VCOM 2025 Annual Report

149

IMPACT

Left: G. Gail Lott, MEd, and James R. Edinger, DO, in front of the VCOM-Carolinas Building that bears their names. Photo by Elvia Resendiz Photography.

This remarkable couple approaches everything they do with passion and purpose—their love of the outdoors and hiking, their devotion to animals and nature, and their enthusiastic pursuit of building an extensive collection of bronze sculptures. Their home reflects their love of art and antiques, and their gift reflects their belief in accessible healthcare. “We are thrilled to support VCOM-Carolinas in its mission to educate future physicians,” said Edinger. “This investment reflects our belief in the transformative power of education and our dedication to empowering health care professionals to serve our community with excellence.” In addition to naming the VCOM-Carolinas building, their generosity will also establish three endowed funds: a scholarship fund; campus beautification fund; and a fund to support nutrition education, research, and public health initiatives. Lott and Edinger are dedicated philanthropists, making significant gifts to other communities that matter to them.

They established a scholarship fund for medical students affiliated with Park Road Presbyterian Church in Wyomissing, Pennsylvania, and contributed to the Dr. Reed P. Rice Fund at Duke University in honor of the former head of gastrointestinal radiology. “Giving back to others has been ingrained in my husband and me by our parents,” said Lott. “Jim and I have been deeply blessed, and we believe in giving back while we are still living. “We are both very frugal and conservative, which has allowed us to be contribution,” said Dr. Matthew Cannon, dean of VCOM-Carolinas. “It is a profound investment in our medical students, in our graduates who practice medicine in South Carolina, and in improving access to health care across the state.” The couple’s legacy of leadership, education, and service will inspire future generations of health care professionals. Their generosity will help VCOM continue its mission to educate physicians who serve in rural and underserved communities across South Carolina. generous with our blessings.” “This gift is more than a financial