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**
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 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
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
Clinical Associate 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 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.