UVM President Tom Sullivan, Gary Hann, Robert Steed, Sharona Steed, and Dean Rick Morin (Photo: David Seaver)

The College hosted a dedication of The Robert Larner, M.D. College of Medicine at The University of Vermont on April 28 in the Hoehl Gallery in the Health Science Research Facility. The event honored the late Dr. Larner and his wife Helen for their generosity and longtime dedication to and support of medicine, education and UVM over the past 32 years.

Several members of Dr. and Mrs. Larner’s family were in attendance at the ceremony, which was highlighted by the unveiling of a commemorative portrait of the couple. Remarks were delivered by Larner College of Medicine Dean Rick Morin, M.D.; UVM President Tom Sullivan; medical alumnus John Tampas, M.D.’54; medical student Emily Vayda ’20; Larner Professor of Medical Education and Teaching Academy Director Kathryn Huggett, Ph.D.; and Senior Associate Dean for Medical Education William Jeffries, Ph.D. In addition, Dr. and Mrs. Larner’s granddaughter Sharona Steed shared comments about her relationship with her late grandfather, and the Larners’ son Gary Hahn also provided brief remarks.

A consistent theme of passion, determination and commitment to giving back were scattered throughout all of the speakers’ remarks.

Dr. Larner always wanted the College to “think big,” said Dean Morin. “He never let up on his quest for excellence,” said President Sullivan.

Dr. Tampas, longtime Medical Alumni Association executive secretary, spoke about understanding the depth of Dr. Larner’s connection to UVM and the College. “We were both Burlington boys, products of local schools, sons of hard-working immigrant parents . . . Here we found our opportunity to have a rich and meaningful career.”

“Dr. Larner will continue to live on in every one of us, and we will always strive to serve and create communities, with a strong commitment to the patient and giving back to those who follow us, passing on his legacy, which is second to none,” said Vayda.

Larner’s granddaughter Sharona said that she knew her grandfather as a “family man.” “He showed deep love for his family the way he did for this school,” she said.

UVM announced the Larners’ historic gift and the naming of The Robert Larner, M.D. College of Medicine at The University of Vermont on September 23, 2016. Read the press release about the naming and gift here. Learn more about Dr. Larner here.

Watch the full Dedication video here.