Celebrating our latest graduates
The University of Minnesota School of Dentistry held its 129th Commencement Ceremony in Northrop Memorial Auditorium on May 11. Included among the graduates were 115 new doctors of dental surgery, 36 recipients of advanced education degrees (master and PhD) and/or certificates, 7 dental therapists who received master's degrees, and 33 dental hygienists (27 who received a bachelor of science degree and 6 who earned a master of dental hygiene degree). Brent Larson, DDS, MS, School of Dentistry 2017 Century Club Professor of the Year, carried the University mace as he led the procession of students, faculty and dignitaries into the auditorium. Dean Gary Anderson emceed the event and conferred the degrees.
U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar provided welcoming remarks. "You are going out into a world that is truly changing, a world that can be chaotic, but a world that needs you," she said. Sharing humor and comments about challenging times, student loans, politics and her personal life, the Senator talked about believing in science and our country, taking risks, working hard, "the passion of this generation for making our world a better and healthier place," and the 2016 locker room decision by the Chicago Cubs to work together (win or lose) that led to their extra-innings rally and first World Series championship in 108 years.
"The message: Some of us will go through our careers with our heads down, focused on ourselves, thinking about the next rung of that ladder. Others will go through our careers with our heads up, as part of something bigger than ourselves, alert and aware, embracing differences, looking (at) that collective interest of what it means to be in society today." Reminding graduates of their oath to provide for the health, dignity and protection of all members of society, she acknowledged the benefits of facilities and technology advancements but said, “Choosing to help others and to improve the world around you, that only happens with all of you." Check out the graduation ceremony video and photos.