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Home > Student Programs > News & EventsStudent News & Events16th Annual International Student Leadership ConferenceHundreds of Students from Around the World Gather to Help Children with Facial Deformities From August 2-6, more than 350 students gathered at San Diego State University in California for the 16th Annual International Student Leadership Conference (ISLC). Students from 17 United States and 16 other countries came together to learn about leadership, service, fund-raising, club organization and Operation Smile’s work around the world.
Highlights of the conference included speeches given by Lisa Nichols, contributor to the self-development phenomenon The Secret, and Benjamin Ajak, one of The Lost Boys of Sudan who co-authored They Poured Fire on Us from the Sky: The True Story of Three Lost Boys from Sudan. The speakers left conference participants with powerful messages including Ajak’s words of wisdom that “We are not here to work for ourselves. We are here to work for those who cannot work for themselves.” A favorite event was the “International Party” where the international students displayed their cultures through costume, dance and representative items from their countries. Students also took part in field day competitions, completed a service project to create nametags for future Operation Smile patients and enjoyed an evening at Sea World.
During the conference’s “Opening Ceremonies,” Operation Smile’s Co-founders Dr. Bill and Kathy Magee presented awards to some of the students in attendance. The awards recognize student volunteerism and effort and to encourage leadership and service. Claire Crawford from Mississippi received the Jennifer Pham Award, while Andrea Vega from El Salvador was presented with the Logan Taylor Award. The Francine Peterson Award went to Arielle Harris of New York. Teacher and Norfolk Academy Student Association advisor Pat Hume of Virginia received the Educator of the Year Award. The student group from Cibola High School in New Mexico was named Outstanding Student Club of the Year, while the International Club of the Year Award went to both Atlantic College in the United Kingdom and the Student Program in Ireland, which represents several clubs. Utah State University received the Outstanding University Club of the Year Award, and the New Club of the Year Award was presented to Westfield High School in New Jersey.
Prior to the ISLC, 46 students from 13 U.S states, Ireland, Mexico, and Paraguay attended Operation Smile’s bi-annual Mission Training Workshop at San Diego State University. From July 29-August 1, these students were trained to effectively teach basic health care, including oral rehydration therapy, burn care and prevention, proper nutrition and dental care, to families and patients during Operation Smile international medical missions. At the end of the intensive workshop, participants were given their mission assignments including missions to Brazil, China, Egypt, Madagascar, and Venezuela in the next six to twelve months. At least two students and one adult sponsor participate on every Operation Smile international mission. Hollie Tyrrell of Ireland said, “It was an amazing experience to meet 45 other students so dedicated to Operation Smile and I made lifelong friends from it. I loved everyday of it and am excited to go and put the things I learned into use in Kenya which will be a life-changing experience that I am fortunate enough to enjoy.” Students left the workshop informed, impassioned, and excited about Operation Smile’s mission including Kevin Prior of New Jersey who was grateful for the opportunity to “work together and meet other kids because we share the same goal of making life better for kids around the world.”
Florida high school club raises $1000 for Operation SmileThe FACE (Facial Anomaly Community Education) club at Seminole Ridge High School in Loxahatchee, Florida, works hard year round to raise awareness of and funds for people with facial deformities. The club holds events to support local families who have children with facial differences and also hosts an annual fundraiser for Operation Smile. This past April, through a school-wide "jeans day" fundraiser and a $500 donation from the Huisking Foundation, FACE raised more than $1,000 for Operation Smile. Dr. Drew Schnitt, plastic surgeon and Operation Smile medical volunteer, accepted the donation on behalf of Operation Smile and gave a presentation regarding his involvement in surgical missions around the world.
Norfolk Students Meet with Operation Smile Health Care Providers from Around the WorldOn June 6, 2008, more than 300 sixth graders from nine Norfolk public schools took part in Operation Smile’s “World Tour Student Day.” The program, which took place at Norfolk Academy, gave students the opportunity to learn about Operation Smile’s international charity work and its activities in Norfolk. Students started the day with an assembly during which Operation Smile President and Co-founder Kathy Magee spoke about Operation Smile’s inception and Eliza Peak, a student from Nansemond Suffolk Academy, gave a presentation regarding her experience on a recent mission to the Philippines. Also, students from Meadowbrook Middle School’s School of International Studies and the Ghent School presented Operation Smile with money raised through fund-raising events held throughout the school year.
“World Tour Student Day” is part of Operation Smile’s Physicians Training Program (PTP), which has brought more than 90 healthcare providers from 28 countries to Norfolk to learn new surgical techniques and expand their knowledge through lectures, lab rotations, and operating room observation. More than 20 of those healthcare providers from 15 countries volunteered to take part in the “World Tour Student Day.” With artificial passports in hand, students traveled to three different countries each, situated in classrooms throughout Norfolk Academy. A plastic surgeon, a pediatrician, an anesthesiologist, a dentist, a nurse, or a speech pathologist awaited the sixth graders in each room. The healthcare providers gave presentations regarding the culture of their home country and their involvement in Operation Smile. Elsa Villagomeza, M.D., an anesthesiologist from the Philippines, knows the importance of relaying her experience to the children because she believes that, “by sharing my time right now and talking about what I do with Operation Smile, I think I motivate them somehow to do this kind of work.” Matthew Karia, a speech pathologist from Kenya, also recognizes the necessity of influencing these preteens because, “even as children, they have the responsibility to help others.”
