ph.D., with others in supporting gather to welcome Walther-Thomas into her role as dean of the School of Education. education in the community.
Social work alumni celebrate 95th anniversary The Virginia Commonwealth University School of Social Work, created in 1917, now has more than 10,000 living alumni. To kick off its 95th anniversary, the school hosted an alumni reunion celebration in September in Vienna, Va. Because more than 1,700 alumni who graduated from either the Richmond, Va.- or Fairfax, Va.-based VCU social work program live and work in the Washington, D.C., metro area, hosting an event in Fairfax County was a natural choice. Alumna Dianna Hurtado (M.S.W. ’90) and her husband, Art, were the inspiration behind this wonderful event, hosted at the Tower Club. With a splendid view of the metro area, afforded by being on the 17th floor, guests mingled and enjoyed heavy hors d’oeuvres and beverages. Dean Jim Hinterlong, Ph.D., assured guests that although the Fairfax social work campus closed in June 2012, the school is continuing to serve graduates in Northern Virginia, providing options for distance education for new students and continuing education opportunities for alumni. He shared his vision for the school as a center of excellence in social work education as the school moves toward its centennial anniversary. Hinterlong introduced the two guest speakers, Rosemary Farmer, Ph.D. (Ph.D. ’93), and Allison Sampson, Ph.D. (B.S.W. ’97; M.S.W. ’98; Ph.D. ’10), to discuss “Neuro Social Work: It’s time to claim our contribution.” Farmer, a VCU faculty member, has been bringing some of the latest brain research into social work theorizing and practice and continues to encourage social workers to contribute to the neurosciences. A clinical social work practitioner with more than 30 years of experience, she specialized in working with people who have chronic and serious mental illnesses and their families. Her most recent publication, “Neuroscience and Social Work Practice: The Missing Link,” was published by SAGE in 2009. Sampson is a licensed clinical social worker and certified sex offender practitioner in Virginia and a licensed independent clinical social worker in Washington, D.C. 18 | The Power of Personal Philanthropy
Gary Garbett photo
VCU President Michael Rao, Ph.D. (left) joins Jack Nelson, Altria’s executive vice president and chief technology officer; Beverly Warren, Ed.D., Ph.D., VCU provost and senior vice president for academic affairs; and Kenneth Kahn, VCU da Vinci Center director, at a celebratory event.
$1.5 million Altria gift boosts da Vinci Center In September, the Virginia Commonwealth University da Vinci Center for Innovation received a $1.5 million gift from Altria Group Inc. to continue in its efforts to produce well-rounded, marketable students. An original collaboration of the VCU schools of the Arts, Business and Engineering, the da Vinci Center is a unique collegiate model that advances interdisciplinary innovation and technology-based entrepreneurship, prepares students to enter a product innovation career and supports learning initiatives by partner organizations. “Altria’s gift will help the da Vinci Center to continue to improve the learning experience and grow its programs so that it serves as a campuswide catalyst for innovation and entrepreneurship,” said Kenneth Kahn, Ph.D., professor of marketing in the VCU School of Business and director of the da Vinci Center. “The gift also allows the center to not only impact our VCU community, but the Richmond region, including workshops and a keen partnership with the Science Museum of Virginia.” The grant will be distributed over a five-year period, 2012-17, with $300,000 allotted per year. The funds are focused in four areas: leadership and administrative support for the center; the launch of the nation’s first master’s program in product innovation; a community partnership with the Science Museum of Virginia to provide STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) learning for low-income middle school students; and commercialization and entrepreneurship initiatives. “The da Vinci program was one of the things that attracted me to VCU,” said Luca Terziutti, a mechanical engineering senior in the undergraduate certificate program. “It’s been a great opportunity that exposes me to other ways of thinking that I don’t get in the engineering program. This program really adds some color to my undergraduate experience.” Altria has supported the university in numerous ways throughout the years and was a corporate project sponsor for the da Vinci Center’s first student project. VCU is also one of the top universities where Altria’s companies recruit engineering, finance and marketing talent. To make a gift to the VCU da Vinci Center for Innovation, contact Samantha Marrs, senior associate vice president for development, at (804) 828-1229 or swmarrs@vcu.edu. Winter 2013 | 19
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