Diversify Dentistry Youth Summit at UMKC School of Dentistry
Date/Time
Date(s) - April 19, 2024
10:00 am - 1:30 pm
Location
University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Dentistry
Categories No Categories
About the Cause
According to the American Dental Association, around 5 percent of dentists in the U.S. are Hispanic, fewer than four percent are Black and less than one percent are Native American. Unfortunately, as patients from historically underrepresented minority (HURM) backgrounds are more likely to visit medical professionals from their own communities, this shortage of dentists of color means many people go without dental care.
About the Event
On April 19th, 2024, the Diversify Dentistry Youth Summit will be hosted at the University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC School of Dentistry). Fifty students from historically underrepresented groups are invited to attend the event, with the goal of diversifying the dental applicant pool with qualified and competitive candidates.
When it comes to the future of dentistry, we need to help young people realize their potential, provide guidance and spur on the next generation of dental school applicants from historically underrepresented groups. Students will be paired with dentist mentors who will join them for a day of lectures, learn about dental anatomy, a hands-on lab experience, engage in a panel discussion, and a Mentor Power Lunch. The day will conclude with a memorable “white coat” ceremony, a traditional rite of passage for dentists, in which a white coat is placed on their shoulders, signifying their entrance into dentistry.
Sponsors
Diversity in Dentistry Mentorships, Inc., would like to give a special recognition to the University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Dentistry, the Delta Dental Institute Oral Health Diversity Fund, and Benco Family Foundation for making this event possible.