Following the presentations and question/answer sessions, students made “get well” cards for future Operation Smile patients. Cynthia Graves, a sixth grader from Meadowbrook Middle School, explained that she will always remember this day because, “Usually we don't get to meet people who go and operate. Today, we got to meet the people who change lives.” The day ended with a short presentation and speech given by Dr. Richard Rosenblum, a plastic surgeon and Operation Smile volunteer who began volunteering with Operation Smile when he was in high school. Rosenbloom asked the students to, “think about how lucky you are” to be born without a facial deformity and suggested they each, “find a way to give back.” University Partnership Program in ParaguayOperation Smile Student Programs concluded the University Partnership Program in April. The program took place in Asuncion, Paraguay, from April 10 – 15, 2008 with 30 local high school students from the American School of Asuncion, Liberty School of Education, Colegio Cristo Rey, San Ignacio del Loyola, Las Teresa, and Colegio Panamericano. Christi Berglund from Loyola College in Maryland, Amanda Fay from Tulane University in Louisiana, and Jordan Murphy from Spelman College in Georgia joined the team as university students. In conference form, the university team educated the local high school students about the five pillars of Student Programs: Leadership, Education, Awareness, Service, and Fundraising. The student from the six participating schools banded together to plan a city-wide concert to benefit Operation Smile, which is tentatively going to be held in August. The students also did a service project at an orphanage in Asuncion where they were tasked with teaching dental hygiene to 20 kids between the ages of three and ten. Through the University Partnership Program, the students from Paraguay are able to continually support Operation Smile Paraguay through school fundraising as well as assisting during the upcoming medical mission in September.
14th Annual Throw-A-Thon at Johnson State CollegeThe Johnson State College ceramic arts department is excited to report another successful year of fundraising to benefit Operation Smile. For the 14th annual Throw-A-Thon in October, the college invited the community to join them at their ceramic arts studio, drawing more than 80 participants. For a donation of $5.00, participants could create hand-crafted and/or wheel-thrown ceramic forms. All the ceramic art work made during the Throw-A-Thon was dried, fired in kilns, glazed, fired again, and then sold during the Annual Holiday Ceramic and Bake Sale in November during Operation Smile’s World Journey of Smiles. This year, the combined events raised more than $1,240.00.
More Than 2,000 Students Run to Help Children Around the WorldAs part of the Shamrock Sportsfest, on March 15, more than 2,000 elementary school students from 130 schools in Virginia and the U.S. participated in the Operation Smile Final Mile to get fit and raise money for the organization. In September, students ages 7-13 participating in the Operation Smile Final Mile began running to complete 25.2 miles, in order to run their final mile on the boardwalk on March 15 for a total of 26.2 miles, the equivalent of a marathon.
Sixty elementary schools in Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, Norfolk, Suffolk, Hampton, Newport News, Yorktown and Williamsburg participated in the Operation Smile Final Mile program and hundreds of students collected pledges for Operation Smile, already totaling over $20,000 with more pledges rolling in every day!
One of the children who ran was Danielle Wuertz who was born in China with a cleft lip and cleft palate. The Wuertz family of Chesapeake adopted Danielle from an orphanage in China when the little girl was 3 ½ years old. Now, Danielle is 7 years old and along with her three brothers, participated in the Operation Smile Final Mile and collected pledges for Operation Smile. Danielle enjoyed running for this cause, saying, “It helps me stay healthy and I’m helping children who don’t have enough money to fix their lips.” Danielle has undergone nine surgeries at Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters to repair her cleft lip and cleft palate. She is not an Operation Smile patient, but her surgeon is Dr. Richard Rosenblum, an Operation Smile medical volunteer who started his involvement with Operation Smile during his teenage years as a student volunteer.
Another runner Edelawit Shekur, a 15-year-old girl from Ethiopia, arrived in Hampton Roads to have surgery to repair her cleft lip. She was in the front of the pack of runners who started the Operation Smile Final Mile and she crossed the finish line accompanied by Ethiopian and Kenyan marathon runners. After the run, she was brought on stage and introduced to the thousands of runners. This was a great opportunity for these young students to see the impact they have had to change the life of a child living with a facial deformity. Operation Smile provided Edelawit with surgery on Tuesday, March 18 and she is now home in Ethiopia with a new smile, new friends and a stronger sense of self.
Operation Smile Student Programs would like to thank all those students who helped make a positive change in their lives as well as the life of another child through their participation in the Operation Smile Final Mile. As a special thanks to the participants, AriZona Beverage Company and SwimWays graciously showed their support by donating thousands of products that were distributed at the finish line by local Operation Smile high school volunteers. After the race, runners and their families enjoyed the local talent of Early Departure, a band comprised of students from Great Bridge High School in Chesapeake. Their upbeat and lively tunes entertained the crowd of thousands at the 31st Stage.
