Spring & Summer 2016 FOR ALUMNI & FRIENDS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN SCHOOL OF DENTISTRY Pathways to Success New QS World Rankings #1 US, #2 World Helping Flint Research Day 2016 Alumni Profiles: The Drs. Werschky Dear Alumni and Friends: DEAN’S MESSAGE Our accreditation site visit is behind us and we are all breathing a little easier. Faculty, staff and students were whole-heartedly engaged in this process and the outcomes reflected tremendous efforts extended by all. The Office of Academic Affairs, led by Associate Dean Dr. Carol Anne Murdoch-Kinch, took the leadership role in guiding the entire process and insuring that the information we provided the review team was accurate and complete. A huge thank you goes to everyone who participated in the preparation and the actual visit. As I reflect on the process and the preliminary report, I am overwhelmed and immensely proud of our entire dental school community. We showed the site visitors that our mission statement is more than just words on paper. We demonstrated our mission, goals and core values in action. It was a great team effort. The leadership team debriefed with the site visit team at the end of the visit. The site visitors highlighted eight strengths that positively reflect on our people and our programs. They applauded: 1) the leadership team that guides and directs all of our programs and initiatives as well as our staff and faculty whose strong com- mitment to educational excellence was evident, 2) our well developed and ongoing assessment of student achievement, 3) our innovative curriculum and how we support an individualized approach to student learning and career development, specifically highlighting our Pathways program, 4) the com- mitment of basic science faculty to active self-directed learning opportunities that develop critical thinking and how they incorporate clinical correlates into their teaching, 5) the outstanding research funding of the faculty, 6) our solid budget and its transparency as well as our strong fund raising initiatives, 7) our robust community-based clinical education/outreach program that provides significant benefit to the communities served, and 8) our strong alignment with the university in efforts for diversity and inclusion. We’ve made a tremendous investment in our curriculum, created a solid budget through careful financial planning and mentored our faculty scientists to elevate our research enterprise. To have our steadfast efforts acknowl- edged by this esteemed group of our peers is something in which we can take great pride. But we won’t stop here. We will continue to advance, innovate and discover and never let go of our commitment to excellence. Kind regards…and Go Blue! Dr. Laurie K. McCauley Dean In this Issue 8 Pathways to Success 2 24 Celebrating Excellence: MSDH 50 Years Later 26 Sustainability Initiative: Reducing Waste in Clinics Faculty Profile Dr. Tracy de Peralta 12 A unique program offering DDS students an opportunity to enrich their dental school experience and explore career options as oral health professionals. Helping Flint and Celebrating MLK Day Director, Pathways and Curriculum/Assessment Integration Alumni Profiles Research Day 2015; MCubed 2.0 30 20 The Drs. Werschky and Ellen Rowe In this issue we’ve highlighted the Pathways program; a special component of the curricu- lum that allows our students to explore the profession in more detail, focusing on areas of special interest, while at the same time building on the outstanding clinical and classroom experience they receive. You will also read about the activities and achievements of our students, faculty and staff. Be sure to visit www.dent.umich.edu for the latest updates of School of Dentistry news and events. University of Michigan School of Dentistry Alumni Society Board of Governors: Spring & Summer 2016 Volume 32, Number 1 DentalUM magazine is published twice a year by the University of Michigan School of Dentistry. Send comments and updates to: dentistry.communications@umich.edu or Director of Communications, School of Dentistry, Room 1218, 1011 N. University Ave., Ann Arbor, MI 48109-1078 Dean........................................................Laurie McCauley Director of Communications..................Sharon Grayden Writer & Editor.............................................. Jerry Mastey Designer.......................................................... Ken Rieger Member publication of the American Association of Dental Editors The Regents of the University: Michael J. Behm, Mark J. Bernstein, Laurence B. Deitch, Shauna Ryder Diggs, Denise Ilitch, Andrea Fischer Newman, Andrew C. Richner, Katherine E. White, Mark S. Schlissel, ex officio. Terms Expire 2016: Steve Dater, ‘88 DDS, Belmont, MI Lawrence Duffield, ‘82 DDS, Birmingham, MI Matthew Gietzen, ‘05 DDS, Ada, MI Bruce Turpin, ‘80 DDS, Pontiac, MI Janet Wilson, ‘73 BSDH, Northville, MI Terms Expire 2017: Thomas Anderson, ‘89 DDS, Holland, MI Bridget Beattie-Smith, ’10 BSDH, ’13 MS, Monroe, MI Brian Cilla, ‘87 DDS, ’89 MS, Ada, MI Jori Lewis, ‘07 DDS, Clarkston, MI M.H. “Reggie” VanderVeen, ‘76 DDS, Grand Rapids, MI Terms Expire 2018: Dr. Michael Palaszek, ’82 DDS, Grand Rapids, MI Dr. Carl Pogoncheff, ’09 DDS, ’12 MS, Lansing, MI Dr. Jeffrey P. Halvorson, ’83 DDS, ’92 MS, Grand Rapids, MI Dr. Wes Schulz, ’72 DDS, Traverse City, MI Heather A. Bunce, RDH, ’11, BSDH, Chelsea, MI Ex Officio Members: Laurie McCauley, Dean Richard R. Fetchiet, Executive Director, Alumni Relations and Development The University of Michigan, as an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer, complies with all applicable federal and state laws regarding nondiscrimination and affirmative action. The University of Michigan is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all persons and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, disability, religion, height, weight, or veteran status in employment, educational programs and activities, and admissions. Inquiries or complaints may be addressed to the Senior Director for Institutional Equity, and Title IX/Section 504/ADA Coordinator, Office of Institutional Equity, 2072 Administrative Services Building, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109-1432, (734) 763-0235, TTY (734) 647-1388. For other University of Michigan information call (734) 764-1817. Copyright © 2016 The Regents of the University of Michigan Pathways to Success “One of the School’s Crown Jewels” – Dean Laurie McCauley A unique program at the University of Michigan School of Dentistry gives all dental students additional pathways to success. It offers opportunities to explore possible career options in health care delivery or leadership or research to enrich their dental school experiences and enhance their careers as oral health care professionals. The program, known as Pathways, was first suggested by Dr. Peter Polverini shortly after he became dean in 2003. Although the program did not have that name at that time, Polverini often mentioned a need for the school “to develop a curriculum that allows our students to be better self-learners and take more responsibility for their edu- cation, not only as students, but also as graduates and practitioners.” After many meetings among administrators, faculty and staff, Pathways began in 2010. The Dental Class of 2014 was the first to participate in all four years of the program. Spring & Summer 2016 The program focuses on three areas – health care delivery, leadership or research – and gives dental students an op- portunity to select a project in an area that interests them the most. Students also identify a faculty mentor to work with throughout the project. 2 Last fall, Dr. Tracy de Peralta, a clinical associate professor, became the program’s new director when Dean Laurie McCauley named her director of the Pathways Program and Curricu- lum and Assessment Integration. For de Peralta, directing Pathways is a comfortable and natural fit. Before coming to U-M, she helped create a new program in preventive dentistry at the University of Dusseldorf, Germany, and helped create the first dental curriculum at the Peninsula College of Medicine and Dentistry in Plymouth in the United Kingdom. [See Faculty Profile pg.12.] “The Pathways program is giving our students opportunities to not only explore areas of interest to them, but also build upon the outstanding clinical and classroom education they receive,” she says. Pathways At-a-Glance 4-Year Program Photo by Jerry Mastey Emphasis: Profes- sional and Personal Growth Dr. Tracy de Peralta, at the head of the table, listens to ideas from a group of students in the Pathways program who suggest ways to enhance the program and their experiences. McCauley is even more enthusiastic. “Pathways is one of the School of Dentistry’s crown jewels,” she says. TIMELINE During the fall semester of their D1 year, dental students get an overview of Pathways and learn more about each of the three areas they can consider. At the end of the Fall Term, they choose the pathway they would like to pursue. During their D2 year, students use time set aside in their schedule for indepen- dent study and to further explore their area of interest. They are encouraged to approach faculty members and select a mentor for their project. Some students may actually begin work in their chosen pathway. However, new features are being considered with the goal of enrich- ing the program and each student’s experiences. To better understand a student’s perspective, student focus groups began meeting in February to discuss their experiences. The monthly “Your Voice on Pathways” groups consist of eight students, two from each of the four dental classes, independent of the pathway they have chosen. Facilitated by de Peralta, the meetings are oppor- tunities for students to discuss what’s working for them and offer suggestions on what could be changed. Self-Directed Study and Mentored Project Focus: Health Care Delivery, Leadership, Research Dental Students Participating (2015-2016): 428 Another change being considered, which may begin this fall, is the addition of an optional “honors elective” which would be noted on the official transcript of each student who successfully completes a capstone project. The honors elective would require students to report, in writing and verbally, their experiences, the skills acquired and how those may help them in their careers after receiving their dental degree. NEW ELEMENTS OF PROGRAM Photo by Jerry Mastey Under de Peralta’s leadership, the core elements of Pathways remains – that all dental students participate at the beginning of their dental education. Staff administrator Charlene Erickson and Dr. Dan Chiego, director of the Research Pathway, discuss student projects with Dr. Tracy de Peralta (center). continued 2016 Spring & Summer By the third and fourth year, dental students are fully immersed in their projects. During their D4 year, they begin working on presentations they will make highlighting their work at Pathways Day in the spring. 3 Pathways to Success (Continued) Playing an important role in the success of Pathways are Rebecca Flynn and Charlene Erickson. “They are critical to the success Pathways has already had and will be to the program’s future,” de Peralta says. As staff administrators, Flynn and Erickson track each student’s progress in their respective pathway and “help them as much as we can when things don’t go as planned,” Flynn says. “We’re also a source of unbiased and practical advice,” Erickson says. “This is the one area of their education where they can pursue their passion and explore what interests them. We give them ideas to consider and do every- thing we can to make their pathway successful.” Together Flynn and Erickson work with 428 dental students in all four classes. Flynn supports 300 students in the Health Care Delivery Pathway. “Since this pathway has more students involved, we encourage group projects,” she says. Erickson works with 87 students in the Research Pathway and 41 students in the Leadership Pathway. “These two pathways usually involve one student and one mentor,” Erickson says. Photo by Jerry Mastey “CRITICAL TO PATHWAYS SUCCESS” Dr. Tracy de Peralta frequently meets with Rebecca Flynn (left) and Charlene Erickson (right) to review student progress. Flynn and Erickson work with faculty who mentor the students and the directors and co-directors of the three Pathways. They work with an eight-member steering committee that’s in charge of organizing and hosting the annual Pathways Day, which has been held each spring since 2014. Erickson says she and Flynn “spend a lot of time coaching students about ways they can describe their work. It’s not always easy. But the best part is hearing some of the students later tell us, ‘I didn’t realize how good my project was until I started talking to others about it.’” The Research Pathway “RESEARCH COULD BE MY WAY OF HELPING MORE PEOPLE” Spring & Summer 2016 When she began her predoctoral studies, Sydney Sherman, now a second-year dental student, thought about becoming a pediatric dentist or orthodontist. 4 But since she began participating in the Research Pathway as a first-year dental student, Sherman is now considering other possibilities. “Being involved in research has changed my perspective about dentistry. It’s showing me that there are other ways I might be able to help children and their parents,” she says. “That’s why I was interested in dentist- ry to begin with – to see what I could do to help as many people as I possibly could. Research could be my way of doing that.” Mentored by Dr. Nan Hatch, the Lysle Johnston, Jr. Col- legiate Professor of Orthodontics, Sherman is investigating possible causes of craniosynos- tosis, the premature fusion of cranial bones in children. The birth defect occurs in about 1 of every 2,000 children. Conventional research has focused on what factors may be respon- sible for too much bone formation in a child’s skull. Photo by Jerry Mastey Dental student: Sydney Sherman (D2) Mentor: Dr. Nan Hatch Sydney Sherman (D2) and Dr. Nan Hatch discuss what they discovered in Hatch’s laboratory investigating a mouse whose skull mimics many of the characteristics seen in humans who carry genetic mutations in Crtap, to try to better understand the disorder. However, the research Sherman and Hatch are conducting is unconven- tional. They are investigating a possible opposite cause of craniosynostosis – too little bone formation. Hatch has investigated and published the results of her extensive research for about 15 years. Using mouse models, Sherman and Hatch are investigating a gene, Crtap, which is found in mineralized tissues and plays a critical role in skeletal mineralization. The exact cause of why craniosynostosis occurs due to Crtap deficiency is unknown. Both hope that a better understanding of how Crtap works might someday lead to ways of preventing craniosynostosis and craniofacial skeletal defects. “It’s great working with Dr. Hatch,” Sherman says as she talks about the time she spends in Hatch’s laboratory, typically three or four hours a day, two or three days a week. “I have learned a lot working with her on many research techniques including using digital calipers, micro CT scans, conducting bone quality analysis and more,” Sherman says. Hatch says, “I was impressed with Sydney’s enthusiasm and wanting to learn more to help patients and their families. I think we are both enjoying our collaboration.” The Leadership Pathway Dental Student: Matthew Loomis (D2) Mentors: Drs. Domenica (Nikki) Sweier, Mark Pinsky, Sarah Langhorst PITCHING THE DANGERS OF USING TOBACCO Loomis didn’t realize his dream “to turn pro,” but discovered dentistry and found a way to remain involved with the game he still loves. He volunteered to participate in the 10th annual Tooth Day at Fenway Park in Boston last year. Dental students from the Tufts Dental School chapter of Alpha Omega International Dental Fraternity conducted oral health screenings, talked to fans and gave them information about the dangers of using tobacco. That experience led him to launch his Pathways project. “The Pathways Program is giving me an opportunity to pursue something I am very interested in and my desire to make a difference in peoples’ lives,” he says. “I want to educate players, coaches and fans about the dangers D2 Matthew Loomis (center) with his mentors, Drs. Mark Pinsky and Nikki Sweier. of tobacco products and encourage them to make an important change to improve their lives.” Loomis is planning to conduct an oral health awareness event at Ray Fisher Stadium, home of the University of Michigan men’s baseball team, when Michigan and Michigan State University’s baseball teams square off in April 2017. He plans to offer free oral health screenings to all players, coaches and staff before the game. He anticipates about 1,000 fans will attend the game and hopes U-M dental students, dental faculty, volunteer dentists and oral pathologists will screen many of the fans as well. “The game is an opportunity for us, as health professionals, to educate student athletes, coaches, and baseball fans about the adverse impact tobacco has on oral and overall health,” Loomis says. “The screenings may also alert some patients about lesions they may have.” Loomis says he has been encouraged by the support he has received from Dr. Nikki Sweier, Leadership Pathway director, and mentors Drs. Mark Pinsky and Sarah Langhorst. “This is just the beginning,” Loomis says. “I hope the inaugural event next April will be a steppingstone to a broader initiative to include a Detroit Tigers home game and that we will be able to reach even more players, coaches and fans.” continued 2016 Spring & Summer As a youngster and as a player, Loomis saw countless baseball players chew tobacco and was aware of its dangers. Photo by Jerry Mastey Growing up in Alma, Michigan, Matthew Loomis dreamed of becoming a professional baseball player. He pitched 17 games in relief for Central Michigan University’s baseball team in 2009, and 3 games in relief in 2010 when CMU won the Mid-American Conference championship. 