06
August
2009
|
18:00 PM
America/New_York

Ohio State's College of Dentistry receives multi-million dollar estate gift

COLUMBUS, Ohio – The Ohio State University College of Dentistry has received a gift of approximately $3 million to support scholarships for dentistry students. The largest single gift in the college's history, the donation comes from the estate of the late Dr. Richard C. Veler and his wife, Betty G. Veler, both of whom were lifelong supporters of the university.

Dr. Veler, a 1946 College of Dentistry graduate whose practice was in Toledo, Ohio, began his philanthropy to Ohio State with a gift of $10 in 1948. He and his wife later donated the funds that created the Richard C. Veler, D.D.S. and Betty G. Veler Scholarship endowment that provides financial support for dentistry students who demonstrate "merit, need, and outstanding moral and ethical character."

The Velers' recent estate gift of approximately $3 million will support and expand their existing scholarship endowment. Commenting on the Velers' loyalty to Ohio State and the College of Dentistry, estate trustee and longtime family friend Frederick Lamb said, "I knew Betty and Richard Veler for more than 40 years, and it was always their intent to leave their estate to the university. They both felt they'd had a wonderful life because of the education Richard received from the College of Dentistry, and they really wanted to give something back."

College of Dentistry Dean Carole Anderson expressed her thanks for this gift that meets a vital need. "This donation is extraordinary not only because it's the largest single gift in the history of the college, but also because it's a gift that's designated for something we're in dire need of," Anderson said. "Our dentistry students pay some of the highest tuition fees in the medical profession and this gift will help us recruit outstanding new students, while also supporting the excellent students we have now who need financial help to complete their education and begin their careers as dental professionals."

"Throughout their lives, the Velers were remarkably generous with the University," said Ohio State President E. Gordon Gee. "This latest gift from their estate provides additional resources that will enable future generations of talented young people to pursue their dreams and to earn their degrees at Ohio State. I can think of no more selfless action, and I am deeply grateful."

More information about the College of Dentistry and its student support programs is available at www.dent.ohio-state.edu