Best wishes to our 2023 graduates
This morning, VCU School of Dentistry’s Class of 2023 celebrated their hooding ceremony, marking their successful graduation from dental school. Gathering in the Dominion Energy Center, students, faculty, family and guests shared in the formality of hooding each dental student and pinning of each dental hygiene student.
In attendance were several distinguished guests including Virginia Senator and pediatric dentist Dr. Todd Pillion; Virginia Dental Association president, VCU alumni and mother of VCU dental student Dr. Cynthia Southern; and Ms. Heather Tuthill, president of the Virginia Dental Hygiene Association and our own assistant professor. We were honored by their presence, offered our warm welcome and accepted their generous congratulations to the Class of 2023.
Our tradition includes recognizing two faculty who serve to hood each graduate, and this year the honor was shared by Dr. Mary Baechle and Dr. Ellen Byrne. As each graduate received their hood, they were greeted by their individual group practice instructors who have led them through their third and fourth years of dental school. Hugs, smiles and handshakes were shared before each student received a graduation gift – this year a crystal name plate. Our dental hygiene students received sashes bearing their pins from Ms. LaTesha McLee and were congratulated by their program director, Ms. Marion Manski. We also honored our graduating M.S. in Microbiology and Immunology research students, with Dr. Oonagh Loughran and their respective mentors donning their sashes. Each student’s step across the stage offered a moment to reflect on their successful journey called dental education. The event ended with many smiles, a few joyous tears and lots of photographs accompanying each of our graduates as they took their final steps as VCU School of Dentistry students.
These were just highlights of today’s celebration of the Class of 2023. So much more was shared among classmates, families, faculty and students. So much of four years is packed into just these few short hours. This was every graduating student’s moment.
We want all attention to be focused on the graduates and we celebrate both their accomplishments and their joining the dental profession. This transition from students to alumni really deserves highlighting. The professional opportunities ahead will always be linked to your years at VCU. The highs and lows, the excitement and frustration of dental school all combine into an experience in which everyone can take pride. Please remember VCU School of Dentistry as the place that launched your careers, and a school that cares deeply – and will always care – about your success and professional satisfaction.
I speak for our faculty, staff and students when offering best wishes for your next steps and hopes that everyone reaches their individual goals and ambitions. Congratulations to our 2023 graduates.
Categories Deans blog