5 Pathways to Success (Continued) SUCCESS STORY… THE LEADERSHIP PATHWAY Dr. Rachel Greene (DDS 2015) “But I feel fortunate to be in a profes- sion that has such diverse career opportunities.” Dr. Rachel Greene attributes her early career success to her participation in the Leadership Pathway and outreach experiences as a U-M dental student. Last November, she began working in the outreach program at the University of Washington School of Dentistry as Regional Clinic Director for the Service Learning Rotation Program. She also works with D4 students as a clinical instructor in the patient care clinic at U-W. Her third job is working part time in a private practice in Snohomish. “Life is a little crazy for me right now working three jobs,” says Greene. Greene says the mentorship of Dr. Bill Piskorowski, assistant dean for Community-Based Dental Education, “has really made this opportunity possible, and he continues to assist me in this endeavor from Ann Arbor.” Greene says she “also received valuable academic training” from Drs. Howard Hamerink and Mark Fitzgerald in addition to her Pathway’s mentors, Dr. Kiki Marti and Mark Pinsky. “I feel lucky to be working in academics so early in my career, and never would have had this opportu- nity if it wasn’t for all the support and encouragement from the U-M faculty.” The Health Care Delivery Pathway WRITING “THE BOOK” FOR THOSE WHO FOLLOW My Yang and Jacob Streng, both D4s, say they have created a solid founda- tion for dental students who want to follow in their footsteps providing oral health care to patients at the Student Run Free Clinic in Pinckney, Michigan. Spring & Summer 2016 They did it with help not only from other U-M dental students, but students from the Medical School and the School of Public Health as a part of the university’s interprofessional educa- tion (IPE) initiative. 6 When Yang and Streng began their project they were looking for ways to provide oral health care to those who weren’t receiving it. “We wanted to include other health care professionals. There was a need among everyone to learn from each other,” Yang says. The Student Run Free Clinic was the opportunity to do that. “IPE was the bridge. All of us learned a great deal from others about what holistic patient care involves,” Yang says. Yang and Streng also participated in a meeting with dentists in Livingston County to learn more about the lack of access to oral health care and barriers to receiving that care. The biggest obstacles were lack of insurance, or under-insurance, and trans- portation. Efforts continue to identify area dentists willing to provide a dental home for patients needing care. Photo by Jerry Mastey Dental students: My Yang (D4) and Jacob Streng (D4) Mentor: Dr. Howard Hamerink Although they did not treat D4s My Yang (left) and Jacob Streng (second left) patients, Yang and Streng discuss the project with their colleagues who will carry on their work: Jae Young Han (D1), Katya Frimenko created an extraordinary (D3) and Philip Yoong (D1). Also involved, but not resource – a manual that pictured is John Jurkas (D2). guides students in medicine, public health and dentistry, as well as other professionals who wish graduation this spring, Yang will enter to participate in this type of patient the Advanced Education in General care service. Their mentor, Dr. Howard Dentistry residency program at the Hamerink, provided valuable insights University of Detroit Mercy. Streng will as a liaison with students, local dentists, work part time at a community clinic in and dental clinics. Battle Creek and at a private practice in “The workbook provides important back- ground informa- tion that will help everyone,” Streng says. Katya Frimenko (D3) agrees. She told Yang and Streng, “We would not be where we are without your efforts.” Their Health Care Delivery Pathway efforts have provided another benefit. After Grand Rapids. The Pathways Team Program Director: Dr. Tracy de Peralta Program Administrators: Rebecca Flynn, Charlene Erickson Pathways Directors: Health Care Delivery: Dr. Howard Hamerink; co-director, Dr. John Hamerink Research: Dr. Daniel Chiego Leadership: Dr. Domenica (Nikki) Sweier; co-director Dr. Mark Pinsky New Michigan Regenerative Medicine Center Formed The U-M School of Dentistry is one of 10 institutions nationwide selected by the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR) to estab- lish a center that will develop clinical applications in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. Photo by Jerry Mastey The Michigan Regenerative Medicine Resource Center will be led by Drs. William Giannobile and David Kohn. Their education and expertise comple- ment each other – Giannobile’s as a clinician/life scientist; Kohn’s as an engineer. Giannobile chairs the Department of Periodontics and Oral Medicine. Kohn is a professor in the Department of Biologic and Materials Sciences and a professor at the College of Engineering. USING DISCOVERIES TO HELP PATIENTS With major discoveries and advances in dentistry, medicine, biology, materials science, technology and other fields, he adds, NIDCR wants the Michigan Center and similar centers around the country to find ways for clinicians to use those advances to help patients. Crucial to achieving that objective, Kohn says, will be establishing teams of multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary specialists from across the University of Michigan, industry and private practice. Among the groups assisting the Michigan Regenerative Medicine Resource Center will be the Wyss Institute at Harvard, a multidisciplinary research institute that focuses on developing new materials with applica- tions in health care, manufacturing and other areas, and the McGuire Institute in Houston which focuses on delivering clinical applications based on research using new or improved technologies. The center was established with a $125,000 grant from NIDCR, the first step in what will be a two-step process. The next step involves submitting a proposal sometime this summer that could possibly lead to funding for as much as $10 million. Above are three-dimensional printed polymer scaffolds designed to promote bone and periodontal repair in the oral cavity. The design offers the potential to regenerate the different tissues needed to treat teeth that have lost support due to periodontal disease. VICTORS FOR DENTISTRY WE WANT TO KNOW YOUR STORY! WHY DO YOU GIVE TO THE SCHOOL OF DENTISTRY? Please contact us and share why you support the School of Dentistry. SODalumnirelations@umich.edu School of Dentistry | Office of Development and Alumni Relations | 540 E. Liberty, Ste. 204 | Ann Arbor, MI 48104 2016 Spring & Summer “These teams will be dedicated to selecting the most scientifically sound, clinically and commercially applicable strategies to regenerate oral tissues,” he says. “Our teams will take discover- ies that show promise and provide the resources to advance the technologies to apply them more quickly than in the past.” This approach, he adds, is uniquely suited to Michigan’s broad scientific, clinical and engineering strengths, and interdisciplinary culture. The new Michigan Regenerative Medicine Center will be led by Drs. David Kohn (left) and William Giannobile, seen here in Giannobile’s laboratory at the School of Dentistry. Photo by Jerry Mastey “The center will transform how clinicians in the not-too-distant future repair, reconstruct and regenerate dental, oral and craniofacial anomalies in patients due to injury or disease,” Giannobile says. 7 School News Dental School Collects Water for Flint Staff, students and faculty at the School of Dentistry helped the people of Flint, Michigan, deal with their water contamination crisis. “I’m excited that so many at the school came together to help the people of Flint. What a great expression of caring,” said Cheryl Quiney, MAC co-director. “UNIMAGINABLE NOT TO PARTICIPATE” Representing MAC, Guneet Kohli (D3) said that when she first heard about Flint’s water problems, “I was shocked. Some of my best friends in the dental school are from the Flint area, as are a number of patients.” Photo by Celia Alcumbrack-McDaniel Earlier this year, five organizations at the school collected more than 1,000 gallons of bottled water which were de- livered to the William Monroe Trotter Multicultural Center, which then deliv- ered the water to community groups in Flint. School organizations who were proactive in the effort included the Multicultural Affairs Committee (MAC), the Staff Forum, Contracts and Grants, the Hispanic Student Dental Associa- tion (HSDA), and the Student National Dental Association (SNDA). Bottles of water in front of them and behind them, School of Dentistry staff and students stand with water collected at the school to be sent to Flint. Left to right: Blake Bufford (D2), SNDA; Carlotta Fantin-Yusta (D2), HSDA; Precious Byrd, Staff Forum; Guneet Kohli (D3), MAC; and Anna Taylor, Contracts and Grants. Kohli said since the school is well known for its commitment to service and communities, “it was unimaginable for us not to participate. We are at the forefront in providing underserved communities with access to quality health care, we had to support our neighbors in Flint to help them get access to a basic commodity everyone deserves, clean water.” “This is a vivid example of not only meeting a very real and human need, but it shows the world one of the school’s major core values – compas- sion,” said Dr. Todd Ester, director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. Spring & Summer 2016 Taking Care of Michigan: CBDE, IPC 8 The School of Dentistry has a long- established history of providing oral health care to residents across Michigan through its Community- Based Dental Education (CBDE) program which sends dental and dental hygiene students to 26 sites in 24 cities and towns across Michigan. Dr. Bill Piskorowski, assistant dean for CBDE and clinical associate profes- sor in the Department of Cariology, Restorative Sciences and Endodon- tics at the School of Dentistry, said students participating in CBDE “have an opportunity to apply what they have learned in dental school to a real world setting, supervised by local oral health care professionals, to help those who are in need.” SERVING FLINT One of the sites is the Hamilton Community Health Network facility at 225 E. Fifth Street in Flint. Since January 2013, School of Dentistry students have traveled to the Hamilton clinic to provide oral health care to area residents. Those students help the clinic 38 to 40 weeks during the academic year. Dr. Miriam Parker, director of dental services, is grateful for the extra dental care the students deliver. Fourth-year dental student Kelly Crenna says she values her experi- ences in Flint. “All of our patients are very grateful for what we are doing at the Hamilton clinic. Many of them are seeing a dentist for the first time, mostly because of an emergency need. By the end of their appointment, they want to make the Hamilton Community Health Network their dental home.” Crenna added, “This would be a great clinic to work at after graduation. I am learning a lot and learning fast because of the volume and variety of patients I see. It is also a very rewarding type of dentistry.” to Flint to provide dental and medical care to area residents. Leading that effort are Drs. Howard Hamerink and Mark Fitzgerald. INTERPROFESSIONAL CARE “This is the first true interprofessional care clinical immersion experience where actually treating patients is the focus,” says Hamerink. “From this experience, we hope to learn how we should train future students in an inter- professional care environment for what they will experience in the future.” Piskorowski adds the school’s outreach efforts are playing an important part in U-M’s interprofessional education (IPE) initiative. The School of Dentistry and the School of Nursing are working together and sending their students Providing oral health and medical care is helping students from seven U-M schools and colleges break down the traditional silos that have separated health professions by creating oppor- tunities for collaborative and engaged learning that will help them better understand the complex nature of health care and the interrelationships between dentistry, medicine, nursing, pharmacy, social work, public health and kinesiology. Sinkford Delivers MLK Symposium Keynote at the January symposium held at U-M Hospital and hosted by the School of Dentistry. Photo by Celia Alcumbrack-McDaniel BE VIGILANT, MOVE FORWARD Dr. Jeanne Sinkford speaking at the Univer- sity of Michigan on Martin Luther King Day. Reflecting on a career of more than 50 years in oral health care and a life- long commitment to helping women and minorities succeed, Dr. Jeanne Sinkford spoke about the important role leaders in interprofessional educa- tion would have promoting health equity in the future during the 26th Annual Health Sciences MLK Lecture. Sinkford also spoke about the increas- ing number of women studying for degrees in health care professions. She said that trend is likely to continue, adding, “It’s certainly very different for women today than when I was in dental school.” Students will also play a more impor- tant role providing health care through community outreach programs, she added. Their education in an academic environment, including clinical Sinkford said that “constant vigilance is still needed” to realize King’s dream of equality. “Let us keep moving together in peace and tranquility,” she said. “I’m optimistic. The glass today is more than half full.” HSDA VIDEO WINS 1ST PLACE AWARD The School of Dentistry’s Hispanic Student Dental Association won a first place award at the Annual Health Sciences MLK Day Lecture for its dental health education video. Written and narrated by Carlotta Fantin-Yusta (D3), the video, “La Salud Oral de tu Hijo,” or “Your Child’s Oral Health,” stresses the importance of good oral hygiene to children of all ages. The video also won the Orgullo (“pride”) Award during the Hispanic Dental Asso- ciation’s annual convention in San Antonio, Texas, last summer. 