In 1982, Jeffrey Mills, DDS (WRC ’79, DEN ’82), was a promising young dentist and soon-to-be new father ready to begin the next chapter of his life. Yet, four hours before commencement, Mills was shot and killed by a home intruder.
Having earned his undergraduate and dental degrees at Case Western Reserve University in only seven years instead of the traditional eight, Mills was recognized as a hard worker, conscientious, intuitive and eager to learn. He was a member of the men’s glee club, sang in his church choir and was the treasurer of the Zeta Beta Tau fraternity.
To honor Jeff’s life and legacy, his brother, David Mills, DDS (WRC ’75, DEN ’79), and their family created a scholarship in Jeffrey’s name, ensuring future dentists have the support needed to succeed and thrive in dental school and launch successful professional careers.
"Jeff and I did not have parents who could pay for our education, but we were raised to know that education is the key to success,” said David Mills. "Jeff would have been an outstanding dentist, and we were both so proud to have graduated from Case Western Reserve University School of Dental Medicine."
For second-year dental student Giancarlo Lombardozzi, the Jeffrey A. Mills Memorial Scholarship Fund offers more than financial support—it symbolizes resilience, hope and the enduring impact of generosity.
Lombardozzi's decision to attend Case Western Reserve University School of Dental Medicine was easy, given its reputation for preparing students for successful careers in dentistry and its strong sense of community. However, financial concerns seemed to put the dream out of reach.
The Mills Scholarship is helping change that—allowing Lombardozzi to put his full focus on his academics and immersive student experiences. At CWRU, he mentors incoming dental students and holds leadership positions in the Psi Omega fraternity and Hispanic Student Dental Association.
"It truly is a blessing to have been selected to receive this scholarship, and it has allowed me to enjoy my experience at CWRU to the fullest," said Lombardozzi. "I am committed to paying it forward just as this scholarship has done for me. I am forever grateful to the donors, Dr. Mills, and the memory of Jeffrey A. Mills for making this possible."
Lombardozzi pledges to make a difference in underserved communities as he pursues a career in dentistry, focusing on access to oral health.
"Knowing that this scholarship was created in Jeffrey's memory and to honor his life makes it so much more meaningful," said Lombardozzi. "It reminds me that despite tragedy, there's a way to create something positive and lasting."
David Mills agreed: "It's been said that people die twice—once when they stop breathing, and again the last time someone says their name. This scholarship fund is about people saying Jeff's name for a long time."
Dr. David and Mrs. Susan Mills wish to add to the endowed fund to support more students in Jeffrey’s name, and are offering to match contributions made by others to the scholarship fund. If you would like to remember and honor Jeffrey Mills in this manner, please contact Carolyn Gordon at 216.368.3481 or carolyn.gordon@case.edu.
—Amanda Brower