News
Top News from the Dental News Blog
See Full Blog
-
Dean’s High Six – Fall 2025
Friday November 21, 2025
Every day, special achievements and newsworthy headlines are happening at the School of Dentistry. In an effort to give proper acknowledgment and share these successes, please tune in for the monthly Dean’s High 6 as we acknowledge those responsible for the top six stories happening at Detroit Mercy Dental.
**These stories are mission and identity moments that highlight activities that reflect our Jesuit and Mercy values.
If you have news to share, click here to submit your story for a chance to be featured in an upcoming Dean’s High Five!Buehner honored with the Frances Shook Award**
Marge Buehner, R.D.H., R.D.A, MHSA ’06
Clinical Associate Professor Marge Buehner, R.D.H., R.D.A., MHSA ’06, was honored as the recipient of the Frances Shook Award, a distinction that recognizes exceptional leadership, service and commitment within the dental hygiene profession. A proud graduate of Wayne County Community College and the University of Detroit Mercy, Buehner has made a profound and enduring impact through her dedication to teaching, advocacy and professional engagement.
Since her time as a degree-completion student at Detroit Mercy, Buehner has continually inspired students to take active roles in their profession—encouraging participation in professional associations, attendance at house of delegates sessions and involvement in community service. Her influence extends across numerous leadership positions within the Michigan Dental Hygienists’ Association (MDHA), the Greater Detroit Dental Hygienists’ Society and the American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA).
We celebrate this well-deserved honor and commend Buehner for her unwavering commitment to advancing the dental hygiene profession.
Goodis inducted into HOUR Detroit’s 2025 Top Dentists Hall of Fame**
George Goodis, D.D.S., Dip. A.B.O.E.
George Goodis, D.D.S., Dip. A.B.O.E., part-time faculty member in the Graduate Endodontic Clinic, was honored with induction into HOUR Detroit Magazine’s 2025 Top Dentists Hall of Fame, a recognition celebrating excellence, innovation, and leadership within the profession. This past October, Goodis received the Hall of Fame Excellence in Care Dentist Award, acknowledging his remarkable contributions to dentistry and his enduring commitment to advancing patient care.
Goodis has shaped the field through transformative innovations—including the EdgePro Dental Laser and advancements in 3D imaging technology—enhancing treatment outcomes and elevating patient comfort. Beyond his clinical achievements, Goodis is deeply committed to education and mentorship, inspiring the next generation of Detroit Mercy trained dentists through his dedication and leadership.
We proudly celebrate this distinguished honor and commend Goodis for his lasting impact on the profession and the community it serves.
Neely recognized with Excellence in Peer Review Award Dental Research Conference**
Anthony L. Neely, D.D.S, M.Dent.Sc., Ph.D.
Associate Professor and Program Director of Graduate Periodontics Anthony L. Neely, D.D.S, M.Dent.Sc.,Ph.D., was honored as the recipient of the Excellence in Peer Review Award, presented by the Journal of Periodontology, a national recognition that celebrates reviewers who exemplify exceptional expertise, professionalism and a steadfast commitment to upholding the highest standards of scientific excellence. This distinction reflects Neely’s profound dedication as both an educator and researcher, embodying Detroit Mercy Dental’s mission to advance evidence-based practice and promote scholarly integrity.
We proudly applaud this achievement and extend our gratitude to Neely for his meaningful contributions to the continued advancement of periodontal science and education.
Haddow, Al Abbousi, and Campos inducted as Fellows of the American College of Dentists**
Michael Haddow, D.D.S., M.S.D., Dip. A.B.O., Rheem Al Abbousi, D.D.S. and Marinelle Campos D.D.S., Ph.D., M.S. ’14
Associate Professors Michael Haddow, D.D.S., M.S.D., Dip. A.B.O., Rheem Al Abbousi, D.D.S. and Marinelle Campos D.D.S., Ph.D., M.S. ’14 were honored with induction as Fellows of the American College of Dentists (ACD), one of the highest distinctions in the dental profession. This recognition celebrates their exemplary integrity, leadership, and service to patients, colleagues and the broader community. Each of these faculty members has demonstrated outstanding dedication to education, scholarship and professional excellence, reflecting the mission and values of the University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry.
