University Of New England Announces Dental School Scholarship In Memory Of Dean James B. Hanley

University Of New England Announces Dental School Scholarship In Memory Of Dean James B. Hanley

PORTLAND, Maine — The University of New England was deeply saddened by the death of James B. Hanley, D.M.D., dean of the College of Dental Medicine, in late May following a battle with cancer. With much love and respect for Hanley’s career accomplishments and warm friendship, his colleagues in the College of Dental Medicine have named an endowed scholarship fund in his honor. The James B. Hanley Dean’s Scholarship for Emerging Leaders will provide much-needed scholarship support for dental students in perpetuity at UNE’s dental college.

Hanley joined the UNE community in the spring of 2014, bringing a special blend of professional expertise, leadership, wit, wisdom and kindness to a role he described as his dream job. He found particular joy in working with students, noting that young people “keep you on your toes” and offer faculty wonderful opportunities to continue their own lifelong learning.

Hanley’s dedication to young scholars was reflected in his early support and advocacy for the creation of an endowed dean’s scholarship for dental students not long after his arrival at UNE. He generously provided an early and substantial gift to launch the endowment, and he championed its growth by encouraging faculty and staff to make meaningful contributions of their own. He was thrilled upon learning that his colleagues wished to name the endowment in honor of his service to UNE and the profession of dental medicine.

According to Jon Ryder, D.D.S., executive associate dean in the College of Dental Medicine, the leadership component of the scholarship underscores Hanley’s heartfelt conviction that “dentists should be leaders—not just of their practices but in their communities as well.” Each annual award to a deserving student will demonstrate Hanley’s belief in student leadership and community service, and his commitment to academic achievement in the field of oral health.

To make a gift to the James B. Hanley Dean’s Scholarship for Emerging Leaders, please visit www.une.edu/givenow, choose “gift designations,” and then scroll to the College of Dental Medicine to locate the Dean’s Scholarship. If you would like additional information about other options for giving to this fund, please contact David White, Advancement Officer, at (207) 221-4379 or dwhite20@une.edu.

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