2023 Perspectives

U N I V E R S I T Y

P ER SP ECT IVES 2023

O F K E N T U C K Y C O L L E G E O F D E N T I S T R Y

DENTISTRY.UKY.EDU

S T U D E N T S V I S I T E LLI O TT C O U N TY FO R 2023 SEAL TR I P S

202 3 A NNU AL MAGA ZINE

s e v i t c e p s r e P

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TA BLE O F CONT ENT S

Dean Dr. Jeffrey Okeson

Editorial Board Linda Epling

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Ann Jarvis

Contributing Writers

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FA CULT Y S P OT L I GHT: DR. RON S I NGE R

Linda Epling Ann Jarvis

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E NDODONT I C P ROGRA M L A UNCHE S

Ainslie Schmidt

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A L UMNI S P OT L I GHT: DR. F RE D HOWA RD

Photos

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S T UDE NT HI GHL I GHT S

Libby Charlton Ann Jarvis Ainslie Schmidt Ryan Vicini

Art Direction & Design Honey Creative

OUR MISSION Advancements in patient care, education, research, and community engagement, for the benefit of Kentuckians and beyond, are made possible by our college’s scientifically oriented, technically capable, and culturally sensitive oral health team.

Archives dentistry.uky.edu/perspectives Questions About the Magazine Ann Jarvis, 859-323-6526 ann.jarvis@uky.edu Dental Practice Opportunities Share your listings at dentistry.uky.edu/opening.

UKCD Alumni Board

Members at Large

President, Erica Higginbotham, 2003

Michael Day, 2003

Vice President, Frank Kendrick, 1990

Kala Green, 2016

Treasurer, Cliff Lowdenback, 2003

Don Michael Hendricks, 2008

Secretary, Tyler Bolin, 2013

Rhonda Hogan, 1999

Faculty Rep, David DeVito, 2015

Donna Klein, 2001

Resident Rep, Megan Tallman, 2020

Kevin Martello, 1986 Alex Mayes Young, 2009

UKCD Social Media flickr.com/photos/ukydentistry/albums Facebook.com/ukcdalumni Linkedin.com/company/ukydentistry

UKCD Alumni Engagement Ryan Vicini, 859-323-6676 rlvici2@uky.edu

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Student Reps

Ashley Mencarelli, 2013, 2016 Ortho

2023, Linzi Ralph, 2023

Zindell Richardson, 1983

2024, Olivia Van Praag, 2024

Charles Rolph, 1997, 2000 Perio

2025, Brice Smith, 2025

Michael Sexton, 2009

2026, Cassie Corbett, 2026

Tom Thompson, 1984

2027, Emily O’Dell, 2027

Adam Thompson, 2004

College of Dentistry Philanthropy Linda Epling, 859.323.6916 linda.epling@uky.edu

Continuing Dental Education Visit dentistry.uky.edu/ce.

P ERSPECT IVES 2023

Dear Alumni and Friends, Greetings as I look out on this beautiful, crisp autumn day as the leaves turn across the Bluegrass. It is hard to believe that summer has passed, fall is in full swing, and the holiday season is quickly approaching (Christmas music is already ringing through my home as my children practice for upcoming performances).

Your UKCD Alumni Association has been very active the past few months. Dr. Tyler Bolin (’13) organized our UKCD Alumni Golf Tournament in August. We had a record twenty-nine teams participate at the University Club of Kentucky to enjoy fellowship and friendly competition with alumni, students, and faculty. Congrats to our winning team of: Robert Case (’25), Ryan Mallette (’25), David Miller (’25), and Blair Skarin (’26). To our golfing alumni, we hope this wonderful turnout will encourage you to participate in next year’s tournament as we raise money for our scholarship fund.

We were proud to welcome sixty-five first-year UKCD students into our great profession by honoring them at their White Coat Ceremony on September 29th at the Singletary Center for the Arts. Many proud family members and friends were in attendance to support these students as they begin their dental journey. Your UKCD Alumni Association along with the American College of Dentists and International College of Dentists sponsored the white coats for the students.

In October, Dr. Kevin Martello (’86) headed our Fall Symposium committee to plan a highly attended and much enjoyed alumni weekend. After last year’s success of having our annual Barrels and Kegs fundraiser as the kickoff to the weekend of events, our chair Dr. Zindell Richardson (’83) led our alumni association with the planning of silent auction items and the participation of eight local distilleries and breweries. This is another great fundraiser to aid the scholarships for our students. Friday began with a continuing education course sponsored by Invisalign and presenting three of our fourth-year dental students, Sarah Haerle, Amina Nouri and Nick Ragland with scholarships followed by an exciting afternoon of racing at Keeneland. We were able to honor Dr. Donald J. Kleier (’70) and Dr. Steven Tucker (’75) with our Distinguished Alumni of the Year Awards at a lovely dinner at Spindletop Hall as the classes of 1968, 1973, 1978, 1983, 1988, 1993, 1998, 2003, 2008, 2013, and 2018 celebrated reunions. The weekend wrapped up with a tailgate Saturday prior to the UK vs Missouri game at the Blue Courts with delicious food, a fabulous band, visits by the UK Marching Band, cheerleaders, mascots, and lots of activities for our alumni to enjoy. We had over 300 alumni, guests and students participate over the Fall Symposium and Alumni Weekend!

With all the successful events of the fall, we look forward to our next UKCD Alumni Association event. Our second annual Wellness Retreat focused on Women’s Health will be held May 17-19, 2024, at the Grove Park Inn. Dr. Donna Klein (’01) with her committee planned the inaugural event this past May and the twenty attendees enjoyed continuing education provided by Dr. Pamela SparksStein (’90), tours of the Biltmore Inn, and a yoga class. All alumni in attendance are excited to welcome others back for this special weekend together. So, mark your calendars and be on the lookout for registration information in the near future.

As you can tell, the UKCD Alumni Association is active and strong with a wide range of classes represented. Now that we offer hybrid meetings in person in conjunction with Zoom it opens the opportunity of alumni across multiple states to participate in our quarterly meetings. Please consider joining us next year to help support our great college through the alumni association.

