News

It’s amazing how fast this year has passed, and how we have individually and collectively endured over the last 20 months. For many of us, the end of the year is a time to reflect, and refine goals and aspirations. Some people call these goals New Year Resolutions, which are often forgotten or abandoned shortly after the new year. But time for reflection can be very helpful. 

The more than $37,000 raised this year will fully go to funding scholarships and making a direct difference in students’ lives. The final total includes $15,288 in donations on the crowdfunding site, an $8,000 match challenge from the Class of 1981, and a $1,000 prize donation from a staff member.

When a student matriculates through the Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene program, there is an obvious career path: become a licensed dental hygienist and practice clinically, full time. Though that is a popular and successful path, it’s not the only option—and our alumni have shown that with their varied and engaging career decisions.

Mohammed Akl, DDS, MS, an advanced education resident with a knack for design and a love for research, is the inaugural holder of a new scholarship supporting research in prosthodontics.

Kathryn and Kurt Carlson are not only graduates of the University of Minnesota; they are big boosters, too. Kurt earned his DDS from the School of Dentistry in 1980 and Kathryn earned her MBA from the Carlson School of Management.

Alvin Wee, DDS, PhD, MPH, wears plenty of hats in his position at the School of Dentistry. He is the Director of the Division of Prosthodontics, a leader in care for patients with complex oral rehabilitation needs and a researcher focusing on color sciences and early detection of oral cancer. But one of the obligations he treasures most happens outside the walls of Moos Tower: serving in private practice at the Minneapolis VA Health Care System.