2016 Spring & Summer “If Dr. King were alive today, he would be advocating the elimination of dis- parities in health care and applaud the University of Michigan for its efforts to promote diversity” she said in remarks Drawing on her experiences as a dental educator, administrator and clinician, Sinkford said academic policies that promote diversity in health care education “are an amazing accomplishment” that help the public realize that disparities in health care exist and efforts are being made to do something about them. Because of those disparities, she said, the nation’s 66 dental schools are, and will continue to be, “safety nets for the needy.” experiences, along with their ability to use technology enables today’s students to let others know on a regular basis about the importance of providing care to those in need. 9 School News (Continued) Sindecuse Museum Receives Video Interviews with Dental Legends “A TREASURE NOW AVAILABLE TO THE WORLD” The gift of 73 DVDs with interviews of 67 men and women who shaped the profession was recently presented to museum Curator Shannon O’Dell by Dr. Ronald Paler (DDS 1961), 9th District Regent, with the USA section of ICD. Interviews were conducted from 1984 to 2006. Among those inter- viewed were several notable oral health care professionals who were associated with the University of Michigan School of Dentistry. [See sidebar.] “The original footage of the interviews was going to be discarded until Drs. Paler and Richard Shick (DDS 1954, MS periodontics 1960) asked Dean Laurie McCauley if the school might be interested in adding them to the museum’s collection,” O’Dell said. Shick was president of ICD’s USA section in 2001 and ICD world president in 2009. O’Dell suggested the National Library of Medicine film archives, which accepted the master footage for long-term storage. Photo by Ken Rieger A one-and-only collection of interviews with some of the legends in dentistry has been given to the School of Dentistry’s Sindecuse Museum by the International College of Dentists and is an important addition to the museum’s online collection. Kathy Daniels and Dan Bruell review interviews with dental legends that were originally on DVDs and can now be viewed on the Sindecuse Museum website. “Our museum’s mission is not limited to the history of dentistry at the University of Michigan,” O’Dell says, “so it was natural for us to accept the gift of the DVDs and add them to our reference collection. These interviews are a treasure now available to the world and will further enhance the museum’s reputation as an interna- tional resource for information about the history of the dental profession.” education, practitioners, students, researchers, administrators and dental organizations.” Those interviewed are some of the profession’s giants who have had a major and long-term impact on An alphabetical listing of 67 individuals interviewed and their area of expertise is available in the resources section of the Sindecuse Museum website. Paler agreed. “Those interviewed represent the history of dentistry and influenced how it is practiced today. Those who watch and listen to the interviews will learn more about each person’s contribution to the profession and their passion for dentistry.” Spring & Summer 2016 SCHOOL OF DENTISTRY NOTABLES INTERVIEWED 10 Among the recognized leaders in dentistry who were interviewed and associated with the U-M School of Dentistry include: Dr. Sigurd Ramfjord, internationally recognized as a leader in periodon- tics and chair of the Department of Periodontics form 1963 to 1980. Dr. William E. Brown (DDS 1945, MS pedodontics 1947), a profes- sor of dentistry and the associate director of the W.K. Kellogg Foundation Institute of Graduate and Post Graduate Dentistry. He was also Dean of the University of Oklahoma College of Dentistry in Oklahoma City from 1969 until he retired in 1987. Dr. Samuel Harris (DDS 1924), who dedicated his professional and personal life to helping children, and practiced pediatric dentistry in Detroit until he retired in 1980. Dr. Alvin Morris (DDS 1951), a noted educator who special- ized in dental therapeutics and administration. Dr. Ralph Phillips (DDS 1912) who was known for his research and textbook, Science of Dental Materials. Looking to the Future…Health Professions Education “The program was a sign of many changes already at work across the health sciences where we are working to become more collaborative, not only in our research, but also in our education to improve the health of our patients, our communities and our world,” said Dr. Carol Anne Murdoch-Kinch, associate dean for Academic Affairs. She is vice chair of the Executive Committee for the Center for Interprofessional Educa- tion composed of colleagues from the College of Pharmacy, the Medical School, and Schools of Dentistry, Nursing, Social Work, Public Health, and Kinesiology. Dr. Catherine DeAngelis, former editor of the Journal of the American Medical Association, talked about the importance of transparency within the research community and how health care practitioners can act to ensure that professionalism remains intact. Photo by Celia Alcumbrack-McDaniel Educational scholars, practitioners, researchers and students from across the U-M campus shared best practices and discussed opportunities for future collaboration and innovation in educat- ing health professionals during the first Health Professions Education Day held last fall at the Michigan League. Dr. Carol Anne Murdoch-Kinch (left) listens to Dr. Catherine DeAngelis talk about the importance of researchers maintaining professional integrity to ensure the well- being of the general public. Accreditation Site Visit (March 22-24, 2016) The Council on Dental Accreditation site visit team concluded their review of our programs on March 24 and from the initial verbal report we exceeded expectations across the board. Specific strengths they noted include our: 1. Leadership team, staff and faculty’s strong commitment to educational excellence 2. Well-developed and ongoing as- sessment of student achievement 5. Outstanding research funding of faculty 6. Solid budget with monthly progress meetings; strong fund raising 7. Strong community based clinical education/outreach program that provides significant benefit to the communities served During her remarks at the celebration Dean McCauley noted that “what we can be most proud of is that our visitors saw our mission, goals and core values in action. For us, meeting high standards of performance isn’t just a once every seven-year occurrence, we practice these standards of excellence every day. This tremendous effort and positive outcome wouldn’t have been possible without the dedication and commitment of faculty, staff and students at all levels.” 8. Strong alignment with the university in efforts for diversity and inclusion Faculty, staff and students gather in the Sindecuse Atrium with pom poms and a robust cheer to celebrate the completion of the CODA site visit and a job well done. 2016 Spring & Summer Photo by XXXXXXXXXXXXX 3. Innovative curriculum that supports an individualized approach to student learning and career devel- opment – the Pathways program 4. Commitment of basic science faculty to creating active self- directed learning opportunities that develop critical thinking and to incorporating clinical correlates into their teaching 11 Faculty Profile Tracy de Peralta, DMD, PhD, MClinicalEd Director, Pathways Program and Curriculum and Assessment Integration “Challenges are wonderful. They’re exciting. I have some new ones. That’s great. I’m ready,” says a confident Dr. Tracy de Peralta. A clinical associate professor in the Department of Cariology, Restorative Sciences and Endodontics, de Peralta was recently presented with some new challenges from Dean Laurie McCauley. One is to provide leadership and vision to the Pathways program succeeding interim director Dr. Howard Hamerink after the program’s previous director, Dr. Robert Eber, was named director of clinical research. The other is to guide the curriculum and assessment integration team, working closely with Dr. Carol Anne Murdoch-Kinch, associate dean for Academic Affairs, to evaluate clinical and didactic elements of the dental education program. In addition to these leadership roles, de Peralta also co-chairs the school’s Strategic Planning Committee, chairs the Competency Assessment Team (CAT), and was a member of the Self-Assessment sub-committee that contributed to Standard 2 in the Accreditation Self Study document submitted to the Council on Dental Accreditation. PREVIOUS SUCCESSES De Peralta’s confidence in her ability to successfully meet challenges head-on is not misplaced. Before coming to U-M in 2012, she successfully met several important ones. Spring & Summer 2016 One was creating a new program in preventive dentistry at the Uni- versity of Dusseldorf in Germany where she earned a PhD in oral biology and later became a full-time faculty member in 2004. In Germany, de Peralta was also a board examiner for the dental curriculum where she discovered a passion for developing approaches and establishing metrics to assess dental student progress and competencies. 12 In 2007, de Peralta moved to the United Kingdom where she joined the newly estab- lished faculty of dentistry and helped create the first dental curriculum at the Penin- sula College of Medicine ‘‘ The University of Michigan School of Dentistry is very special. It has an amazing history, yet is always looking to the future. That pioneering mindset is not misplaced. The knowledge and skills of our faculty are among the best anywhere. ’’ and Dentistry in Plymouth. There she also led a team of educators who developed measures that were used to assess the progress of dental students in their classroom and clinical educa- tion. She also created scenarios that challenged students and encouraged them to become active learners. Those experiences shared a common denominator that developed when de Peralta was working for her bachelor’s degree in physiology at the University of California in Davis. “NEVER BORED” “I discovered I was fascinated working in a big institution and in a clinical environment,” she says. “It was a perfect setting for me – many people with many different ideas about many different things. I was never bored.” With a degree in physiology, de Peralta says she wanted to be in a health care profession. The “theoretical and clinical aspects of dentistry fascinated me.” In 1995 she received a Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry degree from the Tufts University School of Dental Medicine in Boston. A short time later, she moved to Europe and became an associate in a private dental practice in Hanover, Germany, about 150 miles west of Berlin. In 1998, de Peralta began working for her PhD in oral biology which she received in 2004 from the Heinrich- Heine University in Dusseldorf. During those six years, she was a lecturer and Photo by Jerry Mastey how dental students are evaluated during their four years in the dental curriculum, integrating content from clinics and classrooms, and searching for new ways to enrich the educational experiences for dental students so that once they graduate they continue to be life-long learners.” Dr. Tracy de Peralta is using her diverse skills and experiences in new roles as director of Pathways and director of Curriculum and Assessment Integration. later a senior lecturer in the university’s Department of Operative Dentistry and Endodontics. finding ways to encourage dental students to become self-directed, life-long learners. “AN AMAZING EXPERIENCE” CREATING NEW DENTAL CURRICULUM “The University of Michigan School of Dentistry is very special. It has an amazing history, yet is always looking to the future. That pioneering mindset is not misplaced,” she says. “The knowledge and skills of our faculty are among the best anywhere.” “I’m thrilled to be here and to have these new challenges,” de Peralta says. “Leaving the U.K. to return to the United States was a risk, not just for me, but for my husband, Oliver, a classical guitarist. But it was a risk I’m so glad we took.” For five years de Peralta also chaired the Clinical Dentistry Assessment Panel and the Clinical Quality and Standard Setting Committee at the Peninsula College of Medicine and Dentistry… while working on her master’s degree in clinical education which she received in 2012. “This was the first dental school to be built in the U.K. in 40 years. I wanted to get in on the ground floor and help create a new dental curriculum,” she says. “Helping create the new dental curriculum was an amazing experience for me as a dental educator since there was the challenge of incorporating information from classroom lectures and clinical practice,” de Peralta says. Part of the dental curriculum included Around the time she was finishing work on her master’s degree, de Peralta discovered the U-M School of Dentistry was looking for someone to get extensively involved in curriculum and assessment reform. She applied, interviewed and joined the school’s faculty in September 2012. De Peralta views the experiences and leadership skills she developed and enhanced in Europe as building blocks that will help her meet her new challenges at U-M. “Working on pathways, curriculum and assessment will be a major, all encom- passing effort that will have a profound effect on the future of dental education here,” she says. As chair of the Com- petency Assessment Team, de Peralta says “our work will include enhancing Enriching the educational experiences for dental students and encouraging life-long learning are two important Pathways program goals. 2016 Spring & Summer The doors to the new dental school opened that October. In the spring of 2011, 64 dental students received their dental degree. The graduates held their first reunion in November 2015 and invited de Peralta to return to meet with former students and present a lecture on dental caries. THE MOVE TO MICHIGAN Photo by Jerry Mastey Her life changed again in 2007 when de Peralta responded to an ad in a dental magazine. The ad was searching for new faculty members to teach at a new dental school in the U.K. – the Peninsula Dental School in Plymouth. 13 Faculty News McNamara Award Established by AAO Foundation Dr. James McNamara, a world- renowned U-M School of Dentistry faculty member for more than 40 years, has been honored by the American Association of Orthodontists Foundation (AAOF) with a new award established in his name. In many instances,” AAOF added, “he has worked with companies to develop what are still considered to be the most advanced adhesive products and functional appliances in the industry.” The James McNamara Orthodontic Faculty Development Fellowship Award was created by AAOF to recognize McNamara’s clinical and academic contributions to orthodontics. McNamara is professor emeritus of dentistry, professor emeritus of cell and developmental biology at the U-M Medical School, and research professor emeritus at the Center for Human Growth and Development. Dr. David Kohn, professor in the Department of Biologic and Materials Sciences, has been elected by the members of the Society For Biomaterials to be the 2016-2017 President- elect. Upon completion of his year as president-elect he will go on to serve as the SFB President for the 2017-2018 term. AAOF lauded McNamara as “a pioneer in the use of functional orthodontic appliances, who has dedicated much of his career to research into early orthodontic treatment of children. Photo by Per Kjeldsen KOHN ELECTED PRESIDENT-ELECT OF SFB The AAOF has named a new award for the School of Dentistry’s Dr. James McNamara. The Society For Biomaterials enjoys a diverse membership from industry, academics, and regulatory agencies, with interdisciplinary specialties ranging from tissue engineering and nanotechnology to orthopedic polymers, dental implants, and drug delivery mechanisms. Christiansen Collegiate Professorship Established 14 Photo by Per Kjeldsen Spring & Summer 2016 A generous gift from Dr. Richard and Nancy Christiansen has established the Richard and Nancy Christiansen Dr. Richard and Nancy Christiansen Collegiate Professorship in Oral and Craniofacial Global Initiatives. Dr. Carlos González- Cabezas was named the first Christiansen Collegiate Professor last December. Christiansen was dean of the School of Dentistry from 1982 to 1987. González-Cabezas joined the School of Dentistry faculty as a tenured associate professor in 2009 in the Department of Cariology, Restorative Sciences and Endodontics and has been director of the school’s Global Oral Health Initiatives program since last May. He said being named the Christiansen Collegiate Professor “is