Finally, I would like to congratulate past UKCD Alumni Association past President and fellow classmate of UKCD Class of 2003, Dr. Cliff Lowdenback, for being elected to serve in the position of the Kentucky Dental Association President. Cliff, you make us proud!

As the football cats continue to battle and the UK Basketball legacy of Reed Sheppard excites BBN, I hope the sun shines bright on your Kentucky home as 2024 approaches us.

Go Cats!!

Erica I Higginbotham DMD UKCD Alumni Association President UKCD Class of 2003

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COLLE GE NEWS

REACHING OUT TO KENTUCKIANS

FACULTY SPOTLIGHT:

DR. RON SINGER Upon deciding to relocate from California in 2016, leaving his solo practitioner pediatric dental office of 34 years, Dr. Ron Singer immediately reached out to the UK College of Dentistry to inquire about joining the college’s faculty.

“Some of my dental school friends, over the years, had private practices and then they transitioned to different universities and starting teaching…maybe not academics but helping in clinic and different areas. So, when we made the decision to come to Kentucky, I reached out to them and I asked them how they liked teaching. They all said they really liked it. So, I said okay, I think that’s what I want to do instead of trying to start another practice,” shares Singer.

At the time, the college did not have any openings, but encouraged Singer to keep in contact. Reaching out each month and staying connected through various continuing education offerings, Singer learned of an opportunity and joined UKCD’s Division of Pediatric Dentistry in July 2017. Singer’s history of caring for pediatric patients and being involved in community outreach efforts in California would serve him well, especially as he was charged with overseeing the college’s annual sealant trips involving firstyear dental students that traditionally took place shortly after the start of the fall semester.

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P ERSPECT IVES 2023

Seal Kentucky is a community-based dental sealant program

The RAM events are a passionate experience…providing care

for elementary-aged children across the state. The goals for

to people who have no money, people that stand in line all

first-year dental students participating in the effort include

night. It’s incredible, these outreach programs.”

placing increased emphasis on the importance of community involvement and promoting a positive dentistry experience for young children.

After connecting with several faculty members to learn about how past trips worked, Singer also met with other groups on campus to discuss how the effort might grow to provide emphasis and resources to support the overall health of young patients.

“I was introduced to Dr. Janie Heath, the dean of Nursing, and to Jim Norton, who was the director for the Center for Interprofessional Education…we talked about the seal trip and said let’s collaborate. We called it hCATS… healthcare colleges attaining team skills,” shares Singer.

Through the hCATS effort, elementary school students received dental services as well as health screenings and education, touching upon areas including eye sight, nutrition, tobacco avoidance, exercise, and more.

Singer led the college’s participation in support of a third RAM event in December 2023, held in Mayfield. Over 70 volunteers from UKCD attended to provide dental care over two days.

Looking into 2024 and beyond, Singer hopes to continue to grow and enhance the college’s community outreach efforts, engaging with more areas of the university to support the overall health of patients and providing more comprehensive dental services.

Singer shares, “Currently, the seal trips focus on prevention.

We do the education. We do the sealant. When we see dental decay, we say here’s a name of a dentist. We need to focus our future efforts to provide complete comprehensive care, when possible.”

“I’m just very passionate to see the student enthusiasm and concern for outreach and public health. It really is touching. I didn’t see this need in California. My practice was in a middleclass economic area. I reached out to lower economic areas,

With his demonstrated record of community engagement, in

and we provided free care. But, the need here in Kentucky for

November of 2022, Singer was asked to serve as the interim chief

medical and dental has been overwhelming,” says Singer. “So,

for the Division of Public Health. Upon stepping into this role,

I’m excited that I have this opportunity in public health. I think

he worked to update many of the dental public health courses

my adventure will include meeting new people that give the

and aided dental students in gaining externship opportunities.

college the opportunity to do more good in our community.”

Additionally, he coordinated the college’s support of two Remote Area Medical (RAM) clinics, in the cities of Hazard and Bowling Green, and took on overseeing several public health-related grants. After serving in an interim capacity for nearly a year, Singer was promoted to division chief in October 2023.

Speaking on overseeing the college’s engagement with RAM events, Singer shares, “Well, I’m very excited because I’ve got the enthusiasm of the students. They’re engaged wanting to do outreach, which is fabulous.

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COLLE GE NEWS

FACULTY NOTES Dr. Mohamed Bazina assumed the position of Program Director for Orthodontics.

Dr. Cynthia Beeman assumed the position of Division of Orthodontics Chief.

Dr. Ian Boggero was accepted into the ORBIT Institute as a fellow. The ORBIT Institute: Developing Behavioral Treatments

Dr. Craig Miller was named Associate Dean for Faculty Affairs and Development. Additionally, Miller was awarded the Fulbright Specialist Program Award, an international education exchange program sponsored by the U.S. government to help build lasting relationships between citizens of other countries and the United States.

Dr. Lorri Ann Morford was one of four faculty awarded a $5,000 scholarship from the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) to attend The Institute for Teaching and Learning (ITL).

Dr. Thamer Musbah was promoted to Associate Professor in the Department of Oral Health Practice, and now serves as Division of Oral Diagnosis, Oral Medicine, and Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology Chief.

Dr. Kenneth Nusbacher was named Associate Dean of Clinic

to Improve Health is a NIH-funded short course that accepts

Affairs in March 2023, after serving in an interim capacity.

25 fellows per year and trains them in behavioral intervention

Dr. Mauro Santamaria received a $50,000 Pilot Award from the

development for cancer prevention/treatment and related health behaviors.

Dr. Wes Coffman was appointed to serve as Director for

UK Center for Clinical and Translational Science (CCTS) to support his student entitled, “Understanding mechanisms of oral mucosa wound healing: A step toward precision therapy for

Comprehensive Treatment Planning & Interdisciplinary Care.

vulnerable populations.”

Dr. Dolph Dawson was promoted to Full Professor in the

Dr. Lynn Theiss retired from the college in December 2022, after

Department of Oral Health Practice.

supporting UKCD for 30 years.

Dr. David DeVito was named Assistant Dean for Predoctoral Clinical Affairs.