The Operation Smile Final Mile illustrated how the community can be united through the desire to help others through fun, fitness, and the determination to make a difference. Every runner, every volunteer, and every attendee witnessed the power that students possess to create change and impact the global community. Inspire Waves of ChangeISLC 2008 Be sure to join us this year for the 16th annual International Student Leadership Conference! This year’s conference will be held in San Diego, CA at San Diego State University. For more information, click on the link below: www.operationsmile.org/programs/students/events 2008 Mission Training WorkshopsThis year’s Winter Mission Training was held on January 18-21, 2008 in Virginia Beach, Virginia. In attendance were 37 students and five sponsors from Canada, the Netherlands, and the United States. In addition, members of the Student Sponsor Board and also the Executive Leadership Council attended the training. The Mission Training Workshop provides students with the materials and knowledge necessary to teach basic health care modules including Burn Care Therapy and Prevention, Dental Hygiene, Nutrition and Oral Re-hydration. These modules are taught by the student volunteers during their medical mission assignments with a goal of improving quality of health for children. The students left tired, but were excited by their upcoming opportunities to experience a medical mission firsthand and to fulfill their roles as student educators.
The next mission training will be held at San Diego State University in conjunction with the 2008 International Student Leadership Conference. For the Mission Training Workshop registration form, click here. www.operationsmile.org/docs/st_mtw_app_stu.pdf Student Association HighlightsConvent of the Sacred Heart On November 30, 2007, the Operation Smile Club at Convent of the Sacred Heart High School in San Francisco held their first Smile Ball. The event took place in the school’s main hall area, complete with gold décor and plenty of smiles. There were over 300 guests as students from other Bay Area schools were also in attendance. Some of these included: University High School, Marin Academy, Stuart Hall, and Urban. The night was filled with music, dancing and a dessert bar complete with a chocolate fountain. Most importantly, there was information about Operation Smile and how the student community can help. The evening was a huge success raising approximately $7,440. Villa Walsh Academy On November 16, 2007, the ladies of The Villa Walsh Academy of Morristown, New Jersey, braced the bitter temperatures and icy winds to support Operation Smile. After choosing players, designing T-shirts, and organizing concessions, the “Operation Powder Puff” football game was in full swing. Spectators were charged for general admission seats and were offered unlimited food and beverages made by the Operation Smile Club members themselves. Through their efforts, Villa Walsh Academy was able to generate enough funds for nearly ten smiles and spread awareness to both the school and the surrounding community.
Mary Rowlandson Elementary The fifth grade class at Mary Rowlandson Elementary School in Lancaster, Massachusetts, formed a fundraising club called “Help Us Help Others.” The focus is to help those who are less fortunate. They sponsored a variety of days including Wacky Hat Day, Pajama Day, and School Spirit Day. The class decided to make Operation Smile the recipient of their fundraising efforts this year! Hopkins Elementary School The second grade class of Hopkins Elementary School in Littleton, Colorado, was challenged by their teacher to make a difference in lives of others. The class was given the option to receive treats for Christmas or to have their teacher donate the money that she would have spent on their gifts to Operation Smile. The students voted and the decision was unanimous. Instead of receiving, they chose to give. Each Student wrote personal messages explaining how helping others made them feel. Following are two of them: “Dear Operation Smile, Hello! My name is Samuel Walmer. I think you are the best organization ever. I hope you brighten many more children’s smiles.” “Hello, my name is Melissa. I think it is so cool that you help people have a beautiful smile!” The American School of Madrid The American School of Madrid (Spain) is smiling! Students of all ages united efforts this year to fundraise for Operation Smile. The project began in early fall with assemblies held for the students in the Lower, Middle and Upper Schools. Parent organizer, Dominique Breuer, did a presentation about Operation Smile with the assistance of her two children, Leticia and Santiago, who had personally been involved in a medical mission in their home country, Paraguay. The response from the students resonated with large and heartfelt applauses. )
In October, the Lower School hallway was filled with colorful smiles representing donations by the students and were helped by their parents to raise funds for four surgeries. The middle school dorms joined the efforts by contributing their Halloween Carnival earnings – a total of $1,020. The Upper School Student Council also decided to contribute $840 per class from their Carnival earnings. In addition, the Student Council organized a Smile Bracelet sale which raised a total of $840. The Middle School Houses have continued to challenge each other with further fundraising efforts including bake sales. Together, these students raised close to $8,000. The American School of Madrid is proud of its students as they help ‘create smiles, change lives, and heal humanity.’ College Programs concludes its first College Exchange ProgramOperation Smile College Programs concluded its first College Exchange Program in February. The program took place in Guadalajara, Mexico, from February 8-11, 2008 with 18 local high school students from the American School of Guadalajara and the American School of Monterrey and two international college students from Virginia and Ireland. In conference form, the college team educated the local high school students about the five pillars of Student Programs: Leadership, Education, Awareness, Service and Fundraising. The participating students also did a service project at The Blind School for Girls in Guadalajara. The students were tasked with teaching nutrition in a new and fun way for the students. Through the College Exchange Program, the local Mexican students are able to continually support Operation Smile Mexico through school fundraising as well as assisting during the upcoming medical mission in May.
Operation Smile Final MileStudents Learn Importance of Exercise and Helping Children Worldwide  For the second consecutive year, Operation Smile is excited to be a partner of the Shamrock Sportsfest. The event features a full marathon, half marathon, 8k race and Boardwalk One Mile Run. The 2008 event marks the 36th running of the event to be held March 14-16 in Virginia Beach, Va.
