Ann Arbor, MI - August 20, 2008 - Dr. Kenneth May, an associate professor of dentistry in the Department of Biologic and Materials Sciences, has been named director of the School of Dentistry's Office of Multicultural Affairs and Recruitment Initiatives. Dean Peter Polverini announced the appointment today.

May, who has been serving as interim program director for the past year, will work with the Office of Student Affairs to provide support in recruiting, mentoring activities, summer program development and implementation.

"I received my dental and prosthodontic training here at Michigan, earning degrees in 1988 and 1990, respectively," he said. "It's a privilege to play a role in helping so many young people who are pursuing their dream of becoming dentists. The Michigan tradition is grounded in providing opportunities to all qualified students regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, or religion."

The Office of Multicultural Affairs recruits students from high school through graduate school for the dental profession.

Polverini said the appointment is part of his vision "to deepen our School's commitment to live and thrive in a multicultural community." Elements of that vision include "fostering a culture where everyone - students, faculty, staff, and patients - are supported for their contributions to the School." Another component is devoting the resources to programs that prepare underserved students to enter and succeed in oral health care professions.

The University of Michigan School of Dentistry is one of the nation's leading dental schools engaged in oral health care education, research, patient care, and community service. General dental care clinics and specialty clinics providing advanced treatment enable the School to offer dental services and programs to patients throughout Michigan. Classroom and clinic instruction prepare future dentists, dental specialists, and dental hygienists for practice in private offices, hospitals, academia, and public agencies. Research seeks to discover and apply new knowledge that can help patients worldwide. For more information about the School of Dentistry, visit us on the Web at: www.dent.umich.edu.

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