Dr. Octavio Gonzalez was promoted to Full Professor in the Department of Oral Health Science. Additionally, he was appointed as an Editorial Board Member for the Journal of Dental Research (JDR). JDR is a peer-reviewed scientific journal with an Impact Factor: 8.924. It ranks #1 of 92 journals in total citations and Eigenfactor (2022 Journal Citation ReportsTM). Gonzalez will serve as Editorial Board Member

Dr. Mohamed Bazina

Dr. Cynthia Beeman

Dr. David DeVito

Dr. Octavio Gonzalez

for three years (2023-2026).

Mr. Bobby Helton and Dr. Ron Singer were awarded a $50,000 Women in Philanthropy grant to increase public health clinics for underserved populations in Central and Eastern Kentucky.

Dr. Jennie Ison was named Division of Oral Pathology Chief.

Dr. Ahmad Kutkut was promoted to Full Professor in the Department of Oral Health Practice.

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P ERSPECT IVES 2023

Dr. Fernanda Yanez Regonesi earned Diplomate status with the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine.

Drs. Marcia Rojas-Ramirez and Craig Miller were awarded U01 NIH grant funding for a project entitled, “Empowering dentists to reduce opioid prescriptions to young people.” The entire research team includes Drs. D. Oyler D (PI), E. Dominguez, S. Walsh, H. Knudsen, T. Freeman, and P. Westgate. Rojas-Ramirez is also a collaborator with the UK College of Pharmacy, Public Health, Medicine, and others on an NIH grant to study the effects of buprenorphine in oral diseases.

Dr. Ronald Singer was promoted to Associate Professor in the

Dr. Thamer Musbah

Dr. Kenneth Nusbacher

Dr. Fernanda Yanez Regonesi

Dr. Marcia Rojas-Ramirez

Department of Oral Health Science and named Division of Dental Public Health Chief in October 2023.

Dr. Kathryn Wade was named Division of Comprehensive Care Chief.

Dr. Al Wiemann was announced as an American Association of Endodontists District IV director candidate for terms beginning in 2024.

Dr. Emily Winfrey was inducted into the Omicron Kappa Upsilon Dental Honor Society.

Dr. Jennie Ison

Dr. Ahmad Kutkut

Dr. Ronald Singer

Dr. Kathryn Wade

Dr. Craig Miller

Dr. Lorri Ann Morford

Dr. Al Wiemann

Dr. Emily Winfrey

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COLLE GE NEWS

h c r a e s Re AT UKCD Sarah Haerle

In March 2023, the college held its annual Research Day event in conjunction with the UK Center for Clinical and Translational Science (CCTS) Research Day. From 40 poster submissions, below are the day’s results: GRA DUAT E S T UDE NT S /RE S I DE NT S /E X T E RNS /P OS T DOCT ORA L 1.

Dr. Mohamed Adel, Division of Orthodontics, Subclinical Facial Asymmetry: Normal Variation or an Early/Subtle Indication of Hidden Pathology

Anna McWhorter

2.

Manuela Miguel, Center for Oral Health Research and Periodontics, with Dr. Mauro Santamaria, Collagen Matrix Associate with iPRF to Treat Gingival Recession

3.

Dr. Jordan Marsh, Pediatric Dentistry, with Dr. Perez, Physical Activity As It Relates To Dental Decay

DMD S T UDE NT S 1.

Nicholas Ragland, DS3, BMI and Dental Development Compared to Chronological Age in Females of Different Ethnic Groups

2.

Sarah Haerle, DS3, What are the Effects of Orthodontic Movement on the Periodontium? A Critical Review of the Current Literature

Nicholas Ragland

3.

Sydney Gordon, DS1 with Gonzalez lab, Antimicrobial effect of Metronidazole-loaded Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles

UNDE RGRA DUAT E S T UDE NT S 1.

Rooz Ghaddafi with Gonzalez Lab, Effect of PLA2-IIA in Human Subgingival Oral Microbiome

2.

Danielle Bellamy with Gonzalez lab, Effect of Phospholipase A2 group IIA (PLA2-IIA) in Alveolar Bone Loss

3.

Rooz Ghaddafi

Anna McWhorter, Department of Dietetics and Human Nutrition, With Dr. Grubbs from College of Nursing and Dr. Plasencia with the Department of Dietetics and Human Nutrition- Blood pressure measurements negatively associated to areas of deprivation in Kentucky Many thanks to the 2023 poster session judges Drs. Luciana Almeida, Mireille Andriankaja, Ian Boggero, Renato Casarin, James Hartsfield, Pratishtha Mishra, Lorri Morford, Octavio Gonzalez, Howard Roberts, and Vanessa Tubero, also with Dawn Dawson and Lorie Snow.

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P ERSPECT IVES 2023

ADDITIONAL RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS By engaging in research efforts, the UK College of Dentistry hopes to achieve gains in both the area of education and patient care, as researchers work toward unveiling discoveries that will aid in preventing and alleviating oral disease. Here are just a few faculty research highlights for 2023: • Dr. Oelisoa Andriankaja’s UK Igniting Research Collaborations (IRC) proposal was one of 15 proposals selected for funding. IRC funding seeks to increase interdisciplinary scientific engagement and leverage the breadth of expertise across UK to tackle important problems in the Commonwealth.

Andriankaja partnered with College of Pharmacy faculty and was awarded $35,000 to support research on “Mechanisms of anti-Porphyromonas gingivalis activity of statins.

• Dr. Ian Boggero will receive $640,443 over five years through a National Institutes of Health (NIH) Research Career Development Award. Funds will support research efforts on “Initial Evidence for a Brief Psychological Telehealth Intervention for Patients with Chronic Masticatory Muscle Pain.”

Dean Okeson reviews research posters

The effort aims to develop novel brief psychological interventions for the management of chronic orofacial pain, and provides training for Boggero to establish a line of independent research.

• Dr. Octavio Gonzalez continues work on “Role of Notch-1/

• Dr. Mauro Santamaria was awarded an UK Center for

PLA2-IIA in Oral Dysbiosis, Inflammation, and Periodon¬tal

Clinical and Translational Science (CCTS) Pilot Award for

Disease.” This effort aims to provide new opportunities for the

$50,000. The award was given for Santamaria’s study,

development of innovative approaches to prevent and treat

“Understanding mechanisms of oral mucosa wound

periodontal disease and its potential adverse effects in systemic

healing: A step toward precision therapy for vulnerable

health. Funding is being provided by the NIH ($2.7M over

populations.” In this study, specific inflammatory markers

five years).

and the microbiome present during the oral mucosa healing process will be evaluated, and data will be

• Dr. Marcia Rojas-Ramirez received NIH funding ($1.356M over two years) to study “Understanding the Association

generated for a future NIH grant application.

between Sublingual Buprenorphine and Oral Health Outcomes.”