The Operation Smile Final Mile Program is designed to help teach children the importance of exercise and good health. Students participating in the Operation Smile Final Mile will run 25.2 miles, over a 10 week period, and run their “final mile” on March 15th at the Virginia Beach boardwalk for a total of 26.2 miles, the equivalent of a marathon.
Elementary age students from across Hampton Roads and neighboring cities have been given an opportunity to make a huge difference in their own health and the lives of others. By collecting pledges for the miles they run, they have a chance to raise money for Operation Smile by contributing towards a life-changing surgery for a child. Students are encouraged to collect 10 sponsors at $26 a sponsor (at $1 a mile for the 26 miles that make up a marathon) in order to raise the $240 for a cleft lip surgery. The great thing about this program though is that any amount raised by the student will go towards a surgery and a new smile. Amy and Jerry Frostick, Race Directors for the Shamrock Sportsfest are looking forward to building on this successful program. Amy Frostick said, “We are excited about our continued partnership with Operation Smile and we look forward to seeing how much money the children in the Operation Smile Final Mile can raise for new smiles for children around the world.” Operation Smile President and Co-founder Kathy Magee said, “Thousands of youth around the world are involved with Operation Smile, so this partnership with the Shamrock Sportsfest is a great fit. The Operation Smile Final Mile program teaches the importance of exercise while teaching kids about how they can help other children around the world. Last year hundreds of children participated and nearly $50,000 was raised.” Click here for more information on how to participate in the Operation Smile Final Mile. If you have questions, please contact Operation Smile Student Program Coordinator Monica Ruzicka at mruzicka@operationsmile.org 16th Annual Operation Smile International Student Leadership Conference to be held in CaliforniaOperation Smile is excited to announce the 2008 International Student Leadership Conference (ISLC) will be held at San Diego State University in San Diego, California August 2-6, 2008.
The ISLC offers high school and college students the unique opportunity to hear dynamic speakers share their insights on topics such as leadership, overcoming obstacles, and what it means to make a difference! Participants will immerse themselves in a series of educational and interactive workshops and experiential activities that will help them to instill responsibility, purpose and commitment to a lifetime of serving others. The exciting and innovative seminars will help any student enhance self-confidence and learn to achieve maximum results NOW! Operation Smile empowers students to reach their goals, achieve dreams, and change lives! The International Student Leadership Conference is devoted to the key pillars of the mission of Operation Smile’s Student Program which are Leadership, Education, Awareness, Fundraising, and Service. Additionally, the ISLC offers students from around the globe an overview of Operation Smile’s work, the role of student volunteers and clubs, and the power that each individual has to change lives. Participants will leave with a sense of motivation and self-worth. The theme for the 2008 ISLC is “Inspire Waves of Change.” Operation Smile’s Student Program invites student volunteers to take action and make a difference in the lives of those in need. Through conscious effort, involvement, and compassion, students can create a ripple effect that lifts humanity. This ripple will continue to grow into a current to inspire waves of change. Student Program Awards Given at International Student Leadership Conference in IrelandThe Jennifer Pham Award Jennifer Pham, a high school student from West Des Moines, Iowa, tragically died in a car accident on 1999. Jennifer will always be remembered as a young woman who inspired her community by sharing her goodness, honesty, and integrity with others. Jennifer helped to found her school’s Operation Smile Student Club. In tribute to Jennifer’s wish to bring communities together, the student should represent two distinctive cultures. Recipient: Kelly Bonilla (Miami, FL) Like Jennifer, Kelly demonstrates impressive ability, integrity, and compassion. She is bilingual, which was invaluable on her medical mission to Peru where she was asked to be a translator for the team. Kelly has been extremely active in her Operation Smile high school chapter at Miami Country Day School. She has served as a leader for several fundraisers for her club and continues to speak to various school groups, clubs and individuals about Operation Smile and its mission. The Logan Taylor Award Logan Taylor was diagnosed with adult-onset epilepsy and died in 2000 at the age of 19. She attended the American-Nicaraguan School in Managua. While attending college in the U.S., she traveled back to Managua to participate in each Operation Smile medical mission. Recipient: Ligia Alonso (Sao Paulo, Brazil) Ligia took ten days off from school at the University of Sao Paulo to join the mission team 1,500 miles away. She was instrumental in helping the student team. She translated, set up school visits, and helped out with everything possible on a mission. With input from the student team, Ligia returned to Sao Paulo and started a club at her school. Her dedication brought her to Norfolk in January 2007 as an intern. She is currently working very closely with Operation Smile in Sao Paulo to be an assistant mission coordinator for local medical missions. The spirit and passion Ligia brings to Operation Smile Brazil embodies the enthusiasm and dedication Logan had for Operation Smile Nicaragua. The David Shick Award David Shick was an active member of Operation Smile Student Programs and volunteered on a medical mission to the Philippines in 1996. David died in 2000. His empathy and commitment made him an outstanding and caring leader whose compassion guided him in perpetuating the gift of giving. Recipient: Kendra Eaton (Newport Beach, California) Kendra has set an incredible example