a wonderful and unexpected surprise and truly an honor. It strengthens my commitment to improve oral and craniofacial global health through multidisciplinary collaborations and strategic partnerships.” Helman Honored by AAOMS Dr. Nan Hatch Named Inaugural Professor Dr. Joseph Helman received the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (AAOMS) Presidential Achievement Award during the organization’s annual meeting last fall in Washington, D.C. He was recognized for his career-long achievements including clinical, academic, research and public service that have benefitted oral and maxillofacial surgeons and their patients worldwide. professorship last fall. She joined U-M as a post-doctoral research fellow in 2005. She became an assistant professor in 2008 and became an associate professor with tenure last year. A new collegiate professorship that recognizes the achievements of Dr. Lysle Johnston, Jr. (DDS 1961, MS orthodontics 1964) who chaired the Department of Orthodontics and Pediatric Dentistry from 1991 until May 2004, has been established. Hatch’s research focuses on craniofacial development and bone biology. Her scholarly work targets understanding the biologic mechanisms for craniosynostosis, a birth defect in which one or more joints between the bones of a baby’s skull close prematurely, and translational research on treatment strategies for the disease Dr. Nan Hatch, an associate professor in the Department of Orthodontics and Pediatric Dentistry, was named to the new Photo courtesy of the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons Lysle Johnston, Jr. Collegiate Professorship Established 2 Faculty Inducted into ACD Drs. Margherita Fontana and Russell Taichman were inducted into the American College of Dentists during the organization’s annual meeting last fall in Washington, D.C. career to studying the impact of caries on children and assessing various treatment strategies to reduce oral health disparities. She has received major awards for her work from scientific organizations and was a recipient of the 2012 Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers during a White House ceremony. Drs. Margherita Fontana and Russell Taichman following their induction into the American College of Dentists. Taichman is the school’s associate dean for Research and a professor in the Department of Periodontics and Oral Medicine. His research focuses on how bone cells regulate stem cell development and function. His work also seeks to discover molecular pathways in the bone that may lead to prostate cancer or breast cancer. He has published more than 100 research papers and 10 book chapters and is editor-in-chief of the Journal of Cancer Stem Cell Research. Helman’s career began in 1976 when he earned his DMD from the Universidad Nacional De Rosario in Rosario, Argentina. Since then, he has spent the past 40 years actively supporting oral and maxillofacial surgeons’ groups locally, nationally and internationally. Helman chaired the School of Dentistry’s Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and Hospital Dentistry for 13 years. He expressed his appreciation “for giving me, and others here, the opportunity to improve the quality and length of life of our patients. There is no feeling greater than that,” he said. 2016 Spring & Summer Photo by Dr. Carol Anne Murdoch-Kinch Fontana, a professor in the Department of Cariology, Restorative Sciences and Endodontics, has devoted her Dr. Joseph Helman (right) receives the Presidential Achievement Award from Dr. William Nelson, AAOMS president. 15 Faculty News (Continued) Stefanac, Polverini Write, Edit New Oral Health Books Dr. Stephen Stefanac, senior associate dean and associate dean for Patient Services, is co-author of the 3rd edition of Diagnosis and Treatment Planning in Dentistry, recently published both in hard copy and electronically. Dr. Peter Polverini, dean from 2003 to 2013, is the editor of Personalized Oral Health Care, from Concept Design to Clinical Practice. The book covers a range of topics including new technologies that will revolutionize how dentistry is practiced and emerging scientific concepts and principles that will lead to significant changes in dental education. He also wrote three chapters of the 12-chapter book. into the planning process. “Presently, there is no other comprehensive text on treatment planning for dental students and general dentists,” Stefanac says. “The second edition of the book has sold well not only in the U.S., but overseas too.” The first edition was published in 2001. Since the book can also be read electronically, Drs. Stephen Stefanac (left) and Peter Polverini with their “readers can more easily two new books on oral health that were recently published. search for information and authors can add prevention, risk assessment, earlier additional content,” Stefanac says. diagnosis and cost-effective care. POLVERINI BOOK STEFANAC BOOK “This may be the first book that focuses on the emerging field of personalized oral health care,” Polverini says. The third edition of Diagnosis and Treatment Planning in Dentistry is the “go to” text for dental students worldwide. The 443-page book took two years to complete and includes more than 200 color illustrations. It uses evidence-based research to show how risk assessment, prognosis and expected treatment outcomes factor Polverini says dentistry “is undergoing a profound change that will affect how oral health care is taught. That transformation will significantly affect both today’s students and their patients.” He says the changes in education and patient care involve a greater emphasis on Spring & Summer 2016 Giannobile New AAAS Fellow 16 Dr. William Giannobile has been elected a Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science. He was among 347 scientists nationwide, and one of six from U-M, to be awarded the honor for his work that advances scientific and research applications that benefit humanity. Giannobile chairs the Department of Periodontics and Oral Medicine and is also the Najjar Professor of Dentistry and a professor of biomedical engineering at the College of Engineering. His research focuses on regenerative medicine, tissue engineering and personalized medicine and has been continuously funded for more than 20 years. He has authored more than 200 scholarly publications and is the editor of five textbooks on clinical and translational research. Photo by Ken Rieger The names of two well-known School of Dentistry administrators appear on the covers of new books each has edited or written. For personalized oral health care to realize its full potential, however, oral health care providers must become familiar with, and ultimately use, new technologies and discoveries in science so they can create the best personalized health plans for their patients. Nine School of Dentistry faculty members, including Polverini, and a staff member contributed to the 158-page book. THE 2016 QS WORLD RANKINGS WERE JUST RELEASED! UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN SCHOOL OF DENTISTRY #1 #2 Dental School in the US Dental School in the World* *Up from #4 in the 2015 world rankings. Polverini, Mistretta Honored for Scholarship, Service The University of Michigan recently honored Drs. Charlotte Mistretta and Peter Polverini for their teaching, scholarship and service. MISTRETTA: DISTINGUISHED FACULTY ACHIEVEMENT AWARD As associate dean for research and research training from 2005-14, Mistretta promoted initiatives on postdoctoral advising and graduate student training. She directed the Oral Health Sciences PhD Program from 1993 to 2010 and co-directed U-M’s Hearing and Chemical Senses Training Program. Mistretta is a member of the MCubed University Research Funding Initiative executive committee and has served on U-M’s Budget Priorities Committee, the Provost’s Faculty Advisory Committee, and President’s Task Force on the Organization of the University. A pioneering researcher in sensory neurobiology and devel- opment of taste, Mistretta is known for her research which has important ramifications for how taste sensation is regulated. POLVERINI: DISTINGUISHED UNIVERSITY PROFESSORSHIP Polverini, dean of the School of Dentistry from 2003 to 2013, was recognized for his research and initiatives to transform the school’s curriculum. An internation- ally recognized dentist, scientist and educator, Polverini was among the first to identify the role of tumor suppressor genes in controlling tumor neovascularization and cancer progression, and pio- neered the concept of transplanting blood vessel-forming cells to create networks of functional blood vessels. His work is currently focused on health policy, collaborative care and personalized health care. He has published more than 150 articles, textbooks and book chapters, has given more than 100 scientific presentations and holds five patents. McCauley Elected to NAM, Receives AAP Award Dean Laurie McCauley has been elected to the National Academy of Medicine (NAM), previously known as the Institute of Medicine. “I am deeply grateful for the supportive environment and outstanding colleagues at Michigan that contributed to the work for which I am being recognized,” McCauley said. Membership in NAM is one of the highest honors in the fields of health and medicine. It is based upon distinguished professional achievement in a field related to medicine and health; demonstrated and continued involvement with issues of health care, disease prevention, education or research. McCauley also received the Distinguished Scientist Award from the American Academy of Periodontology during the organization’s recent annual meeting in Orlando. She was recognized for her major research and clinical contributions to periodontology during the past 20 years. Bayne Retires experiences, small group learning, problem-solving and evidence-based dentistry, and the creation of the Pathways program. A career-long advocate of new approaches to dental education, he was a member of the new curriculum’s vision implementation team that advocated early clinical President of the International Association for Dental Research (1999-2000) and the American Association for Dental Research (2006-2007), Bayne was co-founder of the journal Dental Materials. Bayne is internationally recognized for his dental research, expertise in traditional materials engineering, and clinical research in restorative dental materials. 2016 Spring & Summer Dr. Stephen Bayne, the Marcus Ward Professor of Dentistry, retired in January. He joined the faculty as a professor and chair of the Department of Cariology, Restorative Sciences and Endodontics in 2006 and was named the Ward professor five years later. 17 Research News 4 from Dentistry Involved in MCubed 2.0, Round 1 craniofacial bone lesions in patients with TSC. “We want to know what underlying mechanisms may be responsible for increased bone mass and altered bone quality in these patients,” he says. “Once we know that, hopefully, we can develop new therapies to help increase bone volume and density around dental implants or treat patients with osteoporosis.” 18 Drs. Sunny Wong (left), Noriaki Ono (center) and Wanida Liu’s MCubed research colleagues are Dr. Andrea Alford, a research assistant professor of orthopaedic surgery at the Medical School, and Dr. Qing Li, an assistant professor of internal medicine and an assistant professor of cell and developmental biology at the Medical School. Ono in Ono’s lab. Their research focuses on bone growth School of Dentistry faculty and Hedgehog signaling. Dr. Paul Krebsbach, chair of the involved in the MCubed Department of Biologic and Materials 2.0 first-round funding are biology at the Medical School, and Sciences, is working with colleagues Drs. Noriaki Ono, Wanida Ono, Dr. Wanida Ono, an assistant from the College of Engineering to try Fei Liu and Paul Krebsbach. professor and clinical lecturer in the to determine the nanomechanical com- Dr. Noriaki Ono, an assistant professor Department of Orthodontics and position of living biological systems. in the Department of Orthodontics Pediatric Dentistry. His MCubed research colleagues and Pediatric Dentistry, is involved in Dr. Fei Liu, an assistant professor are Dr. Peter Green, professor of research focusing on biological pro- in the Department of Biologic and cesses of bone growth and Hedgehog engineering and chair of the Materials Sciences, Division of signaling, a set of proteins that Department of Materials Science Prosthodontics, conducts research regulate cell growth and development and Engineering at the College that focuses on the cell and molecular of tissues in humans and animals. of Engineering, and Dr. Omolola biology of mineralized tissues with an Eniola-Adefeso, associate professor Sometimes Hedgehog signaling does emphasis on skeletal and craniofacial of chemical engineering and associate not function as it should and may, bone development and diseases. professor of biomedical engineering, in some instances, cause cancers in also with the College of Engineering. His MCubed project involves a disease adult skin (such as basal cell carcinoma) called Tuberous Sclerosis Complex or in the brains of some children (TSC). It is caused by a (medulloblastoma). Drugs designed to mutation of genes which reduce Hedgehog signaling are being results in a sharp increase developed, but these drugs are in activity of a protein causing some concern since they may complex called “mam- also stop the normal growth of tissues. malian target of repamycin The effect of these drugs on bones complex 1” (mTORC1), a seems irreversible and may perma- nutrient/energy sensor. nently stop bone growth. “We hope When a rise in the activity to find a solution to save bone growth of that protein complex in young patients who receive these occurs, TSC patients often drugs to fight cancer,” Ono said. have sclerotic craniofacial bones, Liu says. Ono’s MCubed research colleagues are Dr. Sunny Wong, an assistant Liu says his team of Dr. Fei Liu (left) with his MCubed research colleagues, Dr. professor of Dermatology and assistant researchers, using mouse Andrea Alford (center), and Dr. Qing Li in the Biomedical professor of cell and developmental models, has duplicated Science Research Building. Photo by Jerry Mastey Spring & Summer 2016 Established in 2012, MCubed stimulates innovative research and scholarship by distributing seed funding to multi- unit, faculty-led teams on campus who form a collaborative trio, or “cube,” that enables them to immediately pursue their idea. Photo by Jerry Mastey Four School of Dentistry faculty are involved in three pioneering research projects as a part of the first round of university’s MCubed 2.0 initiative. FACULTY FUNDED IN ROUND 2: Robert Bradley, Charlotte Mistretta, Andrzej Dlugosz (Medicine) Yuji Mishina, Rhima Coleman (Engi- neering), Allen Liu (Engineering) Nisha D’Silva, Avraham Eisbruch (Medicine), Brent Ward Brian Pierchala, Benjamin Allen (Medicine), Roman Giger (Medicine) Vesa Kaartinen, Adam Stein (Medicine), Daniel Michele (Medicine) James Simmer, Patricia Wittkopp (LS&A: Natural Science), Jan Hu Kenichi Kuroda, Zhan Chen (LS&A: Natural Science), Ayyalusamy Rama- moorthy (LS&A: Natural Science) Yu Leo Lei, Isabelle Lombaert, David Zopf (Medicine) Timothy Scott (Engineering), David Kohn, Bradford Orr (LS&A: Natural Science) Zhong Wang (Medicine), Peter Ma, Kazu Saitou (Engineering) Mihaela Banu (Engineering), Gustavo Mendonca, Laurie McCauley James Eckner (Medicine), James Ashton-Miller (Engineering), Scott Conley Silvana Papagerakis (Medicine), Petros Papagerakis, Ariella Shikanov (Engineering) Ken Kozloff (Medicine), Renny Franceschi, Ormond MacDougald (Medicine) Dr. Yvonne Kapila Receives Research, Mentoring Award Dr. Yvonne Kapila was recognized for her research and mentoring by the Michigan Institute of Clinical and Health Research (MICHR). She received the Distinguished Clinical and Transla- tional Research Mentor Award during an awards ceremony last fall at the 2015 MICHR Mentor Forum. Photo by Dean Laurie McCauley Kapila, a professor in the Department of Periodontics and Oral Medicine (POM), received the award that rec- ognizes achievements of U-M faculty members who consistently demon- strate high quality clinical translational research mentorship and make signifi- cant contributions to U-M research. She was also recognized for fostering the intellectual, creative and professional growth of her students. two-way relationships enable us to grow professionally and personally and give us opportunities to inspire the next generation of teachers, clinicians and researchers.” Dr. Yvonne Kapila receives her award from Dr. Jack Hu, U-M Vice President for Research. Kapila was the second School of Dentistry faculty member to receive the award. Dr. Nisha D’Silva, a professor in POM received the award in 2013. Established in 2006, MICHR fosters and enhances clinical and translational research by educating, funding and supporting research teams across U-M and elsewhere. “Being a teacher and mentor is one of the most rewarding aspects of aca- demics,” Kapila said. “These special Dr. Jan Hu, a professor in the Department of Biologic and Materials Sciences and director of the Oral Health Sciences PhD program, was featured in the January 14 online edition of AADR’s “Strides in Science.” A member of AADR for about 25 years, Hu is also interim chair of the Department of Orthodontics and Pediatric Dentistry. Her research won the 2001 and 2005 IADR/AADR William J. Gies Award, for the best paper published in the Journal of Dental Research; and most recently she was honored with the 2015 IADR Distinguished Scientist Award in Basic Research in Biological Mineralization. 