• Dr. Luciana Shaddox continues work on the NIH-

Sublingual (SL) buprenorphine is the most common medication

funded ($6.1M over five years) study, “Susceptibility

used to treat opioid use disorder, however, FDA data suggests

Patterns for Grade C Periodontitis in Young Individuals.”

it may be linked to serious oral complications. This effort will

Aggressive periodontitis, Grade C periodontitis (C/MIP), is

examine if and how SL buprenorphine influences the extent,

a rapidly progressive form of periodontitis affecting young

onset, and progression of oral disease in patients with opioid

individuals at an early age, usually aggregating in families

use disorder, and produce data-driven conclusions to improve

of lower social economic background. The factors that

understanding of potential treatments to reduce the burden of

render affected individuals to C/MIP disease are yet to be

oral disease in those taking SL buprenorphine.

clearly identified, which affects the proper control of this aggressive disease. This multi-center study aims to gather clearly-defined cases of Grade C periodontitis (C/MIP) to evaluate genetic susceptibility variants.

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COLLE GE NEWS

Dr. Octavio Gonzalez, Clem Stambaugh, Karen Woolfork, Dr. Cynthia Beeman, Dr. Thamer Musbah, and Dean Okeson.

FACULTY AND STAFF d e r o hon AT COLLEGE RETREAT At the 2023 UK College of Dentistry (UKCD) retreat, the college honored several faculty and staff members who have demonstrated exemplary ability and outstanding performance in their respective positions, contributing to the overall success of the college.

Dr. Thamer Musbah – UKCD Dean’s Award for Achievements

Congratulations to the following 2023 award recipients:

and an Associate Professor in the Department of Oral Health

Dr. Cynthia Beeman – UKCD Dean’s Award for Achievements in Service Beeman joined the college in 1989 and is a Professor in the

Musbah joined the college in 2016 and is Chief of the Division of Oral Diagnosis, Oral Medicine, and Oral Radiology Practice. He shares that when he first started teaching, he didn’t feel teaching came naturally to him, but that it has been a growing process with trial and error.

Division of Orthodontics. During her time at UK, she has

Clem Stambaugh – UKCD Staff Excellence Award

served in many positions—both academic and administrative

Stambaugh has been at UKCD for 18 years and is currently an

including Director of Graduate Orthodontic Program

Administrative Support Associate for three divisions. During

Research, Director of Graduate Program Orthodontics,

this time, he has served as the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Associate Dean for Academic Affairs, Master of Science Thesis

(DEI) Officer, Staff Senator, Co-chair of UKCD’s Staff Advisory

Committee, Research Mentor, and Interim Chair for

Committee, and Co-Chair of the Staff Leadership Group in

the Faculty Council.

addition to supporting faculty and students.

Dr. Octavio Gonzalez – UKCD Dean’s Award for

Karen Woolfork – UKCD Staff Excellence Award

Achievements in Research

Woolfork has been a Patient Services Coordinator for Oral

Gonzalez joined UKCD in 2012 and is a Professor in the

and Maxillofacial Surgery at UK for approximately eight years.

Department of Oral Health Science. Over the years, his

She supports her division through treatment planning, patient

research has resulted in the publishing of 65 peer-reviewed

check-in and check-out, trauma emails, training her division’s

papers and three book chapters that have been presented

Patient Service Coordinators, and much more.

nationally and internationally.

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in Teaching

P ERSPECT IVES 2023

SHADDOX HONORED AS UNIVERSITY RESEARCH PROFESOR UKCD’s Dr. Luciana Shaddox is one of 16 University Research Professors for 2023-24.

The University Research Professorships honor faculty members who have demonstrated excellence that addresses scientific, social, cultural and economic challenges in our region and around the world.

College leadership develop criteria for excellence within their area of expertise and then nominate faculty who excelled at these criteria. Each University Research Professor receives a one-year award of $10,000.

“Being named a University Research Professor is a huge honor,” Shaddox said. “I want to thank my colleagues and others who thought of me, and who nominated me for this award. This year has been full of career accomplishments that have been a culmination of years of hard work, and I couldn’t have done any of it without my great colleagues, students and staff.”

Shaddox’s recent research primarily focuses on identifying susceptibility of a severe form of periodontal disease which affects 1-3% of the U.S. population around puberty. This form of the disease causes severe bone loss around

“Being named a University Research Professor is a huge honor....I couldn’t have done any of it without my great colleagues, students and staff.”

certain areas of the mouth which can cause an array of other complications during one’s life. Underserved groups within the population are particularly at risk for this disease.

Photo: UK President Eli Capilouto with Dr. Luciana Shaddox

by Jeremy Blackburn, UK Research Communications

ISON RECEIVES UKCD CLASS OF 1968 FACULTY DEVELOPMENT AWARD Congratulations to Dr. Jennie Ison on receiving the UKCD Class of 1968 Faculty Development Award. The annual award provides $5,000 to an early career UKCD faculty member who shows exceptional potential for career development.

Ison received her Doctor of Dental Medicine from UKCD and after graduation practiced as a general dentist in Lexington for a few years. She later completed her Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology Residency at the Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell.

Ison plans to attend the Eastern Society of Teachers of Oral Pathology’s Annual Meeting with the award, where she will have the opportunity to learn from those who have years of experience in her field, specifically in the educational component of this discipline.

“Attending the annual meeting of the Eastern Society of Teachers of Oral Pathology provides attendees access to a repository of high quality, thoroughly worked-up teaching cases, that one can use in the education of dental students for both lecture and examination purposes,” notes Ison.

