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
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
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 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 Receives Grant from 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, 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
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 Drs. 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 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
The article, “Digitally Guided Root Removal and Simultaneous Implant Placement: A Case Study,” authored by Drs. Roksolana Gala, Mohammed Al Sammarraie, Rocio Sanchez Padilla, Zheng Zhou, Anthony L. Neely, Bassm 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
he 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.