Description of the video:
PROGRAM NOTE-PROCESSIONAL: Music will begin at 1:30 PM prior to the ceremony. The Dean, guest speakers and all faculty (except Faculty Hooders) will assemble in the Corinthian Room at 1:45 PM. The graduating students will start assembling in the Deluxe Room of the Old National Centre at 1:30 PM. The music will change for the Platform Party processional. The Platform Party will process in from the main entrance of the Murat Theatre and take their place on stage. The Dean will lead the faculty and guest speakers on stage right and Dr. Lang will lead the faculty in on stage left. The Platform Party has reserved place cards and the faculty and guests will be lined up prior to entering the stage. Once the Platform Party is in place, ANDREW will cue the musicians to begin the processional music. The Processional will begin near the main entrance at the rear of the Murat Theatre promptly at 2:00 PM and continue down the stage right aisle towards the stage. All will remain standing until the faculty marshals (hooders) and graduating students have reached their seats. The faculty hooders will continue onto the stage to their assigned seats on stage left.
PROGRAM NOTE-CEREMONY BEGINS: Andrew will cue the processional music to stop. Dean Murdoch-Kinch proceeds to the podium and presents welcoming remarks.
Dean Murdoch-Kinch:
Please stand or remain standing and join the Indiana University Jacobs School of Music a capella ensemble in singing our National Anthem.
PROGRAM NOTE: (Indiana University Jacobs School of Music a capella ensemble sings the national anthem. When the ensemble is finished, they return to their seats. Dean Murdoch-Kinch proceeds.)
Dean Murdoch-Kinch:
Please be seated.
Indiana University Jacobs School of Music a capella ensemble- Thank you for joining us today.
(pause)
Graduates, families, friends, faculty, and staff…
It is my privilege to welcome all of you to our 2025 Indiana University School of Dentistry Graduate Recognition Ceremony! I am Dr. Carol Anne Murdoch-Kinch, Dean of the IU School of Dentistry. This ceremony celebrates the graduation of our students completing the following programs: Dental Assisting, Dental Hygiene, Doctor of Dental Surgery, Master’s and Doctor of Philosophy in Dental Sciencedegrees. This is the dental school’s 147th Graduating Class. Class of 2025, Congratulations!!
(Pause for applause)
The IU School of Dentistry -- is a highly respected, valued, and admired member of the IU Indianapolis campus community and of Indiana University. We are one of the oldest schools on this campus. We have a long legacy of excellence in clinical education, and as Indiana’s only dental school, are responsible for providing the state of Indiana with highly trained, essential oral healthcare workforce. Today, you join this legacy of excellence in service to the people of Indiana, and beyond! And highly skilled, knowledgeable, and compassionate oral health professionals we know you are, you are needed more now than ever!
PROGRAM NOTE-RECOGNITION OF FAMILIES:
Graduates -- there is so much to celebrate today as we honor and recognize you, as well as your family, friends, and colleagues surrounding and supporting you. I want to extend my sincere congratulations to your families and friends and offer my gratitude to all who have supported our graduates, especially over the past few years. As families you have guided your ambitious and talented loved ones to accept the dual challenge of a university education,… and a life of service to the public in the health care professions. The families of our graduates have made great sacrifices to provide these women and men we are honoring today, the opportunity to pursue their dreams, complete their education, graduate, and enter professional life. Perhaps most important, many of our family members have been constantly present, to provide the gifts of understanding, support, and love during the challenging times our students have encountered along their journey. Will the parents, spouses, partners, and other family members of our graduates please stand so that we may recognize you?
(Pause-Dean Murdoch-Kinch leads applause)
PROGRAM NOTE-IUSD FACULTY AND STAFF RECOGNITION:
We give special thanks for our students seated before us. You graduates chose to study at IU School of Dentistry. I speak on behalf of our faculty when I say, it has truly been our privilege, to teach such talented, dedicated, and compassionate students. The entire IU School of Dentistry community watches with pride as you graduate today, and enter your careers., and make a positive impact on the world. The faculty and staff have worked hard to prepare you to meet the challenges and opportunities before you. During this bittersweet moment in time, we are so very excited for you, even as we know we will miss you, as you leave us.
I now invite the School of Dentistry faculty and staff with us here today to please stand. We applaud your efforts and dedication to oral health care education, research and scholarship, service, and patient care.
(Pause-Dean Murdoch-Kinch leads applause)
PROGRAM NOTE-RECOGNITION OF STUDENTS:
To ALL our graduates here today, throughout your careers, you will be asked to commit, to use your head, your hands, and your hearts in the service of others: to care for individual patients, to lead teams, to create and apply new knowledge, and to serve a diverse population within your communities. You will be the leaders of the profession, and leaders in your communities. The purpose of your dental education has been to prepare you for practice, to provide you with the tools needed to succeed as an oral health care provider entering independent practice, with the capacity to learn new knowledge and skills, and adapt to an everchanging environment and expanding scope of practice. Your teachers and I feel confident, as we stand before you today, that YOU are ready for this future.
We know you are ready because we have travelled this journey with you, collaborated with you, mentored you, and watched over you. We have seen you in action - in the clinics, the Sim Lab, and the classroom.
Your performance has been assessed hundreds of times! You have reached for and met the rigorous standards set by the profession! You should be deeply proud of what you have achieved! As we celebrated the many awards and honors received by our Class of 2025 at our Awards Dinner a few weeks ago, we saw how so many of you not only excelled but have also done so much to help each other and those who follow you… as peer mentors, teaching assistants, and study coaches. This is a class that gives back and pays it forward. The future of our profession is in your capable hands. I am so proud of all of you for the character you have displayed through your service to others.
(Pause-Dean Murdoch-Kinch leads applause.)