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COLLEGE LAUNCHES ENDODONTIC PROGRAM In March 2023, the UK College of

Residents will be prepared to achieve

Each dental operatory includes a

Dentistry received word of initial

board certification through the

surgical operating microscope with

accreditation approval from the

American Board of Endodontics.

image capture capabilities and a state-

Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) for the college’s 24-month postgraduate endodontic certificate program. The program, developed by UKCD Division of Endodontics Chief Dr. Al Wiemann and UKCD Endodontic Program Director Dr. Mark Schachman, welcomed three residents in July 2023. Three additional residents will matriculate in July 2024.

The postgraduate endodontic program includes emphasis on both clinical and didactic learning. Residents will become clinically competent in providing challenging non-surgical root canal therapy in addition to surgical endodontic care. Clinically, the program will focus on treatment of medically compromised patients, utilizing the latest technologies in anesthesia, pain control, diagnosis, trauma, irrigation techniques, imaging—including

While in the program, learners are expected to complete up to 300 nonsurgical cases and 20-30 surgical cases, preparing them to be skilled specialists with the ability to deliver high quality, evidenced-based endodontic therapy to their patients.

designed for endodontic care. Patient cases are viewable in real-time in the adjacent endodontic conference room allowing for case discussion and immediate decision-making to support treatment.

“In the past, patients who had complex

“The need for endodontic services at the college is high. Current residents are providing care five days a week in order to meet the high demand for complex endodontic care present within the Commonwealth. Patients travel many hours to receive this care and are very appreciative their dental needs can be accomplished within the College of Dentistry, in a safe and costsensitive approach,” shares Schachman.

CBCT, and laser assisted endodontic therapy. In addition, residents will

The college’s endodontic suite is in the

participate in individualized research,

Dental Science Building, adjacent to

case presentations, classic and current

the predoctoral clinic and Urgent Care

literature review sessions, textbook

Clinic. All operatories are designed

seminars, and attend oral medicine,

with advanced equipment for the

pathology, and oral facial pain lectures

delivery of endodontic procedures,

given by UKCD faculty.

including surgical and non-surgical root canal treatment.

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of-the-art delivery system specifically

endodontic needs many times elected to remove a tooth,” said Wiemann.

“Based on initial appointment demand since our residents started in July, we are excited about the number of patients interested in being seen in our clinic in the hopes of retaining their natural teeth.”

P ERSPECT IVES 2023

OFFERING UNIQUE EXPERIENCES TO DMD STUDENTS:

DMD DIGITAL IMPLANT SURGERY PROGRAM CELEBRATES FIVE YEARS Since 2018, DMD students at the UK College of Dentistry

Division of Prosthodontics Chief and Director of Predoctoral

(UKCD) have had the option, and are encouraged, to place

Implant Program.

dental implants in patients treated in the DMD Student Clinic.

Having this opportunity is not standard across predoctoral programs, with many other dental schools only making this option available to a small pool of fourth-year students in honors-like programs or via advanced postgraduate programs.

Dental school graduates wanting a different method to achieve similar experiences may elect to learn about surgical implant placement via, generally, expensive continuing education courses.

When speaking about his UKCD digital dentistry experience Elliot Traxler, class of 2024, describes it as an everyday occurrence. “In our first year, we actually started just scanning our dentiform…it was a great way to learn in a very low pressure setting. Moving into second year…we scanned each other.

In third year, and even late second year…we start using the scanners on patients…scan crown preps, scan restorative work.

We have a lot of opportunities to place implants in our third year using guided technology with the scanners and CBCT….

In the past five years, some 400 dental implant cases have been completed by DMD students at UKCD. Just as impressive is the overall success rate of 98 percent associated with these cases—a rate considered very favorable when compared to published literature.

“Our success rate and a high level of patient satisfaction help to

we’re very fortunate to be able to do that here at UK.” Looking ahead to working after graduation, Traxler shares, “What’s great is I’ll already have a leg up in knowing a lot of the different systems out there and how to communicate with dental labs as far as sending the images and material we acquire using digital technology.”

demonstrate how our approach is beneficial to both our learners and patients. Faculty supervision and support paired with our fully guided implant surgery protocols, help ensure a positive, safe experience for all,” shares Dr. Ahmad Kutkut, UKCD

LEARN MORE ABOUT UKCD’S OFFERING BY READING THE FOLLOWING IN T H E J O U R N A L O F O R A L I M P L A N T O L O G Y: Ahmad Kutkut, Jeffrey Okeson; Digital Implant Dentistry Predoctoral Program at University of Kentucky. J Oral Implantol 1 December 2022; 48 (6): 533–540. doi: https://doi.org/10.1563/aaid-joi-D-22-00003

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A LUM NI NEWS

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT:

DR. FRED HOWARD Starting off at UK as a chemical engineering major, during his junior year, Fred Howard applied for early admission to the UK College

Healthcare was in my background all along.

of Dentistry (UKCD) and was accepted. He started the following fall and graduated from UKCD in 1982.

Being exposed to the latest and greatest technology has also been exciting. Things are changing so fast. At a university, you are

going to be exposed to all the newest things,” shares Howard.

Using the “the abilities and knowledge” he has always used,

“My dad always wanted to be a physician, but because of World

Howard covers third- and fourth-year students in clinic. He notes

War II, he never got the opportunity. My sister was actually

teaching at the college benefits both students and faculty. “I

in pharmacy school, ahead of me, so she was already in the

think a lot of people who retire from active practice and don’t

healthcare field. I had a procedure done in Lexington, as an

have a plan, a lot of times they aren’t very happy.”

undergrad, and it opened my eyes to the dental profession.”

Since being back at UKCD on faculty, Howard has volunteered

Following graduation from UKCD, Howard returned to his

to cover students at their monthly student led Saturday Morning

hometown of Harlan and purchased a dental practice from

Clinic for indigent children that he directed as a student over 40

another UKCD graduate who had served the community for

years ago.

several years. Howard remained at this practice until he retired, selling the practice to yet another UKCD graduate, Kaitlyn Patel, who went to school with his youngest son.

Howard shared that he had made a presentation to Patel many years earlier during a sixth-grade science class. Following the presentation, Patel shared she wanted to be a dentist. Howard served as a mentor from that time forward, helping guide her efforts.

With Howard’s natural ability and commitment to mentoring future dentists, he was approached to chair the college’s recently launched Pathways to Dentistry committee.

