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March 26, 2009

Student continues tradition of giving with donation to ULM School of Nursing

Continuing a family tradition that emphasizes the gift of giving, 19-year-old Lauren Dozier, a pre-nursing sophomore, recently donated $500 to the University of Louisiana at Monroe School of Nursing.

Dozier said her family believes that the “rewards of giving are greater than receiving.”

In December, Lauren’s uncle, Dr. Donald Davis, a retired anesthesiologist living in Carmel, Calif., gave his three nephews and one niece, Dozier, $500 each with the stipulation that the money must be given to a worthy cause.

Asked why she chose to give her $500 to ULM’s School of Nursing, Dozier said she wanted to become a registered nurse, her mom is a nurse and she knew the gift would benefit others in the School of Nursing.

Dozier’s family instilled the gift of giving at an early age. Even as a very young child, her mother brought Dozier along to visit with residents of the nursing home where her mother worked. Dozier has vivid recollections of “Mr. Grady” and his joy when telling her stories. When Dozier was older she played the violin for oncology patients and their families.

Dozier’s maternal grandmother, who taught school in Baskin, served as another philanthropic role model. From money saved out of her paycheck, her grandmother created a $1,000 annual fund to give to a student who wanted to attend college. Dozier said that along with her uncle, mom, and another aunt, she is carrying on that tradition.

“Lauren’s gift transcends merely monetary value as it teaches us all about the joy of giving,” said Dean of the College of Health Sciences Denny Ryman. “I commend Dr. Davis for his desire to instill in his niece the importance of thinking about others.”

School of Nursing Director Florencetta Gibson said, “Lauren was very persistent with her efforts to support the School of Nursing. She made an appointment to come by and discuss her choice to give to the School of Nursing. Lauren was serious as she discussed the many needs in the community and her goal to help people in the career she has chosen. We are fortunate to have this person at ULM. “

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