2016 Spring & Summer Jan Hu Featured in AADR’s “Strides in Science” 19 Research Day 2016 A third-year dental student won top honors during the school’s annual Research Day for his work that focused on the stress and discrimination experienced by international students at U.S. dental schools and the support they received to help them cope. Aryaan asked 731 students (672 domestic and 59 international) in 15 U.S. dental schools to participate in his survey. He says he learned that international students “were more stressed because they had difficulty coping.” Those responding reported they “felt they experienced negative treatment because of their ethnic or racial background, cultural reasons, or because of language barriers.” He adds he “strongly believes everyone has the potential for great- ness, but more needs to be done to empower students to flourish so they reach their potential.” For winning the Dentsply Award, Aryaan will participate in a research awards competition during the ADA’s Scientific Session in Denver from October 20-25, 2016. Aryaan also received a new award, the AADR Travel Award, which recognizes the best presentation at an academic institution’s research day competi- tion. He received a complimentary Photo by Celia Alcumbrack-McDaniel Spring & Summer 2016 Many of those international students, Aryaan says, found social support “with family or friends away from the academic environment.” Research Day winner Amir Aryaan with Dean Laurie McCauley and Dr. Russell Taichman, associate dean for research. 20 Research Day posters were displayed and students answered ques- tions about their work in the Grand Ballroom at the Michigan League. registration and a monetary prize to assist in traveling to the American As- sociation for Dental Research meeting March 16-19 in Los Angeles. Approxi- mately 20 universities presented the new award this year. Aryaan’s mentor was Dr. Marita Inglehart. Research Day keynote speaker was Dr. Pamela Den Besten, director of the Center for Children’s Oral Health Research at the University of California San Francisco School of Dentistry. Den Besten spoke on tooth enamel and the unique properties of this biomineralized tissue. Photo by Celia Alcumbrack-McDaniel According to the American Dental Education Association, during the 2014-2015 academic year, 240 interna- tional students were among the 5,769 enrolled as first-year dental students. Photo by Per Kjeldsen Amir Aryaan, who says he has lived in four countries on three continents, investigated this area “because I value diversity. Considering how today’s world is rapidly changing, how people are increasingly connected, and the migration that is taking place between nations, I thought it was important to investigate these areas.” Dental student Angelique Teasley in front of her poster that describes her research on student/patient communication. 2016 Research Day Award Winners ADA DENTSPLY AWARD Amir Aryaan (D3, Mentor: Marita Inglehart) Stress, Discrimination and Social Support: International vs. In-State and Out-of-State Dental Students’ Experiences UNDERGRADUATE, DDS, DH, MS/CERTIFICATE — CLINICAL RESEARCH 1 First Prize Kristin Motschall (D4, Mentor: Margherita Fontana) A Closer Look: Does the Use of Magnification Improve Occlusal Caries Detection and Affect Treatment Decisions in Clinicians of Varied Experience? 2 Second Prize 3 Third Prize Elizabeth Hatfield (D3, Mentor: Darnell Kaigler) Effects of Long-Term Expansion on Senescence and Differentiation of Dental Pulp Stem Cells DENTAL HYGIENE 1 First Prize Jessica Duell, Emily Pedersen (DH4, Mentor: Carlos Gonzalez) In Vivo Comparison of Fluoride Varnish Retention Following the Application of Different 5% Sodium Fluoride Varnishes 2 Second Prize Hope Woolley, Peter Liang, Marrissa Stalker (DH4, Mentor: Danielle Furgeson) Katya Frimenko (D3, Mentor: Carol Anne Murdoch-Kinch) Salivary Diagnostics in Dental Hygiene Curricula: A National Survey Educating Dental Students about Inter- professional Communication and Eating Disorders: Effects on Perceptions and Practice of Interprofessional Care PHD/POSTDOCTORAL FELLOW/FACULTY/STAFF – CLINICAL RESEARCH 3 Third Prize 1 First Prize Kendall Sattelberg (DH4, Mentor: Anne Gwozdek) Chelsea Cummiford (PhD, Mentor: Alexandre DaSilva) Examining Dental and Medical Assessment and Care-Seeking Patterns in a Private General Dental Practice UNDERGRADUATE, DDS, DH, MS/CERTIFICATE — BASIC SCIENCE 1 First Prize GAS6 Promotes Prostate Cancer Survival by G1 Arrest/S Phase Delay and Inhibition of Apoptotic Pathways During Chemotherapy in Bone Marrow 2 Second Prize Deepthi Vemuri, Alexis Capeci (D3, Mentor: Petros Papagerakis) Growth Inhibitory Effects of Plant-Derived Essential Oils on Oral Pathogens 1 First Prize Megan Michalski (DDS/PhD, Mentor: Laurie McCauley) MFG-E8 Mutant Mice Exhibit Reduced Bone Mass and Enhanced Anabolic Response to Parathyroid Hormone 2 Second Prize (TIE) Vivian Petersen-Wagner (Visiting Scholar, Mentor: Rogerio Castilho) Chemosensitization of Mucoepidermoid Cells Through NF-KB Inhibition Honghao Zhang (Faculty/Staff, Mentor: Yuji Mishina) Loss of EVC2 Function Leads to Hypomorphic Enamel Formation Through Affecting Dental Mesenchymal Stem Cell Homeostasis 3 Third Prize (TIE) Joe Nguyen (DDS/PhD, Mentor: Paul Krebsbach) Mammalian EAK-7 (mEAK-7) is Required for mTORC1 Signaling Through S6K2 John Girdwood (Faculty/Staff, Mentor: Margherita Fontana) Program Fidelity of a Statewide Initiative to Improve Oral Health 2 Second Prize TABLE CLINIC Emily Bellile (Faculty/Staff, Mentor: Alexandre DaSilva) 1 First Prize Validation and Reliability of a Novel Mobile Application to Objectively Track Pain in Clinical Trials 3 Third Prize (TIE) Emily Yanca (Faculty/Staff, Mentor: Margherita Fontana) Participant Retention in a Clinical Study of Early Childhood Caries Thiago Nascimento (Faculty/Staff, Mentor: Alexandre DaSilva) Dopamine D2/D3 Imbalance During Migraine Attack and Allodynia in Vivo Sarah Mallon, Kelly Mulholland (DH4, Mentors: Martha McComas, Susan Taichman) Oral/Facial Piercings and Mucogingival Effects: A Review of the Literature Mark Your Calendar! Alumni and friends are invited to join us for Research Day 2017 Wednesday, February 15 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. Sponsored by the Office of Research 2016 Spring & Summer Eunsohl Lee (Undergraduate, Mentor: Russell Taichman) Changes in Resting State Functional Connectivity after Repetitive Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation Applied to Motor Cortex in Fibromyalgia Patients PHD/POSTDOCTORAL FELLOW/FACULTY/STAFF – BASIC SCIENCE 21 Regenerative Medicine Used in Bone Repair These novel microRNA-loaded nano- structures are released in a controlled manner in a three-dimensional scaffold that allows bones to regenerate without adding cells. This breakthrough was published in the January online issue of Nature Communications. “The new technology we have been working on opens doors for new therapies using DNA and RNA in regenerative medicine and boosts the possibility of dealing with other challenging human diseases,” said lead author, Dr. Peter Ma. WHY THE BREAKTHROUGH IS IMPORTANT Photo by Jerry Mastey Scientists at U-M have developed highly branched biodegradable polymers that self-assemble into a nano-scale “shell-in-shell” structure to efficiently deliver a microRNA. Dr. Peter Ma in his research laboratory at the School of Dentistry. to add cells to facilitate bone regen- eration. That’s because living cells have their own “personalities” which depend on many factors such as type, age, gender, or location in the body. Cell isolation methods and external cultures may change the properties of the cells, including their bone-forming ability or possibly even change them into unwanted cells such as tumor cells. As a result of outcomes, cell-based therapies face rigorous regulatory scrutiny and must satisfy demanding experimental trials before they can be used clinically and eventually benefit patients. Tissue engineers made significant advances in the past two decades in developing biomaterials (scaffolds), identifying stem and progenitor cells, and discovering growth factors to facilitate bone regeneration. However, robustly regenerating high quality bone for a specific application remains elusive with current technologies. WHAT’S DIFFERENT One of the major challenges in overcoming that obstacle is a need The Ma lab takes a new approach. It has developed technologies that turn on the desired regenerative capacity of a patient’s cells rather than using externally added cells. MicroRNAs are increasingly recognized as cell regula- tors but have not been successfully utilized to regenerate tissues. That’s because microRNAs cannot enter cells easily, are unstable in vivo, and are difficult to introduce into desired sites. The key breakthrough reported in the Nature Communications article includes a novel polymer that can self-assemble into highly stable and efficient vehicles to transport a microRNA into cells. This approach achieves controllable long-term release of the microRNA-loaded vehicle to enter a patient’s cells and to localize the microRNA in the desired three- dimensional space. Bone repair is especially challeng- ing in patients who have deficient healing capacity such as patients with osteoporosis. Ma’s research team has demonstrated that the new controlled, localized and highly efficient microRNA delivery strategy can regulate multiple bone- forming genes and fully regenerated critical-sized bone defects in osteopo- rotic mice. The Ma lab is now expand- ing the studies into large animals and evaluating the technology for potential use in human patients. Spring & Summer 2016 Periodontics Resident Wins 1st Place 22 Dr. Ann Decker, a second-year resident in the graduate program in periodontics and who is also in the school’s Oral Health Sciences PhD program, won first place for her investigation into why prostate cancer bone metastases cause cancer relapse at the Midwest Society of Periodontol- ogy’s Annual Meeting in Chicago. Decker’s research focuses on what may prompt the dormant cancer cells to reactivate. innervation may directly influence an important microenvironment within the bone marrow, the hematopoietic stem cell niche. That, in turn, may give us further insights into cancer biology and ultimately how patients are cared for.” “My data suggests this may be due to the release of a stress signal mediator,” Decker says. “This is a significant dis- covery because it reveals that neuronal Dr. Alberto Monje, a third-year resident, received honorable mention for his presentation on the use of 3D printing and gene therapy. AADR Student Research Fellowships Three dental students won Student Research Fellowships from the American Association for Dental Research. Joe Nguyen — Dual Degree DDS/OHS PhD Student Project Title: Mammalian EAK-7 (MEAK-7) activates mTORC1 signaling through S6K2, but not S6K1 (Mentor: Paul Krebsbach) Genevieve Romanowicz — Dual Degree DDS/OHS PhD Student Project Title: The role of collagen cross- links in bone mineralization and contribution to bone quality (Mentor: David H. Kohn) Sidney Sherman — D3 Project Title: Cartilage- associated protein (CRTAP) deficiency causes abnormal craniofacial bone development and craniosynostosis in the Crtap mouse model of osteogen- esis imperfect (Mentor: Nan Hatch) Sponsored Research Awards > $50,000 (August 1, 2015-March 31, 2016) NATIONAL INSTITUTES OF HEALTH AWARDS Nan Hatch: (R21) (R01) $1,991,250 - Molecular Mechanisms of Craniosynostosis ; $426,250 - Development of a Biomedical Treatment Approach for Craniosynostosis Alexandre DaSilva: (R01) $1,819,035 - Investigation and Modulation of the Central Mu-Opioid Mechanism in Migraine (in vivo) Margherita Fontana: (U01) $750,165 - Predicting Caries Risk in Underserved Toddlers in Primary Healthcare Settings (PECASE) Yu Lei: (R00) $747,000 - Autophagy- Promoting NLRX1-TUFM Complex and Cancer Cell Resistance to Cetuximab Isabelle Lombaert: R00) $294.000 - Identifying Stem Cells for Future Salivary Gland Stem Cell Therapy David Kohn and William Giannobile: Multi-PI (R34) $193,750 - Michigan Regenerative Medicine Resource Center Jaques Nör: (F30 Award for Min Oh, DDS/OHS PhD Student) $122,300 - Perivascular Niche and Self-Renewal of Dental Pulp Stem Cells OTHER FEDERAL AWARDS Russell Taichman: Department of Defense - $581,251 - Sympathetic Nervous System Control of Disseminated Tumor Cell (DTCs) Dormancy Geoffrey Gerstner: National Science Foundation - $368,124 - Collaborative Research—The Evolutionary Significance of Variability in Mammalian Chewing: The Influence of Diet and Oral Afferents on Feeding Kinematics FOUNDATIONS, INDUSTRY AND OTHER AWARDS Carlos Gonzalez: Johnson and Johnson - $233,242 - Development of Single and Multispecies Biofilm Models to Study Dental Caries and Fluoride Products Dennis Fasbinder: Dentsply Caulk - $213,005 - Clinical Evaluation of Chairside CAD/CAM Zirconia- reinforced Lithium Silicate Ceramic Crowns; 3M - $52,000 - Patient Treatment Acceptance Based on a 3D Image Analysis of Dentition Stephanie Munz: Carolinas Healthcare System - $196,626 - Oral Hygiene, Periodontal Disease, and Infective Endocarditis William Giannobile: Forsyth Institute - $148,834 - Biomarkers of Periodontal Disease Progression- Supplement Nan Hatch: Sanford-Burnham Medical Research Institute - $77,500 - Molecular Pathogenesis and Treatment of Hypophosphatasia Sharon Aronovich and Jun Liu: Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Foundation - $75,000 - In Vivo Evaluation of Fluorapatite Modified PLC Scaffold for Osteoinductive Capabilities 2016 Spring & Summer Darnell Kaigler: (R56) $739,184 - Customized Craniofacial Stem Cell Therapy for Craniofacial Bone Defects Russell Taichman: (U54 Supplement) $184,500 - Mechanisms of Prostate Cancer Dormancy in the Bone Marrow Niche; (U54) $147,964 - The Biology of HSCs in the Microenvironment of Prostate Cancer 23 Graduates of MSDH Program Reunite Two women who were among the first graduates to receive a Master of Science degree in Dental Hygiene (MSDH) from the School of Dentistry 50 years ago spoke fondly of the program during Homecoming Weekend. MEMORIES OF DR. DOROTHY HARD Dr. Dorothy Hard, the first director of the school’s dental hygiene program from 1924 to 1968, created the MSDH program. The initial curriculum included courses in research methods and writing, statistics, educational methodology, directed teaching of dental hygiene, physiology, bacteriol- ogy, and dental public health. Hard made a lasting impression on both women. “She was regal,” Peterson said. “She presented herself very professionally and expected us to do the same. But she wasn’t always easy to approach and talk to.” Klinesteker agreed. “Dr. Hard always emphasized the importance of ap- pearance because it conveyed profes- sionalism.” Klinesteker recalled Hard’s Photo by Melissa Squires The two, Karen Ross Peterson and Sandra Sonner Klinesteker, were recognized during the Emeritus Medal- lion ceremony. They were among the four women in the Graduate Program in Dental Hygiene launched in the fall of 1964. Dental hygiene alumnae (left to right): Wendy Kerschbaum, Janet Kinney, Karen Ross Peterson, Sandra Sonner Klinesteker, and Anne Gwozdek. Peterson is holding her 1965 master’s thesis dissertation. emphasis on keeping one’s fingernails trimmed to reduce the risk of bacterial infection. “She told us our nails had to be short enough so that when we held up our hands, palms facing us, we couldn’t see our nails. Of course, we didn’t wear gloves 50 years ago. But we did wear a white uniform dress and nurse’s cap,” Kleinsteker said with a laugh. IMPRESSIONS OF OTHER FACULTY Peterson said the School of Dentistry faculty who taught courses were exceptional at all levels. “We were taught by dental faculty who wrote textbooks used in classrooms around the world,” she said. “That included Drs. Major Ash, Sigurd Ramfjord, Dean Millard and others. Being taught by these highly-regarded faculty, many times person-to-person, was something I have always appreci- ated and remembered.” Peterson and Klinesteker said graduat- ing with a master’s degree in dental hygiene from U-M enhanced their careers. Peterson taught dental hygiene for 38 years at five universities and community colleges; Klinesteker taught for a year at the University of Nebraska and later at Grand Rapids Community College and also worked in a private practice. 