Students, faculty and staff at the UNMC College of Dentistry are beginning to see the walls of the college’s building in Lincoln fill up with bright, engaging photography.
The photos, which are blown up to sizes ranging from 8×10 to 16×20 inches and framed for display, all have been taken by members of the college of dentistry community.
See more of the photos on display at the college.
“The idea originated with Dean Gerard Kugel, who envisioned showcasing photography from our own faculty, staff, and students throughout the college’s hallways and breakrooms,” said Emily Gish, who is spearheading the project for the college.
The first call for photos went out May 2024.
Grace Boganowski, at the time a first-year dental student, wasn’t sure she wanted to submit a photo.
Her entry, a photo of San Juan’s “Umbrellas of the Fortress,” was taken when she was on a mission trip in high school, and her father often had told her to submit it somewhere. She sent in the photo, which was taken on her phone.
It now is hanging in the college, along with other photos that Boganowski said have really improved the atmosphere of the building.
“We can see how we can leave our mark and how they appreciate us being there,” she said.
She also enjoys looking at others’ photos, recognizing fellow students and faculty members’ work.
“It’s interesting to see people’s different points of view and what they find is beautiful,” she said. “It’s awesome to connect with my peers and professors. The UNMC College of Dentistry is just a welcoming place. Everyone wants to get to know you and learn more about you.”
Boganowski’s entry was one of hundreds of submissions.
“We received a wonderful response, and a committee helped narrow down the submissions,” Gish said. Ultimately, 52 photos will be chosen, framed and hung.
“Our goal is to rotate the displayed photography every six to 12 months to keep the collection fresh and engaging,” Gish said.
Earlier this summer, Gish put out another call for submissions, quickly receiving more than 100 new submissions.
“I was overwhelmed by the response,” she said. “We received a wide variety of images — landscapes (not limited to Nebraska), favorite flowers and plants, architecture, weather scenes, animals and places with personal meaning.
“It’s clear that students and employees are excited to see their work displayed, and the project has grown into something truly special.”
Dean Gerard Kugel, DMD, PhD, said: “Our college is in many ways like a family, and this project is a chance, not simply to brighten the halls of the building, but for our students and faculty to share – with each other and with patients – moments of beauty that they have discovered and enjoyed.”
Very nice!
Love the photos! Kudos to Emily, Jason, and to all those who submitted photos!