We proudly applaud this achievement and commend their ongoing contributions to advancing the dental profession.
Bora honored as Fellow of the Pierre Fauchard Academy and International College of Dentists**
Pranit Bora, B.D.S., M.D.S., M.S.
Clinical Assistant Professor Pranit Bora, B.D.S., M.D.S., M.S., was honored with induction as a Fellow of both the Pierre Fauchard Academy (PFA) and the International College of Dentists (ICD) at the 2025 Convocation in Washington, D.C. This distinguished recognition celebrates Bora’s exceptional contributions to dental education, mentorship and professional service. Bora expressed heartfelt gratitude to the mentors, colleagues and students at Detroit Mercy Dental whose support has inspired his work. Guided by the ICD motto, “Recognizing Service and the Opportunity to Serve,” he continues to embody the values of lifelong learning, leadership and community engagement.
We proudly celebrate this well-deserved honor and commend Bora for his dedication to advancing the dental profession.
University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry helps knock tobacco out of the park**
Dean Mert N. Aksu D.D.S., J.D., MHSA, Cert., M.P.H.
Detroit’s recent vote to ban smokeless tobacco in all sports venues is an important step in protecting the health of athletes, families and fans across the city. The University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry, led by Dean Mert N. Asksu, D.D.S., J.D., MHSA, Cert., M.P.H., played a role in supporting this effore through advocacy, education and a commitment to promoting-tobacco free communities. This achievement reflects the School of Dentistry’s mission to advance oral and overall health, serve the common good and collaborate to build a healthier, more equitable Detroit. We celebrate this milestone and the community partners that made it possible.
**These stories are mission and identity moments that highlight activities that reflect our Jesuit and Mercy values.
-
National Dental Hygiene Month
Wednesday October 29, 2025
Dean’s Message
Dear Students, Faculty, Staff, and Members of Our Dental Community,
As we near the end of the month of October, I am writing to again remind you all of the national celebration of Dental Hygiene Month—a time dedicated to recognizing the vital role that dental hygienists play in promoting oral health and overall well-being.
This month has served as a meaningful reminder that preventive care is the cornerstone of dentistry. Our dental hygienists and hygiene students exemplify this every day through their commitment to patient education, clinical excellence, and compassionate care. Their work not only helps maintain healthy smiles but also contributes to the prevention of systemic health issues linked to oral disease.
I encourage everyone in our community to take this opportunity to acknowledge our dental hygiene faculty, students, and professionals for their contributions to both our school and the broader public. Let us also reaffirm our collective commitment to advancing oral health through education, research, and service.
Thank you for your continued dedication to excellence and for helping our school remain a leader in dental and oral health education.
Thank you,
Mert N.Aksu, D.D.S., J.D., MHSA, Cert., D.P.H
Professor and Dean
Shaping Smiles and Futures: A Q&A With the Dental Hygiene Program Director
In recognition of Dental Hygiene Month this October, we connected with Sally Amar, R.D.H., M.S., program director of Dental Hygiene at University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry, to explore the evolving landscape of dental hygiene education. Amar shared insights into the program’s commitment to excellence, its impact on student development and the vital role dental hygienists play in promoting oral health within the community.
Competence + Compassion
Q: How do you ensure students not only master technical skills but also embody compassion and service in their clinical work?
A: I always remind students that patients aren’t just appointments—they’re people who may be anxious, in pain, or simply in need of someone to listen. Technical skills develop with time and practice, but compassion has to be intentional. The faculty and I try to model that every day in clinic by showing patience, empathy and respect, so students see how much impact genuine care can have on someone’s experience.
Preparing for a Changing Workforce
Q: With workforce pressures such as provider shortages and new care models, how do you keep students ready to meet evolving community needs?
A: The dental world looks very different today than it did even a few years ago and I want our students to feel confident stepping into that change. We focus on critical thinking and adaptability—skills that go beyond any textbook. We also try to connect classroom concepts to real-life issues like access to care, emerging technologies and interprofessional teamwork so students see how their role fits into the bigger picture of healthcare.
Community Impact
Q: How do you guide students to take active roles in outreach, especially with underserved populations?
A: Community outreach is honestly one of my favorite parts of the program. When students go out to serve—whether it’s in schools, senior centers or community clinics—they start to realize just how far their impact can reach. I love watching them gain that sense of purpose, especially when working with underserved populations. It’s a reminder that what we do really does make a difference in People’s lives.
