Alumni ALUMNI LEA ING EDGE Volume 30, Issue 1
A publication for alumni and friends of University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry
ALL ABOUT THE
• Detroit Mercy Dental alumni are known for their passion to serve.
Institute for Advanced Continuing Dental Education
Forensic Odontology in a Medical Examiner’s Office
Tuesday-Saturday, Oct. 25-29, 2022 Wayne County Medical Examiner's Office 1300 East Warren Ave. Detroit, MI 48207
ABOUT THIS CLASS
MAIN TOPICS
This five-day hands-on and interactive program is taught by over 17 experts spanning all disciplines of forensic sciences and held at one of the largest medical examiner’s offices in the United States. Participants will meet the 40 credit hour requirements by covering all topics necessary for membership as a dentist in the Odontology Section of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS).
P DNA P Identification P Mass disaster P Bitemark recognition P Anthropology P Toxicology
P Death investigation P Facial reconstruction P Child abuse P Age determination P Forensic photography P Legal considerations
TO REGISTER SEE DENTAL.UDMERCY.EDU/FORENSIC 2 |
News
Upcoming Events DETROIT MERCY IS KEEPING YOU CONNECTED THROUGH IN-PERSON AND VIRTUAL EVENTS
Alumni Events Alumni events connect you with your peers, the profession, students and your alma mater.
Thursday-Sunday, July 28-31 Detroit Mercy at the Rocket Mortgage Classic Suite and General Admission Options Detroit Golf Club Detroit, Mich. Friday, Aug. 5 Detroit Mercy Golf Tournament Alumni Golf Outing Fox Hills Golf & Banquet Center Plymouth, Mich. Thursday-Saturday, Sept. 29-Oct. 1 Detroit Mercy Homecoming Spirit Awards, Fall Festival and MORE Detroit Mercy McNichols Campus Detroit, Mich.
Institute for Advanced Continuing Dental Education
Virtual Journal Study Club Offering no-cost CE credit. Virtual Journal Study Club provides you with an opportunity to learn from and with fellow dental professionals. A new peer-reviewed journal article will be announced monthly and will cover a wide variety of topics. The virtual dental study club takes place on the second Wednesday of the month from 6:30-7:30 p.m. Wednesday, June 8 Wednesday, July 13 Wednesday, Aug. 10 Wednesday, Sept. 14 Wednesday, Oct. 12 Wednesday, Nov. 9 Wednesday, Dec. 14
University of Detroit Mercy Institute for Advanced Continuing Education is pleased to offer a 10% discount* on most CE Courses! LEARN TODAY. IMPLEMENT TOMORROW. *discount applicable to Detroit Mercy managed courses.
Register online: dental.udmercy.edu/cestudyclub
ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT Stephen Meraw, D.D.S. ‘95 | Meraw has served as both the president of the Michigan Dental Association and vice-president of the American Academy of Periodontology. He recalls his fondest memory at Detroit Mercy was as a commencement speaker. Meraw is currently a clinical professor at University of Michigan. Deanna Alexander, B.S. ’12, M.L.S. ‘16 | Alexander is the proud recipient of a mobile dental office vehicle sponsored by Delta Dental of Michigan, Ford Motor Company, Kare Mobile and Lightship Foundation. The custom Ford Transit van will allow Alexander to help Detroit’s underserved communities by bringing the clinic into the neighborhoods. She states the “talents learned and relationships built through Detroit Mercy have afforded me the opportunity help at risk patients receive dental care”.
To register and view alumni event information, visit dental.udmercy.edu/alumni or scan the QR code on page 6.
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Dean's Letter
Traditions, Legacies and an End of an Era Dear School of Dentistry Alumni and Friends, With spring upon us, we think of the renewal that the warmer weather brings. We begin to hear the sounds of graduation – bagpipes, congratulatory messages and the celebrations of our future alumni as they enter the profession. The cycle of life in academia continues, and another generation of alumni continues to spread the legacy of the School of Dentistry with each patient they treat. With this edition of the Leading Edge, we celebrate the people who define our identity: our alumni. Our alumni's pride in the strength of their skills and depth of their knowledge is a vital part of the Detroit Mercy Dental identity. Our graduates have clinical competence and confidence unique to the experiences that the Detroit Mercy education provides. Dr. Mert N. Aksu, Dean
"I am proud of our legacy in graduating practice-ready graduates rooted in an evidencebased education with a commitment to an ethical and humanistic standard of practice."
I am proud of our legacy in graduating practice-ready graduates rooted in an evidence-based education with a commitment to an ethical and humanistic standard of practice. Our students are passionate about dentistry, and their education has been an intense and immersive experience that only deepens their enthusiasm. Despite the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, our students are graduating with experiences that those from other dental schools only read about. Our Corktown Campus Clinics are busy and our patients have returned confident that we have provided a safe environment for their care. While the patient traffic at Corktown has been robust, we have noticed a continued steady decline of patients at the Detroit Medical Center/University Health Center (DMC/UHC) clinic. Even before the pandemic, we experienced a continual decrease in the number of patients who remain loyal to the DMC/UHC program. With parking difficulties and congestion of the academic medical center, and with Corktown only 2.5 miles away from the DMC/UHC clinic, many of our patients prefer the Corktown site. The reality is that the unique learning opportunities that the UHC was once known for are no longer what today's students experience. Many primary care and infectious disease DMC patients now receive care in community-based clinics. The DMC has become more of an administrative center for Tenet Healthcare, which now owns the DMC, and most of the patient traffic is for acute care rather than for primary health maintenance. Since UHC/DMC opened, there has been explosive growth in community clinics and Federally Qualified Health Centers providing safety-net care to the underserved and marginalized populations who once sought care at the DMC. We have a DMC legacy that we remain proud of while looking forward to
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LEADING EDGE VOLUME 30, ISSUE 1 2022
creating a different experience that will provide our students with a continued connection to the populations of patients that distinguishes our program. Our unique learning experiences are part of our legacy, and now I ask you to take a moment to think about your legacy. Reflect on all that has changed in your personal and professional lives and consider how you want to be remembered. I, personally, have been doing a lot of reflecting lately, and I look forward to bringing a continued legacy to Detroit Mercy Dental. It is a special place, and I am eager to continue to work with my team of administrators, faculty, staff and students to position Detroit Mercy Dental for future opportunities while honoring our past. Thank you for your continued support and friendship.
