On April 19th, the Diversify Dentistry Youth Summit was hosted for the first time at UMKC School of Dentistry. This impactful event was realized through the partnership between Diversity in Dentistry Mentorships, Inc. and UMKC SOD, funded by the Delta Dental Institute Oral Health Diversity Fund and Benco Dental Family Foundation. It brought together high school students from underrepresented backgrounds from Kansas City Public Schools District, aiming to inspire them to pursue careers in dentistry. The event provided hands-on experiences, mentorship, and insights into the dental profession. Through engaging activities, interactive discussions, and a White Coat Ceremony, students were encouraged to consider dentistry as a viable career option. The event received positive feedback from students and educators, with many expressing newfound interest in dentistry and praising the representation and support provided at the summit. Joyce Hernandez, Manager of College Access and Success for Kansas City Public Schools, said, “My staff reported that the students remarked that the event was ‘life-changing, career confirming, and can’t wait to apply to UMKC.'” She mentioned that the students declared it, their favorite field trip ever, even more so than an amusement park! In addition, she shared how the students loved seeing so many staff and students who looked like them. “Representation can’t be beat!” Dr. Laila Hishaw, founder of Diversity in Dentistry Mentorships, Inc. and UMKC SOD alumna, Class of 2000, reflected, “It was an incredibly moving experience to stand before these young people, many of whom had never considered a future in dentistry, and share that I once sat in the very same room nearly 25 years ago, feeling out of place because I didn’t see others who looked like me. But thanks to the Diversify Dentistry Youth Summit at UMKC, we were able to show them that they truly belong in this field and that we need them to ensure better oral and overall health outcomes for all communities.” As the inaugural Youth Summit at UMKC drew to a close that day, it marked not just a singular event, but the dawn of a transformative journey for our Mentees. Barriers were broken, and dreams were ignited. With each Summit, a new chapter unfolds, enriching the tapestry of dentistry with diverse voices and perspectives, all united in a common quest for inclusive excellence. You can read the newsletter from UMKC here and view photos and video recaps from Diversity in Dentistry Mentorships Inc. on our social media pages. | 