24 Sara Coppola, a 2015 graduate of the School of Dentistry’s Master of Science in Dental Hygiene Program was recognized by the American Association of Public Health Dentistry for her public health research during the organization’s national conference in Cincinnati, Ohio. Coppola was an honorable mention recipient of the Leverett Graduate Student Merit Award for Outstanding Achievement in Dental Public Health, for her study on the factors affecting economic sustainability of the Registered Dental Hygienist in Alternative Practice (RDHAP). Coppola’s study was the focus of her thesis research during the MSDH Program. Photo by Anne Gwozdek Spring & Summer 2016 Coppola Receives AAPHD Award Sara Coppola at her poster presented at the AAPHD. 50 Years of MSDH Program Celebrated U-M School of Dentistry dental hygiene graduates celebrated 50 years of the school’s Master of Science in Dental Hygiene program with a continuing education course that attracted more than 120 people from around the country during Homecoming Weekend. Speakers included Ann Battrell, CEO, American Dental Hygienists’ Associa- tion; Dr. H. Luke Shaefer, associate professor at the U-M School of Social Work and Ford School of Public Policy; and Colleen Brickle, dean of Health Sciences at Normandale Community College in Bloomington, Minnesota. Photo by Per Kjeldsen Those who attended included alumnae from the three dental hygiene programs (entry level, degree comple- tion and MSDH), faculty, and repre- sentatives from nonprofit agencies and professional associations. Among those attending the continuing education course to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the U-M Master of Science in Dental Hygiene program were 17 alumnae and current students, Anne Gwozdek (current director), along with Wendy Kerschbaum and Karen Ridley (past directors). MSDH Students Awarded Scholarships Three students in the Master of Science Dental Hygiene program have received scholarships to help them offset the cost of their education. Champine earned her associate’s degree in 1999 from Delta College near Bay City, and a bachelor’s degree in dental hygiene from Ferris State University in Big Rapids last year. Michelle Arnett and Lorene Kline, both second- year students in the MSDH program, received Rackham Non-Traditional Fellowships which are awarded to students who return to school following an extended break in their college education. Arnett received her Bachelor of Science degree in dental hygiene from the University of Detroit Mercy in 2004. She works in private practice but wants to become a dental hygiene educator after she graduates in August. Kline received her certificate in dental hygiene from UDM in 1995 and a Bachelor of Science degree from UDM the following year and then worked in private practice. Following graduation in August, she wants to join the faculty and focus on clinical teaching and public health related courses. RECEIVES CEW SCHOLARSHIP Lorene Kline also received the Margaret Dow Towsley Scholarship from the Center for the Education of Women last fall for her strong academic record, impressive achievements and plans for the future. 2016 Spring & Summer Jerelyn Champine, RDH, BSDH, received the Christine Klausner Graduate Dental Hygiene Student Schol- arship. The award honors the memory of Klausner, a School of Dentistry faculty member for more than 13 years, who passed away in 2010 at age 60. She will complete the master’s degree program in August and then plans to teach dental hygiene. 25 Shivani Kamodia Receives Dow Fellowship Investigating Ways to Reduce Waste in School Clinics Kamodia conducted a series of waste audits in the preclinical laboratory. A second-year dental student with a keen interest in sustainability, par- ticularly in health care, has received a fellowship from the Dow Chemical Company for her leadership and desire to work with peers from all disciplines to make health care delivery more sustainable. Last May, Kamodia began an investiga- tion into the amount of waste generat- ed in the school’s preclinic as a part of her Pathways project. Pathways allows each dental student to select a special topic of interest in health care delivery, leadership or research and explore that area in depth during their four years in dental school. Shivani Kamodia is working to reduce waste in the school’s clinics. FINDINGS “Evaluating the waste produced in the clinics is the best way to determine the level of waste and begin thinking about ways to reduce it,” Kamodia says. Working with four undergraduate vol- unteers and her mentor, Dr. Stephen Stefanac, senior associate dean and associate dean for Patient Services, Photo by Shivani Kamodia By the time she started her dental education at Michigan, Kamodia had developed a portfolio of leadership experiences in sustainability. Initially, she searched for information on sus- tainable dentistry, but says she found little information that was helpful. She then began to focus on waste audits. Photo by Ken Rieger Shivani Kamodia is among 40 U-M students awarded $20,000 by the Midland, Michigan-based company to help pay for her education. The one-time awards are given annually to students pursing a professional degree or a master’s degree. “Most waste in the preclinic came from three sources: gloves, face masks, and paper,” she says. “In fact, the number of gloves used in one three-hour preclinic practical course ranged from 267 to 757.” Kamodia says she then approached Terracycle, a company that collects difficult to recycle products and transforms them into innovative products. She placed three of the company’s “Zero Waste Boxes” in the preclinic. Gloves and face masks are collected every few weeks and then picked up by the company. Kamodia says she plans to do another round of waste audits when new dental students arrive in June. Kamodia’s investigations show most of the waste generated at the School of Dentistry is from gloves, face masks and paper used in the school’s various clinics. Spring & Summer 2016 Dental Student Making “Positive Connections” 26 A U-M dental student is among the first group of profes- sional and graduate students to live in the new Munger Graduate Residences. “My experiences have been fantastic,” says Jeffrey Choi (D3). “I have met so many great people from all 19 schools and colleges here at Michigan.” Choi says this has been the first time he has interacted with individuals outside the dental school. He lives in a suite with students from the College of Pharmacy, the School of Natural Resources and Environment, the School of Social Work, and the College of Engineering. “Every individual here is unique and diverse academically, socially, and cul- turally. I feel I’m making some positive connections that I may one day be able to use in my dental career,” he says. Choi says there are other dental students also living in the Munger Graduate Residences. Munger, a U-M alumnus, studied math- ematics at U-M in the 1940s and has been vice chair of Berkshire Hathaway since 1978. He gifted $110 million of securities to support his vision for a new state-of-the-art residence hall on the Central Campus designed to foster a community where graduate students from multiple disciplines live and exchange ideas. Grateful Patient Praises Student Patient’s A-fib Detected During Routine Examination Churchman (D3) is also a certified physician’s assistant (PA) and paramedic (EMT-P). Before starting treatment on his patient, Jack Morris, Churchman did a blood pressure check and told Morris he had an irregular heartbeat. “This was the first time a health care provider told me that something wasn’t right,” Morris said. “I thought something wasn’t right for a couple of years. Brandon told me he suspected I had atrial fibrillation and that he would not be treating me that day.” Churchman said for dental students, “a blood pressure check is standard. That helps us to identify any possible irregularities before we begin dental treatment. When I saw Mr. Morris’ reading, I knew something wasn’t right. I was pretty sure it was A-fib.” An EKG confirmed what Churchman suspected. That day, Morris said he was admitted to U-M Hospital and was observed for two days prior to being discharged. “I appreciate what Brandon did for me,” Morris said. “Because of his training, he confirmed what I had suspected all along – that something wasn’t right.” Photo by Jerry Mastey A 59-year-old patient who has been receiving oral health care at the School of Dentistry for more than a year is grateful dental student Brandon Churchman detected an irregular heartbeat during a routine blood pressure check. Brandon Churchman (D3) with his patient Jack Morris. Churchman said the education and training he received at the School of Dentistry were important and underscores the value of blood pressure checks being done prior to every appointment. Hinman Research Award to Dental Student Le is mentored by Drs. Cristiane Squarize and Rogerio Castilho, both assistant professors in the Department The Hinman Student Research Symposium featured oral and poster presentations of research projects by 94 dental and graduate students from 51 dental schools in 30 states, Third-year dental student John Le (second left) with his mentors, the District of Drs. Cristiane Squarize and Rogerio Castilho. Dr. Paul Krebsbach Columbia, and three (right) delivered the keynote speech. Canadian provinces. The symposium is and Materials Sciences and professor co-sponsored by the Hinman of Biomedical Engineering at the Dental Society and the University College of Engineering. Krebsbach of Tennessee College of Dentistry. spoke about advances in bone regeneration research to treat injuries Keynote speaker for this year’s and human diseases. program was Dr. Paul Krebsbach, chair of the Department of Biologic 2016 Spring & Summer John Le (D3), received one of four awards in basic science research for his investigations into a gene that controls wound healing. Le discovered that when the gene, known as FIG4 (an abbreviation for Factor Induced Gene), is turned off in mouse models, wounds heal faster. “We hope these findings will aid in developing new clinical methods to speed development of wound healing in the mouth and other parts of the body,” he said. of Periodontics and Oral Medicine. Photo by Jerry Mastey A U-M dental student received a major award during the prestigious Hinman Student Research Program last fall in Memphis. Eight major awards were presented, four for clinical research and four for basic science research. 27 Homecoming Weekend 2015 Following the medallion and pinning ceremony, alumni toured the Dr. Roy Roberts Predental Clinic and talked to dental students. Dental hygiene alumnae from the Class of 1965 (top row): Judith Hinkley Roser and Jana Miner Hood; (bottom row): Sandra Sonner Klinesteker, Susan Steger Johnson, Phebe Hoaglin Blitz, Marcia Hough Spitzley and Karen Peterson. Photo by Melissa Squires “It’s a great time to be at Michigan and an awesome time to be here at the School of Dentistry,” Dean Laurie McCauley told graduates and their spouses in welcoming remarks. She mentioned the school currently ranks first in the U.S. and fourth in the world among dental schools.* After receiving their emeritus medallions, the Dental Class of 1965 gathered for their 50-year reunion photo. Photo by Melissa Squires About two-thirds of the emeritus alumni were from Michigan. Four traveled to Ann Arbor from Florida, two from California, and others were from eight other states. Dr. John Gregg, president of the Class of 1965; Dr. Arthur Sanders, class secretary; and Dr. Carl Woolley, class treasurer, were among those who were present. Photo by Jerry Mastey Thirty-one graduates of the Dental Class of 1965 and seven graduates of the Dental Hygiene Class of 1965, two of whom earned a master’s degree in dental hygiene that year, returned to the School of Dentistry last October to mark the 50th anniversary of their graduation. Photo by Melissa Squires Emeritus Alums Reunite Cassie Lee (D2) shows her work to Dr. Delno Andrews (DDS 1965). *Reflects 2015 QS World Rankings. 2016 QS World Rankings are highlighted on page 16. Dr. Walter Loesche Inducted into Hall of Honor 28 A member of the school’s faculty for 31 years, Loesche also taught microbiology at the Medical School for 29 years. He was described as “a superstar, who was not always appreciated at the time” by Dr. Dennis Lopatin, professor emeritus, who knew Loesche and worked with him for more than 35 years. Loesche’s research ultimately led to a bacterium being named for him, Prevotella loescheii, which is found in the human mouth. His son-in-law, Dr. Brian Clark, described Loesche as “an amazing human being and a microbiologist’s microbiologist. His discovery of the bacterium named for him was due to his relentless drive. He woke up every morning with a smile on his face and was eager to get to work.” Loesche’s widow, Rosemary, was present for the induction of her late husband. Photo by Melissa Squires Spring & Summer 2016 Dr. Walter Loesche, one of the world’s leading authorities on caries, periodontics and systemic health, was posthumously inducted into the school’s Hall of Honor. Dr. Brian Clark (center) holds a replica of the Hall of Honor plaque honoring his late father-in-law, Dr. Walter Loesche. With him is Dr. Dennis Lopatin who presented Loesche for induction and Dean Laurie McCauley. Dr. John Gregg (DDS 1965) Receives Distinguished Service Award Gregg (DDS 1965), who earned five degrees from U-M, has taught at Michigan, the University of North Carolina, Johns Hopkins, Virginia Tech, the Medical College of Virginia, and the University of Otago in Dunedin, New Zealand. He also has served as the chief of the medical staff at the Montgomery Regional Hospital in Blacksburg, Virginia, and a member of the Institu- tional Review Board at the Montgom- ery facility and the Virginia College of Osteopathic Medicine in Blacksburg. After earning his bachelor’s degree in 1961 and DDS four years later, he went on to earn a master’s degree in anatomy in 1967; a second master’s degree, this one in oral surgery, in 1969; and a PhD in 1970. Photo by Melissa Squires “I hope dental students in 2015 and in the future realize, 50 years from now, that they stood on the shoulders of some of the giants in the dental profes- sion, some of whom are here now at the University of Michigan School of Dentistry and others who preceded them,” said Dr. John Gregg after receiving the Distinguished Service Award. Dr. John Gregg (second from right) received the Alumni Society Board of Governors Distinguished Service Award. In the photo are (left to right): Dr. Thomas Anderson, chair of the Board of Governors; Dean Laurie McCauley; Gregg; and Dr. Carl Woolley, who nominated and spoke about Gregg’s achievements. Bestowed by the school’s Alumni Society Board of Governors, the Distinguished Service Award is pre- sented annually during Homecoming Weekend to a living person who has made significant contributions to the school or the profession of dentistry. Fanfare Band in the foreground, Dean Laurie McCauley challenges the dental and dental hygiene classes to a contest to determine who could cheer “Go Blue!” the loudest when their composite class photo appeared on the screen behind her. Photo by Melissa Squires Dr. David Noble, Class of 1965, and other alumni and their spouses got into the spirit as the Fanfare Band played The Victors. The Fanfare Band brought alumni and their spouses to their feet as they played The Victors. 