When the Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore (CFES) unveiled its 40 Under 40 list for work in philanthropy, Dr. Yen Dang was astonished to be selected.
Dang, the acting chair of the University of Maryland Eastern Shore’s Department of Kinesiology, was recognized by the organization earlier this month as one of the area’s young leaders providing time, skill, or capital to make a difference.
“It’s a great honor,” said Dang, who was recognized for her work addressing rural health disparities. “I love the initiative of how they try to capture the younger generation and the importance of philanthropy and giving back to the community.”
The CFES, a nonprofit devoted to inspiring community philanthropy and connecting people who care with causes that matter, developed the listing as part of its 40th anniversary.
“As younger generations become more involved in giving back to the Lower Shore it is important to recognize their philanthropic spirit,” said CFES President Erica Joseph. “We congratulate the honorees and hope that by highlighting their contributions to the community others are encouraged to do the same.”
To qualify for the honor, candidates must be under the age of 40 at some point during 2024 and at least 21 years old by the nomination deadline. Nominees must have performed their philanthropy in either Somerset, Wicomico, and/or Worcester counties.
Dang, also the director of Global Health in the School of Pharmacy of Health Professions and a professor, said the award “empowers” young people to continue serving the community.
“This award is trying to build the pipeline of a newer, younger generation to continue their philanthropy efforts and help amplify their voices,” she said.
In addition to Dang’s work on the Eastern Shore providing essential medical resources to assist underserved residents, she plans service-learning programs and participates in medical missions in developing countries including Haiti and Nicaragua. It’s through these trips Dang wants to expose her students to the importance of acts of service.
“The students are the next generation in philanthropy and I think introducing them to these opportunities are meaningful and important,” she said.
She also encourages others to follow her lead in giving back and serving.
“It’s personally and professionally meaningful,” she said. “There’s a value in it you can’t get from working or doing things at your normal job and it not only changes your life, but the communities you serve.”
