Member of the Dentistry Alumni Committee since 2012, Halifax-based dental hygienist Denise Zwicker (BDH’12) gives back to her faculty in both a professional and personal capacity.

How long have you been a Dalhousie volunteer and in what capacity? 

Denise Zwicker (submitted photo)

I have been volunteering at Dal since 2012, and I have been a member of the Dentistry Alumni Committee, serving in various capacities such as the Dentistry Alumni Dinner Planning Committee, master of ceremonies for the Dental Hygiene 50th Celebration Dinner, Chair, Dentistry Alumni Awards Committee, Faculty Champion for the 200th Anniversary, and Co-chair, Dent Days Planning Committee. Currently, I am serving as Chair, Dentistry Alumni Committee, for a two-year term. 

What inspired you to begin volunteering with Dal? 

When I returned to complete my Bachelor of Dental Hygiene I was very invested in improving student and classmate experience. I have always been engaged in student life and really wanted to inspire others to become involved as well. Credit to the faculty and staff members who served as my mentors for being so inspirational — I witnessed how dedicated they were, and how giving back and being involved greatly improved work /life balance and helped to build collaborative relationships. 

What have you learned or gained through your volunteerism? 

I have gained so much personally and professionally; I’ve met so many inspiring people and I have learned so much about our diverse Dalhousie family. 

Can you name your single best volunteer experience (so far)? 

My best memories are being involved in the Faculty of Dentistry centennial celebrations in 2012, and the Dental Hygiene 50th Anniversary in 2013. I was fortunate to be the MC of both gala dinners. It was amazing to be able to represent my profession and to see so many colleagues reunite. 

What’s your advice for other alumni who might be interested in volunteering with their alma mater? 

Just do it! It feels great to be involved, you will meet some very interesting individuals along the way. 

Do you have any other connections to Dal? 

My husband is an alum and previous Assistant Professor in the Faculty of Dentistry, and many other family members attended Dalhousie. 

What’s your favourite memory from your time at Dal? 

I have so many great memories, it’s impossible to pick just one! As a student and now as a faculty member – there are so many events where we honour and showcase some of the amazing things our alumni do. 

There are many opportunities to volunteer – why do you volunteer your time and talent with Dal? 

Dal is very near and dear to me. It’s my second home! I really hope to engage and inspire our future alumni, so they too feel part of the Dal family.  

Interested in volunteering? Click here for more information on available opportunities.