Dean Gerry Uswak of the College of Dentistry pointed out in his message that the ceremony “represents their acceptance of the responsibility to uphold and guarantee the sanctity of the dentist-patient relationship, which is central to the dental profession for dentists and dental students alike.” The white lab coats were a donation to the students from the College of Dental Surgeons of Saskatchewan.

Associate Dean Paul Teplitsky stated that the coat symbolizes the understanding that “a professional dental career embodies more than just self and is fundamentally linked to values such as integrity, compassion, empathy, and trust.” These values were echoed in the messages from the President of the College of Dental Surgeons of Saskatchewan, Dr. Frank Hohn, and the Assistant Dean of Clinical Affairs at the U of S, Dr. Alan Kilistoff.

The keynote address was given by Dr. Barry Mang, a prominent general dentist, contributor to his profession and community, and leader in a variety of organizations. Dr. Mang has been a continuous member of the College of Dental Surgeons of Saskatchewan since 1968. The event also featured College of Dentistry alumni, Dr. Carman Rabuka (DMD ’07) on cello, and Dr. Thomas Yu (DMD ’03) on piano.

The College of Dentistry (www.usask.ca/dentistry) offers a fully-accredited dental program with a tradition of excellence in teaching and research. The college now graduates approximately 28 qualified dentists each year. In addition, the college has an active and successful aboriginal access program. The University of Saskatchewan College of Dentistry is the only dental college in the province.

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For more information contact:

Jacquie Fraser
Director of Academic and Student Affairs
College of Dentistry
University of Saskatchewan
Tel: 306-966-2760
Jacquie.fraser@usask.ca