Get to know SODAS president Robert Springer

Robert Springer, DDS ’19, is a general dentist at Isles Dental and the president of the School of Dentistry Alumni Society Board (SODAS). Dentistry Magazine spoke with Springer about his role with SODAS, and what he most looks forward to in the coming year.

Why did you decide to volunteer with SODAS?

I decided to volunteer to give back to the University of Minnesota community. The school fostered my professional development, and without this program I would not be where I am today. Like many of my cohorts, I have considerable educational debt, so donating my time through SODAS gives me a great opportunity to give back to the community. I also want to enrich the educational experiences for the alumni and students through outreach and programming.

What is your favorite way of staying connected to the School of Dentistry? 

I enjoy the Alumni Weekend SODAS organizes! It is a great way to stay connected with students, engage with alumni and current faculty, and to get some high quality continuing education. I am active with the Minnesota Dental Association, and they host a student networking event and  vendor fair at the University that I also enjoy participating in.

What do you hope to accomplish while you serve as SODAS president?

I hope to foster engagement among the entire School of Dentistry. Whether a resident going through a specialty program or a graduate practicing in a rural community, every person who attends or has attended the University is an integral part of the community. I hope that the opportunities SODAS plans during my tenure as president brings meaningful connections during these volatile times.