2016 Spring & Summer Following dinner, the U-M Fanfare Band performed Hail to the Victors. Dean Laurie McCauley led a spirited “Go Blue” cheering competition between reunion classes when their class composite photo appeared on monitors in the Grand Ballroom. Photo by Melissa Squires As they arrived, each graduate received a nametag with two photos – one taken at their graduation, the other taken recently. The “then” and “now” photos certainly sparked a lot of conversation. Photo by Jerry Mastey An enthusiastic crowd of about 230 alumni from the dental and dental hygiene classes (who graduated in years ending in 5 and 0) and their spouses celebrated Homecoming Weekend during a Friday evening gala at the Michigan League. Photo by Melissa Squires Spirited Gala Celebration 29 Alumni Profiles The Doctors Werschky and Ellen Rowe (DH) Her brothers, Jay and Martin, received dental degrees from Michigan a short time later. The tradition has continued in the early years of the 21st century. ELLEN WERSCHKY ROWE A family dentist, Dr. Kenneth Ryan (DDS 1932), sparked Ellen’s interest in oral health care when she was in high school. Ryan, a Flint dentist, was posthumously inducted into the School of Dentistry’s Hall of Honor in 2004 for his contributions to dentistry. As a student in the Flint public schools, Ellen attended “career days” and talked to teachers, nurses and dental hygienists about their experiences. She enrolled in U-M’s two-year certificate in dental hygiene program in 1965 and earned her certificate two years later. Spring & Summer 2016 The program, led by Dr. Dorothy Hard, was demanding. 30 “Attendance was compulsory,” Rowe says. “You had to be punctual, arriving 10 minutes early, otherwise she consid- ered you late.” The dress code was strict. “Dr. Hard said we had to wear a white uniform in clinics. Eye makeup was not allowed. Nor could we wear jewelry.” Rowe says Hard “instilled that rigorous discipline for a reason. She wanted all of us to become professionals. (L to R) Dr. Martin Werschky, Dr. Jori Werschky Lewis, Dr. Jay Werschky, Ellen Werschky Rowe and Dr. Kelly Rowe Yeung. Appearance and education comple- mented each other, which was important at the time since career opportunities for women were limited.” always wanted to be a dentist, said he was enjoying himself and suggested I consider it. I did and haven’t had any regrets.” That approach paid off for Rowe. She worked in the Detroit dental office of Dr. Donald Winans (DDS 1928) for about five years before leaving to raise a family. Instead of returning to dental hygiene, Rowe says she used the lessons she learned about professional- ism as a volunteer and as a school board president. Living in a mobile home in Lansing at the time, Jay, recently married, told his wife, Janis (AB 1972), who worked as a medical technologist, he wanted to become a dentist. “Jan supported my decision. As a team, we succeeded,” he says. They moved to Ypsilanti. Jan worked at University Hospital while Jay attended school. Asked if she inspired her brother Jay to become a dentist, Rowe laughed, saying, “If I did, I’d probably be taking too much credit.” After earning his dental degree in 1976, Jay returned to the Flint area where he started his private practice in 1977. JAY WERSCHKY Jay and Ellen briefly talked about working together. “But we knew it wouldn’t work because our personali- ties were similar – we both wanted to be boss,” he says with a laugh. After graduating from U-M Flint in 1971, Jay considered a career as a research scientist and received a four-year scholarship in the doctoral pharmacology program at Michigan State. But Jay discovered he wasn’t a researcher. “I needed to be around people, not guinea pigs and mice,” he says. A friend from junior high school who was in the predoctoral program at the School of Dentistry, Thomas Bacon (DDS 1974), set Jay’s career path in a new direction. “Dentistry wasn’t even on my radar screen,” Jay says. “Tom Jay says he has fond memories of his days as a dental student at U-M. “Everything I achieved is the result of the great education I received at Michigan,” he says. “My fond memories, love of the profession and life-long friendships were reasons I later got involved with the school. It was one way to say ‘thank you’.” Photo by Jill Phillips Oral health care education at the Uni- versity of Michigan School of Dentistry seems to be a tradition in the Werschky family – one that began more than 50 years ago when Ellen Werschky was a dental hygiene student and received her certificate in 1967. Photo by Jerry Mastey Ellen Werschky Rowe (DH certificate 1967) – Her daughter, Dr. Kelly Yeung (DDS 2006) Dr. Jay Werschky (DDS 1976) – His daughter, Dr. Jori Werschky Lewis (DDS 2007) Dr. Martin Werschky (DDS 1982) His cherished memories include speaking to first-year dental students, including his daughter Joelle (Jori), when they received their white coats in the fall of 2003, and hooding her at graduation four years later. MARTIN WERSCHKY “My sister, Ellen, and brother, Jay, were great role models who influenced my decision to become a dentist,” says Martin. “They built on the founda- tion that our dad, also named Martin, instilled in us growing up.” Martin describes his father as “a task master, very detail oriented who enjoyed working with his hands” at General Motors in Flint. Initially, Martin thought about a career in medicine since Ellen was married to a physician. “But I didn’t want to be on call 24/7. Jay suggested I consider dentistry.” Martin says among the instructors he fondly remembers were Drs. Ronald and Donald Heys and Dr. Peter Yaman. Martin and Jay were competitive, growing up, especially in sports. However, as oral health care profes- sionals, both offered suggestions about ways to improve their practices. “Jay has given me great advice, but the best was to go into practice for myself,” Martin says. “When I’m in our dental office, I’m not the daughter of the owner. I’m a professional colleague, and that’s how it should be,” Jori says. Her career in dentistry began in high school working in her father’s office doing tasks from sterilizing instruments to filing charts. She still remembers her first day of practice in the dental office. “I flew solo that day. Dad was golfing and I remember calling him a few times with questions,” she says with a laugh. Jori attributes her success, not only to her father, but “great instructors” at Michigan, notably Dr. Brian Clarkson who chaired the Department of Cariology, Restorative Sciences and Endodontics. “He treated us as colleagues, not as students, and that made a difference,” she says. “He was also approachable. He wanted you to succeed. That was different from instructors of an earlier era who may have used intimidation as a motivational tool,” Jori says. “My dad is a great source of inspira- tion,” she says. “It’s not only how he practices dentistry and connects with patients, but also being involved with the school and giving back.” Jay says mentoring his daughter has given him “added perspectives” in patient care, new dental materials being used, and how technology is changing the profession. “It’s fun for both of us.” Jori says she is also grateful that her sister, Jill Phillips, handles the business side of running the dental practice. Like the rest of the family, Jill is a U-M graduate (AB, LS&A 1999) and earned an MBA from George Washington University in 2007. KELLY ROWE YEUNG Kelly Rowe Yeung, Ellen’s daughter, says she and Jori “were close cousins when dental school began and practi- cally ended up as best friends” by the time they graduated. Living close Drs. Jay Werschky and Dr. Jori Lewis discuss treatment options for a patient as they look at a model of the patient’s mouth. to each other Kelly says “we had fun together almost every day whether it was walking or riding the bus to school, playing intramural sports or having friends in the same social circles.” At Michigan, Kelly met and later married Robert Yeung, who earned his DDS the same year she did and later a master’s degree in endodontics at UDM. Now practicing part time in the office of Dr. David Johnson (DDS 1985) in Portage, Michigan, Kelly agrees that Clarkson and other instructors “wanted all of us to succeed.” But what she remembers most about Clarkson “was that he would always take time to listen and offer advice that helped you in a clinic or a classroom.” Following the family tradition of being involved in organized dentistry, Kelly is vice president of the Kalamazoo Valley District Dental Society (2016-2017) and will become its president (2017-2018). Personifying True Blue Jay perhaps best sums up the impact U-M has had on him and others. “I think my life, and perhaps the lives of many of us, may not have turned out as well without the education we received from Michigan. Our family embodies the True Blue tradition.” 2016 Spring & Summer “Since dentistry is a profession of precision, they were demanding and always challenged us to do our best,” Martin says. “But when you stumbled, they were always there to encourage you.” JORI WERSCHKY LEWIS Photo by Per Kjeldsen Jay was a member of the Dean Search Committee (1989), a member of the Alumni Society Board of Governors (1996-2003), chair of the Michigan Dif- ference Campaign Committee (2006- 2008) and is a member of the Victors for Michigan Campaign (2012-2017). He was also president of the Michigan Dental Association (1993-1994). 31 Scholarship Efforts Gather Momentum School Launches New Initiatives Raising money to help students at the University of Michigan School of Dentistry pay for their education is a major priority of the Victors for Michigan fundraising campaign. The school has set a goal of raising $35 million, of which $12 million will be for student financial support. To date, more than $5 million has been raised for scholarships. Since the dental curriculum now spans almost the entire year, compared to eight or nine months when many alumni were dental students, today’s students are unable to work part time to earn money to help pay for their education. That means dental students are taking out more loans. The average debt for a dental student who graduated last year from the School of Dentistry was about $179,000. That high level of debt has consequences. It can lead to limited practice opportunities and additional challenges for students who wish to choose a career in private practice, academic dentistry or community service. Currently, fewer than one-third of the school’s dental students receive scholarships or fellowships, even though many more need financial help. In most cases, the average amount of annual support is $8,000, about one-fourth the cost of yearly in-state tuition. Drs. Ronald & Donald Heys Student Scholarship Fund Two School of Dentistry clinical instructors who are well known to alumni are being recognized with a scholarship fund in their name to help dental students defray some of their educational expenses. Ron and Don said they wanted to do something to help ease the educational debt burden dental students have. The need-based scholarship will help ensure top scholars and gifted future clinicians are able to enroll at U-M. Both Drs. Ron and Don Heys earned their dental degrees from U-M in 1972 and a master’s degree in restorative dentistry three years later. They have also shared a private practice for more than 35 years. “If dentistry is to continue being an attractive career for future students, Don and I think that all of us have an obliga- tion to help them in whatever way we can,” Ron says. Dr. Richard Christiansen, dean of the School of Dentistry from 1982 to 1987, and his wife, Nancy, made the lead gift of approximately $32,000 to establish the Heys Scholarship. When school leaders approached them asking if there was a way to honor them for their more than 40 years of service, Spring & Summer 2016 DR. CARL PAPA’S GIFT AND NOTE (DDS 1979) “Thank you for being such a great instructor during my senior year” Dr. Carl Papa (DDS 1979) recently wrote in a note to Dr. Donald Heys. “My $5,000 gift to the School of Dentistry is because of you!” Photo by Per Kjeldsen 32 Drs. Ronald and Donald Heys Still practicing general dentistry in Roseville, Michigan, Papa says, “Don is a wonderful man. I can’t speak highly enough of him. Because of him, I have had a magnificent career.” Dr. James McNamara Graduate Orthodontic Scholarship World-renowned School of Dentistry faculty member Dr. James McNamara who has taught orthodontics at U-M for more than 40 years, said, “I am humbled by the orthodontics scholarship that has been established in my name.” During his four decades at Michigan, he has seen a substantial increase in debt incurred annually by orthodontics residents. “The welfare of our residents has always been my first concern,” McNamara says. “I am pleased to know that funds raised will directly support them.” McNamara says he and his family “feel strongly about our residents and the future of orthodontic education. That is why the McNamara family is contributing $25,000 to the fund,” he adds. After he was invited to Ann Arbor for an interview with Drs. James McNamara and Lysle Johnston in the spring of 1989, Brust said McNamara called his house a few weeks later and asked if he wanted to become a Wolverine. “Because I wasn’t home at the time, my wife said ‘Yes’ for me,” Brust says with a laugh. But he called McNamara and confirmed his desire to attend. Brust says his $25,000 gift is his way of thanking the school and McNamara “who was always in our corner as residents. His great can-do attitude was infectious. It enabled me and others to reach professional and personal goals we never imagined.” DR. PATRICK NOLAN (MS Orthodontics 1990) “Dr. Jim McNamara has always been a strong advocate for orthodontics residents. That is why I am gifting $50,000 to the Graduate Orthodontics Scholarship in his name,” says Dr. Patrick Nolan. McNamara says he wants orthodontic alumni and friends of the department “to expand this fundraising effort so we can endow each of our 21 resident positions, similar to what the football team is doing endowing each position. Such financial support will help give our residents some peace of mind as they pursue their studies.” Nolan says residents who saw McNa- mara’s commitment and dedication to them thought about starting an endowed professorship in McNamara’s name. Current first-year tuition for an orthodontics resident is more than $27,000 for those in state and $46,500 for those outside Michigan. “He was touched, but told us that instead, he would rather do something more meaningful and beneficial to orthodon- tics residents when they are most in need,” Nolan says. DR. ERIC BRUST (MS Orthodontics 1992) “Michigan’s orthodontics program is the best anywhere and I wanted to be a part of ensuring it stays strong,” says Dr. Eric Brust as he talks about his time as a resident at U-M. “The Dr. James McNamara Graduate Orthodontics Scholarship will do that. It will help continue what Jim has been doing throughout his distinguished career – exhaust- ing every effort to keep the cost of orthodontics education reasonable so that Michigan can continue attracting the most impressive candidates.” A new scholarship was recently established to help residents in the school’s Graduate Periodontics program. Dr. William Giannobile, chair of the Department of Periodontics and Oral Medicine, says the scholarship was launched with seed money “which we hope, over time, will grow significantly. Our goal is to award residents scholarships of as much as $25,000 annually.” First-year tuition in the grad perio program is about $27,700 for Michigan residents and approximately $47,300 for out-of- state students. “The Graduate Periodontics program at Michigan has a long and distinguished history of achievement and continues attracting residents worldwide,” Giannobile says. “We encourage our graduates to be as generous as they possibly can to continue that tradition and help future residents realize their dreams.” 