Mert N. Aksu, D.D.S., J.D., M.H.S.A., Cert. D.P.H. Dean and Professor
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LEA ING EDGE
A publication for alumni and friends of University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry
CONTENTS
FEATURE ARTICLE
ALL ABOUT THE
ALUMNI
8 PUBLISHED BY THE SCHOOL OF DENTISTRY 2700 Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard Detroit, MI 48208 Antoine M. Garibaldi, Ph.D. University President Mert N. Aksu, D.D.S., J.D., M.H.S.A., Cert. DPH Dean & Professor aksumn@udmercy.edu Rhonda Evans, B.F.A Editor-in-Chief Art Director and Publication Designer evansrh@udmercy.edu Kimberly Raleigh, R.D.H., M.H.S.A. Director of Continuing Education, Communications and Alumni Relations Writer and Editor kimberly.raleigh@udmercy.edu Diana Lince Director of Development lincedm@udmercy.edu
10 Upcoming Events.......................................................................................................3 Dean’s Letter..............................................................................................................4 University News..........................................................................................................7 Student News.............................................................................................................8 FEATURE ARTICLE: All About the Alumni............................................................................................10 Development............................................................................................................17 2021 Events..............................................................................................................18 School News.............................................................................................................20 Alumni Board............................................................................................................26 Continuing Education..............................................................................................27
FIND MORE ONLINE! See this issue and more on our website at
dental.udmercy.edu/alumni/leading-edge
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LEADING EDGE VOLUME 30, ISSUE 1 2022
News
University Highlights MCNICHOLS • RIVERFRONT • CORKTOWN • NOVI
report high levels of success. In 2019, the University was also ranked as one of the Best Northern Universities by U.S. News & World Report’s “Best Colleges Edition.” Taylor’s many accomplishments as president include: • Transitioning Cabrini from a college to a university in 2016. • Creation of four distinct schools in the University, each headed by a dean: School of Education; School of Business, Arts, and Media; School of Humanities and Social Sciences; and School of Natural Sciences and Allied Health.
Donald B. Taylor, Ph.D.
Donald B. Taylor to be next Detroit Mercy president University of Detroit Mercy’s Board of Trustees announced in February that Donald B. Taylor, Ph.D., will be the institution’s 26th president. He succeeds Antoine M. Garibaldi, who concludes his presidency on June 30. “On behalf of the entire Detroit Mercy community, we are pleased to welcome Dr. Taylor to our University and look forward to his leadership as we build on the momentum of the past decade and set new goals for the institution,” said Michael T. McNamara, chairman of the University Board of Trustees and president of Hollingsworth LLC. “Dr. Taylor’s accomplishments and extraordinary experience demonstrate a commitment to excellence that fits well with Detroit Mercy’s vision and mission, and we are confident that he will help the University achieve an even brighter future.” Taylor brings nearly three decades of higher education leadership in the areas of program development, accreditation, alumni relations, community partnership development, corporate and philanthropic fundraising success and commitment to adult/post-traditional students, international/global and
online education, following decades as a researcher and educator at Catholic institutions. “It is a great honor and I am humbled to be selected to serve as the next president of one of the great Catholic universities in our nation at this time in its institutional history, building from the tremendous success and momentum of President Garibaldi’s long tenure at Detroit Mercy,” Taylor said. “In partnership with an engaged Board of Trustees, the Jesuits, Sisters of Mercy, faculty, staff, students, alumni and the greater Detroit metropolitan community, we look forward to leading Detroit Mercy to become the best comprehensive Catholic University in the Midwest,” he added. Since 2014, he has served as president of Cabrini University, a private Roman Catholic University near Philadelphia, that provides undergraduate, graduate and post-graduate degree programs to more than 2,000 students. During Taylor’s tenure as president, Cabrini ranked among the top 40 Most Transformative Colleges in the nation by Money Magazine based on the institution’s “value add,” an indicator to showcase schools whose alumni
• Creation of four academic centers of excellence: Center on Immigra tion; Center on Urban Education, Equity and Improvement; Center on Domestic Violence & Early Childhood Education; and the Center on Global Business. • Securing donor funding for the Center for Immigration and Center for Domestic Violence and Early Childhood Trauma. • Securing a partnership for Cabrini to become the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania’s first college partner with TheDream.US, an initiative that provides scholarship support for DACA students. • Created educational pathways for students to attend Cabrini by establishing nearly two dozen partnerships with K–12 schools (dual credit), institutions of higher education (4+1 degrees), and educational nonprofits across the region, the nation and the world. Taylor’s first day as president will be July 1.
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Student News
School of Dentistry welcomes new classes
Dental Class of 2025 - Group 1
The Dental Class of 2025 was welcomed to campus Aug. 17-19, 2021, for orientation. This year’s orientation was designed to increase interactions and build community within the class cohorts while delivering information in an efficient and safe manner. The week was full of informational sessions, school tours, check-ins, and fun social media challenges that included outdoor activities and unstructured time to connect with classmates. While indoors, students were separated into two groups of 72 to complete important sessions and modules. Dean Mert Aksu welcomed each group and offered his congratulations and encouragement to the incoming class. Various faculty and administrators joined sessions throughout the week to meet and greet the new class. As an added welcome, each day of orientation ended with a walking tour of Detroit, courtesy of the Detroit Experience Factory.
Dental Class of 2025 - Group 2
"Our entire team was thrilled to welcome our newest students to the School of Dentistry. We were able to transition our orientation events to include a blended format of virtual programming with onsite activities to build community and connection. I am looking forward to the wonderful contributions all our students will make to the field of dentistry in years to come." – Juliette Daniels, Ed.D. assistant dean of Student Services and Enrollment Management
Dental Class of 2025 Profile CLASS SIZE:
78
66
54%
46%
Female Students
Dental Hygiene Class of 2023
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LEADING EDGE VOLUME 30, ISSUE 1 2022
STATISTICS:
Male Students
23
3.62
Average Age
Average Incoming Total G.P.A.
3.54
20.2
Average Incoming Science G.P.A.
DAT Average Total Science
To see the full Dental Class of 2025, and Dental Hygiene Class of 2023, scan the QR code on page 6.
Scholarships and Awards Thanks to alumni and friends of the School of Dentistry, over $132,000 in scholarships was awarded to current students for the 2021-22 academic year. Of 78 applicants, 42 students received scholarships this fall, averaging $3,143 per award. The types of scholarships students may apply for vary. Many times, donors choose to specify the criteria based on a variety of factors including GPA, leadership activities, financial need, family responsibilities and professional experience. To view a full list of scholarships and scholarship recipients please visit: dental.udmercy.edu/alumni/ leading-edge-v30-i1 or scan the QR code on page 6.