Lifelong Learning & Leadership
Q: How important isadvancing education for meeting long-term professional and system-level needs?
A: The best hygienists are always learning. The field keeps changing, and continued education helps us grow, stay current and expand what we can offer our patients. We encourage students to think about leadership—not just as titles, but as the ability to inspire others, advocate for patients and raise the standards of care in our profession.
Hope for the Future
Q: What gives you hope for the future of dental hygiene and what role will Detroit Mercy graduates play in leading that future?
A: What gives me hope is seeing how passionate and driven our students are. They’re entering the field ready to make a difference, not just in their patients’ lives but in the profession as a whole. Even with challegens like burnout or workforce shortages, I believe Detroit Mercy graduates will lead with compassion, integrity, and a genuine commitment to improving oral health for everyone.
Sally Ammar, R.D.H., M.S.
Director, Dental Hygiene Program
From Insights to Action: Student Tips for a Healthy Smile
Following our conversation with Sally Amar, R.D.H., M.S., Program Director of Dental Hygiene, our second-year dental hygiene students are stepping in to share their favorite oral health tips. Discover practical advice from the next generation of dental professionals on keeping teeth and gums healthy—straight from those training to shape smiles and promote wellness in our community.
“I always like to explain that the back side of your lower front teeth, the part that faces your tongue, tends to build up plaque faster because that’s where a lot of saliva is produced. Most people don’t realize they need to brush that area just as thoroughly as the front.”- Hannah Wood, DH2 Class of 2026
“Brushing your tongue is so so important. So I recommend tongue scrapers! Many forgot that step when doing oral hygiene.” – Danna Sanchez-Perez, DH2 Class of 2026
“Only brush the teeth you want to keep! – Jasmine Bazzi, DH2 Class of 2026
Keep Your Smile Healthy—Schedule a Dental Hygiene Appointment Book a Dental Hygiene Appointment
- Prepare a qualified dental hygienist who will be competent with respect to the University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry, Division of Dental Hygiene Competencies for the Dental Hygienist.
- Maintain a contemporary dental hygiene program that reflects relevant and current dental hygiene practice.
- Provide a dynamic interdisciplinary dental and dental hygiene curriculum that integrates biomedical, clinical, and behavioral sciences.
- Maintain admission policies to ensure admission of a qualified and diverse student body.
- Maintain a baccalaureate degree completion program to support and encourage continued formal dental hygiene education.
- Provide quality individualized patient-centered dental hygiene care.
- Participate in collaborative community health promotion in Detroit and Southeastern Michigan communities.
- Serve as a resource of oral health knowledge and education for the health care community.
- Engage in professional association activities.
- Demonstrate leadership in dental hygiene education and research.
- Provide service to the School of Dentistry and the University communities.
Whether you’re considering a career in dental hygiene or looking to take your professional journey to the next level, we invite you to learn more about our Dental Hygiene Program and how Detroit Mercy is shaping the future or oral healthcare.
-
Dean Mert N. Aksu advocates for smokeless tobacco-free sports venues in Detroit
Wednesday October 22, 2025
Dean Aksu advocates for oral health and tobacco prevention at The Corner Ballpark.
At University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry, promoting overall health and the health of our community health is central to our mission. Dean Mert N. Aksu joined city officials, public health leaders, and community advocates at The Corner Ballpark to support a powerful initiative: making Detroit’s professional sports venues tobacco-free.
Why it Matters:
Sports venues are more than just entertainment spaces—they influence behavior and set cultural norms, especially for youth. For decades, smokeless tobacco has had a visible presence in professional sports, particularly baseball. Today, discreet nicotine products such as pouches create new risks.
“Tobacco has no place where children and families gather to celebrate sport and community,” said Dean Aksu, emphasizing the role of health professionals in advancing education and awareness around tobacco use.
At Detroit Mercy Dental, students and clinicians witness the effects of tobacco use every day: oral cancers, gum disease, and other preventable health conditions. As both educators and healthcare providers, the School of Dentistry embraces a responsibility to advocate for healthy environments and empower communities to make informed choices.