PROGRAM NOTE-ANNOUNCEMENT ABOUT AWARDS:
I would like to recognize and congratulate our many students who have received honors and awards, which are listed in your program. These students have been selected for their academic, clinical, leadership, and community achievements. They have demonstrated qualities needed to make a difference and advance the oral health of the public. We are grateful for the donors who have established these honors and awards, which highlight values and behaviors respected by dental professionals, and hope they will serve to inspire similar future endeavors.
Class of 2025, we will watch with pride as you begin this next chapter, as IUSD alumni, in service to your patients and the broader global community. You have my heartfelt congratulations and warm wishes for your bright future!
PROGRAM NOTE-INTRODUCTION OF DR. WILL HINE.
Dean Murdoch-Kinch:
It is now my pleasure to welcome Dr. Will Hine, President, IUSD Alumni Association and Vice President of the Indiana Dental Association.
Dr. Will Hine graduated from the IU School of Dentistry in 1996 and completed a GPR, that is, general practice residency— on the IU Medical Center campus in 1997. Following various academic roles at the IU School of Dentistry including GPR Program Director and Hospital Dentistry Clinic Director, Dr. Hine started practicing general dentistry in 2004 on the west side of Indianapolis in Brownsburg, Indiana, where he still practices today.
Please welcome Dr. Hine.
PROGRAM NOTE: (Dr. Hine proceeds to the podium)
Dr. Hine:
It’s an honor as the President of your Indiana University School of Dentistry Alumni Association to represent all the graduates of this institution. You are joining a valued and important profession that for generations have put a patient’s health and well-being at the forefront of practicing dentistry. There is a reason it’s called practicing dentistry. The word practice does not imply a lack of skill or understanding. Instead, it represents an ever-evolving landscape of techniques, materials, equipment and treatment modalities that will alter how you “practice”. Today is not the end of your educational journey, it is just the beginning. And as someone who sat where you are in 1996, I know it’s been a hard journey. But that is a good thing. Because our calling should push us all to be the best version of ourselves, push us to question lines of thinking, push us to evolve within our profession. And that drive to move beyond competent requires a self-reliance that can only be realized by completing something that has been difficult. Your years at IUSD have prepared you for the start of this journey. And now it is up to you to grow in your roll as oral health care provider. Your Alumni Association will be with you every step of that journey. I welcome you to the profession and welcome you into the Indiana University School of Dentistry Alumni Association. Congratulations.
PROGRAM NOTE: (pause-Dean Murdoch-Kinch leads applause, Dr. Hine returns to his seat. Dean Murdoch-Kinch proceeds to the podium)
Dean Murdoch-Kinch:
Thank you, Dr. Hine.
PROGRAM NOTE - INTRODUCTION OF DR. DAVID WOLF
Dean Murdoch-Kinch:
It is now my pleasure to welcome Dr. David Wolf,
representing the Indiana Dental Association.
Dr. David Wolf is an Evansville, Indiana native. Dr. Wolf received his dental degree at Indiana University School of Dentistry in 1987.
Dr. Wolf has a long list of professional memberships and offices, which include the American Dental Association, Indiana Dental Association, Indianapolis District Dental Society (serving as President in 2001), Founder and President of the Indianapolis Dental Society Charitable Foundation, the Academy of General Dentistry, Fellow and past President of the American College of Dentistry, the International Association for Orthodontics, as well as the Indiana University Alumni Association.
Dr. Wolf has donated his time and talents to provide care for the underserved through several programs including Donated Dental Services, Give Kids a Smile, Partners for a Healthier Johnson County, and Gennesaret Free Clinics. He has helped to raise capital funds to start Providence Cristo Rey High School for Indianapolis. He travels annually to Romania through the Remember the Children Foundation to treat orphans and the poor of eastern Romania, has travelled to Ecuador to provide dental care, and has collected and donated equipment and instruments to start a dental clinic in Plain de Noir, Haiti.
Dr. Wolf is a member of numerous community organizations, including the Greenwood Sertoma Club, and the Greenwood Chamber of Commerce.
Please welcome Dr. Wolf.
PROGRAM NOTE: (Dr. Wolf proceeds to the podium)
Dr. Wolf:
Good afternoon. It’s an honor to be with you today. I was told I had two minutes to bring greetings from the Indiana Dental Association. How do I make an impact in a short time? Nestles Quick….
My high school speech teacher Mrs. Beachcamp said people are visual. Use a prop whenever possible.
Being in the Indiana Dental Association is a lot like drinking this chocolate milk. If you take the cap off and drink it down its good but if you shake it up you get all the good stuff mixed in and it is so much better.
First you have to become a member (you have to buy the drink). Then drink it down! Having membership provides you with countless benefits and opportunities. Health insurance and array of other insurance products, continuing education, advocacy, and networking, I learn more from fellow members at meetings than I do at CE Courses. I could go on and on. There’s great value and benefits to being a member.
But if you shake it up, mix in the good stuff, get involved, get on the new dentist committee, peer review, governmental affairs IDPAC, get to know other dentists and interact. I promise your career will be much more fruitful. You will get so much more out of membership.
Thank you for your time. Congratulations to all of you. I look forward to having you as IDA colleagues. Don’t forget to shake things up!
PROGRAM NOTE: (pause-Dean Murdoch-Kinch leads applause, Dr. Wolf returns to his seat. Dean Murdoch-Kinch proceeds to the podium.)
Dean Murdoch-Kinch:
Thank you, Dr. Wolf.
PROGRAM NOTE-INTRODUCTION OF MS. MARIE SMIEGAL:
Dean Murdoch-Kinch:
It is now my pleasure to welcome Ms. Marie Smiegal, (Smee-gl), President of the Indiana Dental Assistants Association.
