CHICAGO, March 25 — Oral Health America (OHA) announced that its 24th Annual Gala & Benefit was the most successful in the organization’s history, raising more than $650,000 for OHA's programs and campaigns that support oral health for all Americans. The event sold out for the first time, with OHA hosting over 850 people at the historic Palmer House Hotel in Chicago on February 19, 2014. Guests from the dental industry enjoyed dinner, dancing, networking, and helped raise critically needed funds to support programming.
“The unparalleled support from the dental community at this year’s gala set an even higher bar and is a prelude for our 25th Anniversary Gala & Benefit next year,” stated Beth Truett, President and CEO for Oral Health America. “Stay tuned! Details to be announced, but put February 25, 2015 on your calendars!”
This event provides crucial and principal support which drives dental programs that increase access to care, internship and fellowship opportunities as well as advocacy for vulnerable populations of all ages.
“This year’s gala theme, Smiles Across Generations, is a reflection of the work OHA does for Americans of all ages," said OHA Board Chair Peggy Cottrell. "The revenue from this event will bring needed oral health care and education to the country's most vulnerable populations. An engaged Board, staff and gala committee were chiefly responsible for making this year's gala a record-setting event, and their commitment to excellence paid off.”
The evening began with a ceremony to honor Dr. Anthony Volpe for his over 40 years of dedication to the dental industry. From his work with dental schools across the country to his groundbreaking research through his recently-retired position at Colgate-Palmolive, Dr. Volpe has impacted countless dental professionals and changed the industry for the better. Dr. Volpe was presented with the Gala Tribute Award during the ceremony and a tribute booklet was given to attendees with heartwarming comments from many of Tony’s friends in his honor.
The gala would not have been possible without the support of the following generous sponsors: Technology Sponsors Ivoclar Vivadent and Patterson Dental; Diamond Sponsors KaVo Kerr Group, Colgate, Philips Sonicare, Henry Schein, DENTSPLY International, Septodont, SciCan, and DentaQuest; Platinum Sponsors Colgate Oral Pharmaceuticals, Darby Dental, Midmark, DentalEZ, and the Chicago Dental Society; Raffle Sponsor Aspen Dental, and Gold Sponsors Karwoski & Courage, Burkhart, Planmeca, Atlantic Precious Metal Refining, Unilever, and Bisco.
