Top Stories of 2024
This year brought remarkable achievements, celebrations, and milestones to the School of Dentistry. We shared stories highlighting our learners, faculty and community, which were read over 55,000 times.
As we step into 2025, let’s look back at the most-read stories of 2024 that captured the heart of our school community.
10. White Coat Ceremony honors first-year DDS, Dental Therapy, and Dental Hygiene learners
On September 6, 2024, the School of Dentistry welcomed 134 new clinical learners during the White Coat Ceremony. This event marked the entrance of the DDS Class of 2028, Dental Therapy Class of 2027, and Dental Hygiene Class of 2026 into the dental profession. The ceremony featured a keynote address by Andy Aldrich, DDS ’20, who emphasized the privilege and responsibility of providing oral healthcare. He encouraged students to embrace relationships, act with integrity, and be kind to themselves.
Read: White Coat Ceremony honors first-year learners.
9. Orofacial MRI Center unveils first-in-the-nation dental-dedicated MRI
The School of Dentistry celebrated the grand opening of the Orofacial MRI Center, which is the first facility of its kind in the nation specifically focused on dental imaging.This innovative facility enhances diagnostic capabilities and opens new doors to research and patient care.
Read: Orofacial MRI Center unveils first-in-the-nation dental-dedicated MRI.
8. Working together for 60 years of compassionate care at the Cleft and Craniofacial Clinic
The Cleft and Craniofacial Clinic celebrated 60 years of compassionate, multidisciplinary patient care. This milestone highlighted the team's dedication and impact on thousands of lives.
Read: Working together for 60 years of compassionate care.
7. DDS Class of 2024 honored with an awards banquet
Graduating DDS learners gathered for their awards banquet to celebrate academic, clinical and community achievements. The event showcased their hard work and dedication during their time at the School of Dentistry.
Read: DDS Class of 2024 honored with awards banquet.
6. Student-led program introduces prospective learners to the reality of dental school
Learners took the lead to organize an event aimed at introducing prospective students to the realities of dental school, offering valuable insights, mentorship and hands-on experiences.
Read: Student-led program introduces prospective learners to dental school.
5. Menser reflects on 50 years as an adjunct instructor
Daniel Menser, DDS ’72, celebrated his 50th year as an adjunct instructor. Reflecting on a lifetime of teaching and mentoring, he shared his passion for the profession and his impact on countless students.
Read: Menser reflects on 50 years as an adjunct instructor.
4. School of Dentistry celebrates 135th Commencement Ceremony
On May 10, 2024, the School of Dentistry honored its 135th graduating class, celebrating the accomplishments of 183 graduates across various programs. Dean Keith Mays, DDS, MS, PhD, acknowledged the significance of this milestone, stating, “Today marks a tremendous milestone for our graduates: the culmination of academic goals and lifelong dreams.” The ceremony featured a keynote address from Michael Zakula, DDS ’76, who reflected on the profound impact of a dentistry career.
Read: School of Dentistry celebrates 135th Commencement Ceremony.
3. First Gen Proud at the School of Dentistry
In celebration of First Generation College Student Week, the School of Dentistry highlighted the stories of learners who are the first in their families to pursue higher education.
Read: First Gen Proud at the School of Dentistry.
2. Introducing the DDS Class of 2028, Dental Therapy Class of 2027, and Dental Hygiene Class of 2026
This year’s incoming classes bring a wealth of talent, diversity and excitement to the School of Dentistry. These learners are excited to make their mark on the profession.
Read: Introducing the DDS Class of 2028, Dental Therapy Class of 2027, and Dental Hygiene Class of 2026.
1. Discovering Dental School
“Discovering Dental School” provides a unique opportunity for aspiring dental professionals to explore the field and experience a day in the life of a dental student. This annual program highlights the School of Dentistry’s commitment to inspiring the next generation.
Read: Discovering Dental School.