This fund was established in 2013 by the estate of James L. Kirkland, Jr. to support scholarships to students in the College of Dentistry at the University of Florida.

James was born in 1922 in Graceville, FL. He served in the United States Navy during WWII. James had a dental practice in Gainesville for over 40 years, serving as the UF football team’s dentist from 1948 to 1956. He was a member of the Gainesville Quarterback Club, Gator Boosters, Gainesville Elks Lodge, and the Gainesville Garden Club. James also belonged to many dental associations.

James passed away in 2013; his wife Jean, passed away in 2007. They left behind their son, James “Jim” Kirkland.