Dental Class of 2025 - Legacy Connections Aya Aoun
Aunt – Amal Aoun, D.D.S. ’07
Maysa Damen
Cousin – Reda Ismail, D.D.S. ’04
Hadi Eid
Cousin – Ahmad Fawaz, R.D.H. ’20
Mark Fouad-Meshriky
Sibling – Michael Fouad-Meshriky, D.D.S. ’23
Noah Goldberg
Father – Eric Goldberg, D.D.S. ’90
Rachel Madar
Sibling – Tyler Madar, D.D.S. ’22
Ariana Matway
Mother – Kathleen P. Vani, D.D.S. ’90
Judy Oska
Sibling – Stephanie Oska, D.D.S. ’17
Cousin – Angela Oska, D.D.S. ’15
SofiaRose Raad
Father – Richard Raad, D.D.S. ’84
Uncle – David Darany, D.D.S. ’88
Cousin – Robert Rizk, D.D.S. ’58
Jonathan Rago
Father – Steven Rago, D.D.S. ’90
Mother – Cristina Twardecki, D.D.S. ’89
Sibling – Nicole Rago, R.D.H. ’19
Rita Salim
Sibling – Faddi Salim, D.D.S. ’15
Mother – Lisa Goldberg, D.D.S. ’91
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ALL ABOUT THE
ALUMNI
Detroit Mercy Dental alumni are known for their passion to serve others and the profession.
• By Kimberly A. Raleigh, R.D.H. '01, M.H.S.A. '06, DES
The University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry has long taken pride in graduating oral health practitioners who are as skilled with their hands as they are with their hearts. This year marks 90 years since Detroit Mercy Dental opened its doors. Since then, we have graduated more than 8,700 dental professionals, each with their own story.
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The following five stories are a small sample of alumni who have made their mark in the world and the dental profession. Though they each have different experiences, they all embody what it means to be a Detroit Mercy alumnus.
Class of
1962
Cohen
ALL ABOUT
VIVIAN COHEN, R.D.H. ’62
Foster Parent. Volunteer. Master Gardener. •
This year marks 60 years since Vivian Cohen, R.D.H. ’62, graduated from the dental hygiene program. The profession has undoubtedly seen a lot of changes since her time as a student, but Cohen remains just as fond of her alma mater and profession as she did on the day she received her diploma.
When Cohen was a dental hygiene student, the profession was relatively new, and patients were not always accustomed to having someone other than their dentist provide treatment. She and her classmates found themselves educating patients about the profession almost as much as they did on oral healthcare. With strict protocols and high expectations, Cohen recalls hygiene students being treated differently from their dental student counterparts. At the time, hygiene students were typically accepted out of high school, and in a sense, transitioned from girls to women through their shared experiences. She recalls the strictness as being something of a lesson in ethics and professionalism. “I believe the strict, Jesuit education and advanced training that I received at the University of Detroit School of Dentistry captured the essence of what it means to be a Dental Hygienist: dedicated, intellectual, ethical and professional,” she said. While in school, Cohen met the love of her life and husband of 41 years, Philip Cohen D.D.S. ’64, M.S. The Cohens lived what she calls “a charmed life.” Although they had three children of their own, they had a lot of love to give – so they became foster parents. Forty-five years later, the Cohen family has provided a comforting home to more than 150 children.
Cohen’s pride in her husband and children is almost palpable, but it isn’t without heartache. Philip had an illustrious and fulfilling career, including serving as an officer in the Air Force and as president of the American Association of Endodontists (AAE). In 2005, he was honored with a lifetime achievement award at the AAE Annual Meeting, and just minutes after accepting the award, he died suddenly. His unexpected passing was particularly hard on the Cohen family, who were with him at the time. Still, they were comforted knowing he experienced the genuine appreciation and admiration that members of the profession had for him. Today, Cohen splits her time between Florida and Michigan and seems to make a splash wherever she is. She remains an active foster parent, volunteers with the Special Olympics, has traveled overseas on mission trips and still maintains her hygiene license. Cohen’s other passion is gardening, and at a young 80, she is a Master gardener and donates much of her time to the beautification of community gardens. When we asked Cohen what advice she would give to the younger generation, her answer was simple – know thyself. She believes much of her happiness comes from within and was discovered by reflecting on what fueled her soul. Cohen encourages others to pay an equal amount of attention to what pushes them and what holds them back. She recognizes that some of the things that make people the happiest are not always the most obvious – but once realized, they can lead to a life well lived. D E N TA L . U D M E R C Y. E D U
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Class of
Stillwill
1979
ALL ABOUT
RICHARD STILWILL, D.D.S. ’79
Eagle Scout. Servant Leader. Volunteer. Teacher. •
As a child, Richard Stilwill, D.D.S. ’79, climbed the ranks of the Boy Scouts of America, an organization that helps develop youth by teaching leadership skills, ethics and how to be a good citizen. These foundational skills helped shape Stilwill into the servant leader he is today. Upon graduation, Stilwill returned to his hometown of East Lansing, Mich., to practice alongside his childhood dentist. During that time, a family friend, who happened to be the Michigan Dental Association (MDA) president, encouraged him to attend a district dental society meeting. It wasn't long after that Stilwill’s leadership skills took over, and he was asked to be the first chairperson of the MDA’s Young Dentists’ Committee. Having held multiple positions at the district, state, and national levels of the American Dental Association, this first role in organized dentistry was the beginning of many years of leadership and service to the profession. Stilwill, whose passion lies somewhere between volunteerism, ethics and leadership, is most proud of his tenure with the American College of Dentists. He held various positions over a span of 32 years, and ultimately served as the national president of the American College of Dentists from 2017-18. One of the main reasons Stilwill values his involvement with the American College of Dentists is because of their strong commitment to ethics, a value that parallels the Boy Scouts of America. Although Stilwill dedicated much of his time to organized dentistry, he still managed to volunteer and share his talents in an untradi12 |
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tional way. Stilwill provided dental care to the Potter Park Zoo animals for nearly 10 years. He treated over 20 species as a volunteer, including lions, baboons, spider monkeys, and otters. Not only did Stilwill happily treat these animals, but he also committed to bringing an observer each time he performed a procedure. Some of these observers have gone on to become veterinarians or dentists. Outside of dentistry, Stilwill is still an active Eagle Scout and currently teaches leadership skills to potential Scout Masters. His service recently earned him a National Outstanding Eagle Scout Award, which honors those who have made a significant impact through distinguished service on personal and professional levels.
Stilwill, whose passion lies somewhere between volunteerism, ethics and leadership, is most proud of his tenure with the American College of Dentists. Most recently, Stilwill has been enjoying an active retirement. He has been an avid skier for 62 years, and during the warmer months, you can find him participating in a sailboat race or bike tour that frequently includes Mackinac Island as a destination. Stilwill credits much of his success to being supported by individuals who had his best interest in mind and for being at the right place at the right time. Not surprisingly, he believes that although you can obtain individual success, the success achieved by a group is far greater.
Class of
1959
ALL ABOUT
Olson
ROBERT R. OLSON, D.D.S. ’59
Trailblazer. Pioneer. Author. Musician. •
Robert R. Olson, D.D.S. ’59, practiced dentistry for almost 50 years. During that time, he transitioned from belt-powered drills to highspeed handpieces. He has had many experiences throughout his career, each of which taught him lessons that are as beneficial to today’s students as they are to seasoned practitioners.
