School News

A collaborative study involving two School of Dentistry researchers received an Office of Academic Clinical Affairs (OACA) Faculty Research Grant to study methods of using osteoclast exosomes for bone growth. 

Across programs and subjects at the School of Dentistry, faculty members pride themselves on their innovative, engaging teaching styles. Whether didactic or clinical, courses encourage active learning and hands-on experiences. But what happens when “hands-on” is no longer an option?

“Emily’s existing experience and credibility at the University of Minnesota, strong relationships with donors, demonstrated leadership of the development and alumni relations team and commitment to advancing dental education distinguished her as the right candidate to fill this role,” reflected Dean Keith Mays, DDS, MS, PhD, in his announcement of the role. “I look forward to continuing my work with her and hope you will join me in welcoming her into the role of the Chief Development Officer.”

January marks a time when new year resolutions are made. Some people don’t like the term resolutions, so they set goals. It is an interesting process, because many of the goals and resolutions aren’t pursued beyond Valentine’s Day. But I believe there is something hopeful, and even optimistic, about the mental exercise of placing the things of last year in the past and charting a path forward into the unknown of refreshed dreams, hopes and aspirations.

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.

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.

On a sunny day in mid-June, Amy Ahnefeld brings her two children into the Hibbing Community College Dental Clinic for oral health care. A single mother to Finn and Hannah, she knows what is important to her: community, efficiency and excellence in care. She gets all those things and more at Hibbing—and that is why she has continued to return for nine years.

Last year, the class of 1980 decided to do something big for their 40-year reunion. Disappointed that their in-person gathering was canceled amid the COVID-19 pandemic, they banded together to create a match pledge and encourage record-setting giving on Give to the Max Day. It worked, too: the school raised $34,500, an 80% increase in funds raised from the previous year.