School of Dentistry learners receive President’s Student Leadership Award

Three School of Dentistry students received the University of Minnesota’s President’s Student Leadership and Service Award (PSLSA) in 2026. The award recognizes students whose leadership, service and involvement have made a positive impact on the University community and beyond. This year’s recipients are Christine Vidya Krueger, DDS ’27, Eric Woolner, DDS ’27, and Arun Bhatta, DDS ’26.

Among the recipients, Krueger and Woolner reflected on the leadership and service experiences that have shaped their time at the School of Dentistry. For them, making an impact means recognizing that leadership extends beyond titles and that giving back to the community is an essential responsibility of the profession. “Leadership can take a lot of different forms. It is not defined by authority, but by daily choices that consistently prioritize empathy over convenience, integrity over comfort and service over self-interest,” Krueger said.

After receiving the news, “I was shocked,” Krueger shared. Woolner also acknowledged others who dedicate their time to their communities and expressed gratitude for receiving the award. “Many people contribute their time back towards their community and don’t necessarily receive an award, so I am very grateful to be recognized for this.”

Their willingness to serve others began long before dental school. Growing up in a family of healthcare professionals, Krueger witnessed the impact providers could have on people’s lives and was drawn to dentistry’s combination of science, technical skill and human connection. Similarly, Woolner’s interest in healthcare developed through his passion for biology and the influence of relatives who worked as physicians, as he saw dentistry as a way to merge healthcare with his passion for art and restoring patients’ smiles.

Although their paths to dentistry have been different, both found support at the School of Dentistry to become involved beyond the classroom. Through faculty mentorship, student organizations and community service initiatives, they were encouraged to step outside their comfort zones and develop as leaders. Krueger reflected that she would never have applied for the leadership positions she serves in today without the encouragement of faculty at the school. “The best gift a teacher can give to a student is to believe in them and help them believe in themselves.”

This encouragement led Krueger to become involved with the Minnesota Dental Foundation Board of Directors, where she contributes to initiatives that expand access to care for underserved communities throughout Minnesota. The foundation supports programs such as Minnesota Mission of Mercy, Give Kids a Smile and Donated Dental Services. 

She believes these efforts not only relieve pain and restore function but also restore dignity and create new opportunities. “When people feel confident in their smiles, their mood, social life and work performance improve,” she concluded. “That transformation reduces anxiety and depression, creating a lasting lift for the entire community.”

For Woolner, being involved with the Mission Outpost and AppleTree clinics as student volunteer coordinator was one of the most significant experiences as a leader. He has helped provide care for patients who often face barriers to treatment and has seen firsthand the importance of creating opportunities for individuals who may otherwise go without essential dental services. “This work has proven to be extremely rewarding when interacting with patients and providing relief they have been unable to receive at other places they have turned,” he shared.

Krueger believes her involvement has helped her become a better listener, communicator and future dental professional. Looking ahead, both students hope to continue serving their community and creating an environment built on integrity, service and empathy. “This will stick with me as I move forward through my career as a reminder to continue providing and coordinating opportunities for patients to receive care,” Woolner said.

PSLSA recognition of Krueger, Woolner and Bhatta highlights the many ways School of Dentistry students contribute beyond the classroom and clinic. Through leadership, advocacy and service, they reflect the School of Dentistry’s commitment to improving the health of Minnesota communities and preparing future oral health professionals to lead with integrity, empathy and compassion.