Ms. Smiegal is a certified dental assistant, expanded functions dental assistant, and certified phlebotomy technician. She has been an active life member of the Indiana Dental Assistant Association for more than 30 years and is the organization’s president.
Ms. Smiegal is a graduate of the Indiana University Fort Wayne School of Health Sciences. In the community, she serves on the executive board of the Isaac Knapp Dental Assistant Society and the dental advisory board of Matthew 25, a federally qualified health center in Fort Wayne. She is currently employed at Grabill Family Dentistry, working alongside her exceptional mentors, Dr. Matthew Kolkman and Dr. Andrew Orman, both proud graduates of Indiana University School of Dentistry (IUSD).
PROGRAM NOTE: (Ms. Smiegal proceeds to the podium)
Ms. Smiegal:
Good afternoon graduates, faculty, family, and anyone who’s flossed at least once this week,
Let me begin by saying — wow. You made it. After years of studying enamel, and memorizing nerve pathways that no normal person should ever know — you are finally graduating!
It’s an absolute honor to stand before you today as President of the Indiana Dental Assistant Association. On behalf of our organization, I want to extend my heartfelt congratulations to each and every one of you. Dental assistants, hygienists, doctors — you are now part of the elite squad who can interpret X-rays like ancient scrolls, find joy in a perfect crown margin, and say “bite down gently” 300 times a week.
Today is more than a celebration of your hard work — it’s a moment to reflect on the journey that brought you here and to look ahead at the difference you are about to make. As dental professionals, you are joining a community that doesn’t just care about teeth — we care about people, about public health, and about creating confident smiles.
The Indiana Dental Assistant Association recognizes the pivotal role dental assistants play in the success of a dental practice. We are committed to supporting you as you transition from students to professionals, offering resources, continuing education, and a community of peers dedicated to excellence in dental healthcare. Together, we can navigate the evolving landscape of dentistry, embrace innovation, and advocate for the highest standards of patient care.
As you begin this next chapter, never forget why you chose this path. I urge you to embrace the challenges and opportunities that come your way with open arms. Stay curious, continue learning, support one another, and lead with empathy. The work you do matters — and the people you care for will never forget the difference you made in their lives.
Your education may have equipped you with the tools necessary to excel, but its your character, your commitment, and your weird obsession with teeth that have got you here today.
Congratulations, IUSD Class of 2025 — we’re proud to welcome you to the profession.
So whether you’re placing sealants, scaling plaque, or giving motivational speeches about flossing — just remember, you are not only built to serve — you are built to survive 8-hour days in uncomfortable loops, under bright lights, with your hands in people’s mouths.
And honestly? That’s a superpower.
Thank you.
PROGRAM NOTE: (pause-Dean Murdoch-Kinch leads applause, Ms. Smiegalreturns to her seat. Dean Murdoch-Kinch proceeds to the podium)
Dean Murdoch-Kinch:
Thank you, Ms. Smiegal. (Smee-gl)
PROGRAM NOTE-INTRODUCTION OF MS. RETTIG:
Dean Murdoch-Kinch:
It is now my pleasure to welcome our own, Ms. Pamela Rettig, President of the Indiana Dental Hygienists’ Association.
Pamela Rettig is a 1989 graduate of Forsyth School for Dental Hygiene in Boston, Massachusetts. She practiced for a year and then returned to complete a Bachelor of Science Degree in Dental Hygiene. Pamela discovered her love for teaching and pursued a Master of Science Degree in Dental Hygiene Education from University of Missouri Kansas City in 1993. After graduating, she has taught at Sheridan College and Indiana University School of Dentistry since 1994. During her tenure in Indiana, Pamela has served various officer positions with the Indiana Dental Hygienists’ Association including treasurer, secretary, and currently president.
Please welcome Ms. Rettig.
PROGRAM NOTE: (Ms. Rettig proceeds to the podium)
Ms. Rettig:
Good afternoon.
Today marks a significant achievement in your journey as dental hygiene professionals. You have dedicated yourselves to mastering the skills, knowledge, and compassion needed to provide excellent care and make a difference in the health and well-being of your patients.
As you step into this rewarding field, remember that your work goes far beyond just instrumentation, you are educators, advocates, and guardians of oral health. Your expertise will empower patients to embrace healthier habits and improve their overall lives.
Embrace the challenges, celebrate the victories, and continue to grow with passion and purpose. There are so many opportunities to contribute to the profession that will allow you to feel fulfilled. The future of dental hygiene shines brighter because of each of you!
Wishing you all success in your journey through the profession of dental hygiene.
PROGRAM NOTE: (pause-Dean Murdoch-Kinch leads applause, Ms. Rettig returns to her seat--Dean Murdoch-Kinch proceeds to the podium)
Dean Murdoch-Kinch:
Thank you, Ms. Rettig.
PROGRAM NOTE – (Dean Murdoch-Kinch to introduce student speaker Chloe Morris.)
Dean Murdoch-Kinch:
It is my pleasure to present to you today, our DDS Class President, Chloe Morris. Chloe?
PROGRAM NOTE: (Dean Murdoch-Kinch returns to her seat. Chloe proceeds to the podium.)
Chloe:
Thank you, Dean Murdoch-Kinch.
Distinguished faculty, proud families, friends, and most importantly, my fellow graduates of the IU School of Dentistry Class of 2025: Good afternoon!
Well, we made it! Four years, countless exams, approximately 672 dentoforms, and an incalculable amount of coffee later—we're here!
When I look out at all of us today, I can't help but think about our journey getting to this point. We started our dental school experience with a rather unique introduction: masked faces and social distancing, or at least as distanced as we could be with over 100 of us in lecture together. Although we didn’t fully know what each other looked like, we came to know one another incredibly well throughout our first year and bonded through the many hours spent together in lecture, lab, and sleepless nights studying.
