Dalla Lana Family

Paul and Alessandra Dalla Lana: Patrons of the Medical Arts

Paul and Alessandra Dalla Lana: Patrons of the Medical Arts

The Dalla Lana School of Public Health is grateful for the leadership and support of Paul and Alessandra Dalla Lana.

In 2008, the Dalla Lanas donated $20 million to the University of Toronto’s newly established School of Public Health. This transformative donation—the largest gift ever given to public health in Canada—endowed chairs in Public Health Policy, Disease Control and Global Health and 24 awards for the support of professional masters students.

Paul Dalla Lana is a real estate developer who has carved a niche in the health care industry by developing and acquiring medical arts buildings in major centres across the country. He is President and founder of NorthWest Value Partners Inc., the largest private owner and manager of medical office buildings and health care facilities within Canada.

“We were attracted by the rich history and commitment to public health at the University as well as the depth of existing infrastructure in place,” says Dalla Lana.

“We shared the vision of the many leaders in the various disciplines in concentrating and focusing these capabilities. It seemed to us that the goal to become both a Canadian and international leader in these fields, if not already the case, would be achievable.

 “We are hopeful that the school will be able to contribute to solving some of the most challenging health care issues our society faces.”

(adapted from a story by Angela Pirisi)