Athens, Ga. – The University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine has been named one of two new non-profit beneficiaries for the 2007 Atlanta Steeplechase. The Atlanta Steeplechase Board of Stewards made the announcement this week that, along with the Starlight Starbright Children’s Foundation, the College of Veterinary Medicine will receive the charitable proceeds of next year’s 42nd annual steeplechase event, revenue that enables them to accomplish their missions. The Atlanta Steeplechase is scheduled for April 14, at Kingston Downs located northwest of Atlanta.
“We are honored to be named one of the primary beneficiaries of this event,” Dean Sheila W. Allen said. “Proceeds from the Atlanta Steeplechase will go toward building a much needed new hospital for animals and supporting the educational programs of the College.”
Founded in 1946 the College of Veterinary Medicine graduates approximately 96 professionals per year. With more than 130 faculty members–more than half have PhDs in addition to the DVM degree–the College represents the pinnacle for veterinary medical clinical instruction, service and research. Its Poultry Diagnostic and Research Center, Veterinary Medicine Teaching Hospital, and Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study are among the best in the world. <!–[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]–>
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Starlight Starbright Children’s Foundation is a national non-profit organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for chronically and seriously ill children and their families through both in-hospital and out-patient programs. The Foundation’s Atlanta chapter, created in 1989, offers many social and educational programs in more than 25 hospitals, 8 of which are pediatric, and 20 additional agencies throughout Georgia that serve children. Over 35,000 children are served each year.<!–[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]–>
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Starlight Starbright Executive Director Beverly Losman said, “We are absolutely thrilled to be a part of this endeavor and will help make 2007 the most successful ever!”
“We are so pleased to join forces with these two organizations and look forward to working with the wonderful staff at UGA and Starlight in support of their fundraising goals,” said Jean Bird, executive director of the Steeplechase. “Next year’s event will be the largest partnership of resources and leadership in the history of our efforts.”<!–[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]–>
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Along with the Steeplechase’s title beneficiaries, two additional Georgia non-profits will receive programming support from net proceeds, the American Red Cross Coosa Valley Chapter and Chastain Park Therapeutic Riding Program.
“We are very energized by the leadership and fundraising potential of our new partnerships,” said Chairman of the Atlanta Steeplechase Board of Stewards, Hal Barry. “Next year’s event is going to redefine the meaning of success for us.”
Corporations that have already committed their support to the 2007 Steeplechase are The Coca Cola Company, MRI & Imaging of Georgia, Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles, Atlanta Magazine, and State Mutual Insurance Company.
Located at the University of Georgia, America’s oldest state-chartered university, the College of Veterinary Medicine plays an important role in the University’s educational and service missions by promoting the art and science of veterinary medicine through the education of tomorrow’s veterinarians, research in animal diseases, and service to the public.
Visit www.atlantasteeplechase.org or e-mail mcsteeplechase@bellsouth.net for more information.
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