38th Annual Convocation

STONY BROOK, NY, May 22, 2015 – On May 22, 2015, the School of Dental Medicine celebrated its 38th Convocation at the Sidney Gelber Auditorium of the Student Activities Center. Dean Mary Truhlar welcomed families, friends and honored guests to the event and congratulated the graduates on their many accomplishments.

Dr. Allan Formicola, Distinguished Speaker, Professor Emeritus and Dean Emeritus of Columbia University College of Dental Medicine, reminded the graduates of their obligation to improve community health and access to care. Dr. Ann Nasti, Director of the General Dentistry Program, served as Grand Marshall and presented the 39 candidates who received the Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree.

In addition, candidates for graduate degrees (Doctor of Philosophy in Oral Biology and Pathology, and Master of Science in Biomedical Science with a Concentration in Oral Biology and Pathology) and advanced dental education certificates (Dental Anesthesiology, Endodontics, General Practice Residency, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics, Pediatric Dentistry, and Periodontics) were recognized. Dr. Elliot Zharnitsky, DDS Class of 2015, gave remarks on behalf of the graduates, acknowledged the faculty, reminisced about the four years and conveyed the hope and excitement of the graduates. The ceremony closed with the singing of the University alma mater, “Sandy Shore.”