And then came D2 year…
For those of you who aren't dental students, imagine trying to perform microsurgery while simultaneously reciting the periodic table and balancing your tax returns. Now do that while sleep-deprived and fueled by nothing but coffee and the fear of failure. That was our D2 experience.
But we persevered. We supported each other. We learned that failure wasn't the end but just another step toward mastery. We discovered strengths we didn't know we had, and we came together in the process.
But in all seriousness, these past four years have shaped us in profound ways. We've grown from nervous first years who could barely hold a handpiece to confident professionals ready to care for patients. We've mastered skills that seemed impossible at first. Together, we've learned, struggled, celebrated, and occasionally cried in the bathroom between clinic sessions—though I'm told that was just allergies, right?
Today marks not just the end of our dental education but the beginning of diverse and meaningful careers. While many of us will be heading directly into practice, others will pursue specialties, research, public health, or education. The paths before us are as varied as we are, but what unites us is our commitment to improving lives through oral health.
To our professors and clinical instructors: Thank you for your patience, wisdom, and occasional mercy. You pushed us to be better than we thought possible, and we are forever grateful.
To our families and friends: Thank you for your unwavering support. For understanding when we missed birthdays because we were studying, for listening to dental terminology you never wanted to know, and for pretending to be interested when we excitedly told you about that perfect Class II restoration we did. Your love and support made this achievement possible.
To my classmates: It has been an honor to learn alongside you. I've been inspired by your resilience, your compassion, and your commitment to excellence. I'll always remember our "Football Sundays" in sim lab—those magical days when we somehow managed to prep teeth while simultaneously debating questionable referee calls. Only dental students could find the correlation between perfect margins and perfect play calls.
As we prepare to take our skills into the world, I want to leave you with this thought: We entered dental school to learn how to fix teeth, but we're leaving having learned how to care for people. The technical skills are important, but it's the human connection—the ability to ease someone's pain, restore their confidence, and improve their health—that makes our profession truly meaningful.
So, Class of 2025, as we go our separate ways, may your margins always be perfect, your anesthesia always profound, and your patients always show up on time.
Congratulations, doctors! We did it!
PROGRAM NOTE – (Chloe returns to her seat. Dean Murdoch-Kinch proceeds to the podium.)
Dean Murdoch-Kinch:
Thank you, Chloe.
PROGRAM NOTE – (Dean Murdoch-Kinch to introduce keynote speaker Dr. Jeffrey Steele.)
Dean Murdoch-Kinch:
It’s an honor to introduce today’s speaker, Dr. Jeff Steele — a dedicated clinician, educator, and humanitarian whose career reflects deep commitment to service, both locally and globally.
Dr. Steele graduated with high distinction from the Indiana University School of Dentistry in 1987 and completed a General Practice Residency at our local Veterans Hospital in 1988. He began his professional journey working in both a private practice associateship and as the dentist for a state hospital serving individuals with profound developmental disabilities.
In 1991, Dr. Steele purchased a private practice in Elkhart, Indiana, where he served patients for 26 years. Throughout his time in Elkhart, he remained deeply engaged in the community — caring for residents in nursing homes, mentoring youth through inner-city programs, serving in his church, and even taking the stage in community theater. He and his wife, Elizabeth, raised their two children in Elkhart.
Starting in 2001, Dr. Steele began making annual trips to Haiti, where he contributed in helping to develop a hospital in the St. Ard region. His passion for service extended into academic dentistry, and in 2016 he joined the IU School of Dentistry part-time. By 2018, he became a full-time clinic director.
During his time at IUSD, Dr. Steele has worked in the hospital dentistry clinic and the TMJ Institute and served as the director of the Global Education program — leading student service-learning teams to Haiti, Ecuador, and the Mexico/Texas border.
Beloved by students, Dr. Steele was honored five times by graduating classes with the special role of hooder at this very ceremony — a testament to the respect and admiration he has earned as a mentor and teacher.
Later this summer, Dr. Steele will be retiring and relocating to North Carolina, where he and Elizabeth look forward to staying closely connected with their children and grandchildren.
Please join me in giving a warm and heartfelt welcome — and thank you — to Dr. Jeff Steele.
PROGRAM NOTE – (Dr. Steele proceeds to podium. Dean Murdoch-Kinch returns to her seat.)
Dr. Steele:
Hello and welcome all.
The biggest welcome is to new graduates – new Doctors (both DDS and PhD), new hygienists and assistants. You are the professionals of our future!
Welcome also to dental school faculty and staff, the people who have interacted with you graduates constantly over the past years, helping to make you into the successes that you are today!
Welcome to IUSD administration who work to not only keep the gears turning at the school, but also to keep IU School of Dentistry a place that brings pride to past, present, and future graduates by ever improving the process. ---- A special welcome to our Dean, Dr. Murdoch-Kinch, who gave me one of the greatest compliments in my life, by asking me to address you all today!!
Welcome also to the friends and family who fill this auditorium. Without you all, these graduates would not be the bright lights in our future. (Turn around and thank your supporters.)
<Pause for applause>
Now, the challenge that I am presented with is to inspire you, not be just another boring graduation speech. You have all sat in auditorium chairs much too often in the past years, listening to professors, while dreaming about being somewhere else. And today is no exception as there are parties to attend, dinners to eat, and family to hug.
I want to just spend a few minutes talking about the people who will be in your future. Most of you wrote a personal statement to get into your program that focused on a life event which inspired you into this field. Do you remember those? Many included a relative you helped, a child you remembered, or a feeling you had after helping someone. Then you got to school and became overwhelmed with books, memorization, tests, and projects. But once in a while in clinics, I would hear you say that an appointment went well and your patient was so happy or grateful, that it “reminded you of why you wanted to be a dentist”. I will add, as I get the privilege to lead global teams that provide dental services in far-reaching locations, the number one statement I hear in journals and reflections is that the many experiences from the week abroad reminded you why you chose to do this for a living.
