Transforming Dental Care for Veterans: Dugoni School’s New Initiatives
The Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry at the University of the Pacific is stepping up to honor our Bay Area military veterans with an exciting new initiative! Thanks to a recent philanthropic endowment and discounted care, veterans can now access top-notch oral healthcare services at our San Francisco clinic like never before.
Veterans Day Health Outreach Event
On November 11, 2024, the Dugoni School hosted a remarkable community health event designed specifically for veterans. Participants enjoyed FREE dental care, oral cancer screenings, blood pressure checks, diabetes screenings, and more—all right in the heart of San Francisco! Over 45 veterans and their families took part, relishing complimentary refreshments, health resources, and wellness gift bags.
In addition to dental services, faculty from the University’s audiology department provided hearing screenings at the Hearing and Balance Center. Veterans were thrilled to receive same-day radiographs (x-rays) and gain insights into the critical link between oral health and overall wellness. Many scheduled follow-up appointments to continue their care journey.
For veteran Brian Bigon, this was a significant moment—his first dental visit in two years.
“I was in the Navy on nuclear submarines,” he reflected. “I don’t need thanks for my service, but this honor feels great!”
Army veteran John Sapp expressed his gratitude, stating, “I want to thank everyone for making this possible… it truly helps us live better lives.”
Students from the Dental School’s Student Community Outreach for Public Education (SCOPE) program, alongside the Military Club, joined faculty and staff in volunteering for the event.
ENS Isabella Razmi, DDS ’26 and co-president of SCOPE, shared, “Growing up in a military family makes this Veterans Day event incredibly meaningful to me. My mom, a Navy dentist, instilled in me the importance of supporting service members. Now, as I prepare to join the Navy as a dentist myself, it’s an honor to give back to a community that has provided so much to us. Many veterans face hurdles accessing dental care, and this event was a testament to our collective commitment to improving their lives.”
New Endowment Supports Care
In an inspiring move, community members Ralph and Teresa Yanello have established the Ralph & Teresa Yanello Endowment for Veteran Support, a $50,000 initiative that will help fund oral healthcare for underserved veterans. Thanks to the Powell Match program, this endowment will double to an impressive $100,000!
“Every veteran deserves access to the healthcare they need,” said Ralph Yanello, a proud Marine Corps veteran. “This endowment is our way of showing gratitude and support for those who serve.”
If you would like to contribute to this vital cause, reach out to Eric Dumbleton, associate dean of development, at [email protected] or call 415.929.6422.
Discounted Care for Veterans
In addition to these incredible initiatives, the Dugoni School is offering a generous 20% discount on dental care to military veterans without dental insurance. Ready to take the next step towards optimal oral health? Visit our San Francisco Main Clinic website or call 415.929.6501 today!
