Celebrating OU College of Dentistry’s Alumni Weekend 2024

The OU College of Dentistry hosted its annual Alumni Awards Weekend from September 19-21, drawing alumni, faculty, and friends to celebrate milestones, share knowledge, and reconnect. The three-day event showcased the college’s commitment to education, community, and recognition of its outstanding alumni.

The weekend began on Thursday with the Retired Faculty and Staff Luncheon, an event fostering reunion among former colleagues. Held at the college, the luncheon welcomed retired faculty and staff members who enjoyed reminiscing about their contributions and shared memories. Dean Paul M. Mullasseril, D.D.S., M.S., opened the event with gratitude and appreciation for their dedication, emphasizing the college's pride in its legacy and commitment to its community. This luncheon set a warm tone, highlighting the enduring impact of past faculty and staff on the OU College of Dentistry's current achievements.

Friday offered a full day of continuing education courses, providing OU College of Dentistry alumni with the latest developments in oral health and dental practice. The morning session, led by OU College of Dentistry alumni, Dr. Sara Spurlock and Dr. Jennifer Jenkins, engaged attendees with a focus on treating periodontal disease and managing inflammation to improve the health of patients and transform dental practices. The afternoon continued with OU College of Dentistry faculty member Dr. Kathleen Higgins presenting emerging trends in the field of oral pathology. Both sessions were complimentary as part of the Alumni Weekend celebration, totaling seven free hours of continuing education for both dental and hygiene alumni.

Friday evening brought alumni, faculty, and supporters together for the Dean’s Circle Dinner and Alumni Awards Ceremony at the Omni Hotel in downtown Oklahoma City. More than 150 guests gathered to celebrate OU College of Dentistry’s dedicated supporters and recognize its accomplished alumni. Dean’s Circle members were honored for their generous support of the college, which has been instrumental in advancing the college’s mission and initiatives. The reception’s atmosphere was lively, filled with heartfelt speeches, personal milestones, and shared experiences, underscoring the powerful network of the college’s alumni. This evening became a highlight of the weekend, spotlighting the achievements of alumni who continue to make significant contributions to their field and their alma mater.

The Alumni Awards Ceremony celebrated six of the college’s most distinguished graduates, recognizing their professional achievements and dedication to excellence in dentistry. This meaningful recognition, along with a formal dinner, reinforced the college’s appreciation for alumni who exemplify leadership, commitment, and innovation in their careers. This year’s honorees included Avery Maize, RDH, as Young Dental Hygiene Alum of the Year; Monica McKee, MPH, RDH, as the Dental Hygiene Alum of the Year; Carolyn Kittell, DDS, as Young Dental Alum of the Year; Denny Southard, AS, DDS, MSD, as Dental Alum of the Year; and Stephen E. Reagan, DDS, as the Stephen K. Young Distinguished Service Award winner.

The weekend concluded with an energetic Alumni and Friends Tailgate on Saturday, held on the Norman campus ahead of the OU vs. Tennessee football game. The tailgate drew alumni and family members to Wagner Hall’s South Lawn, where they joined the larger Boomer Bash event. The atmosphere was festive as guests enjoyed food, games, and camaraderie, united by school spirit and excitement for the college’s first home SEC game. This tailgate offered a fun, family-friendly end to Alumni Weekend, blending traditions with new memories for the OU College of Dentistry community.

Kylie Faherty, Director of Alumni and External Affairs, reflected on the significance of Alumni Weekend, saying, “This event offers the perfect chance for former students, faculty, and colleagues to reconnect. With activities ranging from complimentary continuing education to an exciting OU Sooner tailgate, there’s something for everyone. We also offer college tours, inviting alumni to reminisce with classmates at their alma mater.”

The OU College of Dentistry’s 2024 Alumni Weekend proved a memorable and meaningful occasion, celebrating the enduring bonds within the OU College of Dentistry community and setting the stage for future milestones. For more information on next year’s Alumni Weekend celebrations, please visit dentistry.ouhsc.edu/Alumni-and-Friends.