ATSU board member and dental school supporters honored

MESA, Ariz. (Nov. 14, 2008 ) – A.T. Still University supporters, dentists, and brothers Drs. Paul, Christopher, and Ruskin Lines were recognized Nov. 12 at the 24th Annual Spirit of Philanthropy Awards at the Arizona Biltmore Resort and Spa in Phoenix.

The event, hosted by the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) – Greater Arizona Chapter, was created in 1991 to provide charitable organizations the opportunity to recognize someone associated with their organization who truly exemplifies the spirit of philanthropy. The Lines brothers were three of 42 philanthropic leaders honored.

The Lines brothers became involved with ATSU’s Arizona School of Dentistry & Oral Health (ASDOH) in 2003, and have since supported the school through generous donations of both time and money. All three currently practice in Tempe, Ariz.

“Our father was our role model,” said Paul Lines, D.D.S., whose support of ATSU includes service on ATSU’s Board of Trustees. “He lived his life doing service for others. It was very easy for all of us to feel we needed to serve our communities.” The brothers’ financial contributions led to the naming of the Judge Ruskin Lines Dental Techniques Laboratory at ASDOH, in honor of their father.

Along with their financial contributions, all three brothers make significant contributions of time and expertise to ASDOH. Dr. Paul Lines is surgical director for the post-graduate orthodontics program, and lectures twice a week. Christopher Lines, D.D.S., M.S., is a member of the adjunct orthodontic faculty. Ruskin Lines, D.D.S., M.S., assists and substitutes for Dr. Paul Lines regularly in the orthodontic clinic. All three regularly invite students to their offices to observe procedures.

“They share a commitment to improving dental education and giving back to the community,” said ASDOH Dean Jack Dillenberg, D.D.S., M.P.H. “They feel drawn to ASDOH’s community service component and commitment to clinical excellence.”

“(We) are grateful and honored to be nominated for such a prestigious award,” said Dr. Christopher Lines. “We have been most pleased with our affiliation with ASDOH, and have been happy to contribute to the school as part of the orthodontic faculty as well as financially to the pre-clinical technique lab.”

Held each year in celebration of National Philanthropy Day, this special event recognizes and reflects on the profound importance of philanthropy in our society by honoring the individuals, corporations and foundations that, through their hard work and dedication, have enhanced philanthropy and volunteerism in Arizona.

About National Philanthropy Day

National Philanthropy Day is a special day set aside on the 15th of November to recognize the great contributions of philanthropy and those active in the not-for-profit community. First held in 1986, National Philanthropy Day celebrates the endless contributions individuals and organizations make to countless causes each year.

About the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP)

The Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) is a professional association of individuals responsible for generating philanthropic support for a wide variety of charitable organizations. AFP represents 27,000 members in 179 chapters throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico and China, including the Greater Arizona Chapter, working to advance philanthropy through advocacy, research, and education. To learn more, visit www.afpaz.org.