SPRING
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Kevin Urness, DMD 2016
Dr. Rana Tarzemany, PhD/Dip Perio candidate
Dr. Mark Casafrancisco, DMD 2005
· International College of Dentists Award (2015)
· Dr. S. Wah Leung Scholarship (2015)
· British Columbia Society of Paediatric Dentists Prize (2004)
· A-Dec Community Service Award (2014)
· Joseph Tonzetich Fellowship (2014)
· Western Canada Dental Society Dr. Cal Waddell Memorial Scholarship (2004)
“Dental school is more than lectures, exams and studying,” says Kevin Urness. “Student awards are a chance to recognize how far we’ve come.” Recognition is rewarding and especially welcome in a schedule with obligations that include school, volunteer clinics, family and participation in the Dental Undergraduates Society (DUS). “Many dental students are extremely busy, and at times there is a sense of doubt at the effects of our efforts.” Awards, he says, offer feelings of appreciation as well as welcome financial relief for students who are juggling various commitments. One of Urness’s passions is being a member of the DUS. He believes that the student experience extends beyond the classroom, and involvement in social events and charity initiatives helps prepare students for the non-clinical aspect of their future careers. He is inspired by the prospect of a career that is limitless in its scope of knowledge and skills. “Knowing that you were recognized pushes you to continue working hard at dental school, and motivates you to be able to give back to students in the future.”
· Joseph Tonzetich Fellowship (2013) · Joseph Tonzetich Fellowship (2012)
Determination and passion guide Dr.Tarzemany. She has won many awards for her research, including the prestigious Volpe Prize, sponsored by Colgate and the University of Ohio Dental School, for the best clinical research in periodontology by dentistry students in Canada, Mexico and the United States. “When your work is recognized by others, you recognize yourself too. Each award increases appreciation of work and adds to your motivation,” Tarzemany says. “Awards raise the quality of work and research alongside expectation.” Her body of work speaks to the research that others have dedicated years or even lifetimes to. Participating in this larger conversation is like adding pieces to a puzzle. Along with the gratification of having her efforts recognized comes a responsibility, in international competitions, to represent the university and department. “The level of competition corresponds with a level of prestige,” she says. And, the recognition solidifies the importance of Tarzemany’s research.
Dr. Mark Casafrancisco, a recipient of student awards when he was a dental student, now supports awards and bursaries along with other co-owners of Monarch Pediatric Dental Centre. “Student awards are a rewarding form of feedback for performance. They recognize those who are striving and can also help those who are having a hard time financially.” Awards also help students to explore their potential, Casafrancisco says. He had an interest in pediatric dentistry as a student and followed that interest into his career. The synergy he shares with the other dentists and staff at Monarch Pediatric Dental Centre is evident in their high level of commitment to children’s health and in the relationship Monarch has with UBC Dentistry. As an alumnus, Mark reflects, “It helps to be able to provide recognition to students. It helps those who excel to move forward in higher education, and it’s a positive form of feedback that they deserve.” Student awards recognize a culmination of personal effort, skill and expertise.
U B C D E N T I S T RY I M P R E S S I O N S
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