Academy of General Dentistry student chapter returns to WVU

Students at the West Virginia University School of Dentistry now have another opportunity to prepare for dental practice while enrolled in their academic program. The school recently welcomed back to campus a student chapter of the Academy of General Dentistry.

Founded in 1952, the Academy of General Dentistry aims to advance general dentistry and oral health through quality continuing education and advocacy. The national organization is the only professional association that exclusively represents the needs and interests of general dentists. Student chapters across the country provide networking, leadership and education opportunities to enhance the university experience.

At WVU, the chapter will focus on the promotion of general dentistry practice, community outreach, student advocacy, scholarship and networking with association and student leaders nationwide. Student members will be provided with opportunities to participate in continuing education courses, volunteerism, networking, career assistance and enhancement, and professional liability and practice management services following graduation.

Officers for the Academy of General Dentistry Student Chapter at WVU include Nicole Sacco, president; Karissa Spokane, vice president; Aaliyah Williams, secretary; Nathan Hazel, treasurer; Adam Michalski, social events coordinator; Sheherbano Hussaini, media and communication coordinator; and Dr. Elizabeth Kao, faculty adviser and professor in the Department of Restorative Dentistry.

The chapter has begun recruiting new members and was awarded $600 for its efforts.

Members of the WVU School of Dentistry community have a long history of service and leadership at the state and national levels of the Academy of General Dentistry. Dr. Bruce Cassis, a 1980 graduate of the Doctor of Dental Surgery program, was the first West Virginian installed as president of the academy in 2020. Dr. Steven Ghareeb, a 2004 graduate of the DDS program, currently serves as president of the West Virginia Academy of General Dentistry, and Dr. Sami Ghareeb, past president, and Ghareeb Dental Group are strong supporters of the organization.

To learn more about the Academy of General Dentistry Student Chapter at WVU, follow the group on Instagram at @wvu_agd.

Photo at Top: Student chapter officers (front) Karissa Spokane, Dr. Elizabeth Kao, Nicole Sacco, Aaliyah Williams; (back) Sheherbano Hussaini, Adam Michalski, Nathan Hazel

-WVU-

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CONTACT: Jessica Wilmoth
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WVU School of Dentistry | WVU Dental