Olson says he never practiced dentistry as a business, rather, he practiced it as a profession. While others were concerned about production and pushing the boundaries on fees, he was focused on doing what is right for the patient, regardless of their ability to pay at the time. Olson believes that the mutual respect and admiration that he had with his patients is what made his practice successful and his life rich. Before increasing “access to care” or “serving the underserved” were common phrases, Olson was living it. For 25 years, he and his team served the children at the Royal Oak Judson Center, a non-profit human service agency. It was important to him that the Judson Center children received quality care, so he made sure they had rides to and from appointments, which sometimes meant picking them up himself. He claims that although the kids enjoyed the prizes and attention, he and his team were really the ones who benefited from treating them.
believed to be the first complete in-house dental office in a nursing facility in the United States. Upon establishing the nursing home practice, Olson realized that the benefits extended far beyond the improved oral health of the residents, as they looked forward to the social aspects of the visit more than the care they received.
Before increasing “access to care” or “serving the underserved” were common phrases, Olson was living it. Today, Olson is enjoying retirement and finds himself to be just as busy as when he practiced. He recently authored a book and keeps active by playing tennis and traveling. In addition, Olson regularly plays the trumpet and is involved in seven bands, including a bass quartet and a gospel Dixieland group. Perhaps it is the combination of his experiences or his inherently optimistic disposition, but Olson’s outlook on life and the lessons it teaches are just part of what makes him special.
Although Olson does not refer to himself as a trailblazer, he is. What started as Olson serving as a dental liaison to a nursing home in Detroit turned into an opportunity to establish a permanent dental office within the nursing home. Olson initially recognized the need when the nursing home staff slept through the yearly mandated staff training. He pioneered what is D E N TA L . U D M E R C Y. E D U
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Class of
1972
ALL ABOUT
Chase
WILLIAM CHASE, D.D.S. ’72
Philanthropist. Rotarian. Leader. Humanitarian. Educator. •
William Chase, D.D.S. ’72, has dedicated his life to making an impact while giving purpose to all he does. Chase, who is one of three children and an identical twin, was raised on an orchard in Adrian, Mich. Chase combined the influences of his entrepreneurial father and artistic mother to build a successful dental career.
In 1973, just a year after graduation, Chase found his true calling, volunteerism, by way of dentistry. His initial exposure was through the Detroit Dental Clinic Club when he and other members traveled to Belgium to teach fellow dentists westernized dentistry. This was the first of several trips aimed at helping dentists who had restricted access to advanced education. Eleven years after his initial overseas volunteer experience, Chase was the recipient of a grant funded by the Rotary International's Health Hunger and Humanity Program. The grant work took him to the Filipino island of Palawan for the sole purpose of treating Vietnamese refugees. Over the course of a month, Chase was tasked with taking care of the dental needs of over 2,500 refugees – all from a one-room dental clinic with no running water or electricity. Though this first experience was one that he knew he would someday repeat, it took Chase eight years to embark upon another humanitarian trip. He ultimately completed 13 assignments over 25 years, with the majority being personally funded. In 1993, one of the Brazilian clinics he worked in and raised renovation money for, was named in his honor. The naming and dedication of the Clinica Dentaria 14 |
LEADING EDGE VOLUME 30, ISSUE 1 2022
Bill Chase was a humbling surprise, and an honor that to this day gives him great pride, but not in the way many would think. Chase’s pride stemmed from the realization that the clinic would be able to help treat and alleviate the pain of more patients than ever before – all because the renovated clinic would make it easier to recruit volunteer dentists. Although many of Chase’s volunteer and humanitarian efforts took him overseas, he has spent a considerable amount of time serving in the states. He has held several leadership positions within organized dentistry, including having served as president of the Michigan Dental Association. The organization closest to Chase’s heart is Rotary International, where he has been a proud member and recognized leader for the past 50 years. He remains involved in the club and spends much of his time teaching leadership skills to other Rotarians. Though he credits much of his success to others, Chase believes a life well lived is defined by how you use your time and talents. He encourages others, especially those who are reluctant to take on new challenges, to be adaptable, and take a chance on change. When asked the secret to success, his advice is simple: Take chances and seize opportunities as they come, even if you are afraid.
The naming and dedication of the Clinica Dentaria Bill Chase was a humbling surprise, and an honor that to this day gives him great pride.
Nguyen
Class of
2016
ALL ABOUT
N. MICHELLE NGUYEN, D.D.S. ’16
Entrepreneur. Advocate. Survivor. •
When N. Michelle Nguyen, D.D.S. ’16 was in junior high, she knew she wanted to be a dentist. What she didn’t know was that the road to becoming one would be filled with so many obstacles to overcome.
Nguyen’s experiences have helped her to gain insight into who she is as a person and allowed her to define her biggest passion – helping others. While in secondary school, Nguyen began to develop anxiety but was afraid to acknowledge it. As she made plans to pursue her dream of being a dentist, she was drawn to Detroit Mercy Dental's seven-year program because it not only saved a year of classes, it also provided a prescriptive schedule and removed the need to navigate through an undergraduate program alone. The summer before starting dental school, Nguyen was hospitalized following a suicide attempt. She was terrified people would find out about her struggles and started the program as planned. The first two years of dental school are notoriously difficult, and even more so for Nguyen as she continued to battle anxiety and bipolar depression. One of her biggest hurdles was recognizing that mental health disorders, though invisible, are real. Although she initially did not want help or even accept the fact that she needed it, Nguyen eventually realized that her condition, like any other medical condition, requires care and attention. A psychiatrist once told Nguyen that no one would want her as a dentist if they
knew she had mental health struggles. She didn’t listen. She credits much of her healing and the ability to complete the program to the personal counseling services she received through the school. Nguyen’s experiences have helped her to gain insight into who she is as a person and allowed her to define her biggest passion – helping others. She has an innate ability to connect with people on a deep level and help them to identify their feelings. Nguyen appreciates the one-on-one aspect of the patient-provider relationship and often finds herself in tune with the emotional stressors of her patients. Today, Nguyen finds that balancing life and work is both her biggest challenge and her biggest success. She is happily married with a 5-yearold daughter. And at just five years post-graduation, Nguyen owns her own dental practice. This year will mark 10 years since Nguyen’s suicide attempt, and she has never been happier. She appreciates how the stigma surrounding mental health continues to be demystified and that, as a society, we are more comfortable talking about it. She wants others to know that with help, you can not only get better but triumph.
Scan the QR code on page 6 to read the extended stories of these extraordinary featured alumni. D E N TA L . U D M E R C Y. E D U
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Invest in the dental leaders of
Tomorrow
Detroit Mercy Dental is committed to transforming the lives of students to become compassionate, socially and ethically sensitive, practice-ready professionals. Your contribution will have an immediate impact on the education of the future of dentistry.
