The Champion Award at LA Trust’s 2024 Salute to Student Health event celebrates his dedication to health equity.
Our Bureau
Los Angeles, CA
The Los Angeles Trust for Children’s Health hosted its 2024 Salute to Student Health Garden Reception on September 19, 2024, at Redbird in Downtown Los Angeles. The L.A. Trust proudly honored Dr. Jayanth Kumar, a recently retired State Dental Director of the California Department of Public Health, with the Champion Award.
The garden event gathered more than 150 guests from numerous industries to support the mission of The L.A. Trust. The awards reception featured a hosted bar, a live auction, and hors-d’oeuvres from Micheline-recommended Redbird chef Neal Fraser.
“We are deeply honored to recognize the outstanding contributions of our honorees, whose tireless dedication to underserved children has created lasting change in our communities. Their leadership and commitment to health equity ensure that every child, regardless of circumstance, has the opportunity to thrive,” said Maryjane Puffer, Executive Director of The L.A. Trust.
Dr. Jayanth Kumar accepted the Los Angeles Trust’s Champion Award via video, expressing gratitude and emphasizing the need for equitable oral health outcomes. He remarked, “Despite significant progress, tooth decay remains a chronic disease among children, and disparities in oral health continue to be a pressing concern.” Dr. Kumar concluded by hoping that his recognition would inspire others in the field.
Dr. Jayanth Kumar, retiring after nearly nine years as California’s State Dental Director, has prioritized oral health since his 2015 appointment by Gov. Jerry Brown. He played a key role in developing the State Oral Health Plan, advancing disease prevention and access to care through initiatives like community water fluoridation, school-based programs, and professional training.
The Salute to Student Health awards raised funds for The L.A. Trust for Children’s Health and its student outreach programs. The event sponsors included LA Care, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles Medical Group, Delta Dental, Health Net, Jan Kern, Kaiser Permanente, Alta Hospitals, Association Foundation, California Dental Association, DentaQuest, Liberty Dental, St. Johns Community Health, The Broad Foundation, Via Care.
