At Penn Dental Medicine, we are committed to ensuring that every student has the opportunity to succeed—no matter what unexpected challenges arise. Inspired by the generosity of a Penn Dental Medicine alumnus, the Student Emergency Relief Fund provides critical support to students facing unforeseen hardships that could disrupt their education or compromise their well-being.
This special fund is designed to address urgent needs that cannot reasonably be met through other forms of aid or personal resources. By helping students navigate unexpected expenses, we ensure they can continue focusing on their training, research, and clinical work with confidence and peace of mind.
Examples of support include:
- Repair or replacement of damaged or stolen academic technology
- Unanticipated or emergency medical expenses
- Temporary housing following displacement due to fire, flood, or other unforeseen circumstances
- Travel costs related to a family crisis or death in the immediate family
- Other urgent needs essential to safety, health, or academic progress
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis by a committee comprised of staff from the Office of Student Affairs and Student Financial Services. Funding priority is given based on the urgency of the situation, the level of hardship, and the student’s overall financial situation.
Make a Gift
Your gift to the Emergency Student Fund can make an immediate and meaningful difference.
Give to the Student Emergency Relief Fund»
For More Information
Sarah Burton Flynn
Director, Strategic Development & Alumni Relations
Penn Dental Medicine
215-898-3542
sburton@upenn.edu
This award does not require repayment. To help sustain the Emergency Student Fund and ensure future students can receive the same vital support, we invite recipients and donors to consider giving back when they are able.