Big Give is upon us once again here at UC Berkeley! I know your inbox is likely full of Big Give messages, but I wanted to send a personal note as we head into this week.
During my first few weeks at the school this time last year, I had the chance to witness just how incredible our community is during Big Give. The energy, generosity, and shared purpose were truly inspiring. Each year, our community shows up and pays it forward, making a real difference for our students, patients, and programs.
Big Give reminds us that while every individual gift supports our mission, it is our collective commitment that allows us to pursue our most ambitious goals at the Herbert Wertheim School of Optometry and Vision Science.
This year, that ambition is centered on the newest chapter in our school’s history: the opening of our Emeryville campus later this spring. This new clinic reflects our continued evolution to meet community needs, with expanded emphasis on pediatric vision care and more. As the space comes to life, we continue to raise funds for the broader Emeryville campaign to ensure it remains a premier center for optometric care and education for decades to come. We are excited to welcome our patients and community through its doors very soon.
Big Give is a powerful moment for our small-but-mighty network to rally together. Your support provides critical resources that help our students thrive and ensures patients receive the care they deserve. I hope you will consider joining me in making a gift to the Emeryville Satellite Campus Fund, a gift that keeps on giving.
I look forward to celebrating what we can accomplish together. Go Bears!
Sharon Bentley
Dean and Professor
Herbert Wertheim School of Optometry & Vision Science