Dentistry for All - Message from the DAA
05 March 2020
It is my distinct pleasure to bring you warm greetings on behalf of the Dental Alumni Association of the University of Alberta. As President I have the privilege of speaking with many of our Alumni as well as interacting with the students at The School of Dentistry, our future Alumni!
So much has changed at the Dental School since many of us graduated. Most obviously, the brand new location and facility. It’s an absolutely marvellous teaching environment. Combining that with advancements in technology as well as advancements in teaching methods makes for a Dental School experience many of us Alumni may not recognize.
Having said that, there are many aspects that haven’t changed. Students learning the absolute importance of creating a trusting relationship with their patients. One that focuses on listening, caring and earning the confidence our patients place in us. Becoming an integral member of the community is a key part of a successful career and that hasn’t changed.
I’m so impressed with the students of today in all that they do to reach out to the community while they are still at the School of Dentistry. From sock drives for the less fortunate to interactive educational days for special needs children and adults.
One of the exceptional programs is the Shine Dental Clinic at the Boyle McCauley Health Centre. Students provide dental care to those individuals who may not have any other place to access such care. They do this on their own personal time on Saturday mornings.
Alumni can help support this invaluable venture by signing up to be a Proctor. Being able to provide supervision and support for the students in this setting is an immensely rewarding experience.
One exciting new innovation Alumni may not be aware of is the start of the new curriculum at the School of Dentistry. This year’s “first year” class is the first intake on the new curriculum. How exciting!
Your Dental Alumni Association is constantly looking for new ways to support our existing Alumni and support our Alumni ‘in training”. We are also always trying to find meaningful ways to let all Alumni and students interact. The goal being to provide support and mentorship to future Alumni and remind the existing Alumni how much value they have to share with their Alma Mater.
Please keep your eyes on the lookout for all the upcoming events and come out when you can. It would be great to see old friends and make new ones. After all, we will forever share the bond of being U of A Dental School Alumni!
Sincerely,
Mintoo Basahti, DDS ‘88
President, Dental Alumni Association