Welcome to the Autumn 2023 edition of Contact Point!

In this issue we go behind the scenes of one of our highly in-demand programs—our graduate program in endodontics, which is celebrating its 10-year anniversary. And we shine a light on some of the new traditions and activities to support the student experience that are being led by our admissions and student affairs teams. From first-week kickoff events to retreats, student clubs, old and new traditions and more, you’ll want to discover the ways the student experience has changed (or not changed!) from the time you were in dental school.

Many of you and others in the profession know that the Dugoni School has offered a highly regarded Dental Hygiene program for many years. However, you may be unaware that we offer other programs for allied dental professionals. This issue also highlights our Registered Dental Assistant in Extended Functions (RDAEF) and Registered Dental Hygienist in Alternative Practice (RDHAP) programs, which offer new opportunities for allied professionals to expand and improve care in communities across the state.

Our alumni profile features Dr. Michael Gamboa ’88, who launched a second career as a U.S. Navy officer and previously served the Dugoni School of Dentistry as a parttime clinical faculty member for numerous years. We also spotlight Janelle Palomares, manager of student life and involvement, who is known by many students and graduates for her passion for helping them thrive during their time at dental school.

We look forward to seeing many of you—our alumni, friends and supporters—at the Annual Alumni Meeting, February 9-10, 2024, at the Fairmont Hotel in San Francisco. Please mark your calendars and join us for a great weekend to reconnect, learn, socialize, experience the new Legacy Ball and class reunion format and grow with fellow members of the Dugoni School family!

Nader A. Nadershahi ’94, DDS, MBA, EdD
Dean and Vice Provost