The Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation honored area supporters at a Loyal Donor Society reception at The Summit Club in Tulsa on Thursday.
OMRF established the group to celebrate the foundation’s most consistent donors, recognizing those who have made donations to the nonprofit biomedical research institute for a minimum of five consecutive years. Those with giving records of 15, 20, 25 and 30 were given special acknowledgement.
“It’s amazing to realize that these individuals and groups have giving histories that go back decades, and that’s every year. That’s significant,” said OMRF Senior Director of Development Ginny Carl. “We wanted to recognize these donors, because they are the true foundation of support for OMRF.”
As part of the evening’s festivities, OMRF President Stephen Prescott, M.D., updated the crowd on some of the innovative projects in the works. He also spoke to the critical role philanthropic giving plays in establishing the support and stability necessary for nonprofits like OMRF.
“It’s important for people in Tulsa, and everywhere, to learn what OMRF is doing, because then they recognize how remarkable it is,” said Mark Collins, Ph.D., OMRF board member and Tulsa University professor of finance. “We talk about OMRF as a ‘hidden jewel,’ and it really is. It’s very valuable to the state of Oklahoma.”
The reception was the first of three stops in OMRF’s 2016 Loyal Donor Society tour. Events are also scheduled for Lawton and Enid.
“We are all touched by disease, either individually or by a friend or relative, and these donors have chosen to honor their loved ones by making a difference in the fight against disease,” said Carl. “I thought the event was a huge success, and I look forward to building on it in the future and showing our supporters just how much we appreciate what they do for us.”
