Last night, the Institute’s annual gala (35th birthday celebration!) was
held at the Renaissance Hotel in Boston’s Innovation District, the
seaport. The venue was beautiful. As always, friends of the IHP filled
the room. Old friends found each other, student
scholars were recognized, fantastic staff members made the evening sparkle, there
was a lovely dinner. Even
though much of the pattern was the same as in previous years, each gala has a
unique story to share or a unique focus. For last night’s event, several unique features come
to mind.
First of all, the key video presentation focused on recent
alum Heather Quirk (SON, 2012) and her remarkable story as a young widow,
nursing student, parent, and marathon runner. She represents a uniquely remarkable young woman, who
like many of our students and alums have sacrificed and risen above many
hurdles to move into their life’s work. As notable as Heather’s story was her eloquence
and graciousness when she thanked those present for their generosity in behalf
of all the students who need financial support.
Second, President Bellack and Board Chair George Thibault
praised the start-up of two new academic programs, the MS in Health Professions
Education and the PhD in Rehabilitation Sciences, both which have launched in
the past few months. In
addition, three of our new faculty researchers were present and were
honored. Drs. Lisa Wood, Tiffany
Hogan, and Jordan Green will be part of the Institute’s next chapter of successful
contribution to health care transformation.
And then Trustee Ari Buchler announced the opportunity to
participate in an auction to raise money to support students. Long time friend of the Institute,
Sumner Brown had challenged those present to increase their donations by
indicating he would add to his already generous gift if over $50000 was raised. The effect was impressive. In a few minutes, over $90000 was raised to support
students at the Institute. This
amount almost tripled the activity of previous years. Amazing.
As the Institute celebrates its 35th Birthday, it
is fantastic that the wonderful event held last night could honor our work,
support our students, look forward to new programs and people, and generate
significant financial support for our important mission. I am grateful to be part of such
a remarkable institution.
If you happened to miss the gala and would like to see a
video about the Institute's legacy of giving, be sure to check it out:www.mghihp.edu/about-us/ways-to-give/investing-in-the-future.aspx.
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