Dentistry triumphs in turtle tussle

Turtles aren’t exactly known for their speedy pace. So it’s a good thing the Dal United Way turtle doesn’t have far to travel this year.

For the second year in a row, the Faculty of Dentistry was named the winner of the Dalhousie United Way campaign’s Dean’s Challenge, bringing in $7,763 for the cause.

Along with bragging rights, the Faculty of Dentistry will keep the United Way turtle trophy safe and warm until next year when the campaign kicks off again. The turtle—still nameless—is awarded to the faculty that raises the most money based on a mathematical formula that calculates participation rate (department donors and department total employees) and portion rate (department donations and overall university donations).

A culture of community

Dean Tom Boran is thrilled his faculty has won for the second year in a row—its third win in four years—and says giving to the United Way is just one more way he encourages his faculty to support a great cause.  

“We try and promote a culture of caring, a culture of community within the Faculty of Dentistry,” says Dr. Boran. “Students already enter the program with these qualities so it’s not a far jump to ask them to support the United Way. Giving back is incorporated in the profession.”

The idea to create a friendly competition between faculties was the idea of former University Librarian Bill Maes. Dentistry has won the competition in 2008, 2010 and 2011; the Dalhousie Libraries prevailed in 2009.

“We’re so grateful to all the participants in this year’s United Way campaign,” says Peter Dykhuis, campaign co-chair. “No matter how big or small your donation, you are making a difference in your community.”   

To date, the campaign has raised $151,902.46. There is still time to help United Way reach its goal. Donate now at the secure Dalhousie United Way website.