Faculty, staff and students at the University of Hawaiʻi medical school have collected nearly a million dollars for the school – by reaching into their own pockets.
The John A. Burns School of Medicine (JABSOM) annual Internal Giving Campaign raised $948,576 in donations and pledges—almost three times the goal of the 2015 drive.
Participation numbers were just as impressive with 396 donors – 53% of JABSOM faculty & staff – contributing a portion of their salaries to support the medical school’s mission. Faculty and staff are able to choose from numerous funds to support – including those in their own departments – or to fund always-critical missions like travel so that MD students may train on the neighbor islands.
“We appreciate the support our faculty, staff and students provide through their philanthropy during challenging financial times,” said Dr. Jerris Hedges, JABSOM Dean. “It is a testament to their commitment to the mission of JABSOM in support of the people of Hawaiʻi.”
Every year, the JABSOM Internal Giving Campaign holds a “mahalo” event where sweet treats are offered to thank participants for choosing to give back to JABSOM. That’s why the school’s cafeteria smelled more like a movie theater on Friday, March 18, as packs of multi-colored kettle corn were distributed.
