Stories of Change

On the evening of Thursday, April 18, 161 faculty, students and benefactors gathered in the Anschutz Health and Sciences building for the annual University of Colorado School of Medicine (SOM) Scholarship and Awards Reception. This celebration is a meaningful way to honor student scholarship and award recipients and the benefactors who support them. This year’s event combined recognition of the Doctor of Medicine (MD), Child Health Associate/Physician Assistant (CHA/PA) and Physical Therapy (PT) programs. 

After guests mingled over appetizers, Vice Chancellor of Advancement Scott Arthur opened the evening’s remarks, offering a powerful reminder of the importance of educational financial aid through scholarship creation and the many ways in which philanthropy is a catalyst for lasting change. 

“Philanthropic support for our students helps not only those students, but entire communities as well,” he said. “Students finish their studies and then go out into the world to save lives through research and clinical care. They solve problems, discover cures and enhance the field of medicine, thereby providing hope to individuals and families.” 

The program continued with recognition of all physicians, physician assistants and physical therapists present in the room. John. J. Reilly Jr., MD, and former dean of the School of Medicine, Shanta Zimmer, MD, and Terri Richardson, MD, then took to the podium to add their reflections on the invaluable impact of scholarships on student lives. 

“I see the immense difference that your support makes for students every day,” said Dean Reilly. “Your generosity creates opportunities for the next generation of medical leaders.” 

Three students representing the programs being honored shared personal stories of how benefactor aid made a difference to their education. Dean Reilly then closed the evening, leaving guests with the following sentiment: 

“As our students complete their degrees and enter the workforce, know that your investments in their futures are helping guide them into careers as leaders and innovators in medicine.”