“Historically, we’ve looked at what we call pipeline programs, where there is basically one way to get from point A to point B. The idea of Pathways to Dentistry is that there are more ways to get students involved and engaged…interested to come to dental school. Also, we’re looking at the idea of how do you

At the urging of former UKCD Dean Dr. Sharon Turner, Howard

mentor students while in dental school but also when they

joined UKCD as part-time faculty 10 years ago, helping

graduate. For most of our young graduates…all they need

supervise students in clinic on Fridays. Reflecting on this decision, Howard shares it has been one of the greatest things he has ever done.

“When you’re in solo private practice, it can get very lonely. The enthusiasm the students bring renews and reinvigorates you.

14

is some validation. They know what to do. That’s why I ask them to tell me what they are thinking, don’t ask me what to do,” says Howard.

P ERSPECT IVES 2023

“What excited me about it more than anything

delegate to the American Dental Association; and Vice

is the idea that we have all these different

Regent of the International College of Dentists. In addition

opportunities. It’s a little bit overwhelming.

to his many organized dentistry roles, he has served on the

We’re trying a few different pilot projects,

local water board in his area for over 30 years. His deep

looking at getting students interested in

commitment to the profession and spirit of volunteerism

dentistry. As time goes on, this effort can

helped earn Howard the UKCD Distinguished Alumni Award

expand into so many different areas,” he adds.

in 2017.

Studies demonstrate the benefit for early

“The best thing about being involved in organized dentistry

encouragement to consider a career in

whether it be at the local, state, or the national level is the

dentistry. Middle school years can be a prime

relationships you make and the people you get to know. If

time to try to reach students. Among other

I have a patient who relocates, I can get them a dentist…I

efforts, UKCD has started a relationship with

will know someone who knows someone…It’s all about

the Black Male Working Academy (BMWA) in

relationships while we get to accomplish some good.”

Lexington. BMWA is a Saturday program whose goals include helping African American males be college and career ready. The group already introduces students to careers in medicine, and is adding dentistry-focused presentations as well with the help of UKCD. “Our first presentation was to eighth graders which is an ideal situation to be able to reach potential dental students,” said Howard. “With Pathways, it’s not only reaching students in underserved areas, but it’s also reaching underserved

W I T H PAT H W AY S , I T ’ S N O T O N LY R E A C H I N G S T U D E N T S IN UNDERSERVED AREAS, BUT IT’S ALSO REACHING U N D E R S E R V E D P O P U L AT I O N S , EVEN IN OUR URBAN AREAS.

populations, even in our urban areas. What we need to do and look at goes across the state.”

When asked how UKCD alumni could support Pathways to Dentistry, Howard shares, “We are going to need alumni to be a part of this program as we can’t reach all parts of the state just from Lexington. We’re working on a toolkit and information that alumni can take and use at local schools in their areas or groups like 4-H clubs. We want to make it easy for alumni to participate.”

Throughout his years in private practice and volunteering at UKCD, Howard has also supported civic and professional organizations at various levels. He has run the annual Kentucky Dental Association delegate meeting as the Speaker of the House of Delegates for 16 years—winning an election each year to maintain this role. He will be stepping away from this role soon to pursue another organized dentistry opportunity, serving on the American Dental Association Board of Trustees for four years, representing the states of Kentucky, Missouri, Tennessee, and West Virginia.

Other organized dentistry roles he has held have included serving as Parliamentarian and Chair of the Constitution and Bylaws committee of the American Association of Dental Consultants; President of the Kentucky Dental Association;

15

ALUMNI SUPPORT ORTHODONTIC PROGRAM UPDATES The start of John Turner’s time at UK was less than promising. He and his

This approach made him an excellent diagnostician and has shaped the

Graduate Fundraising Committee, which, in 2024, will start to seek funds to

orthodontist he is today.

undertake renovations.

on one of the grayest, darkest, and

One factor working against Turner’s

In addition, the Turners gave one of

rainiest days of the year. Turner, who

selection of UK was the state of the

the first major gifts in this phase of the

had several options for an orthodontic

Orthodontic Graduate Clinic. He had

campaign. When asked why, Dr. Turner

program after graduating from Boston

visited other schools with more recently

responded, “There is no chance that we

University, wondered if the weather

remodeled spaces. UK’s clinic has not

would be where we are today without UK

was an omen. However, once he got in

undergone major renovations since the

Ortho. Kate and I are still building toward

the building, both the college and the

1960s. He never regretted choosing UK,

retirement since we are still relatively

program felt welcoming. The orthodontic

because the small faculty to resident ratio

young, but I have a clear understanding

faculty stressed an educational focus

ensured he received the highest quality

that my success that I have enjoyed

on preparing residents to be excellent

education. However, he feels there will

is due to the experience that I had at

orthodontists. Turner liked the collegial

come a time when UK will lose very

the University of Kentucky. We both

atmosphere and that faculty taught

bright, young people to other schools

believe that with opportunity comes

residents as peers. The faculty would

due to their facilities. “The clinic needs to

responsibility. Making this commitment

often talk through a case with residents,

match the academic rigor of the program.

was one of the easiest decisions that we

asking questions to help Turner and his

Right now, the two things don’t line up.

made.” He feels he has a responsibility

fellow residents identify the problem,

The academics are always top-notch, but

to give back and pay it forward. Turner is

determine the desired end-result, and

the clinic isn’t at the same level,”

select the best treatment.

shares Turner.

wife, Kate, arrived in Kentucky for his orthodontic program interview

proud to have a UK diploma on his wall

and wants to make sure the orthodontic

“I am so proud of this program. Of all of

the stops on my educational journey, UK

facility at UK aligns with the excellence of the program.

is top of the list. I am adamant that it’s

Under Turner’s leadership, other

one of the best programs in the country.

committed alumni, the orthodontic

We need to make sure that the best

faculty, and Dentistry Philanthropy are

residents aren’t crossing UK off their list

currently working with a local architectural

of potential orthodontic programs due

firm on creative designs for a new

to the state of our clinic. I wanted to be

graduate clinic. With great anticipation,

part of getting the UKCD Orthodontic

they and members of the Fundraising

Graduate Program up to where the

Committee look forward to sharing the

program should be, so we can start really

designs for an entirely new graduate

letting the program take off the way it

clinical facility with the orthodontic alumni

should,” continues Turner. As a result,

and other friends of the program in the

he has agreed to chair the Orthodontic

new year.