for other Operation Smile clubs in southern California by being a leader for her club and her school. Her positive attitude, creativity, and outgoing nature create a synergy with all those that she works with, whether it is volunteering on an Operation Smile medical mission, speaking about Operation Smile in front of a crowd, or leading her club at Mater Dei, where she is president and founder. Kendra consistently receives stellar feedback from all those that she works with, she goes above and beyond when working on any kind of project, and is a role model for her peers. Kendra is what Operation Smile Student Programs is all about. While on her mission, Kendra was a wonderful role model. She obviously cared for the children and their parents and was always aware of who needed help. Her smile was infectious. The Francine Peterson Award Francine Peterson, a volunteer with Operation Smile, died of a heart attack while participating on a mission to Kenya in 1994. Francine was a volunteer physician with Operation Smile for several years, and she chose to contribute her knowledge and expertise to benefit children around the world. Recipient: Courtney Kern (Summit, New Jersey) Courtney founded the Operation Smile student club at Summit High School. She demonstrated great leadership and organizational skills in the school’s first Operation Smile fundraiser; a fashion show for prom dresses. Not only did Courtney run a successful event, but this gave Operation Smile a high profile in a school that had no knowledge of the program. Courtney exemplifies the characteristics of a wonderful leader with her kind, generous, and patient personality. Courtney’s ideas have helped spread Operation Smile to another dimension of the community, and have helped the region incorporate public schools into what was once an area dominated by private schools. Educator of the Year The Educator of the Year award is given to an educator who has devoted his or her time, effort, and knowledge to supporting Operation Smile by spreading awareness and aiding an Operation Smile Student Club. The recipient should be an enthusiastic, ambitious, and caring individual who has contributed infinite resources to Operation Smile and his or her students. Recipient: Father Elias Lorenzo (Mendham, NJ) Father Elias has played a vital role in the growth and success of Student Programs across the country, but particularly in the North East. His leadership and involvement over the last 17 years has empowered countless students, and teachers alike, to be more devoted and committed to a great cause. He has been an anchor in an ever-changing program. His efforts go above and beyond what would be asked of any sponsor. Outstanding Operation Smile Student Club of the Year Outstanding Operation Smile Student Club of the Year award is given to the student club that has demonstrated incredible dedication to Operation Smile’s student programs in the past year in leadership, service, awareness, education, and fundraising. Recipient: Delbarton (New Jersey) The Operation Smile Student Club at Delbarton has consistently been a strong and devoted club for years. Delbarton not only does incredible fund-raising in both scale and creativity, but it also brings in new clubs and helps them grow. Delbarton’s support of these clubs and the clubs in the area makes them a model for Operation Smile Student Clubs everywhere. Outstanding International Operation Smile Student Club of the Year Outstanding International Operation Smile Student Club of the Year award is given to an international student club that has demonstrated incredible dedication to Operation Smile’s student programs in the past year in leadership, service, awareness, education, and fundraising. Recipient: Operation Smile Jordan Operation Smile Jordan student volunteer club was established in 2004 with only a few members. Now, nearly 130 student volunteers are making a difference. The purpose is getting students involved in community service in addition to learning the importance of addressing the dilemma of the less fortunate. Student volunteers' tasks entail assisting in the organizational logistics prior, during and after missions, such as preparing required information and material for the mission, patients' registration, translation for the international medical team, assisting and directing patients and their families, entertaining children and other designated tasks. And the students are involved in organizing fundraising events. Students from Around the World Gather for Conference in IrelandHundreds of students from high schools and colleges around the world met at the University of Limerick in Limerick, Ireland, to develop leadership skills as well as an increased understanding of how to help children suffering with facial deformities. This conference has two distinct programs, the Mission Training Workshop, from July 27-29, and the International Student Leadership Conference (ISLC), from July 30-August 3, both of which encourage students to embrace a lifetime of volunteerism at home and in the global community. )
Forty-two students from 11 United States, Ireland, Paraguay and South Africa participated in the Mission Training Workshop, which trains students to effectively teach basic health care presentations to families and patients during Operation Smile international medical missions. The majority of the students trained will participate on international medical missions taking place in November 2007 during Operation Smile's World Journey of Smiles.
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Nearly 400 students from 20 United States and 15 other countries participated in the ISLC. The conference offers students an overview of Operation Smile's work around the world and teaches them how to be leaders, learning confidence, public speaking, fund-raising, and club organization. Highlights included hearing from Paul Gleeson, who was voted "Limerick Man of the Year" for rowing a boat across the Atlantic and former Irish Ambassador to Thailand Dan Mulhall who served during the 2004 tsunami disaster in Asia. Additionally, participants were inspired to action by renowned motivational speakers Robert Pruitt and Dan Clark.
