Wednesday, April 16, 2025

The University of Iowa College of Dentistry and Dental Clinics was prominently represented at the National Oral Health Conference, held April 7-9 in Orlando, Florida, with a delegation of fifteen faculty members, residents, and students attending. 

Many participants showcased their research through oral and poster presentations, highlighting the depth and breadth of scholarship at Iowa, including fourth-year dental student Claire Kettle and residents Rima Desai and Asana Mohamad.

A significant highlight of the conference was the election of Julie Reynolds, Assistant Professor in the Department of Preventive and Community Dentistry, as President-elect of the American Association of Public Health Dentistry (AAPHD). Reynolds continues a strong tradition of leadership from the College within the organization, following past presidents Dr. John Warren, Dr. Michelle McQuistan, and Dr. Hayley Harvey.

Further emphasizing Iowa’s ongoing influence within AAPHD, Dr. Jen Sukalski continues her service on the Board of Directors as the Associate Member Liaison, a position she holds for a three-year term. Additionally, two distinguished Iowa Dental Public Health alumni also hold leadership positions: Alejandra Valencia ('10 MS) serves as Director-at-Large, and Richie Kohli ('09 MS) currently serves as President. Susan McKernan (‘09 MS, ’12 PhD) was also in attendance as the new President of the American Board of Dental Public Health, which has previously been held by Dr. John Warren and Dr. Steven Levy. 

The National Oral Health Conference is the premier meeting for those interested in continuing education and networking opportunities within the discipline of Dental Public Health.