Development

The Student Summer Research Fellow Program at the University of Minnesota provides funding for incoming DDS students and students completing their first year of the program, who wish to spend the summer. Over a 10-week period, each student undertakes a structured research program. Fellows attend weekly training seminars, with an opportunity the following spring to prepare a written report and a poster for presentation at local and regional student research meetings. In the past, some of these students have attended national meetings such as the American Association for Dental Research.

The future of the School of Dentistry will be significantly impacted by one alumnus, one gift and 109 acres of Freeborn County farmland. That alumnus is A. David Flor. 

“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.”

When Peter Wilkinson, DDS ’22, reflects on what drew him to dentistry, one aspect stands out: the people. “I started out college in engineering, then I got a job in a research lab and considered pursuing a research career,” recalled Wilkinson. “But that seemed socially limiting and when I thought about what I really cared about, I realized I wanted to work with people and make a difference in their lives.”