Operation Smile International Student Leadership ConferenceJuly 30 - August 3, 2007 Mark your calendars! The 15th Annual International Student Leadership Conference (ISLC) will be held at the beautiful University of Limerick in Limerick, Ireland, July 30-August 3.  This ISLC will be most unique because of the spectacular setting and the exceptional activities that it offers. As is the tradition at every ISLC, participants will have the opportunity to hear some of the world's greatest speakers share their insights on topics such as leadership, overcoming obstacles, and what it means to make a difference! The ISLC offers students from around the globe an overview of Operation Smile's work around the globe and, at the same time, teaches them how to be leaders, learning confidence, public speaking, fund-raising, and club organization. Goals are to educate teens on the value of service to the community and to help them establish a lifetime of giving to others. Participants will be given the rare opportunity to visit a medieval village, witness a traditional Irish Ceilidh (an old Irish dance) and explore the stunning city of Limerick. Nestled in the beautiful Irish landscape, students will come together and share their ideas and learn about diversity and compassion, two key concepts that define Operation Smile. Operation Smile empowers students to reach their goals, achieve dreams, and change lives! This year's conference marks the first time the ISLC has been held outside of the United States and it will be packed with wonderful experiences and activities that only Ireland can offer. The 2007 International Student Leadership Conference will be an unforgettable, original event you won't want to miss!
Click here for a registration form. Space is limited, so register early! Also, families may take advantage of the opportunity to stay at the University of Limerick following the conference at the student rate. Click here to review ISLC information packet. Photo courtesy of The University of Limerick College Programs Volunteers in JordanOn June 25, 2007, Operation Smile College Programs concluded its college mission to Amman, Jordan. Three students from Canada, Utah and Virginia gathered together on June 17th for eight days of leadership training and service. )
The college team prepared dental hygiene and first aid presentations for a group of 25 young students at a Palestinian refugee camp in Baq'a. The team also worked with Jordanian students in preparation for the upcoming Operation Smile medical mission taking place June 21-29 in Amman. Each student shadowed an Operation Smile medical professional in their field of study during screening and surgery. The specialties included burns, speech pathology, and child life therapy. The students gained experience and knowledge from their mentors on the mission and were able to see first-hand how Operation Smile helps children.
Students Meet Physicians from Around the WorldOn June 8, Operation Smile held World Tour Student Day, bringing together nearly 300 sixth grade students from Norfolk and Portsmouth public schools to meet 20 physicians from around the world to learn about volunteerism, geography and healthcare. They heard from Operation Smile President and Co-founder Kathy Magee, Director of Operation Smile Student Programs Wade Hooton and a local high school student who volunteered on recent Operation Smile medical mission. Then they divided into small groups and spoke with physicians and Operation Smile staff members to learn more about Operation Smile and its partner countries. The students assembled smile bags to be given to children on an upcoming Operation Smile mission to the Philippines. Operation Smile's World Tour Student Day is part of Operation Smile’s Physicians' Training Program.
International Student Programs UpdateBrazil, Guam, Holland & Thailand Here is the latest news from around the world about Operation Smile Student Associations, Operation Smile College Associations and students groups supporting Operation Smile and our International Foundations. )
Brazil – The Operation Smile Student Association at Federal University of Ceará, Dental School, participated in a national campaign to sell bracelets in aid of nonprofit organizations. The students sold more than 4,000 bracelets and raised more than $1,500. Not only do the students raise funds for Operation Smile Brazil they also participate in weekly dental clinics that provide free dental care for Operation Smile patients.
Holland – The International School of Amsterdam student association’s fall fundraising campaign meant a lot of training as they and many other volunteers participated in the Amsterdam Half Marathon or 10 km race in aid of Operation Smile. The runners and their supporters raised nearly $9,000 for Operation Smile’s missions. Thailand – Thanks to the efforts of the student association at the International School of Bangkok (ISB), and the support of the entire school community, Operation Smile Thailand received a donation of 800,000 Baht ($24,000). This is no small feat and certainly something to SMILE about!! During the Operation Smile Week, students held bake sales, sold raffle tickets for prizes, told jokes, spread the word about Operation Smile by giving out smiley stickers, held an auction, dunked their favorite staff members in the dunk tank, bought raffle tickets for free lunch passes, wrote proposals to company board members, sold raffle tickets for the opportunity to shave a teacher’s head at Spirit Night, walked door to door spreading the message about Operation Smile and collecting donations, raised enough funds to have the opportunity to throw water balloons, whip cream; dye hair orange of some of their teachers and see two male teachers out of dress code in dresses! Ellie Edolhoff, a gifted photographer presented a photographic exhibition titled "Portraits: Beyond the Smile" and donated 25% of her sales to the students endeavor. These are just a few of the many events and activities that went on at ISB during Operation Smile Week creating an atmosphere of fun, smiling and giving! Guam - In March, the student choir from St. John’s School in Micronesia conducted a humanitarian tour to the Philippines called “Songs For Smiles” with the Operation Smile 2007 International Mission to Cebu, Phillippines as their main beneficiary. Thanks to the students’ fundraising efforts the $5,300 was donated prior to the tour. During their March tour, the students spent the day with the children whose lives they have helped to change. The St. John’s School students treated the Operation Smile children to a day of fun activities, a lunch treat and gifts. On behalf of the children whose lives will be forever changed thanks to these students and their sponsors – THANK YOU! If you have news about student led awareness, service and fundraising campaigns and events around the world please email me at asmyth@operationsmile.org Old Dominion NSSLHA Silent AuctionOn March 31, 2007, the ODU chapter of the National Student Speech-Language-Hearing Association (NSSLHA) sponsored its annual silent auction. ODU students, led by silent auction chair Lisa Soriano, gathered wonderful gift certificates and merchandise for bidding throughout the day. This year’s auction benefited Operation Smile, a national organization located in Norfolk that sponsors medical missions to repair facial deformities of patients all over the world. Operation Smile representatives were present most of the day showing a video depicting some of the accomplishments of their worldwide outreach. With the contributions of students, faculty and patrons of ODU, NSSLHA raised $1530 for Operation Smile.
