I began to read about an institution, but I quickly realized that the institutional history was composed of stories about politicians, presidents, professors, regents, students, and practicing health care professionals. It is a history rich in challenges met and discoveries made. The program you received when you arrived and some of the exhibits you will see today have many interesting items and pictures that tell our story. Some items in the timeline are bolded. They emphasize areas in which we were pioneers and why, to this day, we continue to be recognized by our peers in the oral health care profession as truly the leaders and best.
Today is special for a second reason.
It marks the end of two years of renovations and additions to the Kellogg Building and gives us an opportunity to acknowledge the contributions of many alumni and friends, particularly the three University of Michigan School of Dentistry graduates whose names will become a part of these facilities Dr. Robert W. Browne, Dr. Kenneth A. Easlick, and Dr. Samuel D. Harris. The spot where we are gathered, the Atrium, was a part of the renovation project. In addition to the skywalks and the glass dome overhead, you will notice that the Gordon H. Sindecuse Museum, which we formally dedicated several years ago, has been expanded. The expansion of the Atrium and the Museum was made possible by a gift from the estate of Dr. Sindecuse. Another facility the Student Forum was also renovated.