2016 Spring & Summer The Graduate Periodontics Alumni Scholarship 33 Scholarship Efforts Gather Momentum (Continued) Dr. Richard Johnson Graduate Orthodontic Scholarship Dr. Richard Johnson (DDS 1967, MS orthodontics 1973) began teaching at the School of Dentistry in 1970 and retired in 2005. A clinical professor emeritus, Johnson says “becoming predoctoral orthodontic director in 1985 and graduate clinical orthodontic director in 1995 were the best years of my professional life.” Johnson worked hard as a dental student. “I paid for a big part of my dental education working at the factory because I was earning about $4 an hour and working 50 hours a week.” DR. ERIC HANNAPEL (DDS 1992, MS orthodontics 1996) DR. BETH SWAYNE HANNAPEL (DDS 1997) “Dr. Rich Johnson was always there for us when we were dental students and orthodontics residents. Whether it was discussing treatment plans for patients, talking about some of life’s challenges, or offering encouragement when we needed it, he always had time to talk to us,” says Dr. Eric Hannapel. He and his wife, Dr. Beth Swayne Hannapel, are gifting $50,000 to the scholarship in Johnson’s name. Eric challenges U-M orthodontics graduates “to give back to the department and school that gave them the education and opportunity to succeed.” He adds, “I would be thrilled if all our residents adopt an ‘all hands on deck’ mindset and give something back to one of the best orthodontics departments in the world.” Beth, a student of Johnson’s, offers this perspective. “Since he devoted his professional life to orthodontics at Michigan, we should do what we can to help future residents and carry on Rich’s commitment to excellence,” she says. DR. JAMES HOMON (MS orthodontics 1988) “He never made you feel like ‘you should know this.’ Dr. Richard Johnson was always approachable, yet he let you discover answers to your questions on your own,” says Dr. James Homon. As a resident, Homon says he could always talk to Johnson, who, at the time, was lead orthodontics clinical instructor. “He never spoon-fed you,” Homon says. “Dr. Johnson encouraged you to think through your question but would let you know if you were going down the right path trying to come up with the answer.” Homon says that approach has helped him in his own practice in Columbus, Ohio. Asking probing questions, developing the discipline to think through a problem or challenge, and coming up with answers to questions with encouragement from experienced faculty is what Homon says he wants future orthodontics residents at Michigan to experience and benefit from. That is why he has gifted $25,000 to the scholarship in Johnson’s name. Dr. Hom-Lay Wang Graduate Periodontics Scholarships “I Remember the Struggle” Spring & Summer 2016 DR. HOM-LAY WANG 34 (DDS, MS, PhD) - Professor, Director of Graduate Periodontics - Collegiate Professor of Periodontics Dr. Hom-Lay Wang doesn’t mince words about what it was like when he came to Cleveland, Ohio, 30 years ago from Taipei, Taiwan. He knew no one. He had no financial support from his family. He ate the same foods almost daily. He often asked some of his classmates to give him a ride so he could shop for groceries. “Most of my days and weekends were spent at the dental school or a library,” he says. “I remember the struggle and promised myself that if I succeeded, I would establish a scholarship to help students so they would not have to experience what I did,” he says. Wang kept that promise. Instead of establishing one scholarship, he created two. The first honors his father. “He was tough, but kind, and that gave me the confidence and solid foundation that helped me to succeed,” Wang says. The Tien-Lu Wang Fellowship provides financial support to a first-year resident in U-M’s graduate periodontics program. The second, the Hom-Lay Wang Fellowship, is for a third-year graduate periodontics resident. Wang says funds from his fellowship will “be seed money to encourage talented residents to stay in academia after they finish their education at Michigan.” “A Thousand Gifts” to Support Pediatric Dentistry “We would love for every graduate of the Michigan pediatric dentistry program to pledge at least $1,000 initially to help support our current residents and those who want to be here in the future,” says Dr. Jan Hu. As interim chair of the Department of Orthodontics and Pediatric Dentistry, Hu is leading the fundraising effort for the Easlick Society’s Residents Scholarship Fund. The society honors the legacy of Dr. Kenneth Easlick (DDS 1928) who is considered by many to be the father of pediatric dentistry. “Our goal is to have all members of the society pledge at least $1,000. Hopefully, this then will inspire all in our pediatric dentistry community to support this vital effort,” she says. Eighteen members of the Easlick Society have already made pledges, including six recent graduates. “If we can raise $1 million, we will be able to sustain support for our residents in perpetuity,” Hu says. The Thousand Gifts campaign, which Hu says has been under consideration for some time by the board members of the Easlick Society and the department, will help pediatric residents reduce their tuition burden which is approximately $38,000 for in-state and $60,000 for out of state residents. DR. LLOYD “BUD” STRAFFON (DDS 1963, MS pediatric Dentistry 1967) (Director, graduate program in pediatric dentistry 1990-1993) The School of Dentistry’s graduate program in pediatric dentistry has had a long and remarkable history, going back to the days of Dr. Kenneth Easlick (DDS 1928), who developed the school’s first teaching program for dentistry for children not long after earning his dental degree. “I have always admired and respected the program’s outstanding educators and residents during my 37 years as a classroom and clinical educator at the School of Dentistry,” says Dr. Bud Straffon. “I still do, more than 10 years after I retired.” Straffon wants his $1,000 gift to help pediatric residents to continue receiving that outstanding education at Michigan today and into the future. Dr. Jeffery W. Johnston Graduate Periodontics Endowed Scholarship Fund DR. JEFFERY JOHNSTON (DDS 1982, MS periodontics 1986) “If it’s worth doing, it’s worth over-do- ing,” says Dr. Jeffery Johnston with a smile as he talks about why he has gifted $50,000 to create the Dr. Jeffery W. Johnston Graduate Periodontics Endowed Scholarship. Only after he earned his degrees and talked to colleagues elsewhere did Johnston realize the excellence of his education. At Michigan, Johnston said he “was taught by some of the giants in dentistry, including Major Ash, Sigurd Ramfjord and many others.” Johnston is encouraging his colleagues to participate. “When you think about gifting $2,000 a month for two years, it’s not too much to ask,” he says. 2016 Spring & Summer “We in dentistry have an obligation, not an option, to lead by example. My gift is my way of doing that,” he says. “But I also want those who will graduate from the periodontics program to realize that they too must lead by example and give back after they graduate.” Johnston says he is also giving back to express his appre- ciation. “I have always been grateful that the University of Michigan accepted me and the opportunities I have had to succeed because of my dental education,” he says. 35 Why I Give… Andrew Schoonover (DDS 2005) Every year, the School of Den- tistry receives gifts from its alumni, including recent graduates. During the Victors for Michigan campaign, we are highlighting some of those alumni and their reasons for their gifts. Meet Dr. Andrew Schoonover, who received his DDS from Michigan in 2005 and practices in Dewitt, Michigan. “The University of Michigan School of Dentistry is the best dental school in the nation and we need to help keep it that way,” says Dr. Andrew Schoonover. “I would not be where I am today without all that I learned from my great instructors.” Schoonover says giving back was always emphasized growing up in a Christian home. “With that upbring- ing and the education I received at Michigan, this was the perfect opportu- nity for me to give back and do what I could to help.” Schoonover says he realizes many of his classmates have student loans to repay which makes it difficult for them to give back. “I began giving a little because even small gifts to the school help. Hopefully, I will be able to increase my giving over time.” Even as a dental student, Schoonover found a way to give back that began shortly after participating in the Summer Migrant Dental Clinic Program in the Traverse City area. “I saw the great need there and thought my gift could help buy needed supplies and equipment,” he says. Those experiences also influenced Schoonover to participate in annual dental mission trips to Honduras to help those needing oral health care. IN MEMORIAM 1956 Dr. Harry McIntosh October 23, 2015 South Lyon, Michigan 1961 Dr. Merrill Wilson November 18, 2015 Sun City Center, Florida 1942 Vivian Dodge (DH Certificate) October 20, 2015 Battle Creek, Michigan Jan Berry, who cheerfully went out of her way to help countless individuals, both professionally and personally, during the more than 30 years she worked at the University of Michigan, passed away Feb. 4. She was at the School of Dentistry for more than 20 years working in the labs of Drs. Martha Somerman, Laurie McCauley and Russell Taichman. Berry also worked at the Medical School for 17 years. Vote for four dentists and one dental hygienist who will serve a three-year term beginning September 1, 2016. Full biographies can be found at http://bit.ly/alumnisocietybios ALUMNI SOCIET Y BOARD OF GOVERNORS ELECTION BALLOT Spring & Summer 2016 Vote for 4 dentists: 36 Vote for 1 hygienist: Janet G. Cook (RDH, BSDH 1981) Brighton, MI Dr. Kevin T. Cook (DDS 2009, Two-Year AEGD Certificate 2011) Ann Arbor, MI Dr. Steve Dater* (DDS 1988) Belmont, MI Candidate bios can be reviewed at http://bit.ly/BOGballot2016 Dr. Matthew Gietzen* (DDS 2005) Traverse City, MI The envelope with your ballot must be postmarked by August 15, 2016. Dr. Sophia P. Masters (DDS 1985) Grand Rapids, MI Please mail your ballot to: Dr. Bruce E. Turpin* (DDS 1980) Pontiac, MI *Incumbent University of Michigan School of Dentistry 540 E. Liberty, Suite 204 Ann Arbor, MI 48104-2210 Alumni News Dr. Evelyn Lucas- Perry (DDS 2011), who was the first to complete the dual degree DDS/MSPH program (Health Management and Policy), has been named the winner of the ADA Foundation’s 2015 Dr. David Whiston Leadership Award. The award recognizes promising dentists who have shown the potential for leadership in efforts to improve public oral health. Now the director of Public Policy Research at ADEA, Lucas-Perry is working for a PhD in public health at George Washington University Milken Institute School of Public Health. Dr. Susan E. Hinman (DDS 2004) has been promoted to the rank of Commander in the U.S. Navy. She is currently stationed in Naples, Italy, as a clinic endodontist. He received the Andrew Ackerman Memorial Award for his outstanding contributions to maxillofacial pros- thetics. The award is not presented annually, but only when the Awards Committee determines an individual has distinguished himself or herself at a level that merits special recognition. Dr. Craig Spangler (DDS 1979) of Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, was awarded a Fellow- ship at the Special Care Dentistry As- sociation’s meeting in Denver last year. The association is a resource to all oral health care professionals who serve or are interested in serving special needs patients. Spangler is the only actively practicing dentist in Michigan to attain Fellowship status with SCDA. Dr. Curles Colbert, Jr. (DDS 1978) was appointed a clinical assistant profes- sor at UDM School of Dentistry in the Department of Patient Management. He was also named interim director of Predoctoral Patient Care-University Health Center at Detroit Receiving Hospital. Colbert is responsible for the quality review and documentation of CODA requirements and competen- cies required of fourth-year dental students in the comprehensive care clinic that school of dentistry operates. Dr. Roger Forman (MS periodontics 1974) of Boulder, Colorado, is still active in dentistry after retiring from private practice six years ago. “I decided to give something back to society and dentistry,” he wrote in a note to Dean Laurie McCauley. Forman is teaching graduate periodontics residents at the University of Colorado School of Dentistry in Aurora. He received the 2015 Educator of the Year Award from the American Academy of Periodontology recognizing his “outstanding teaching and mentor- ing.” Forman said “Being privileged to earn a master’s degree from Michigan under Dr. Sigurd Ramfjord made a huge difference in my life.” Dr. Jack Gobetti (DDS 1968, MS oral diagnosis and radiology 1971) was recently honored by the Interna- tional College of Dentists for donating more than 35,000 oral pathology images which he photographed during his 38-year teaching career at the U-M School of Dentistry. Gobetti received USA/ ICD’s Foundation President Award for his work that included identify- ing more than 200 diseases and oral health maladies in different stages of development, from initial manifesta- tion through progressive stages of development and treatment. Send us Your News! We want to hear from you. Send us news about your achievements, awards or honors. Contact: SODalumnirelations@umich.edu University of Michigan School of Dentistry 1011 N. University Ann Arbor, MI 48109 2016 Spring & Summer Dr. Philip Estes (DDS 2009) of Frisco, Texas, was recently named the New Dentist of the Year by the Texas Academy of General Dentistry. The award recognizes emerging young leaders in the profes- sion for their dental school involve- ment, contributions to the profession, community service, and a clear vision for the future of dentistry. Estes was called to active duty in late 2004 as a second-year dental student and served a year in Iraq. He did not do any dental work. Instead, he coordinated logistics for more than 1,400 troops. Estes is president of the Dallas Academy of General Dentistry, vice president of the North Texas Dental Society and is a member of other state and national dental associations. He also conducts dental mission trips to Central America. Dr. Mark Marunick (DDS 1975, MS prosthodontics 1980), an adjunct clinical professor in the Department of Biologic and Materials Sciences, received the American Academy of Maxillofacial Prosthetics highest honor at the organization’s recent annual meeting. 37 1011 N. University Ave. | Ann Arbor, MI 48109-1078 Address Service Requested Homecoming Weekend 2016 Thursday, 11/3 EMERITUS MEDALLION AND PINNING CEREMONY (invitation only) Honoring the Dental and Dental Hygiene Classes of 1966 Time: 11:30 a.m. Location: Kellogg Auditorium, School of Dentistry CLASS OF 1966 EMERITUS PICTURES (invitation only) Time: 12:30 p.m. Location: School of Dentistry EMERITUS, HALL OF HONOR INDUCTION & ALUMNI AWARDS LUNCHEON (invitation only) Time: 1:00 p.m. Location: Sindecuse Atrium School of Dentistry HALL OF HONOR INDUCTION & ALUMNI AWARDS PRESENTATION (open to the public) DENTAL & DENTAL HYGIENE REUNION RECEPTION Time: 1:45 p.m. Location: Sindecuse Atrium School of Dentistry Honoring the classes of 1961, 1966 (emeritus), 1971, 1976, 1981, 1986, 1991, 1996, 2001, 2006, 2011 Friday, 11/4 Cocktail Reception: 5:30 to 8:00 p.m. Location: Commons at the School of Dentistry MORAWA LECTURE — PATIENT-CENTERED DIGITAL TREATMENT INNOVATIONS Speakers: Dennis Fasbinder, DDS, ABGD; Gisele Neiva, DDS, MS (Restorative Dentistry), MS (Clinical Research Design & Statistical Analysis) Time: 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Location: School of Dentistry (Class years ending in 6 & 1) (Formal invitations will be mailed this summer.) Saturday, 11/5 ALUMNI ASSOCIATION GO BLUE TAILGATE University of Michigan vs. Maryland Kickoff: TBA For additional information about Continu- ing Education only, call (734) 763-5070 or visit: http://www.dent.umich.edu/cde STAY CONNECTED!