Miles of Smiles 5k RunMiami University Event Funds 8 New Smiles On Sunday March 25, 2007, the Operation Smile Student Association at Miami University hosted the first annual "Miles of Smiles 5K" in Oxford, Ohio. The goal of the student association is to raise money to send to Operation Smile, an international organization that sends teams of doctors, surgeons, speech pathologists, and otolaryngologists to provide free surgeries to children with facial deformities in underdeveloped countries. Only $240 covers the cost of a surgery for one child, and Miami's 5K had 205 participants in the race--therefore raising around $2000 to send to Operation Smile-and making 8 surgeries possible! Delta Tau Delta and Alpha Omicron Pi were fraternity and sorority with the most members registered, and the winning male and female of the race were Dan Biehl and Karen Frazier. We would like to thank our sponsors, all involved in the race, and all donators!! For more information, or if you want to donate, please email chaneysg@muohio.edu or check out the official Operation Smile website at www.operationsmile.org.
Strikes for Smiles Bowl-a-thonThe Strikes for Smiles Bowl-a-thon took place on February 24th at Gate City Lane in Greensboro, NC. More than 75 people participated, raising nearly $15,000. This is an annual event, organized by student volunteers. Food was donated by Jimmy Johns Subs, Panera Bread and Utz Quality Foods. The group enjoyed bowling, a raffle including gift certificates from local businesses. Thank you to Cheryl Dillard and her entire staff for working with Operation Smile once again.
13th Annual Throw-A-ThonJohnson State College Event Raises over $2,400 On Friday, October 13th, 2006, over 70 people from the JSC and surrounding communities, students, faculty, staff, and visitors came together in the Visual Arts Center Ceramic Arts Studio to participate in the 13th Annual Throw-A-Thon to benefit Operation Smile. For a donation of $5.00, participants were invited to create hand crafted and/or wheel-thrown ceramic forms. From 12 noon until almost 2:30 a.m., participants created ceramic forms of all shapes and sizes, and volunteers sewed beautiful hospital gowns and quilts to be used during Operation Smile missions. In addition to being great fun, the Throw-A-Thon offered opportunities to think about and discuss world health issues, while actively pursuing solutions, creating art, creating smiles, joining with others in their efforts to help heal humanity, and strengthening our community. All of the ceramic art work made during the Throw-A-Thon was dried, fired in a kiln, glazed by JSC ceramic arts students and then sold during the JSC Holiday Ceramic and Bake Sale held on Nov. 29th 2006. We sold nearly every piece of art work and every single baked item, and raised over $2400.00. All proceeds to benefit Operation Smile. Whole Foods Market Montclair Hosts Launch Event for Montclair High School ProgramOn October 7, 2006, Whole Foods Market Montclair held a launch event for the Montclair High School Operation Smile school program, which was created this fall. Many MHS students attended the event, all wearing Operation Smile tee shirts, to spread the word about their new school program and to let the store customers know about the Operation Smile Share a Smile Gala to be held at the Hilton at Short Hills on October 20th. The launch event took place during Whole Foods Kids Day. The MHS students invited children who visited the store to make cards for Operation Smile patients who are having surgeries. An Operation Smile medical volunteer will bring the cards on an upcoming mission and distribute them to children. For information about the Montclair High School student program or to volunteer to help, contact Tucker Sargent, who is spearheading the program, at (973) 783-5689.
Hundreds of Students from Around the World Spend the Summer Learning to Help Children with Facial DeformitiesNearly 300 students from 21 U.S. states and 16 other countries attended Operation Smile's 14th Annual International Student Leadership Conference (ISLC) from July 18-22 at Weber State University in Ogden, Utah. The ISLC's Olympic theme challenged every student to "Be A Hero." Participants had the opportunity to hear great speakers share their insights on such topics as leadership, overcoming obstacles, and what it means to make a difference!
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Various workshops, programs and activities taught participants new skills and helped develop character. Participants had the opportunity to interact and share ideas with hundreds of students from around the world-all under the common cause of kids helping kids. Operation Smile empowers students to reach their goals, achieve dreams, and change lives!
Students Train to Serve on Operation Smile Medical MissionsPrior to the International Student Leadership Conference, Operation Smile's Mission Training Workshop was held from July 15-18 at Weber State University. Thirty students from 11 U.S. states and Honduras participated in the Mission Training Workshop, which trained them to effectively teach oral rehydration therapy, burn care and prevention, proper nutrition, aftercare and dental care to families and patients during Operation Smile international medical missions. The students trained will each participate on an international medical mission in the next year.
