Ann Arbor, MI — November 2, 2009 — The University of Michigan School of Dentistry today recognized 47 employees for their long-term service to the University. The group included 28 staff members with 10 years of service, 12 with 20 years of service, six with 30 years of service and one with 40 years of service.

Mary Anne Hibner, dental assistant, Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and Hospital Dentistry, was honored for 40 years of service.

Those with 30 years of service included Julie Burton, clinical practice manager, Patient Services; Donna Irby, instrument and sterilizer processor, Patient Services; Chris Jung, graphic designer, Dental Informatics; Anita Lamb, patient care representative, Patient Services; Norma McDougall, central supply supervisor, Patient Services; and Debra Stults, dental hygienist, Patient Services.

Twenty-year honorees included:

• Robin Boshaw, radiology technologist, Patient Services.
• Sylvia Bowman, Human Resources assistant, Dean’s Office.
• Julie Breitenbach, research lab specialist, Department of Biologic and Materials Sciences.
• Wendy Carbary, secretary, Department of Periodontics and Oral Medicine.
• Thomas Goss, research laboratory technician, Department of Biologic and Materials Sciences.
• Ruxandra Iacob, research associate, Dental Informatics.
• Melody Schoolcraft, dental assistant, Department of Prosthodontics.
• Dorothy Smith-Fesl, building manager.
• Patricia Rodriguez, dental assistant, Department of Cariology, Restorative Sciences, and Endodontics.
• Margaret Venema, business manager, Financial Services.
• Denise Ziesmer, accountant, Department of Biologic and Materials Sciences.
• Cynthia Zuccaro, research laboratory specialist, Office of Research.

In addition, 220 faculty, staff, and students were lauded for their participation in the School’s “Thank You, You Make a Difference” program.

Launched in 2008, the “Thank You” program commends individuals whose actions make the School of Dentistry a great place to work or learn. Faculty, staff, and students can be recognized by peers, coworkers, students, patients, or vendors for actions ranging from a job well done to great customer service or helping lost visitors. Those who praise a colleague provide a short statement, typically 100 words or less, telling what the individual did. The original thank you note is sent to the individual commended and his or her supervisor.

Contact: Sharon Grayden, Communications Director (734) 615-2600, dentistry.communications@umich.edu, or Jerry Mastey, Editor, School of Dentistry (734) 615-1971, jmastey@umich.edu.