Gala finale for College of Dentistry centennial

Dental student George Kottemann in the early 1950s. As an alumnus, Kottemann became one of the college’s most enthusiastic supporters.

By Bill Bike

The College of Dentistry ends its centennial year Nov. 16 with a gala in the Grand Ballroom at Navy Pier.

Since January, the college has sponsored scientific and social events to celebrate the 100th anniversary of becoming a University of Illinois college.

“The gala will cap a year of honoring not only the college’s history, but the members of our college community who have embraced our commitment to excellence in dental education and who have been inspired by our vision to make our college a world leader over the past 100 years,” said dean Bruce Graham.

The gala’s theme is “A Proud Past, A Brilliant Future.” Festivities will begin at 6 p.m. with cocktails on the Lakeview Terrace. Dinner will be served at 7 p.m. in the Grand Ballroom, followed by dancing at 9 p.m. to the City Lights Orchestra.

Other activities include a silent auction and the sale of the centennial year history book.

“We’re celebrating a proud past, and we’re looking to a brilliant future,” Graham said. “We want everyone to come to the gala.”

Tickets are $200 for faculty, alumni, friends and their guests and $100 for staff, students and their guests. Parking is free.

For more information, email dentalum@uic.edu

Left to right: the College of Dentistry in the ’20s, ’40s, ’60s and 1970s. (Click on images for larger size)