UKCD ORTHODONTIC GRADUATE CLINIC FUNDRAISING COMMITTEE

16

Steven Zeh

Clark Cash

Blaine Hansen

Jae Brimhall

Joe Petrey

John Turner

Kristen George

ALUMNI NEWS

P ERSPECT IVES 2023

CELEBRATING UKCD ALUMNI

During the alumni reception portion of this year’s Fall Symposium and Alumni Weekend, two individuals were recognized with the UK College of Dentistry Distinguished Alumni Award for their contribution to dentistry—Drs. Donald Kleier and Steven Tucker. The Distinguished Alumni Award was established to

recognize UKCD graduates who have demonstrated, among other qualities, loyalty to the college and excellence in their work. While

nominations are collected annually, the honor is not automatically awarded yearly. Instead, following the call for nominations, each application is reviewed carefully by a special committee selected by the UK College of Dentistry Alumni Association.

KLEIER is currently professor emeritus at the University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine. From 1991-2011, he served as professor and chair of the Department of Surgical Dentistry, University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine. From 1991 until his retirement in 2015, he served as chair, Division of Endodontics. He is a graduate of the University of Kentucky College of Dentistry where he received his DMD degree in 1970 and completed his endodontic specialty training in 1976. Kleier joined the Department of Surgical Dentistry at the University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine in 1978. He has been a Diplomate of the American Board of Endodontics since 1981 and is a fellow of the International and American College of Dentists. Kleier has presented numerous continuing education programs and has authored over 40 scientific articles. He has received many awards from his students and faculty colleagues for his clinical skills and teaching expertise. In 1994, Kleier was named a University of Colorado President’s Teaching Scholar. He serves with his wife, Dr. Elizabeth Barr, on the Development Council for the University of Kentucky College of Dentistry.

TUCKER was invited to join the UKCD Class of 1975 and graduated with distinction in under four years. He received early acceptance into the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery specialty training program at the UK Medical Center, finishing his residency in 1978. Following residency, he entered private practice in Owensboro. While in private practice, he was a member of the American Dental Association, Green River Cleft Lip/Cleft Palate Team, parttime faculty of UKCD, and Owensboro Health Regional Hospital. In 2017, Tucker joined UKCD to help DMD students learn about 3D guided dental implant surgery, All-on-X, and zygomatic implants. He is now involved with the day to day surgical training of residents in the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery program. Tucker is a Fellow of the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and Board Certified as a Diplomate, American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. While in private practice Dr. and Mrs. Tucker became Life-Time Members of the University of Kentucky Alumni Association. The Tuckers have supported UK Philanthropy and have advanced to become Henry Stites Barker Fellows.

In memoriam Dr. Chris Thomas Howard, ‘84, passed on Dec 20, 2022

Dr. Paula Kay Lenox, ‘78, passed on Jan 9, 2023

Dr. Jay Cranford ’71, passed away on July 1, 2023

Dr. Amey Lowdenback ’99, passed away on Aug 4, 2023

Dr. William Tapp ’74, passed away on Aug 10, 2023

Dr. Paul Bernard, ’78, passed away on Nov 2, 2023

Dr. Mary Lynn Crews, ’95, passed away on Nov 6, 2023

Dr. Robert Curtis, ’75, passed away on Nov 16, 2023

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Skarin, Miller, Case, and Mallette.

UKCD ALUMNI ASSOCIATION ent

m a n r u o golf t

Many thanks to the 116 golfers who participated in the UKCD Alumni Association Golf Tournament. Congratulations to: First Place: Robert Case (‘25), Ryan Mallette (‘25), David Miller (‘25), and Blair Skarin (‘26) Second Place: Kathryn Wade (‘18), Cy Clarke (‘18), Will Bishop, and Allison Bishop Third Place: Daniel Passidomo (‘93), Don Jones, Phil Speelman, and Andrew Cain Longest Drive: Longest Putt:

Closest to the Pin:

Cole Rosander (’26)

Andrew Cain

Baker Kendrick (‘27)

Thank you to the following sponsors: 19th Hole Lunch Sponsor: Buchart + Wachs Orthodontics

Beverage Cart Sponsor: White, Greer & Maggard Orthodontics

Breakfast Sponsor: James Motor Company

Prize Hole Sponsors: Psimer & Associates

Hole Sponsors: Craft and Care Dental, Bittersweet Acres Equine Boarding, Dr. Chuck Rolph, Roberts Insurance and Investments, Pediatric Dentistry of Winchester, Danville Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, and Steckler Pediatric Dentistry.

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT: ONE DAY FOR UK The 2023 One Day for UK event marked the fifth year of the fundraising effort. For 24 hours, alumni, friends, faculty, staff, and fans are encouraged to support their favorite UK college, unit, or cause and to spread the word about UK on social media. It is an opportunity to promote UK pride and benefit students, faculty, research, programs, and initiatives across campus.

Through the generosity of donors, and the help of supporters sharing the college’s request, the college received $9,840 in donations to put toward various efforts.

The Saturday Morning Clinic Fund received $3,945 in donations. Saturday Morning Clinic (SMC) was first started in the 1980s and continues today with dental students providing dental care to children ages 4-12. SMC donations received will help support the college and dental students to provide essential preventative and comprehensive dental care to the underserved children in the community who may not have access to a dental provider.

The UKCD Scholarship Fund received $2,300 in donations. The scholarship helps to alleviate the financial burden and stress on students that can accompany a doctorate program, allowing them to have more time to focus on their academic responsibilities.

Remaining donations were given in support of various other UKCD funds.

SAVE THE DATE: The next One Day for UK event is scheduled for Thursday, April 18, 2024. Watch for details on how you can help UKCD by becoming a BBNfluencer to be shared via the college’s social media channels around early March.

