Graduates Urged: Be Exemplars

Be well. Do good work. Stay in touch.

Those words, the signature sign–off of author, storyteller, and humorist Garrison Keillor, were the cornerstones of advice given to graduates of the Class of 2008 during commencement ceremonies at Hill Auditorium on May 2.

Dr. Muriel Bebeau, professor at the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry, used Keillor’s counsel to wish graduates well in their future endeavors, and more importantly, to become exemplars or role models in their profession and community.

As director of the Center for the Study of Ethical Development, she told graduates, “You now know that more is required than the gift of intellect. You also know that society isn’t very tolerant of the shortcomings of individual professionals or the profession as a whole.”

Recalling examples of oral health care professionals who were considered by their peers to be “moral exemplars,” Bebeau also spoke about working with dental professionals “who have gotten themselves into difficulty with their licensing board.”

“Both groups,” she said, “had intellectual ability, but where they diverged was in their commitment to lifelong learning and reflective practice.”

Both are important for success.

“Practicing dentistry is a complex art,” she said. “Learning the art of dental practice is a lifelong pursuit. But the challenging part, the art of being a good professional, lies before you.”

Bebeau said what distinguishes exemplars is the time they spend reflecting on how they practice dentistry. From experience, she said exemplars:

• “Seem more able to reframe negative experiences as valuable lessons.”
• “Are able to open themselves to critique and readily admit to mistakes and shortcomings.”
• “Apologize and don’t carry around grudges for having been challenged.”
• “Have a clear sense of responsibility to others…and don’t compromise their integrity.”
• “Are also good at developing and maintaining an effective team.”

Being well, doing good work, and staying in touch, is a never–ending process, Bebeau said. “Make the world a better place, one person at a time, one kind gesture at a time,” she said.