Dean’s Circle members honored at luncheon

Members of a new club created last year to acknowledge key donors to the UF College of Veterinary Medicine gathered Jan. 17 at a luncheon held in in their honor during the North American Veterinary Conference in Orlando.

Fifteen of 41 members of the Dean’s Circle of Excellence, which consists of donors of $5,000 or more, were present to receive commemorative pins from college dean Glen Hoffsis. Members also received a composite photograph of the inaugural class of members.  

“We established the Dean’s Circle of Excellence as a way to thank our highest level supporters by offering the benefits of an exclusive club,” said Karen Legato, senior director of development and alumni affairs at the college.

Many members have already demonstrated their dedication through their gifts, so the college already has a bond with them, Legato said. Others may wish to participate at a specific donation level, since there are now additional incentives associated with making such contributions, she added.

“Creating additional opportunities to strengthen the bonds we have with our biggest supporters only helps our programs and our animal patients, who ultimately benefit from these donors’ largesse,” Legato said.

Members receive a lapel pin, a certificate suitable for framing and displaying at home, in the office or in the clinic; invitations to select Dean’s Circle events; a listing in the honor roll of donors; inclusion in the Dean’s Circle directory on the college Web site and a special recognition plaque in the Dean’s Circle of Excellence Lecture Hall.

Lifetime members, who pledge $25,000 or more ($5,000 per year for five years), or who make a bequest gift of $100,000 or more, also receive a naming opportunity.  The lowest level of membership is in the Loyal Member category, which requires a pledge of $5,000 ($1,000 per year for five years.)

Below are a handful of photos from the luncheon. Enjoy!

Dr. Richard Kane, '84, with daughter Stephanie Kane, a junior UF veterinary student, and Dr. Michael Schaer, professor of emergency medicine and critical care at UF.

Dean Glen Hoffsis, right, presents a commemorative pen ti Dr. Jack Beal, Class of '82. Beal's wife, Becky, is at center.

Dr. Frances Carter, '84, accepts her pin from Dean Glen Hoffsis.

 

Dr. Paul Nicoletti, professor emeritus of infectious diseases, and Dr. John Harvey, executive associate dean of the college pose with a copy of the composite photo of the charter members of the Dean's Circle of Excellence.

 

Dean Glen Hoffsis, right, presents a commemorative pin to Dr. John Harvey, executive associate dean of the college.

 

 

Karen Legato, senior director of development and alumni affairs, left, and Katherine Desmond, development assistant, get organized just prior to the start of the inaugural Dean's Circle luncheon and pinning ceremony.

 

Katherine Desmond, left, looks on while junior UF veterinary student Stephanie Kane draws the winning name for the Urban Meyer-autographed football and home football game tickets. And the winner was....Dr. Richard Kane, Class of '94 -- Stephanie's dad!