Transformative $25 Brings College of Den By AMY CHARLES Nestled between the Appalachian Mountains in Pikeville exists a university whose 133-year educational legacy has grown to bring medicine to the mountains with its Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine and has expanded quality vision care to rural areas with its Kentucky College of Optometry. Now, with a transformative $25 million gift from a generous, philanthropic family, the University of Pikeville College of Dental Health is on the horizon, aimed at providing greater access to oral healthcare in underserved areas across central Appalachia and beyond.
The Power of Philanthropy
10,770
A $25 million gift, the largest in the University of Pikeville’s 133-year history, will enable the founding of a dental school to enhance the health and well-being of the people of Appalachia. As estimated by the Health Resources and Services Administration, there is a current shortage of 10,770 dentists in the U.S.
73%
In 2021, according to the Health Policy Institute, 73% of U.S. dentists are private practice owners.
The national demand for dentists is projected to increase 9% to 206,850 by 2030.
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“The foresight of a generous family giving to a university to establish a dental school is special,” said President Burton J. Webb, Ph.D. “This is another example of challenges being met and solved right here by those who call this area home. It’s also incredible that the university, this family and now a dental school will each have their roots right here in these mountains.” Chairman of the Board of Trustees Terry L. Dotson ’72 echoes Webb’s comments and gratitude. “This is needed,” said Dotson. “The founding of a dental program in these mountains will lead to better healthcare outcomes for a historically medically underserved population. This institution, its students, faculty and staff are a driving force for health education in the commonwealth. The dental school will complete the circle of medical services for the region and the immediate area. The economic impact with the addition of more professional students will grow businesses throughout the entire community and the region. This will be a project that will take the time and talents of many partners locally and statewide.” The donor, who prefers to remain anonymous, is passionate about UPIKE’s service-focused mission and recognizes the need for increased access to medical care. “This donor has a deep love for Appalachia and a passion for improving healthcare in our region,” said Vice President for Advancement and Alumni Relations David Hutchens. “Their generosity will reverberate for generations, impacting not only the graduates of the program but also profoundly benefitting the lives of the countless patients they will serve for generations to come. This is a transformative gift, an act of deep love and devotion for this region. We are humbled by this generosity, thrilled to have this opportunity and ecstatic about this vision.” With this gift, they are providing dental education and securing the future of dental healthcare in Appalachia and rural America. UPIKE will forever be grateful for the astounding vision and faith expressed by the donor family.
UPIKE MAGAZINE | FALL/WINTER 2022