Last week, the Association of Fundraising Professionals Nebraska Chapter honored Stanley M. Truhlsen, M.D., and his wife Dorothy as Outstanding Philanthropists for the state of Nebraska.
The Truhlsens were honored Nov. 12 — National Philanthropy Day — for their generous commitment to improving access to the arts and their work in health care, including the creation of the Stanley M. Truhlsen Eye Institute at UNMC.
“Stan and Dottie Truhlsen are true givers to the Omaha community and the state of Nebraska,” said their nominator Carol Russell. “They are philanthropists, humanitarians and civic leaders, as well as being two of the nicest, most genuine people you could ever meet.”
At UNMC, their philanthropy has funded:
- The Stanley M. Truhlsen Eye Institute.
- The Truhlsen Eye Research Laboratories at the Durham Research Center.
- The Dr. Stanley M. and Dorothy Truhlsen Campus Events Center in the Michael F. Sorrell Center for Health Science Education.
Elsewhere, their philanthropy has funded:
- The Stanley M. and Dorothy Truhlsen Lecture Hall at the Durham Museum.
- The Joslyn Museum Stanley M. and Dorothy Truhlsen Discovery Sculpture Garden.
- Many purchases and projects at the Joslyn Art Museum.
- A contribution toward construction of the Holland Performing Arts Center.
- Renovations to the sanctuary at Countryside Community Church and a gymnasium addition.
- Gifts to Prevent Blindness Nebraska, Goodwill Industries and many more organizations.
Dr. Truhlsen, emeritus professor and former chairman of UNMC’s Department of Ophthalmology, is national recognized in the field of ophthalmology. A 1944 graduate of UNMC, he has served as president of the American Academy of Ophthalmology and president of the American Ophthalmological Society.