A Healthier Detroit Starts Here
On October 21, the Detroit City Council voted 7-2 to ban all smokeless tobacco or alternative nicotine products use at professionals sports stadiums, including Comerica Park, Ford Field, and Little Caesars Arena. With Dean Aksu’s leadership, Detroit Mercy Dental proudly supports this citywide effort. By removing tobacco from public sports venues, we are helping protect Detroit’s families and future generations from the harmful effects of nicotine.
Together, we are knocking tobacco out of the park—and building a healthier Detroit for all.
Read more on the Detroit Free Press.
Dean Aksu takes a moment with alumna Mara Shapiro-Daien, R.D.H. ’77, at the community tobacco awareness event.
-
5 reasons you should attend Alumni Day!
Wednesday September 17, 2025
Elevating Head and Neck Cancer Care: Cutting Edge Diagnostics, Innovations in Treatment, HPV Related Updates and Precision Medicine
Friday, September 26
8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.
University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry
Detroit, Mich.
6.5 CEUsWe hope to see you at the Detroit Mercy Dental Alumni Day 2025 at University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry—one of our most anticipated events of the year!
Mark your calendar for Friday, September 26, 2025, from 8:30 AM to 4 PM EST, and make plans to reconnect, learn and celebrate.
Top 5 reasons to attend Alumni Day
1. Celebrate your Legacy: Enjoy an Alumni Reception and Class Celebrations, plus a student-led school tour, as you reconnect with the Detroit Mercy Dental community and honor your lasting impact.
2. Network: Connect with classmates, engage with industry vendors and meet the next generation of Detroit Mercy Dental Professionals.
3. Reunite with Classmates: Share memories, stories and laughs as you reconnect with familiar faces and celebrate where it all began.
4. Tour your Campus: Get a firsthand look at the School’s cutting-edge simulation lab and facilities to see how dental education is evolving.
5. Earn CE credits: Expand your clinical knowledge and improve how you support patients through our featured continuing education course: Elevating Head and Neck Cancer Care: Cutting-Edge Diagnostics, presented by clinicians from the Henry Ford Health Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, including:
Continuing Education, Networking, Research Presentations, Vendors and MORE!
-
Dean’s High Five – Summer 2025
Monday August 25, 2025
Every day, special achievements and newsworthy headlines are happening at the School of Dentistry. In an effort to give proper acknowledgment and share these successes, please tune in for the monthly Dean’s High 5 as we acknowledge those responsible for the top five stories happening at Detroit Mercy Dental.
**These stories are mission and identity moments that highlight activities that reflect our Jesuit and Mercy values.
If you have news to share, click here to submit your story for a chance to be featured in an upcoming Dean’s High Five!Lokar’s lifelong commitment to dental education**
Dr. Robert Lokar
At 95 years young, Orthodontic Adjunct Professor Robert R. Lokar, D.D.S. ’60, M.S., continues to inspire future orthodontists, teaching in the Orthodontics program one day each week. Over the course of his distinguished career, he has shared his expertise at three of the four University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry locations — the only one he hasn’t taught at is the campus where he earned his degree.
Students, faculty, staff and alumni deliver care at Special Olympics Michigan**
School of Dentistry students, faculty, staff and alumni volunteering
School of Dentistry students, faculty, staff and alumni brought their skills and compassion to the Special Olympics Michigan – Special Smiles® program at Central Michigan University. This annual outreach, part of the Statewide Summer Games, provided free oral health screenings and education to an estimated 500–600 athletes, ages 8 to 68.
Led by Endodontic Clinical Assistant Professor Edgardo Zuniga, D.D.S., M.S. ’13 and alumna Ghada Beydoun, D.D.S. ’06, our delegation created a welcoming, inclusive environment where athletes of all abilities received quality care and encouragement. Their leadership and mentorship ensured screenings were delivered with precision and compassion, while reinforcing best practices in caring for individuals with diverse needs.
Krukonis and team featured at International Dental Research Conference
Dr. Eric Krukonis
Assistant Director of Research and Associate Professor Eric Krukonis Ph.D. presented his laboratory’s research at the International Association for Dental Research meeting in Barcelona, Spain. His presentation, “Veillonella parvula deacidifies Streptococcus mutans Biofilms and Improves Biofilm Health Using the LutABC Complex,” featured findings from lab technicians Joey Ferracciolo, B.S. and Laura Young, B.S. along with dental students Carla Sena (DS3), Haya Eldana (DS1) and Lea Chami (DS3). Congratulations, Prof. Krukonis, on sharing your team’s important work with an international audience! Your contributions to advancing dental research are invaluable.
