Impactful Legacy: How a $20 Million Gift Transforms KCU
Historic Donation Ignites Growth at Kansas City University
Kansas City University (KCU) has received an extraordinary gift of over $20 million from the estate of Paul W. Dybedal, DO, and his wife, Mary Louise Dybedal. This landmark contribution, the largest from an individual in the institution's history, exemplifies the Dybedals' unwavering dedication to the advancement of osteopathic medical education, research, behavioral health, and student scholarships.
Empowering the Future of Medical Education
Dr. Dybedal, who graduated in 1954 from KCU's College of Osteopathic Medicine, had a notable career in psychiatry. As a U.S. Army Reserves medical officer, he dedicated himself to both inpatient and forensic psychiatry, notably at Napa State Hospital in California. In addition to being an honored alumnus, he retired from the KCU Board of Trustees in 2007 after over 36 years of impactful service.
The Dybedal Family’s Commitment to Education
“KCU provided my father with the foundation he needed to excel, and he was deeply committed to ensuring future students enjoyed the same opportunities,” shared Paul Dybedal Jr. “This gift continues his support for KCU, embodying the gratitude our family has for the institution.”
This substantial donation will significantly bolster three key areas within KCU:
Enhancements at the Dybedal Center for Research
The gift will allow KCU to expand the Dybedal Center for Research on its Kansas City campus and create state-of-the-art laboratory facilities on the Joplin campus. This expansion aims to enhance KCU's research capabilities, enabling groundbreaking advancements in the medical and biosciences sectors.
Establishing a Distinguished Chair in Psychiatry
Furthermore, the creation of the Paul W. Dybedal, DO, Endowed Chair of Psychiatry will play a crucial role in enhancing psychiatric education at KCU. This position will support innovative research in behavioral health and aid in attracting and retaining leading faculty in the field.
Supporting Future Medical Students
The donation will also increase the Mary L. Dybedal Scholarship Fund, ensuring that future generations of medical students can access vital tuition assistance.
The Dybedals have a long history of generous support towards KCU. Their previous contributions include establishing the Paul W. Dybedal, DO, and Mary L. Dybedal Scholarship, aimed at assisting future osteopathic medical students. In recognition of a pivotal gift in 2004 that significantly advanced medical education and biomedical research at KCU, the University dedicated the Dybedal Center for Research in 2006. To date, their generous contributions exceed $22.7 million.
Looking Ahead: Transforming the Future
“We are profoundly appreciative of the Dybedal family's generosity,” said Marc B. Hahn, DO, president and CEO of KCU. “Their contributions are set to transform our University and strengthen our capability for innovation, consistent with our mission of improving community well-being.”
The legacy of the Dybedal family ensures a lasting impact on KCU's future. Their commitment is poised to influence innovations, bolster research efforts, and enrich the educational experiences of students and faculty alike.
About Kansas City University
Founded in 1916, Kansas City University (KCU) stands as a fully accredited private, not-for-profit health sciences institution. It encompasses Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine, Biosciences, and Dental Medicine, with campuses located in Kansas City and Joplin, Missouri. KCU's College of Osteopathic Medicine ranks as the fourth-largest medical school in the United States, recognized for producing a significant number of physicians in Missouri, particularly in primary care and underserved areas.
KCU also operates the Center for Population Health and Equity, addressing the determinants affecting health in populations while training students across all programs to tackle these challenges. The University offers various doctoral and master's degrees, with an exciting new Master of Health Sciences – Anesthesiologist Assistant program set for launch in the near future.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the significant donation made to KCU?
The Dybedal family donated over $20 million, marking the largest gift from an individual in KCU's history.
How will the donation impact KCU's research capabilities?
The donation will fund the expansion of the Dybedal Center for Research, enhancing research facilities on both the Kansas City and Joplin campuses.
What is the purpose of establishing the Paul W. Dybedal, DO, Endowed Chair of Psychiatry?
This endowed chair will be crucial for advancing psychiatric education, supporting innovative behavioral health research, and attracting top faculty to KCU.
How does the donation benefit future medical students?
The contribution will increase the Mary L. Dybedal Scholarship Fund, thereby providing essential tuition support for future generations of medical students.
What legacy do the Dybedals leave at KCU?
The Dybedals' legacy will continue to shape KCU's future, influencing education, research, and community well-being initiatives for years to come.
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