My emphasis here, and as I continue, is that your profession, your life, will be spent helping people – Not filling a hole in a tooth, or stitching up after an extraction, not scaling an arch to perfection, or making a well-formed temporary crown. Now I realize that you feel you gave up a lot of sleep these last years, just so you could learn to do just those types of things. And you were tested to make sure you could do those things with perfection down to the fraction of a millimeter. But the joy in your life, the reason you will be proud of your profession, the reason you will want to keep working as you get older, the reason you want to go to work each morning, will be the people that you interact with.
People will come to you to get them out of pain, to let them enjoy eating again, to help them have the pretty smile that gives them self-worth. They do not understand the mechanics or materials you will use to do these things, just that the end result is positive.
After a lengthy discussion of each patient’s medical history and past dental experiences, you endeavor to resolve their issue or fulfill their wish. And you can choose to do a procedure, collect the fee, and say goodbye. Or you can choose to get to know the unique person sitting in your chair. Every person has a complicated life full of influences producing good and bad memories. Many have secrets, a story behind the story, that will drive their choices. It adds depth to your relationship if you know what makes them smile, where their priorities lie, what is the light at the end of their tunnel. At this deeper level of relationship, you can help them make more appropriate treatment decisions and make their visits to your office more enjoyable for them and for you.
Trust, it is a big part of those relationships you will be forming. Trust to “enter their body”. Trust that you will be honest and fair. Trust to send their family and friends back to you once you treat them well. This trust comes after you show compassion. Taking the time to really hear their story. Taking the time to be aware of their anxieties. Understanding that previous doctor appointments did not always treat them well, BUT you show them that your office is different!
For the dentists here, you can train your staff to treat people specially, give them permission to go the extra mile to listen and to be caring. For Hygienists and assistants, you can model compassionate care to the others in your offices. --- I can speak from personal experience, working part-time in a local clinic when I came to teach in Indy, that the patients who were not used to this special treatment. Those who were scheduled with me walked to the front desk following my appointment and asked if they could be scheduled with me again the next time. They appreciated the common courtesies, supportive words, and down-to-earth explanations that I offered. While my personality shows that I am particular, and I do choose to set a high bar for the dentistry that I perform, the patient did not respond to that, but to being treated like the special human being that they were.
As in all other areas of employment, there are less ethical dental professionals serving out there that treatment-plan the patient’s pocketbook more than their oral needs. This breaks down the trust that our profession has worked so hard to maintain. I am asking you each to set your standards, early on, using integrity in all your life and professional choices.
Compared to most of the people in your future communities, you will not have any difficulty making the money needed to live an abundant life. To help you gain perspective about your neighbors, online artificial intelligence tells me that the average Indiana worker makes $37,400 a year, the average Indiana College graduate makes $64,300 a year. The average Indiana dental “salary” (as many of you will begin on a salary) is listed at $200,000 a year. Only 8% of those who work in Indiana make this level of income. (And less than 1% of the world makes this level of income.) My point being, you do not need to use your energy “selling” a product but instead just focus on providing care for people.
My wife’s uncle, a country medical doctor in the mid to late 1900’s, told me early on that all you need, to be successful, is to be available when people need you! I will add that when you are fair to them, they are willing to be fair back to you. Meet them on a weekend evening because someone fell and broke their tooth causing pain or avulsion, and they will be loyal to you for years.
Learn early that it is easier to maintain a patient than it is to attract a new one. It is also less expensive to do internal marketing than it is to pay for external marketing. It all just adds up. Care for people, develop relationships, treat them fair, maintain their loyalty by showing integrity in your work, get their referral of friends and family, keep a vibrant practice -- of people you have gotten to know, enjoy getting up for work each day because you get to spend the day with people you have known for years. It is an endless circle, all with benefits. I will add that staff like working in this environment also, so you do not lose as many, and when you need to hire, the office reputation attracts applicants. Again, a win all around.
** Let me now add another spoke to this wheel. Dentistry has many facets that allow expanded education and service. Whether one uses their degree in private practice, public health, academia, research, or even legal or corporate opportunities, one can grow or transition through life. As I am one who gets bored easily, I enjoyed adding on a new modality of service about every 3-5 years. I enjoyed getting better at molar endo, doing Invisalign, learning to use several types of lasers to provide dental care, and treating early stages of TMD/facial pain. I have loved this profession for the many opportunities for growth that it offers. In my career I have worked in a hospital during my GP residency, I was employed in a state home for the developmentally disabled, I served as a nursing home dental consultant, I am a dental consultant for a foreign clinic in Haiti, I volunteered on many international outreaches taking dental care to underserved communities, I was an associate and then I owned my own dental practice. And now I have gotten the privilege to pass on my passion for this profession to the next generation of professionals -- YOU. Upon leaving IUSD this summer, I plan to retire yet continue to use my dental experience and share my passion part-time at Univ. of North Carolina. I like dentistry!
I want to plant that seed in each of you. Find an area of this great profession that you love. But also, be flexible to add, transition, or out-right change your mind. Life is not all about work, either. Get hobbies that attract your attention. Work hard but take plenty of time off to also play hard. You will find that with good time off, you can be even more effective at work. Learn early how to define living life in abundance. Abundance does not mean owning as many adult toys as possible. It does mean waking up and deciding that each day will be a good day. It means choosing to find joy in life and sharing that joy with others. I hope it also means gaining a passion for what you do. Along the way, learn that it is never the wrong decision to show compassion, to live with integrity, and to pass those lessons on to others.
Thank you, and congratulations again!
PROGRAM NOTE – (Dr. Steele returns to his seat. Dean Murdoch-Kinch resumes the ceremony.)