WAYS TO GIVE ONLINE: Make a secure online gift at udmercy.edu/giving/donate/dental PHONE: To make a gift by phone please call us at 313-494-6624 MAIL: Make check payable to University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry 2700 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. Detroit, MI 48208 Attention of Diana Lince 16 |
LEADING EDGE VOLUME 30, ISSUE 1 2022
Will you give today? For more information, please contact director of development, Diana Lince at 313-494-6624 or by email at lincedm@udmercy.edu.
Development
My Reason for Giving
Kathleen, D.A. '72 & Mark Frenchi, D.D.S. '78
Charlie Zammit, D.D.S. '75
Endowed Scholarship
27 Consecutive years of giving
"We feel very blessed to have dentistry as a career choice for the entire Frenchi family (father, mother and two children). It was Detroit Mercy Dental that gave all of us the chance to learn dentistry and develop our skills in a caring atmosphere. Some of our best friendships came out of the School of Dentistry.
"I give to the University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry knowing fully well what our fine profession has to offer in the way of good oral health. I trust, that the future dental professionals our giving supports We were taught at an early age that we must share our time, resources, and will go forth and mirror the same desire; to talents. We cannot think of a better way to do this than to support a scholarship give back to their community. I have been fund that will train and benefit future generations of dentists." blessed by my Detroit Mercy influences Included in photo above is son of Kathleen and Mark Frenchi, Richard Frenchi since 1975 and thank God for allowing me to share those blessings." D.D.S. '18 and fiance, Kathryn Pytiak.
Eugene Wu, D.D.S. '66 David F. Blanden, D.D.S. '71
Donor since 1972
"I feel that my successes, not only in terms of my career, but overall, in general, is a direct "I have been a continuous contributor to the School of Dentistry since graduation, correlation to my early years while associated because I appreciate the fine education I received. Giving enabled me to serve with the School of Dentistry and Endodontic and assist the people in my community with their oral health needs as well as Programs. I am so blessed today. Therefore, providing me with opportunities to live an adventurous and fulfilled life." not only do I feel obligated but I am so very honored to contribute to this school so it can impart these disciplines onward." 26 Consecutive years of giving
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News
2021 Events 1 // School-Wide Leadership Training Program presented by Bell Leadership Institute // August 23-25 Various facilitators from the Bell Leadership Institute presented “Optimizing Teams Through Commitment, Trust and Communication” in a school-wide leadership training. This 3-day custom-designed seminar integrated concepts and strategies from Bell Leadership’s 50 years of research and consulting. The seminar focused on assisting all members of the Detroit Mercy Dental school community to build their own personal effectiveness in leading, learning, and teaching. Through facilitated groups and breakout discussions, participants further developed skills to work effectively in their current and future teams through building trust and the skills needed to openly communicate.
2 // Boat Cruise // September 24 School of Dentistry students were excited to resume the annual ASDA & SGA Boat Cruise on the Detroit Princess. All classes enjoyed a night out with music and dancing at the sold-out event, kicking off a new academic year.
1
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3 // Titans for Teeth Virtual 5K // October
Detroit Mercy Dental’s first-ever virtual 5k was held in October. Participants from across the U.S. walked, ran and strolled for a cause. Sponsored by Dinka Dental, Michigan Dental Association (MDA) and MDA Insurance, the Titans for Teeth Virtual 5K encouraged participants to be active at their own pace and place. A donation benefiting the Titans for Teeth Mobile Clinic was made on behalf of all participants, allowing uninsured children to receive dental care at little to no cost. Participants also joined in challenges to win prizes.
4 4 // Dental Hygiene Class Breast Cancer Awareness Month // October In support of Breast Cancer Awareness month, the Dental Hygiene Class of 2022 held a fundraiser, selling pink ribbon enamel pins. Students and faculty wore their pins throughout the month in support of the cause. Proceeds of the sale, which was organized by class vice president, Ellese Smith, will support breast cancer research.
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5 // Office of Diversity and Inclusion
celebrates "Dia de los Muertos - the Day of the Dead" // November 1
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The Office of Diversity and Inclusion (ODI) celebrated “Dia de los Muertos – the Day of the Dead”, during the month of November. Dia de los Muertos, a typically Latin American custom that combines indigenous Aztec rituals and Catholicism, honors the dead with festivals and lively celebrations. The ODI invited faculty, staff and students to decorate an altar by bringing photographs of family members who have passed.
6 // Dental Imprint Program // November
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The Office of Diversity and Inclusion (ODI) hosted it's annual Dental Imprint Program, where various Detroit Public, University of Detroit Jesuit, and local charter school students spend a day at Detroit Mercy Dental learning about the dental profession. Student visit days are accompanied by volunteer faculty members who teach students how to take dental impressions and other hands-on dental experiences. This school year, ODI has hosted six different schools and over 100 students. The Dental Imprint Program will continue for the remainder of the academic year.
7// Black Catholic History Month Inaugural Lecture featuring President Antoine M. Garibaldi, Ph.D. // November 16
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University of Detroit Mercy President Antoine M. Garibaldi delivered a presentation titled “Detroit’s Special Place in black Catholic History.” Garibaldi, the first lay and first Black president of Detroit Mercy, notes that there are nearly 3 million Black Catholics in the United States, he has researched the important contributions made by Black Catholics in Detroit in the 1960s and 1970s. Hosted by the Office of Mission Integration, Garibaldi’s presentation was the inaugural lecture of the Black Catholic History Month lecture series. See Garibaldi’s full presentation at, youtu.be/jkMUqdS5aKI
8 // School of Dentistry Decorates New Christmas Tree Together // November 23
In celebration of the holiday season, the Detroit Mercy Dental family collectively decorated its new 12foot Christmas tree! Dressed in Detroit Mercy Dental custom ornaments, red and blue shiny bulbs and glittering lights, the tree was a beautiful addition to the new entrance and was enjoyed by patients, faculty, staff and students. In addition, participants were asked to write their “wish for 2022” on a paper snowflake which was hung on the tree as well. This small gesture spread some cheer and happiness to all involved. D E N TA L . U D M E R C Y. E D U
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News
Around the School of Dentistry
Robert Tremblay named Executive Director of Oakland Dean Mert N. Aksu receives Pierre Fauchard Academy County Dental Society Affiliate Professor Robert Tremblay was Distinguished Service Award Detroit Mercy Dental Dean Mert N. Aksu received the Pierre Fauchard Academy (PFA) Distinguished Service Award. The award is the highest honor given by the PFA Michigan Section and is awarded to fellows whose actions and deeds reflect the highest examples of honorary dental service for the academy, the community, education, mentorship and/or philanthropy. Aksu was the academy’s 2019 award recipient, however, due to the pandemic, he officially received the award on Oct. 3, 2021. “After examining Dr. Aksu’s extensive CV, I think there’s no doubt that this year’s recipient qualifies in many of those categories. He has always remained steadfast in supporting the School’s mission of educating students who are both clinically proficient and humanistically focused on the service of their fellow man. It was a privilege to present the PFA’s Distinguished Service Award to Dr. Mert Aksu.” said Michael Maihofer, D.D.S. ’78, editor, PFA Michigan Section and president of the Michigan Dental Association.
recently named executive director of the Oakland County Dental Society (OCDS). The OCDS is a great resource for dental professionals seeking networking, mentorship and education opportunities. Founded in 1931, the OCDS has nearly 900 member dentists who work to serve their community, advance dental care and promote oral health.
