“Congratulations for choosing to live a life that matters.”
Dean Steven Haas addressed a crowd of more than 1,000 people who came to the school’s annual Transitioning Ceremony on Friday, May 31 at Unity Temple on the Plaza. There, the new clinicians from the Dental Class of 2026 and Dental Hygiene Class of 2025 were welcomed to clinical practice. The ceremony is a momentous occasion celebrating years of rigorous study and preparation.
“You have committed yourself to service above self — and committed yourself to caring for others,” said Haas.
“As health-care professionals, you have chosen to live a life that matters, one guided by ethical principles. And because you have, many individuals will have a better quality of life, go to bed without pain, have a beautiful smile, live longer, healthier lives, walk a little taller — and you will know in your heart that you have made a difference.”
Proceedings were led by Keerthana Satheesh (D.D.S. ’05) who is chair of the Department of Periodontics. Each class also selected an influential keynote speaker. The dental class selected Prof. Cat Boles in the Department of Periodontics, and the dental hygiene class selected Prof. Katie Hayes. Each class composed its own “Code of Ethics” which students read aloud in unison after the keynote speeches.
Dental students were presented with a white coat, and dental hygiene students were given a scrub jacket, signifying what Satheesh described as the beginning of their professional lives and a constant reminder of the students’ commitment to their patients, peers and the dental profession.
Boles echoed Satheesh’s sentiment, noting the opportunity that students now have as they begin their clinical journey.
“Going forward, you have the chance to personalize each day with your patients,” Boles said. “And each patient is an opportunity for learning and growth. This is your chance to display your character, and, let me say, allows you to display your best character.” Each student then signed their respective code, reaffirming their commitment.
