School of Dentistry celebrates 137th Commencement Ceremony honoring Class of 2026

The School of Dentistry celebrated members of the DDS, Dental Therapy, Dental Hygiene and Advanced Education classes of 2026 on Friday, May 8.

Graduates and their loved ones gathered alongside faculty and staff for the school’s 137th Commencement Ceremony, held in Northrop Auditorium.

“Graduates, today reflects all of the hard work and late nights that, from an academic perspective, are now behind you—memories that will last throughout your life,” reflected Dean Keith Mays, DDS, MS, PhD as he welcomed attendees to the ceremony. “We, the faculty of the School of Dentistry, celebrate your accomplishments and look forward to hearing about how your careers will shape the oral health profession and science. Today, we have the esteemed honor of presenting the culmination of your efforts as you earn your respective certificates and degrees.

President Rebecca Cunningham, MD, attended this year’s ceremony to bear witness to the accomplishments of the school's graduates and join in their celebration. Reflecting on the Class of 2026’s dedication to making their community better, their hard work in the face of challenges and their passion for improving the oral health care of Minnesota and beyond, Cunningham encouraged attendees to consider the hard work that led to this moment, and reflect on the people around them.

“When you leave this campus, do not leave this community,” Cunningham encouraged the graduates. “The people who were here for you when you were down the hall will be here whenever you need to find yourself. The spirit that gave such warmth to your relationships and such spark to drive your work is now your spirit. Let that University of Minnesota spirit give life to all that you do in the years to come.”

After President Cunningham’s remarks, attendees heard from keynote speaker Nader Nadershahi, DDS, MBA, EdD, senior vice president for education and professional affairs for the American Dental Association.

Nadershahi holds a Doctor of Dental Surgery, Master in Business Administration and an Educational Doctorate and has completed a General Practice Residency. He is a fellow of the American College of Dentists, Academy of Dentistry International, International College of Dentists and Pierre Faucharde Academy. He holds nearly 30 years of leadership experience in dental education, organized dentistry and clinical practice, including as Dean of the University of the Pacific’s Arthur A Dugoni School of Dentistry and Vice Provost of the San Francisco campus. Nadershahi served as chair of the American Dental Education Association Board of Directors and has been a leader at the California Dental Association, American Dental Association, and is also a member of the Santa Fe Group, a national organization focused on catalyzing improvement of oral health and health care in the United States and beyond.

Nadershahi invited attendees to reflect upon the foundations that brought them to where they are today. “In dentistry, we understand the importance of foundations,” he said.. “You have learned that a strong foundation in oral health begins with excellent diagnosis and prevention. When the foundation is solid, what we build is strong.”

Reflecting on stories from his own life and experience, Nadershahi stressed the importance of the personal foundation, the choices and commitment that remain steadfast when everything else changes, and the foundation of community.

“As you graduate today, remember these foundations: remember who you are, be ready to adapt while protecting your ‘why,’ and stay connected to your community and be a leader in organized dentistry,” he said. “You are about to touch many lives, and the lives you impact will impact others in ways you will never fully see. I cannot wait to see what you will build upon the clinical, ethical, personal and professional foundations you laid here.”

Graduates crossed the stage to receive their diplomas and celebrate the culmination of their studies, with Doctor of Dental Surgery candidates donning doctoral hoods. In a time-honored tradition that allows graduates to express their gratitude for faculty who shaped them, the DDS Class of 2026 elected two faculty—Michael Hauwiller, DDS, adjunct clinical instructor, and Augusto Saldarriaga, DDS, MS, FACP, clinical assistant professor and director of the Division of Prosthodontics—to serve as hooders for the class.

Students wore caps and gowns that were sponsored by donors to the Cap and Gown Fund. This fund covers the cost of regalia for graduates, supports commencement-related activities and provides scholarships.

Congratulations and best of luck to the newest alumni of the School of Dentistry who make up the Class of 2026!