Professional Ceremony and BBQ Mark End of Orientation

New students and their families filled the 670 Street Auditorium on July 31 to be part of the Boston University Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine (GSDM) Welcome to the Profession Ceremony. At the annual ceremony, which marks the end of orientation week and entrance into GSDM, students read the Oath of the Classes and pledge service to humanity, patients, community, and the profession of dentistry.Dean Jeffrey Hutter called the ceremony "an important rite of passage" for students and told their friends and family, "Your loved one is now a member of the Boston University community and will gain the benefit of an outstanding dental education; a collegial, respectful and supportive environment; and a vast network of Boston University Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine alumni."

Clinical Associate Professor and Director of Preclinical Removable Prosthodontics Ronni Schnell DMD 81 gave the keynote address, saying, "The Oath that you are about to recite will give you the opportunity to reflect on the personal and professional journey that you are about to take. It is a solemn pledge that you will take for yourselves and for the people with whom you conduct yourself. It is your professional promise and your personal contract. I wish you all the very best." She stressed the students’ lifelong connection to Boston University and GSDM as well.

Students came to the stage to receive their GSDM pins and greet Associate Dean for Clinical Services Dr. Stephen DuLong, Dean Jeffrey Hutter, Associate Dean for Academic Affairs Dr. Cataldo Leone, AS Faculty Liaison Dr. Janet Peters, Assistant Dean for Student Services Dr. Stephen Polins, and Assistant Dean for Admissions Catherine Sarkis. Cameras flashed as students crossed the stage and after, read the Oath of the Classes of 2011 and 2013 together.

"You are the best and the brightest," Dean Hutter added, "and I know that I speak for the entire faculty and staff when I say that we feel privileged and deeply gratified that you made the decision to attend our Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine."

A barbecue for students and their families followed in Hiebert Lounge. Photos from both the ceremony and barbecue are available GSDM’s flickr account. You can also see photos from the ceremony and barbecue on the GSDM Facebook page. You must have full web access to view the flickr account.