Mayberry chosen as president-elect of Michigan Dental Association
Dr. Melanie Mayberry
Clinical Professor and Division Director of Practice Essentials and Interprofessional Education, Melanie E. Mayberry, D.D.S., M.S.-HCM, has been elected by the Michigan Dental Association (MDA) membership to serve as the organization’s President-elect. She previously served as an MDA trustee.
Purifoy-Seldon honored with School of Dentistry Spirit Award**
Barbara Purifoy-Seldon
Barbara Ann Purifoy-Seldon, B.S. ‘70, M.Ed. ‘73, R.D.H., R.D.A. has been selected to receive this year’s Spirit Award as the honoree representing the School of Dentistry. A proud alumna and retired Associate Professor, Barbara’s enduring commitment to service, leadership, and dedication has made a lasting impact on the Detroit Mercy community. Congratulations, Barbara!
**These stories are mission and identity moments that highlight activities that reflect our Jesuit and Mercy values.
The launch and dissemination of these core values come during an exciting time of growth for UDM, highlighted by strong national rankings and new academic programs.
UDM graduates rank in the top 9% of 4,476 colleges and universities nationwide for salary earned over a period of 15 to 40 years during their career.
The Wall Street Journal/College Pulse rankings focus on student outcomes rather than inputs, highlighting the tangible value a school delivers to its students. It evaluates colleges on several key measures, including social mobility and salary impact.
One alumnus from each of the seven schools is selected for the honor from nominations submitted from both inside and outside the University.
Jeanette Andrade ’25 wants to help people. It’s what she envisions doing with her Dental Hygiene degree from Detroit Mercy’s School of Dentistry. But before helping others and finishing her degree, Andrade needed to pause her studies so she could take care of herself.
The 'Opportunity College and University' designation highlights UDM as a model institution for fostering student success and advancing research on effective campus practices.
February is Black History Month, and University of Detroit Mercy will celebrate with a series of enlightening events across all campuses.
This new dental clinic and education program would bring UDM students to Vermont to complete their final years of training – strengthening the dental care provider pipeline and expanding access to much-needed care across the state.
The 2025 Wall Street Journal/College Pulse ranking has put UDM at No. 43 in the nation, nine places higher than it ranked the University last year.
The world welcomed new Titans with more than 1,000 University of Detroit Mercy graduates receiving their diplomas across four Commencement ceremonies May 10-11 on the McNichols Campus.
Meet the Class of '24: Dental grad Maria Latorre Sanchez says “It’s not about what happens to you, it’s about how fast you get up.”
University of Detroit Mercy has recently received more than $2 million in grants to help educate students and their work in the community.
Detroit Mercy was ranked No. 52 nationally and second in Michigan, according to results released Sept. 6 by WSJ/College Pulse. UDM was the third-highest ranked Jesuit university and only Mercy institution ranked.
Recently, an international team of researchers led by Eric Krukonis of the Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry revealed for the first time the atomic structure of ToxR, a protein bound to the DNA of two promoters of the genes that control the virulence of Vibrio cholerae, the bacterium that causes cholera.
Each year, Detroit Mercy honors an alumnus from each of its seven schools or colleges for the way they have excelled in their professions and demonstrated leadership and service to the larger community.
As many of you know, the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision to overturn affirmative action on June 29, 2023, will have a significant impact on institutions of higher education throughout our country. We pray for all of our friends and member institutions who will experience an array of challenges due to this decision, but most importantly for all students who will be directly affected by the court’s actions.
More than 1,000 graduates participated in four ceremonies during 2023 Commencement at University of Detroit Mercy on Friday and Saturday, May 12-13.
The Vivere ex Missione awards are presented annually to four graduating students whose time at University of Detroit Mercy was marked by leadership, service and scholarship.
As a child, Trey Hester was bullied for having a misalignment with his teeth. His own dental work to fix it sparked his interest in dentistry, and the UDM School of Dentistry graduate pays it forward today.