Building on the momentum of the successful Giving Day this past October, The University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB Health) held its first Employee Giving Appreciation Event to honor faculty and staff members who generously supported the university over the past year.
Hosted by the Office of Development and Alumni Relations, the evening featured remarks from UTMB Health President Dr. Jochen Reiser and Vice President and Chief Development Officer James Gallo, who expressed their gratitude for the employee contributions that help advance UTMB Health’s mission.
“The generosity of the UTMB Health community is truly overwhelming,” Dr. Reiser remarked. “Our missions are ultimately about helping people and allowing them to live life to the fullest, and employee philanthropy plays a vital role in our success.”
Vice President Gallo echoed this sentiment, saying, “It’s incredible to see how much our employees care about UTMB Health and the work we do. Every gift, no matter the size, makes a difference and shows just how committed our team is to making a real impact.”
Guests enjoyed hors d’oeuvres, drinks and the opportunity to connect with colleagues in a festive setting. During the event, employees also shared their motivations for giving, captured in a special video.
“I support UTMB Health because I believe it’s important to invest in the next generation of students,” shared Victor Moreno, associate vice president of workforce operations at UTMB Health.
Dr. Hala Ghoson, a UTMB Health research pharmacist, also expressed her reason for giving: “I give because what the university is doing for our community, state and nation is amazing.”
This inaugural event not only celebrated the generosity of UTMB Health employees but also highlighted the vital role their contributions play in advancing the university's mission of education, research, patient care and innovation.
UTMB Health looks forward to continuing this tradition and inspiring even greater participation in the years to come.