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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.
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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.
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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!
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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.
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Dean’s High Five — Spring 2025
Tuesday June 17, 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!Class of 2025: Detroit Mercy Dental’s Next Generation of Leaders
Class of 2025
We extend our heartfelt congratulations to our graduating dental and dental hygiene students, who have reached this significant milestone through years of hard work, perseverance, and dedication. As they crossed the stage and stepped into their professional careers, we recognize not only their academic and clinical accomplishments but also the compassion, leadership, and integrity they’ve demonstrated throughout their journey. We could not be more proud to welcome them into the profession as colleagues and ambassadors of Detroit Mercy Dental. Click to view photos from 2025 Commencement.
Wieczerza Wins FIRST Place at MDA Annual Session Poster Competition
Dr. Cassandra Wieczerza at MDA Poster Session
Detroit Mercy Dental is proud to celebrate the achievement of Endodontic resident, Dr. Cassandra Wieczerza ‘25, at the Michigan Dental Association (MDA) Annual Session. Wieczerza earned first place for her outstanding research presentation titled “Antibacterial Effect of Cannabinoids on Bacteria Associated with Persistent Endodontic Infections.” Her work explores the potential of cannabinoids as an innovative approach to addressing challenging endodontic infections, offering promising implications for the future of dental treatment.
Sanchez Receives Pierre Fauchard Academy Award
Dr. Eliana Sanchez pictured with Dr. Bill Berkowski
Eliana Sanchez received the 2025 Outstanding Faculty Award from the Michigan Section of the Pierre Fauchard Academy in recognition of her excellence in dental education, mentorship, and commitment to student success at Detroit Mercy Dental.
Detroit Mercy Dental Recieves Grant from Northeast Delta Dental
Northeast Delta Dental
The Northeast Delta Dental Foundation has awarded a $2 million grant to the University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry, Detroit Mercy Dental Vermont to help transform access to care and dental education.
The grant supports a collaborative partnership between Detroit Mercy Dental Vermont and the Vermont State Dental Society aimed at training the next generation of dental professionals and expanding oral healthcare in underserved Vermont communities. Click to view thank you video
Thomson Represents Detroit Mercy Dental at Research Day Keynote
Dr. Josh Thomson
Josh Thomson, associate professor and interim director of research administration, served as the keynote speaker at Southern Illinois University School of Dental Medicine’s 2025 Research Day, where he highlighted innovation, evidence-based practice, and inter-institutional collaboration in dental research.
AEGD Team Wins Third Place at MDA Annual Session Poster Competition
AEGD Team at MDA Poster Session
The Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD) program proudly earned 3rd place at the Michigan Dental Association (MDA) Annual Session for their project titled “Leveraging AI to Revolutionize Dental Patient Education.” Presented by Harleen Bamrah ‘25, Kyle Borton ‘25, Tatianna McKissick ‘25 and Christina Van Damn, the project highlights the use of artificial intelligence to enhance patient understanding and engagement in dental care. Their forward-thinking approach integrates cutting-edge technology to improve patient communication, fostering more informed and confident decision-making and ultimately advancing dental outcomes.
Mortiere Selected as Recipient of MDA Award
Dr. Mark Mortiere
Mark Mortiere has been selected by the Michigan Dental Association (MDA) Board of Trustees as the recipient of the 2025 Dental Faculty Award. The purpose of the award is to give public recognition to two dentist members actively involved in the education of dental or graduate dental students from the University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry and the University of Michigan School of Dentistry who have demonstrated outstanding commitment to organized dentistry.
Detroit Mercy Dental Team Featured on Cover of Clinical Advances in Periodontics
Clinical Advances in Periodontics
The article, “Digitally Guided Root Removal and Simultaneous Implant Placement: A Case Study,” authored by Roksolana Gala, Mohammed Al Sammarraie, Rocio Sanchez Padilla, Zheng Zhou, Anthony L. Neely, Bassam M. Kinaia showcases a cutting-edge clinical approach and highlights the team’s commitment to advancing periodontal care through innovation and technology. This case study appears in the March 2025 issue of Clinical Advances in Periodontics and is prominently featured on the journal’s cover.Click to view article
Michigan Academy of General Dentistry Invests in UDM Students
MAGD
The Michigan Academy of General Dentistry (MAGD) recently established an endowed award for a graduating dental student, helping to ease the financial transition from student to professional and honoring the hard work and dedication of our future dentists. This meaningful contribution reflects MAGD’s unwavering commitment to mentorship, education, and the advancement of general dentistry. By investing in our students, they are not only supporting individual success but also strengthening the future of oral health care. Thank you, MAGD, for championing the next generation of dental professionals and helping make their futures a little brighter.
Oska Honored with 2025 Vivere ex Missione Award
Presented annually to one graduating student from each Detroit Mercy school, this prestigious honor recognizes individuals who best embody the mission of the university and demonstrate a strong commitment to academic excellence, service, and leadership. Dr. Judy Oska’s ‘25 selection as the School of Dentistry’s honoree reflects her deep dedication to compassionate care, academic achievement, and her unwavering commitment to serving others. Her journey through dental education has been marked by integrity, excellence, and a true embodiment of the University’s Jesuit and Mercy values.
**These stories are mission and identity moments that highlight activities that reflect our Jesuit and Mercy values.
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.