Divesh Byrappagari inducted into the International College of Dentists David Kacir appointed Division Director of Clinical Essentials and Simulation Congratulations to Clinical Associate Professor David Kacir, who has been appointed to division co-director of Clinical Essentials and Simulation. Kacir joined the School of Dentistry in 2011 as an adjunct faculty. He earned his D.D.S. from University of Detroit Mercy and an M.S. from the University of Toledo. Most recently, Kacir served as Clinic Lead in the Division of Clinical Dentistry. 20 |
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Congratulations to Associate Professor Divesh Byrappagari who has been inducted as a fellow into the International College of Dentists (ICD). ICD is the preeminent global dental honor society recognizing outstanding professional achievement and meritorious service while advocating for humanitarian and educational initiatives.
ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT
Kathi Shepherd, R.D.H, M.S.
Michelle Wheater, Ph.D.
Kathi Shepherd appointed Interim Assistant Dean for Academic Administration Professor Kathi Shepherd has been appointed interim assistant dean for Academic Administration. Shepherd will also continue in her current position as assistant dean of Educational Development and Assessment. Professor Michelle Wheater has chosen to step down from interim assistant dean for Academic Administration and return to her faculty position in the Division of Integrated Biomedical Sciences. She will continue to serve as the director of Research and Scholarly Achievement as well as the Biomedical Sciences curriculum consultant for the Optometry program. The School of Dentistry would like to thank Professor Wheater for her service in this position for the past two years. The School of Dentistry is conducting a search for an assistant/associate dean for Academic Administration. Qualified applicants should send a letter of interest, curriculum vitae and the names, addresses and telephone numbers of three references to: walikacm@udmercy.edu or Office of the Dean, University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry, 2700 Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard, Detroit, MI. 48208
Mark Goldenberg, D.D.S. ‘79 | Goldenberg has worked as a pediatric dentist in a Beverly Hills, Calif. private practice since 1982 and has taught at both New York University School of Dentistry and University of Southern California School of Dentistry. He currently serves on the medical staff of Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles. Goldenberg was appointed to the California Dental Board by the governors where he served as both a board member and secretary. He is proud to be an alumnus because of the rigorous education and lifelong friends.
Richard Kulbersh, D.M.D., M.S. ‘75 | Richard Kulbersh is not only a proud alumnus of Detroit Mercy Dental but a valued long-time employee as well (now retired). Kulbersh shares, “I have spent 44 wonderful years at the School of Dentistry and 33 of them as chairman of the Orthodontics Department. Throughout that time, I was blessed to associate with many unique and talented people. The relationships made with them enabled me to function as an effective chair and thus bring national and international recognition to the department and the School.” Kulbersh is the recipient of the 2021 School of Dentistry Faculty Excellence Award 2018 American Board of Orthodontics, O. B. Vaughn Special Recognition Award, and 2010 American Board of Orthodontics, Dale B. Wade Award of Excellence in Orthodontics. He was also awarded the title of Professor Emeritus by University of Detroit Mercy in 2020.
Anthony Neely appointed Program Director of Graduate Periodontics Congratulations to Associate Professor Anthony Neely, who has been appointed to Program Director of Graduate Periodontics for Detroit Mercy Dental. Neely has been a full-time faculty member since joining the School of Dentistry in 1998. He earned his D.D.S. from the University of Minnesota, Certificate of Periodontology and Master of Dental Science in Periodontopathobiology from the University of Connecticut, and a Ph.D. in Chronic Disease Epidemiology from Yale University’s School of Epidemiology and Public Health.
He adds, “I am proud to be an alumnus of Detroit Mercy because my life was enriched and given purpose.” Richard Raad, D.D.S. ‘84 Raad believes that the relationships formed because of Detroit Mercy Dental have not only helped him grow as a professional but have endured a lifetime. He is most proud to be an alumnus because of the stellar faculty role models and fellow graduates.
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ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT
Tamika Thompson, D.D.S. ‘02, M.S. ‘11 | Thompson reflects on the impact relationships from Detroit Mercy have made on her, saying, “the diverse relationships created at Detroit Mercy have provided me with various opportunities for growth via participation on panels, public speaking, research engagement, establishing lifelong mentors and colleagues, and further leadership development. This was possible because I, in turn, have been able to pay it forward via my students, the community, and dentistry as a whole.” She recalls her fondest memory was mentoring a struggling student through dental school to graduation. As a show of gratitude, the student’s parents gifted her with an engraved sculpture in recognition of the care, mentorship and support she provided. Thompson says, “It was my fondest memory because you never know how much you are truly impacting someone. Every time I look at the sculpture, I am reminded of my purpose; to stand in the gap, support, and uplift others.”
Michigan Dental Association presents check to Office of Diversity and Inclusion The Michigan Dental Association (MDA) Board of Trustees presented the Office of Diversity and Inclusion (ODI) with a $6,000 check for the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Grant. The MDA DEI Grant will aid Michigan residents to participate in the ODI’s Summer Enrichment Program (SEP). Contributions will be continuously made to the fund, and an annual assessment of fundraising progress will be done to determine how much to give each year. SEP provides educational and professional development experiences for underrepresented minorities and/or disadvantaged students to help them successfully gain admission into dental school and pursue a career in dentistry. Students participating in SEP are provided free housing and DAT preparation as well as a travel and food stipend. To read more about the ODI’s Summer Enrichment Program scan the QR code on page 6.
Michael Rediske, D.D.S. ‘13 | Owner and Dentist of Great Lakes Family Dentistry of Hudsonville, Mich. Rediske served in the United States Air Force for seven years, in that time he completed a general dentistry residency, was Chief of Dental Services and Dental Operations Flight Commander, and was honored to serve the Armed Forces Medical Examination System by providing dental identification to fallen soldiers. He has achieved the rank of Major and was awarded the Meritorious Service Medal.
School of Dentistry receives Delta Dental Foundation grant for new Senior Oral Health Project Ivan Samano, D.D.S. ‘02 | Samano, who has had young patients shadow him over the past 20 years that have become dentists themselves states that he “appreciates the high quality of education and clinical experience that came with graduating from Detroit Mercy Dental.”
