What’s the best way to share some of the exciting new developments on the Sacramento campus with Ernest E. Tschannen, a dedicated outdoor enthusiast who also happens to be the university’s largest individual donor?
A walking lunch, of course, that featured easy-to-eat foods and included an early birthday celebration for Tschannen, who turns 94 on Feb. 16.
The tour took place last Friday (Feb. 1), led by Chancellor Gary S. May and other university officials, including David Lubarsky, vice chancellor of Human Health Sciences; Lars Berglund, interim dean of the School of Medicine; and Mark Mannis, chair of the Eye Center.
The tour began at the future site of the Ernest E. Tschannen Eye Institute adjacent to the Larry J. Ellison Ambulatory Care Center and included stops at the future site of the UC Davis Rehabilitation Hospital on Broadway and Aggie Square on Stockton Boulevard.
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The event ended at the medical center where Chong Porter, associate vice chancellor for Health Sciences Development and Alumni Relations, and other development staff joined the group for birthday dessert.
“Ernest enjoys hiking and walks six miles a day,” said Mannis, who has become a good friend of Tschannen’s.
“The walking tour gives him the opportunity to explore new developments and learn how UC Davis is a catalyst for innovation, economic growth and community health,” he said.
The walking lunch featured vegetarian offerings, including kale smoothies, whitefish salad and fruit.