Dean Murdoch-Kinch
Thank you, Dr. Steele, for your words of inspiration and wisdom.
PROGRAM NOTE – Dr. Savonich – in memoriam
Dean Murdoch-Kinch
Let us take a moment to pause now and honor Dr. Michael Sovanich, who we lost this year. Dr. Sovanich was a clinic director, mentor, colleague and friend to so many. In our own way and in silence, let us take a moment to remember and honor him.
(After brief silence)
Thank you.
PROGRAM NOTE-RECOGNITION OF STUDENTS ENGAGED WITH ARMED SERVICES:
The IUSD family deeply appreciates the efforts of our U.S. Armed Services members.
The Class of 2025 also includes several classmates who will be entering the U.S. Armed Services. Please stand when I call your name. Please hold your applause until they have been announced.
- Nicholas Sharossi, Army
- Susanna Sharossi, Army
- Bryce Witter, Navy
Congratulations and thank you for serving our country.
<Pause for applause>
At this time, I’d like to ask any of our graduates who are currently serving or who have previously served in the United States Military, National Guard, or Reserves to please stand so we can recognize and thank you.
<Pause for applause>
Would the members of our audience or platform party who are currently serving or who are veterans please stand or raise your hand high so we can honor and thank you for your service?
<Pause for applause>
You may be seated.
We are grateful for your service.
PROGRAM NOTE-CERTIFICATES AND DEGREES AWARDED: (pause-Dean Murdoch-Kinch introduces the part of the program where degrees and certificates are awarded. She will introduce Dr. Romito who will read the names of each student. Following Dr. Romito’s introduction, Dean Murdoch-Kinch will introduce Professor Michelle Priest and Professor Twyla Rader, who will present the candidates for Certificates in Dental Assisting and Dental Hygiene.)
Dean Murdoch-Kinch:
It is now time in our program to award certificates and diplomas to graduates of the Dental Assisting, Dental Hygiene, Doctor of Dental Surgery, Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy in Dental Sciencein Dentistry programs. Various faculty members will join me to congratulate the candidates as they come forward.
PROGRAM NOTE-DEAN MURDOCH-KINCH INTRODUCES DR. ROMITO:
Dean Murdoch-Kinch:
Presenting all candidates is Dr. Laura Romito, Associate Dean for Education and Academic Affairs.
PROGRAM NOTE: (Dr. Romito will move to the stage left podium after her introduction while Dean Murdoch-Kinch introduces Professor Priest.)
PROGRAM NOTE-DENTAL ASSISTING CERTIFICATES AWARDED
Dean Murdoch-Kinch:
At this time, I invite Professor Michelle Priest to join me in presenting the Certificates in Dental Assisting. Professor Priest is the Director for the Dental Assisting Program.
PROGRAM NOTE: (Professor Priest joins Dean Murdoch-Kinch center stage).
Dr. Romito:
Will the candidates for the Certificate in Dental Assisting please rise? (Pause) Dean Murdoch-Kinch, it is an honor to present to you the 2025 candidates for Certificate in Dental Assisting. Will the candidates please come forward? The graduates may be seated upon returning to their seats.
PROGRAM NOTE: (Dean Murdoch-Kinch proceeds to center stage.)
PROGRAM NOTE: (Candidates will rise and be led to the stairs on stage left by IUSD staff. The staff will assist as the candidates ascend the stairs. Candidates will walk to Dr. Romito and give her the name card. Dr. Romito reads the name of the candidate as they walk across the stage and just before they receive their certificate. As the candidate leaves center stage, the next candidate walks to Dr. Romito and gives her the name card and walks to center stage. This process is followed for presentation of all Dental Assisting candidates.)
PROGRAM NOTE: (Professor Priest will receive the certificates cover from Andrew (backstage) and pass to Dean Murdoch-Kinch. Candidates walk across the stage and receive the certificate cover from Dean Murdoch-Kinch and receive congratulations from Dean Murdoch-Kinch and Professor Priest. Photographs will be taken with all three. Professor Priest returns to her seat after the last candidate is seated.)
PROGRAM NOTE: (When the last candidate is seated, Dean Murdoch-Kinch proceeds to the center podium and thanks Professor Priest.)
Dean Murdoch-Kinch:
I invite Ms. Roberts to come to the podium and lead our Dental Assisting Graduates as they recite the Dental Assistant’s Pledge.
PROGRAM NOTE: (Ms. Roberts steps to the podium as Dean Murdoch-Kinch steps to the side.)
Ms. Roberts:
Dental Assisting graduates, please stand (motion for graduates to rise and pause until they are standing).
Now, let us recite the pledge together.
“In my practice as a dental assistant, I affirm my commitment to improve the oral health of the public, and to promote high standards of quality dental care. I shall faithfully respect the Principles of Professional Ethics by the profession. I pledge to continually improve my professional knowledge and skills, and to uphold the highest standards of professional competence and personal conduct in the interests of the dental assisting profession and the public I serve.”
You may be seated.
PROGRAM NOTE: (Ms. Roberts takes her seat and Dean Murdoch-Kinch returns to the podium.)
Dean Murdoch-Kinch:
Thank you, Ms. Roberts.
PROGRAM NOTE-DENTAL HYGIENE DEGREES AWARDED: (Dean Murdoch-Kinch introduces Professor Rader.)
Dean Murdoch-Kinch:
At this time, I invite Professor Twyla Rader to assist me in congratulating the candidates for the Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene. Professor Rader serves as the Director of the Dental Hygiene program. Our dental hygiene students completed their program in December of last year.
PROGRAM NOTE: (Professor Rader proceed to the stage to join Dean Murdoch-Kinch in congratulating the Dental Hygiene graduates.)
