The Maurice H. Kornberg School of Dentistry has formally named its advanced education in general dentistry clinic after Temple alumni Ray N. and Dolores K. Leidich, in honor of their $1 million gift.

A 1953 graduate of the Dental School, Leidich said he was inspired to give the gift in appreciation of Temple giving him and his wife, Dolores — a graduate of the Temple School of Pharmacy — a springboard for the successes in their professional lives.

“As a student, I was aware of people giving back to the university, and I hoped that one day I could show my appreciation in the same manner,” Leidich said.

Temple President Ann Weaver Hart said Leidich’s generosity will make a substantial difference at the School of Dentistry and at Temple.

“We are extremely grateful to both Ray and Delores Leidich for this thoughtful gift,” President Hart said. “Their desire to give back is in the finest Temple University spirit, and their actions will have a positive impact on students for generations to come.”

Naming the advanced education in general dentistry clinic for the Leidichs is a fitting tribute, said Martin Tansy, dean of the Dental School.

“Gifts of this magnitude not only enhance the academic experience at the dental school, but are a sign of confidence, a signal to our alumni that the benefactor had a solid experience as a student and a productive life as a dental professional,” Tansy said.

The gift was provided through an annuity that entitles donors to a fixed payment from Temple over their lifetimes in exchange for creating an endowed fund.

The naming of the Ray N. and Dolores K. Leidich Advanced Education in General Dentistry Clinic took place at an April 30 ceremony.