Professor Judith Jones and Director of Outreach Divesh Byrappagari were awarded grant funding from the Delta Dental Foundation for the new Detroit Mercy Senior Oral Health Equality Project for which they are co-directors. This project aims to provide more seniors with access to care, primarily those underserved in Detroit’s senior centers and assisted living facilities. As an effort for equity in the senior community, this project will also increase the importance of oral health and the visibility of this sometimes-overlooked demographic. The pilot program is scheduled to begin June 1.
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ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT
Adrianna Moreno, M.A.
Danielle M. Harris, M.A.
Promotions within the Office of Academic Administration and Student Services & Enrollment Management Adrianna Moreno, M.A., has been promoted to associate registrar for the School of Dentistry after having worked in student services for the past five years. Moreno originally joined the University as the student services coordinator and later advanced to associate director for Student Services. Moreno enhanced student programs, educational support services and academic enrichment activities for the School. Danielle Harris, M.A., has been promoted to assistant director for Student Services. After working in the Office of Admissions for 13 years, Harris brings her talents, expertise and student affairs experience to serving students by providing oversight and leadership for the day-to-day functions of the student services programs, resources, and co-curricular experiences.
Elizebeth Pitts inducted as new president of Michigan Dental Hygienists’ Association Congratulations to Affiliate Clinical Instructor Elizabeth Pitts who has been inducted as the new president of Michigan Dental Hygienists’ Association (MDHA). Pitts is a 2007 graduate from Howard University where she received a Bachelor of Science in Biology. She later graduated from the University of Michigan earning a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science in Dental Hygiene in 2012 and 2017, respectively. Pitts began her career as a clinical research dental hygienist working at the Michigan Center for Oral Health Research (MCOHR). MCOHR was established as a clinical research facility centered on patient care with a mission to improve oral, dental, and craniofacial health. She also worked as a public health dental hygienist, practicing under Public Act 161 to perform dental hygiene preventive and therapeutic services in access to care shortage area.
Nashwa Elrashidy, D.D.S. ‘10 | Nashwa Elrashidy is a proud Detroit Mercy Dental alumna with her own dental practice in Northern California. “What’s really neat is that you will always find a connection back to Detroit”, she says, “I had a patient find me (for dental services) because she was a fellow Detroit Mercy alum.” Elrashidy shares that her experiences at the school were so valuable to her career, adding, “I loved rotating at University Health Center (UHC), and I really appreciate the relationships made with staff and classmates”. Upon graduating, Elrashidy went on to complete a 1-year dental residency in Chicago and accounts that her experience at Detroit Mercy Dental helped her excel in the program. Walter Rupprecht, D.D.S. ‘80 | Walter Rupprecht is an officer of the Michigan Dental Association (MDA), President of the West Michigan District, Chairman of the MDA Annual Session, member of the Grand Rapids Symphony Community Choir, and a missions dentist. He remains social with Detroit Mercy former classmates and feels the School serves as “a cornerstone for social joy and professional relationships that continue to this day”. Rupprecht is especially proud to share alumnus status with his grandfather, who graduated as an electrical engineer.
Kristina Okolisan-Mulligan, R.D.H., B.S. ‘91, M.A. ‘11 | Why you are proud to be an alumnus: "I am proud to be an alumnus because the University of Detroit Mercy was always known for clinical excellence and still is; I am honored to be a part of it." Eryn Huber, R.D.H. ‘09, D.D.S. ‘16 | Fondest memory of your time at Detroit Mercy: “My fondest memory is being a co-speaker for our class speech. It was a great honor to represent my class as Vice President for all four years!”
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ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT
Mark Murphy, B.S. ‘77, D.D.S. ‘81 | “I have so many classmates that I am still close with from both undergraduate and dental school. I had so many excellent and inspiring Jesuit faculty in undergraduate that helped shape my thinking and philosophy of life. The dental faculty was very good at preparing us for the real world of dentistry.” said Murphy. He also recalls fond memories of his time at Detroit Mercy Dental when he had the honor of teaching microbiology lab with Professor John Molinari as a D1 student and human anatomy with Professors Ann Ettinger and Larry Anderson as a D2 – D4 student. Murphy also credits the beloved Professor Anderson with inspiring him to obtain lifelong fitness. Ana Janic, D.D.S ‘08, M.S. ‘11 | Fondest memory of your time at Detroit Mercy: “Receiving the outstanding clinical faculty member award in 2021 by my students was the biggest honor, pleasure, and pride-filled moment of my life.”
Keith Norwalk, D.D.S. ‘69 | “My dental education was second to none, and it has enabled me to teach in some dental capacity for over 40 years”, says Norwalk. Norwalk has achieved many notable accomplishments, some of which include being a three-time recipient of the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) Lifelong Learning and Service Recognition; earning the Ohio Dental Association Recipient of Humanitarian Award; serving as the President of the Greater Toledo Dental Society twice; and being the Director of Master Track for the Ohio AGD General Dentistry. In addition, Norwalk is an assistant clinical professor for Advanced Education in General Dentistry program at Case Western Reserve School of Dental Medicine. Jay Williams, D.D.S., ‘16 | Fondest memory of your time at Detroit Mercy: “Having my good friend donate a molar root canal for me to do the last week of school to graduate on time!”
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Dean Kathi Shepherd receives the Michigan Dental Hygienists’ Association Frances Shook Award Congratulations to Assistant Dean of Educational Development and Assessment and Interim Assistant Dean for Academic Administration Kathi Shepherd, who was awarded the Michigan Dental Hygienists’ Association (MDHA) Frances Shook Award. This prestigious award is presented to a professional who emulates the qualities and attributes of Frances Shook, former president of MDHA, and has significantly contributed to the dental hygiene profession. Shepherd is active in professional associations, including the American Dental Hygienists’ Association, MDHA and the Greater Detroit District Dental Hygienists’ Society as a leader, facilitator and advocate. She is a sought-after continuing education speaker because of her expertise, benefiting clinicians throughout the state and region. Shepherd’s passion and dedication to her students, colleagues, alumni and peers made her deserving of the recognition as a recipient of the Frances Shook Award.
Aman Gupta and Ana Janic present at the Midwest Microbial Pathogensis Conference Assistant Professor Aman Gupta and Clinical Assistant Professor Ana Janic M.S. '11 presented at the 27th Annual Midwest Microbial Pathogensis Conference (MMPC). Gupta and Janic’s poster presentation was titled “Prevalence of Urinary Tract Infection in Libyan Infants and Young Children with Sensitivity Testing of Bacterial Isolates.” Hosted by Michigan State University, the MMPC provides an interactive and engaging scientific forum for investigators to present their work and establish collaborations. MMPC fosters networking between institutions across the Midwest and provides great opportunities for students, fellows and faculty alike to make important new contacts.
ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT
Office of Student Services and Enrollment represent Detroit Mercy Dental at the 2022 ADEA GoDental Recruitment Event On March 19, the Office of Student Services and Enrollment Management proudly represented Detroit Mercy Dental at the 2022 American Dental Education Association (ADEA) GoDental Recruitment Event in Philadelphia, Penn. Assistant Dean of Student Services and Enrollment Management Juliette Daniels presented “Protecting Your Well-Being When Preparing for Dental School” as the keynote speaker of the packed event. Director of Admissions Steven Chang was a featured panelist who, along with other university admissions officers, answered important questions and presented a short video on admissions-specific topics. In addition, Director of Diversity and Inclusion Melvin Lunkins and dental students Ja'Nay Jones, Sierra Dowlen and Trey Hester represented Detroit Mercy Dental during the cumulative recruitment fair. Photo courtesy of the American Dental Education Association.
Divesh Byrappagari receives Johnson & Johnson Consumer Health grant in support of Mobile Clinic Director of Outreach Divesh Byrappagari has received a $300,000 grant from Johnson & Johnson Consumer Health to support the School of Dentistry’s mobile clinic. Funds from the grant will support the beloved Titans for Teeth Mobile Clinic and will also provide a four-year scholarship to a deserving under-represented minority dental student selected from the Summer Enrichment Program at Detroit Mercy Dental. The Titans for Teeth Mobile Clinic provides comprehensive dental care to uninsured and underserved adults and children in the Detroit Metropolitan Area.
Charo Earle, B.S., R.D.H. ‘01 | “I knew as a young child that I wanted to enter the dental field and attend Detroit Mercy. As a Detroit native, I am proud to tell people that I am an alumnus, and I am so happy to see the continued growth and expansion that is occurring.” Kara Gee, R.D.H., B.S. ‘09 | What makes you proud to be an alumnus? “I am grateful for the education and experiences that Detroit Mercy Dental provided. My education laid the foundation for a career in community health and the passion for serving others.”
Timothy Kosinski, D.D.S. ‘84 | Fondest memory of your time at Detroit Mercy: “Mr. Hoban calling me into his office during second year to give me a scholarship from alumnus John Honos, D.D.S. ‘57, whose criteria was some scholastic achievement, clinical competence, and a good sense of humor. I’ve tried to keep that good sense of humor all along” Stephen Chartier, D.D.S. ‘96 | After 20 years of service, Chartier retired from the United States Air Force as Colonel. During his time in the service, he completed a comprehensive dentistry residency and then became the director for the advanced education of general dentistry-1 residency program – a position he held for 13 years. Chartier is an associate professor at the Uniformed Services University of Health Services and most recently concluded his presidency with the American Board of General Dentistry in 2021. He adds, “I will always value the relationships I made during my time at Detroit Mercy Dental. Some of the best people I have ever met in my life were people I met during my time there.” Gary Spangler, D.D.S. ‘72 What makes you proud to be an alumnus? “Because of my education, I have been able to live a comfortable life, raise a great family and provide guidance to others who choose to go into the field of dentistry.”
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Alumni Board
Remembering Where it all Started
John D. Dinka, D.D.S., '86
As new or recent alumni, many University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry graduates face a plethora of challenges. Board exams, licensing, graduate programs, job placement, student loan repayments, relationships, and family responsibilities are but a few of many things that must be managed. Reflecting back on this stage of life, I often wonder how I could navigate so many trials. Hindsight, however, is wonderful in allowing the placement of these things into perspective. With your indulgence, please let me share my journey and, in the process, perhaps provide some guidance on how you can manage everything ahead. In April of 1986, board exams, requirements, graduation, and a bartending job were all on the plate. Fortunately, the boards seemed to go well, but the results would not come out until sometime in June. Requirements, on the other hand, were far from complete. Units of removable denture, crowns, and other cast restorations were in short supply back then, and of course, without those requirements being completed, your diploma was on hold. Commencement was held in May of 1986. While allowed to walk, my diploma jacket was empty. Fortunately, over the next two and a half months, with countless hours and much anxiety, those last units were completed, 26 |
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and the requirements were signed off on. The board results arrived with all sections passed. The state and DEA licenses could now be applied for, and the hunt for a dental position could begin.
matters took precedence. As we became established, however, and a prospering business ensued, attentions circled back to include recognizing the institution that was instrumental in our success.
The love of my life, Catherine, was finishing her second /starting her third year at Detroit Mercy Dental during this time. Our longer-term goal was to practice together, leaving my nearerterm objective to find an associateship. That position at a private practice within Detroit was finally realized in December of 1986. Now working full time, it made sense to get engaged and start the wedding plans for the summer of 1987. We kept renting a modest flat in Hamtramck and drove old cars to help keep living expenses down, and I was able to do some moonlighting at a friend’s office. This enabled me to start paying down the $80,000 plus in accrued student loan debt. Amazingly, my first full year out of school, my total income was just $21,000 from doing dentistry. Yet we paid the bills and were happy.
While it is easy to see why early on in our careers, most of us may not be in a position to contribute back to the School of Dentistry, I would encourage all of you to share in your good fortune and remember the school that helped provide the skills and knowledge that have led to your professional achievements.
1988 Saw Catherine’s on-time graduation and the transition to a second associateship for me. Once licensed, she was able to find some parttime work while we started looking for our own practice to purchase. We looked at offices from Port Huron to Ypsilanti over several months before settiling on an office in Sterling Heights, where we practice today. I continued the current associateship in Trenton through the first year of having our place. Fortunately, the transition went well, with good patient retention. Hard work and the extra income enabled the student loan debt to be retired in the spring of 1990, and that summer, we bought our first home. Needless to say, contributing to our Alma Mater during those early years was not a priority. Money was tight, and more pressing
Sincerely,
John D. Dinka, D.D.S. ‘86 President, Alumni Board of Directors
2021 - 22 ALUMNI BOARD OF DIRECTORS
President John D. Dinka, D.D.S. ’86
Vice-President Mario Tomei, D.D.S. ’92
Secretary Marcy Murrell, R.D.H. ’93, D.D.S.’02
Board Members Sarmad Alyas-Askar, M.S., D.D.S. ’13, M.S. Sarah Charland, R.D.H. ’17, B.S. ’17 Linda Dobis, D.D.S. ‘94 Eryn Huber, R.D.H. ‘09, D.D.S. ‘16 Mark R. Mortiere, M.S. ‘82, D.D.S. ‘86 Peter Namou, D.D.S. ‘17 Richard Raad, D.D.S. ‘84 Basam Shamo, D.D.S. ‘13 Benjamin Underwood, D.D.S. ‘15 Jenna Zelek, R.D.H. ‘01, B.S. ‘01
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