This article was originally featured in the Summer 2023 edition of Dentistry Magazine, published by the school’s Office of Development and Alumni Relations.

Nearly one-third of VCU School of Dentistry's full-time faculty joined us within the past two years. We recently spoke to three new faculty members and asked what attracted them to VCU and much more.

Why are you at the VCU School of Dentistry? What factors contributed to your decision to join the school?

VCU has a robust and reputable Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Department. The opportunities to develop professionally and personally are outstanding, and, most importantly, the mentorship and support system at VCU are unmatched.

What impresses you most about the VCU School of Dentistry?

The willingness to serve people in our community who are less fortunate.

What do you hope to accomplish in your role?

Serve the community and train residents and students.

What do you feel are the top 3 strengths of the school?

Comprehensive care, broad scope of practice, technological advancements.

How do you answer when asked, "VCU Dental School? What do you do there?”

Practicing broad scope oral and maxillofacial surgery, with specific interest in 3D solutions for maxillofacial trauma, reconstruction, and orthognathic surgery.

Anything you'd care to add?

Point of care 3D planning and printing workflow and infrastructure for maxillofacial surgery.

Why are you at the VCU School of Dentistry? What factors contributed to your decision to join the school?

My primary objective would be to contribute to the education and development of my students. I strive to provide high-quality instruction and guidance that helps students to acquire and apply their knowledge in prosthodontics. I also strive to foster a supportive

and inclusive learning environment that encourages students to ask questions, engage in discussions, and explore new ideas. Additionally, I would aim to stay current with advances in my field of expertise and contribute to the body of knowledge through

research and publication. Overall, my goal as a faculty member would be to support the growth and success of my students and to contribute to the advancement of knowledge in my field.

What do you feel are the top 3 strengths of the school?

The top 3 strengths are pre-clinical education and clinical training, exposure to digital dentistry, and research opportunities.

How do you answer when asked, "VCU Dental School? What do you do there?”

I primarily train students to become dentists. I also participate in research related to dental materials. As a faculty member, I am always engaged in providing the best for the students.

Anything you'd care to add?

VCU is a great place to be! I’m very happy to be here and be part of this great team!

Why are you at the VCU School of Dentistry? What factors contributed to your decision to join the school?

As a 2014 graduate, it feels like I have returned home, and it was the perfect transition for me within my career to enter academia. It was exhilarating to see how many faculty and support staff were still here as they welcomed me with open arms. Dean Cooper and Shahrzad Orenduff (D.D.S.‘14; M.S.‘09; B.S.’06) , my classmate from dental school, were two individuals who played a significant role in my decision to join the school.

Dean Cooper has a progressive [vision for the school], which I support, having attended the school nine years ago and witnessing many changes that have already taken place.

This opportunity is a culmination of my back-ground in public health, family lineage in education, and ability to share my professional experiences with those entering the dental profession.

What impresses you the most about VCU School of Dentistry?

VCU SoD stands strong as the only dental school in Virginia and continues implementing new technology and performing cutting-edge research to educate its current students and attract prospective applicants. Students are trained in CAD/CAM technology and 3D printing and utilize the best dental materials and processes backed by research. VCU School of Dentistry is also well known for its community engagement and serves through free clinics and outreach programs.

What do you hope to accomplish in your role?

I hope to be an asset and resource for all students as I integrate my background and experiences into my teaching. In addition, I wish to promote an environment where all feel included, valued, and supported while making a meaningful and lasting impact. Minority representation is also vital in any setting. I will serve as a role model for individuals

aspiring to achieve their goals despite facing obstacles and challenges, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds. Lastly, I plan to utilize my knowledge and experience in public health to help increase access to oral health care within this academic institution and the surrounding community.

What do you feel are the top 3 strengths of the school?

1. VCU School of Dentistry has an internal network with almost all dental specialties. Pre-doctoral students can collaborate with residents of the Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD), periodontal, pediatric, endodontic, and oral surgery programs. Patients benefit from receiving interdisciplinary care under one roof.
2. This institution is also known for high acceptance rates for students seeking additional training through residency programs. As a result, programs nationwide can expect to receive high- caliber and high-quality clinicians from VCU.
3. Both dental and dental hygiene students participate in a clinical service-learning program where they travel throughout Virginia to 14 selected sites to provide care under the guidance of many volunteer dentists. Some of my fondest memories and experiences took place during these clinical rotations. It exposed and prepared us for what to expect as we managed patients through a robust schedule. This gave me the confidence to transition directly into practice after dental school.

How do you answer when asked, "VCU Dental School? What do you do there?”

I work with dental students within the pre-clinical and clinical settings. I oversee their patient care and management while providing insight and tips that were useful to me when I was in private practice. Often, I am asked if I still see patients of my own, and I am happy to let them know I am a dental provider for VCU Dental Care Faculty Practice.