GSDM and Local School Volunteers Screen 65 athletes during 2025 Special Olympics Healthy Athletes® Program
More than 70 volunteers from the Boston University Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine (GSDM), Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, and Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences gave hands-on oral healthcare services in early June to athletes participating in the 2025 Special Olympics Massachusetts Summer Games.
Volunteers screened 65 Special Olympics athletes as part of the Special Olympics Healthy Athletes® Special Smiles program. During patient screenings, volunteers provided free dental screenings, oral hygiene instruction, mouthguard adaptation, and fluoride varnish application.
“It is truly the commitment and dedication of volunteers that make this event the success that it is every year,” Kathy Lituri MPH 03, clinical assistant professor of health policy & health services research, said. “Every role was key, and we are confident that our volunteers had a positive impact on the athletes that they engaged with throughout the process.”
Lituri and Dr. Michelle Henshaw SPH 96 DPH 07, GSDM associate dean for global & population health, were this year’s co-clinical directors. Stacey McNamee, director of alumni relations & annual giving, served as the event director.
Here is what some of this year’s volunteers had to say about their experience:
(Please note: Some quotes were edited/shorten for clarity)
Karem Salazar, clinical instructor of general dentistry
“I believe that we can make our patients aware of what’s going on in their oral health, so they can intervene later before it is too late. We also promote inclusion and acceptance but most of all, I also get to witness their determination and resilience. I loved to meet faculty and students from other universities that share the same love and passion for this event.”
Dr. Kadambari Rawal AGED 10 DPH 18, clinical associate professor of general dentistry
“Each year that I volunteer, I learn something new. I meet new volunteers who have their own reasons for being there. What inspires me the most is the enthusiasm of our dental students and postdoctoral residents. It leaves me with a sense of positivity that we are graduating truly compassionate healthcare professionals.”
Gokce Kiryaman, research scholar, Department of Translational Dental Medicine
“Contributing to the oral health screenings for these athletes with disabilities reminded me of the deep impact that compassionate and inclusive care can have. My favorite part of being involved with Special Olympics Special Smiles was the genuine connections formed with the athletes during the screenings. Improving access to healthcare is extremely important for these individuals and I am so happy to have been a part of this team!”
Thalia Iturriaga DMD 28, general volunteer
“There’s something deeply fulfilling about coming together for a shared purpose, especially when that purpose is rooted in kindness and support. I truly believe that when we work not for recognition or reward but simply because it is the right thing to do, it brings out the best in us. It serves as a good reminder of why I chose a career in healthcare.”
Dr. Pranav V. Manek, research assistant, general volunteer
“The most unforgettable part was witnessing the pure, radiant smiles on the faces of the athletes as they engaged in the event. Knowing that my guidance and care—even in small ways—made someone feel special and supported brought a sense of inner joy and fulfillment that words can hardly capture. Those moments of shared happiness, laughter, and mutual appreciation made this experience not just memorable but truly soul touching. It was a beautiful reminder of why I chose a life devoted to service.”
Check out our Special Olympics 2025 album on Flickr to see more photos.