Malibu High School's Second Annual Operation Smile Gala a Huge SuccessOn June 16, Malibu High School students and Operation Smile supporters gathered at The Sunset Restaurant in Malibu, Calif., for the Second Annual Operation Smile Fundraising Gala and raised more than $12,000 to help children around the world. The evening included cocktails, hors d'oeuvres, a gourmet dinner, a silent auction and live entertainment provided by the Malibu High School Jazz Band. Several students gave presentations about Operation Smile and their mission experiences. The crowd also heard from Jose Villegas, Operation Smile Speakers Bureau Coordinator and former World Care patient, who shared his personal story.
Student Association Receives $25,000 from Malibu RealtorIn California this past June, Malibu High School's Operation Smile Student Association was given a check for $25,000 from Susan Monus, a Malibu Coldwell Banker Realtor.
Monus' donation came after hearing about Operation Smile from her friend, actress Roma Downey. Thanks to Monus, Operation Smile will be able to provide surgeries for more than 30 children. More than 1,000 Students Assemble in Utah to Help Children Around the WorldOperation Smile Utah Student Associations Host the "Be Someone-Utah Student Tribute" More than 1,000 students from more than 30 Utah schools gathered in a hangar at Million Air in Salt Lake City to celebrate and honor volunteerism as part of the second annual "Be Someone - Utah Student Tribute" on April 7. This event marked the culmination of a statewide fundraiser during which these students pledged to raise $200,000 to help Operation Smile treat more children across the world.
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The event was the largest student gathering in Operation Smile's history. The group honored Brigette Magee Clifford, daughter of Operation Smile Co-founders Dr. Bill and Kathy Magee, for her efforts in establishing the first Operation Smile Student Association, called "The Happy Club," at her high school in Norfolk, Va., more than 20 years ago. In addition, Operation Smile President and Co-founder Kathy Magee spoke to the large crowd.
"For all who doubt the ability of young people to literally change the world through service, this night stands as powerful evidence that such is not the case," said event producer and student volunteer Matt Weed. The evening included dinner, prizes, and dancing. Music was provided by rising soloist Benton Paul, The Handsome, and Side Dish. The One Voice Children's Choir performed in accompaniment of a video presentation, featuring pictures of Operation Smile patients and student volunteers. Kids Miles for SmilesStudents Learn Importance of Exercise and Helping Children Worldwide Operation Smile is excited to announce a partnership with The Shamrock Sportsfest. The event features a full marathon, half marathon, 8k race and Boardwalk One Mile Run. The 2007 event marks the 35th running of the event to be held March 16-18 in Virginia Beach, Va. The ShoreBreak Final Mile Program is designed as part of the Boardwalk One Mile Run to help teach children the importance of exercise and proper nutrition. Students participating in the ShoreBreak Final Mile will run 25.2 miles, over a ten week period, and run one final mile on March 17 on the boardwalk for a total of 26.2 miles, the equivalent of a marathon. The Kids Miles for Smiles program was created for students who would like to raise money for Operation Smile by collecting pledges for their completed miles. "Shorebreak is honored to partner with Operation Smile to promote the Shorebreak Final Mile program" stated owner Matthew Falvey. "As a sponsor of the 2007 Shamrock Sportsfest, Shorebreak is proud to inspire a healthy lifestyle and support students who, through Operation Smile, change the world. It's not often we get the chance to make such a global impact at a community level. With the Shamrock Sportsfest 2007 Final Mile, Shorebreak is helping local area students become young leaders who know both compassion and strength."
Operation Smile President and Co-founder Kathy Magee said, "Thousands of youth around the world are involved with Operation Smile, so this partnership with the Shamrock Sportsfest is a great fit. The Kids Miles for Smiles program teaches the importance of exercise while teaching kids about how they can help other children around the world." Student Programs Adopts OneSingleDollar CampaignThe Student Advisory Board has pledged, on behalf of all Student Programs, to raise $1 million during the 25th Anniversary Year. A Boy Scout troop in Sandy, Utah, has proposed a challenge that, if tackled with determination and enthusiasm by every student organization, would automatically raise $160,000 toward Student Programs, and maybe even more. It started when one of the adult leaders of the troop gave one dollar to the eight boys, and asked them what they could do with it. After the boys threw around a few ideas, they each decided to match the dollar and make it ten dollars. And they took off from there. The troop realized that just by asking people to match the total amount, they would automatically be doubling the pot. With the initial goal of raising enough money to fund one surgery for Operation Smile, they busily got to work. In less than 24 hours, the boys had raised $10,240. The rules are simple. Each contribution must match the value of the total pot. Matches can be made by more than one individual, but they must be made as a group. For example, if the value of the pot is $160, and you want to get together with three other friends and each contribute $40, you could match the pot, bringing the total value to $320. In addition, when asking others to help contribute, everything must be person-to-person. You can ask someone to help in person, on the phone, or through a personal e-mail, but you cannot send out a mass e-mail to all of your contacts asking for their support. Even if your initial efforts fail, you will be spreading the Operation Smile message, which is the most important role of Student Programs. The Boy Scout troop already has a donor willing to match an $80,000 pot, so we challenge each and every Student Association to help contribute toward this goal. For more information on the Boy Scouts' story and the rules of the fundraiser, you can visit www.onesingledollar.org. If you think your association would be interested in participating in this global fundraiser, please contact Wade Hooton in Student Programs, or your local Student Advisory Board member. |
 Programs
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