Dentistry

Halifax-based orthodontist and Assistant Professor in Dal’s Faculty of Dentistry Dr. Lee Erickson (DDS’77) has volunteered his time in many different ways.

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.

Major Joseph D. Bourque (DDS’51) rarely spoke of what he saw in wartime, but after retiring form the military, continued his legacy of service by operating one of Nova Scotia’s last mobile Public Health dentistry clinics.

2023 Aurum Award winner Nada Haidar (BSc’93, DDS’97) says dentistry isn’t just her career, it’s her passion. Following some international volunteer work, Dr. Haidar was inspired after COVID struck to find new ways to help others locally.

Shauna Hachey (DDH’04) now a registered dental hygienist in long-term care, recalls a calling to help people.

Since training in paediatric dentistry and orthodontics across Canada, Dr. Christos Papadopoulos (DDS’13) is back in Quispamsis, N.B. to serve his community and provide orthodontic treatment to children in need as Atlantic regional chair for Smiles 4 Canada.

In 1952, Doris Marshall (DDS’56) became the first Black student in the Doctor of Dental Surgery program. She became an advocate for women in dentistry.

Agnivo Rakshit had never been to a dental hygienist before he decided to become one. But that didn’t stop him from falling in love with the profession or finding that it has changed his life forever.

Dentistry grad Emily Bonang comes from a long line of oral health professionals, including her grandfather, parents and brother, Jordan, also a grad this year. She finishes her program as this year’s recipient of the Dr. David Precious Gold Medal in Dentistry.

International Women’s Day celebrates the achievements of women while calling for greater equality. From pushing to create laws that protect children to building a tool that enhances workplace inclusivity, we’re highlighting several female Dal grads who are effecting change through their leadership, innovation and advocacy.