Dr. Romito:
Will the candidates for the Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene please rise? (Pause) Dean Murdoch-Kinch, it is an honor to present to you the Class of 2024 Bachelor of Science Dental Hygiene candidates. Will the candidates please come forward? The graduates may be seated upon returning to their seats.
PROGRAM NOTE: (Professor Rader will receive the certificate covers from Andrew (backstage) and pass to Dean Murdoch-Kinch. Candidates walk across the stage and receive the certificate cover from Dean Murdoch-Kinch and receive congratulations from Dean Murdoch-Kinch and Professor Rader. Photographs will be taken with the Dean and Professor Rader. Professor Rader returns to her seat after the last candidate is seated.)
Dean Murdoch-Kinch:
Thank you, Professor Rader. I invite Ms. Rettig to come to the podium and lead our Dental Hygiene Graduates as they recite the Dental Hygienists’ Pledge.
PROGRAM NOTE: (Ms. Rettigcomes to the podium as Dean Murdoch-Kinch steps aside.)
Ms. Rettig:
Dental Hygiene Graduates, please stand (motion for graduates to rise and pause until they are standing). Now, let us recite the pledge together.
“In my practice as a dental hygienist, I affirm my personal and professional commitment to improve the oral health of the public, to advance the art and science of dental hygiene, and to promote high standards of quality care. I pledge continually to improve my professional knowledge and skills, to render a full measure of service to each patient entrusted to my care, and to uphold the highest standards of professional competence and personal conduct in the interests of the dental hygiene profession and the public it serves.”
You may be seated.
Dean Murdoch-Kinch:
Thank you, Ms. Rettig.
PROGRAM NOTE-DDS CANDIDATE DEGREES AWARD: (Dean Murdoch-Kinch proceeds to the podium to introduce hooders of DDS candidates.)
PROGRAM NOTE-FACULTY HOODERS ANNOUNCED:
Dean Murdoch-Kinch:
The placement of the lilac hood symbolizes the entry of our Doctor of Dental Surgery graduates into the dental profession. The graduating class has selected four members of the IUSD faculty to participate in their hooding. These faculty members are individuals whom the graduates believe have made significant contributions to their educational experience at the School of Dentistry. I ask these faculty to rise and come forward as I call your names:
Dr. Larry Caskey
Dr. Ashok Das
Dr. Toshiki Nagai
Dr. Timothy Treat
PROGRAM NOTE: FAMILY HOODERS ANNOUNCED: (Drs. Caskey, Das, Nagai and Treat proceed to the center stage hooding area in front of the podium as each of their names is called.)
Dean Murdoch-Kinch:
In addition to these faculty members, we have invited participants who are family members, and members of the dental profession, to assist in the hooding ceremonyof the DDS Class of 2025. Would the family hooders please stand and be recognized?
PROGRAM NOTE: (Dean Murdoch-Kinch leads applause)
Dean Murdoch-Kinch:
Thank you for being with us today. (Pause) At this time, I invite Dr. Harvey Weingarten, Associate Dean for Clinical Affairs, and Dr. Sylvia Frazier-Bowers, Associate Dean for Student Affairs to join me in congratulating the Doctor of Dental Surgery candidates as they come forward.
PROGRAM NOTE: (Dr. Weingarten and Dr. Frazier-Bowers will proceed to stage right, near the table holding diploma tubes and assist in passing the tubes to Dean Murdoch-Kinch. Dr. Weingarten will pass the tubes to Dr. Frazier-Bowers; she passes them to Dean Murdoch-Kinch. She will stand at a comfortable distance from the hooding area. She will shake the graduates hand and the photographer will take pictures of each candidate.)
Dr. Romito:
Will the candidates for the Doctor of Dental Surgery please rise? (Pause) Dean Murdoch-Kinch, it is an honor to present to you the 2025 candidates for the Doctor of Dental Surgery degree. Will the first row of candidates please come forward? All others may be seated until you are signaled to stand and come forward.
PROGRAM NOTE: (Student ambassadors will lead graduates row by row to the stairs stage left. The graduate will give Dr. Romito the name card. Dr. Romito reads the name of the DDS graduate preceding each name with ‘Doctor’ after they walk across the stage and just before they arrive at the hooding area. After giving the hood to the preferred hooders, the doctor graduate faces audience for hooding. After congratulations from the hooder, the graduate will walk to stage right to receive the diploma tube and congratulations from Dean Murdoch-Kinch. Graduates descend stairs and return to their seats.
For those with family hooders: graduate family member joins the candidate as he or she approaches the stage. They then follow the candidate to the hooding area. The graduate family member returns to their seat from the same way the entered the stage after hooding their candidate.
The next graduate should walk to Dr. Romito as the previous graduate receives congratulations from dignitaries. Drs. Caskey, Das, Nagai and Treat return to their seats after last graduate is seated. Drs. Weingarten and Frazier-Bowers return to their seats.)
PROGRAM NOTE: (Dean Murdoch-Kinch proceeds to the podium when the last candidate is seated to thank Drs. Caskey, Das, Nagai and Treat, Frazier-Bowers and Weingarten.)
Dean Murdoch-Kinch:
Congratulations, Doctors!
Thank you, Dr. Caskey, Dr. Das, Dr. Nagai, Dr. Treat, Dr. Frazier-Bowersand Dr. Weingarten.
Dean Murdoch-Kinch:
I now invite Dr. David Wolf to come to the podium and lead our Doctor of Dental Surgery graduates as they recite the Doctor of Dental Surgery Pledge.
PROGRAM NOTE: (Dean Murdoch-Kinch steps aside. Dr. Wolf proceeds to the podium.)
Dr. Wolf:
Doctor of Dental Surgery Graduates, please stand (motion for graduates to rise and pause until they are standing). Now, let us recite the pledge together.