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P ERSPECT IVES 2023

LYMAN T. JOHNSON AWARD RECIPIENTS Nearly 40 UK alumni and students were honored during the 32nd annual Lyman T. Johnson Awards Luncheon. UKCD congratulates the following 2023 recipients and thanks them for their hard work and positive impact on others:

Awardees pictured with Dr. Kenneth Nusbacher, UKCD Associate Dean of Clinical Affair. Photo: Breven Walker, 859 Photography

Dr. Kwane Watson, ‘99 Torch of Excellence Watson is the founder and CEO of Kare Mobile Inc, a Dental Service Organization and healthcare technology company focused on comprehensive oral health care in a hybrid brick and mortar and single operatory mobile dental unit model. Founded in 2017, Kare Mobile has launched mobile vans with partners in several states and has filed multiple patents on products and innovations around mobile dental care. Before launching Kare Mobile, Watson owned and successfully exited multiple practices. In 2024, Kare Mobile will expand to Sierra Leone, Africa, in a joint venture to improve access to care.

Jocelyn Murtha, ‘26 Torch Bearer Murtha, who is the first in her family to graduate college, is active in the American Student Dental Association, serving on its fundraising committee, and Student National Dental Association, serving as the Social Chair. Murtha is passionate about providing care to underserved communities, volunteering at UKCD’s Saturday Morning Clinic and Mission Lexington. She is also a member of Tau Sigma Military Dental Society, American Association of Women Dentists Student Chapter, and Delta Sigma Delta.

DR. ALVIN L. MORRIS MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP ESTABLISHED BY THE CLASS OF 1967 The College of Dentistry’s founding

curriculum in which students would have

renamed their scholarship the Dr. Alvin L.

dean, Dr. Alvin L. Morris, wanted to

clinical experience from the very get-

Morris Memorial Scholarship. They hope

create a dental school different from all

go; He assigned every student a faculty

this change will introduce each future

others. Despite skeptics, doubters, and

advisor—but even more so—students

DMD class to Dean Morris and his dental

naysayers, he seized this opportunity to

had a genuine senior ally and friend; He

education changing philosophy. Learn

test his vision of dental education. The

encouraged broad interfacing between

more about Dean Morris and his efforts

Triad, “biologically orientated, technically

faculty and students, exemplified by an

to change dental education at

capable, and socially sensitive,” along

annual Student/Faculty softball game. He

bit.ly/UKCDBohannon and bit.ly/

with the concept that “the students will

was preparing every graduate to excel

be treated as junior colleagues,” became

and to base their career and all aspects of

bedrock foundational beliefs of UKCD.

their professional life on the TRIAD.”

Dr. Andy Collins, ’67, shared, “Visionary is

The Class of 1967 established a

by sending a check, payable to UK

an understatement of just how prescient

scholarship recognizing a third-year

Philanthropy with the memo line noting

was Dr. Morris’ leadership in transforming

student who reflects these concepts as

“Dr. Alvin Morris Scholarship,” to UK

dental education: He recruited an

they attribute Dean Morris’ educational

Philanthropy, P.O. Box 23552, Lexington,

outstanding and always forward-thinking

approach with shaping their long,

KY 40523. To donate online, contact

faculty; He developed a diagonal

successful careers. This year, the class

Linda Epling at linda.epling@uky.edu.

KDAMorris.

If interested in supporting the Dr. Alvin L. Morris Memorial Scholarship, donate

19

A LUM NI NEWS

Class

of 1968

STAYING

Class of 1973

connected

Class of 1978

Class of

1983

Top left: Members of Class of ’68 at 13th Annual Barrels & Kegs Tasting and Silent Auction.

Class of

Top right: Dean Okeson meets with guests at 13th Annual Barrels & Kegs Tasting and Silent Auction.

Thank you to our sponsors: Silver Level: The Kentucky Center for Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery & Pediatric Dentistry of Hamburg. Bronze Level: Roberts Insurance & Investments.

1988

Bottom left: UKCD Students and Alumni Musab Shalash (‘23), Arsany Gergis (’23), Mohammad Awad (’23) and Anish Patel (’22) with Dean Jeff Okeson (’72) at the UKCD Alumni Association reception held at the 2023 Hinman Dental meeting.

20

Class

3

of 199

Bottom right: Alumni gather at the UKCD Alumni Association reception held at the 2023 KDA Meeting in Louisville.

P ERSPECT IVES 2023

d

Cla

ss o

Class of 19

98

f 20

03

Class of 2008

Class of

2013

21

STUDENT

Highlights

Receiving student dental kit items in D611.

Congratulations to the Class of 2023!

During an event to celebrate members of the Class of 2023 and those completing a UKCD graduate program, the UKCD Alumni Association recognized Linzi Ralph (pictured here with UKCD Alumni Association President Dr. Erica Higginbotham, ’03) for serving as the Class of 2023 student representative to the alumni board during her time in dental school.

DMD student attendees at 2023 Donor Appreciation Dinner.

American Association for Women Dentists (AAWD) student members present Greenhouse 17 with funds raised from Cusp of Carabelli Masquerade Ball & Silent Auction.

Class of 2027 attend White Coat Ceremony.

22

P ERSPECT IVES 2023

The Class of 2023 had a 100% first-time pass rate on the Integrated National Board Dental Examination.

The UKCD Alumni Association awards scholarships annually to senior dental class students.

Class of 2024 recipients, receiving $2000 each, are Amina Nouri (pictured with Fall Symposium Chair Dr. Kevin Martello, ’86), Sarah Haerle, and Nick Ragland.

Class of 2027 in their white coats following the ceremony.

Left: Saturday Morning Clinic student attendees.

Right: Madison Sellman (‘24) and Adam Slone (‘24), talk with UK Curiosity Fair attendees.

MORTENSON DENTAL PARTNERS SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS CELEBRATE AT THE 2023 DONOR APPRECIATION DINNER.

Students support Remote Area Medical (RAM) event.

Dean Okeson welcomes incoming first-year dental students during Smile Week.

Class of 2027 students show off their undergrad institution during Smile Week.

23

770 Rose Street Lexington, KY 40536-0297

Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Lexington, KY Permit No. 51

Coming in May 2024!

UKCD Wellness Retreat: Focusing on Women’s Health Ashville, North Carolina Event registration opens in early 2024.

Details/Registration will be available at dentistry.uky.edu/retreat2024.