Each year, the VCU School of Dentistry General Scholarship Fund helps ease the financial burden for students, investing in the next generation of dental professionals who will serve communities across Virginia and beyond.

In 2025, 50 dental and dental hygiene students were able to receive a $1,000 scholarship thanks to donations to the
General Scholarship Fund.

The amount of each scholarship and the number of scholarships distributed is a direct result of contributions within each fiscal year.

The scholarship/awards committee, which consists of VCU School of Dentistry faculty and staff, determines the eligibility of applying students and ensures distribution of the awards.

As the cost of dental education continues to rise and government support for the dental school declines, providing student scholarship funds is more important than ever.

“The General Scholarship Fund is important because it breaks down financial barriers to education, enabling access for a wider range of students, particularly those with financial need,” said Gloria Callihan, associate dean of Development and Alumni Relations. “The fund helps fill a critical gap with the rising cost of dental education, making it more attainable for students who might otherwise be unable to afford it.”

The fund also gives flexibility to donors, allowing them to contribute at any level while supporting student scholarships.

“By contributing to the General Scholarship Fund, you mpower exceptional students, strengthen leadership in dentistry, expand compassionate care to underserved communities and fuel innovative research that transforms oral health for generations to come,” added Callihan.

Give today! Be sure to designate your gift for the School of Dentistry General Scholarship Fund.