“I, as a member of the dental profession, shall keep this pledge and these stipulations. I understand and accept that my primary responsibility is to my patients, and I shall dedicate myself to render, to the best of my ability, the highest standard of oral health care and to maintain a relationship of respect and confidence. Therefore, let all come to me safe in the knowledge that their total health and well-being are my first considerations. I shall accept the responsibility that, as a professional, my competence rests on continuing the attainment of knowledge and skill in the arts and sciences of dentistry. I acknowledge my obligation to support and sustain the honor and integrity of the profession and to conduct myself in all endeavors such that I shall merit the respect of patients, colleagues and my community. I further commit myself to the betterment of my community for the benefit of all of society. I shall faithfully observe the Principles of Ethics and Code of Professional Conduct set forth by the profession. All this I pledge with pride in my commitment to the profession and the public it serves.”
You may be seated.
PROGRAM NOTE: (Dean Murdoch-Kinch returns to the podium.)
Dean Murdoch-Kinch:
Thank you, Dr. Wolf.
PROGRAM NOTE-MASTER OF SCIENCE DEGREES AWARDED:
Dean Murdoch-Kinch:
And now, I invite Dr. Sylvia Frazier-Bowers,to join me in presenting the Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy in Dentistry Degrees and Certificates. Dr. Frazier-Bowers, Associate Dean of Student Affairs and Admissions. Dr. Juan Yepes, Associate Dean for Graduate Education could not be with us today.
PROGRAM NOTE: (Dr. Frazier-Bowers proceeds to the center of the stage and to the table stage right to pass the diplomas to Dean Murdoch-Kinch. Dr. Frazier-Bowers will aid in distribution. Photographer will take pictures of each candidate.)
Dr. Romito:
Will the candidates for the Certificate or Master of Science in Dentistry degrees with specialization in Cariology and Operative Dentistry, Dental Materials, Endodontics, Maxillofacial Prosthetics, Operative Dentistry, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Pediatric Dentistry, Periodontics, and Prosthodontics, please stand?
(Pause) Dean Murdoch-Kinch, it is an honor to present to you the 2025 candidates for Certificate or Master of Science in Dentistry. Will the candidates please come forward?
PROGRAM NOTE: (Candidatesare led to the stage to ascend. Dr. Romito reads their names as they cross to receive their diploma cover from Dean Murdoch-Kinch and are congratulated by Dean Murdoch-Kinch and Dr. Frazier-Bowers.)
Dean Murdoch-Kinch:
At this time, I invite Dr. Anderson Hara,Director of the Oral Health Research Institute, in hooding our candidate for the Doctor of Philosophy Degree in Dental Science.
(Pause) Dean Murdoch-Kinch, it is an honor to present to you the 2025 candidate of Doctor of Philosophy Degree in Dental Science. Will the candidate please come forward?
PROGRAM NOTE: (Candidateis led to the stage to ascend. Dr. Romito reads their name as they cross to receive their hood from Dr. Hara, diploma cover from Dean Murdoch-Kinch and are congratulated by Dean Murdoch-Kinch and Dr. Frazier-Bowers.)
Dean Murdoch-Kinch:
Thank you, Dr. Romito, Dr. Frazier-Bowers and Dr. Hara.
PROGRAM NOTE: (Dean Murdoch-Kinch introduces the Indiana University Jacobs School of Music a capella ensemble. The ensemble takes their place on stage, entering from stage right. The group stays to the left of Dean Murdoch-Kinch until introduction is done, then finish placement.)
Dean Murdoch-Kinch:
It is now my sincere pleasure to welcome back to the stage the Indiana University Jacobs School of Music a capella ensemble.
PROGRAM NOTE / CLOSING REMARKS: (Dean Murdoch-Kinch returns to her seat. Indiana University Jacobs School of Music a capella ensemble sings “Hail to Old IU.” When the hymn is finished, the ensemble returns to their seats. Dean Murdoch-Kinch proceeds to the podium.)
Closing remarks (in addition to thanking the band, the staff and faculty and administrators, the event staff)
Dean Murdoch-Kinch:
Thank you, Indiana University Jacobs School of Music a capella ensemble for your warm and heartfelt rendition of ‘Hail to Old IU.’ Aren’t they wonderful?
I want to thank our staff from the Dean’s Office, Communications, Marketing and Public Relations, the Office of Student Affairs and the Office of Education and Academic Affairs for planning today’s ceremony.
Graduates, some of you will be entering private practice; others will be entering residencies in general dentistry or the dental specialties to continue your education. Some of you will practice in public health or community clinics; others will join large group practices, or practice in the armed forces. Some of you will work in large cities; others will provide care in small towns and rural communities. You will serve in Indiana, the US, and around the world. Wherever you are, you will make a positive impact on people’s lives, through your healing touch and compassion, relieving pain, restoring smiles, and providing hope. You will uphold the highest ideals of the profession, commit to lifelong learning, and aspire to excellence and to health equity for all. You will make a real difference in the world, and we cannot wait to see what you will do! We will always be proud of you and look forward to welcoming you back home to Indiana University School of Dentistry as our accomplished alumni!
As today’s ceremony concludes, I request that the audience remain seated while the Platform Party, faculty, special guests and graduates exit the theatre. You may meet your graduate in the grand lobby.
And now, the White River Brass will grace us with recessional music as we depart. Gentlemen?
PROGRAM NOTE: (Dean Murdoch-Kinch will lead her side of platform party off the stage down the stage right stairs, out to the theatre and students will follow. Dr. Romito will lead her side of the platform party off the stage down stage left stairs, out to the theatre and students will follow. (Staff will be on either side to guide the students.) Commencement ceremony concludes. Staff will direct the platform party, students (DA, DH, DDS, Postdoctoral) out of the theatre. Once all students have processed out, the guests are welcome to exit and join their graduate in the main lobby.
Until next year…
