DENTAL HYGIENE

The dental hygiene Class of 2007 pledged more than $3,500 to the School's Michigan Difference fundraising drive. Also in the photo is Prof. Wendy Kerschbaum, director of the dental hygiene program (second row, right), Dean Peter Polverini, and Dr. Marilyn Lantz, associate dean for academic affairs.

This spring, the dental hygiene class of 2007 was praised for pledging to the School of Dentistry's fundraising drive that is a part of the University's Michigan Difference campaign.

Twenty-six of the 28 members of the class, 93 percent, made a financial commitment.

At a celebration luncheon in the Sindecuse Atrium one month before graduation, Prof. Wendy Kerschbaum thanked the students who collectively pledged more than $3,500.

She told the students, "you have received a very special education here at Michigan, but I don't think you will realize just how special it has been until after you graduate and are practicing in the communities where you will work and live."

"Your achievement is very special, and I, along with Dean Peter Polverini and Dr. Marilyn Lantz, appreciate your commitment," Kerschbaum added.

Polverini also thanked the students, saying, "Your pledge is an investment in the future of the School and the dental hygiene program. I'm sure, for many of you, it wasn't easy, but the fact that you did pledge is impressive, and we appreciate the example you have set for others to follow."

Fourth-year dental hygiene student Jesica Betson, chair of the fundraising effort, said, "We were more than happy to make a pledge because of all that we have learned and received during the past three years of our education.