Letter from the Pitt Dental Medicine Diploma Ceremony 2026 Grand Marshal
Dear Colleagues, It seems like yesterday that I was emailing the Class of 2026 their very first D1 "Cariology Agenda." These four years have passed by so quickly. I know I speak for many of us when I say we truly are going to miss seeing these students in the building. It simply won't be the same without them here. This class showed me—and so many of you—a remarkable amount of confidence and appreciation throughout their time at Pitt Dental Medicine. They also afforded me a great deal of grace as I transitioned from a long career in private practice into full-time academics, and for that I am deeply grateful. I feel as though we all navigated these four years together, and I am truly honored to have been selected by them to serve as their Grand Marshal for the 2026 Diploma Ceremony. I am confident that if they put into practice the foundational principles we taught them here at Pitt Dental Medicine, and carry forward the lifelong learning mindset we all worked so hard to instill, they will thrive in their chosen careers. I look forward to seeing them at future continuing education courses and watching them build successful practices and careers in the years ahead. It has been a privilege to help shape this class alongside such dedicated colleagues. Now, let's send them out into this world to be a positive, shining light. With much gratitude and sincerity, Doug Kistler Assistant Professor, Restorative and Comprehensive Care
Message from the Pitt Dental Medicine Diploma Ceremony 2026 Ceremony Marshal
Dear Colleagues, Being part of our students' dental school journey has been such a privilege. Watching them grow from D1 students into the talented doctors they have become has been incredibly rewarding. When I first came to Pitt Dental Medicine, I thought this was simply going to be a job. Little did I know how profoundly these students would affect my life. Bringing over thirty years of experience with me, I expected to be the one doing most of the teaching, but the truth is, they have taught me just as much, if not more. Through their example, they have reminded me what true dedication and perseverance look like. They have shown me the importance of how we treat one another, the power of communication, and the beauty of tolerance. Lessons I will carry with me always. I am so very honored that they have chosen me as the Class of 2026 Ceremony Marshal. It means more to me than they will ever know. I have loved being their "clinic mom" and am so proud to carry that title. I have always told our students that I treat and advise them the same way I do my own children. Each one of them holds a special place in my heart. Getting to be part of this journey with them has been a true gift. I cannot wait to see what the future holds for each and every one of them. I wish the Class of 2026 a lifetime of success, health, love, and happiness. I hope they know they will always have a home here at Pitt Dental Medicine. Our doors are always open. With gratitude and appreciation, Jenn Graf Dental Assistant Coordinator, Restorative and Comprehensive Care
Kindness Always Matters at Pitt Dental Medicine
The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania has declared Saturday, May 23—the 143rd day of the year—to be 143 Day in Pa. Kindness shapes how we teach, serve, learn, and support one another. This year, from May 18–22, Pitt Dental Medicine observes 143 Week and takes time to intentionally reflect on the power of kindness and being good neighbors. Mr. Rogers, used the number 143 as code for “I love you”. We already know that Pitt Dental Medicine is a place rooted in kindness and gratitude—It’s naturally who we are. That spirit is what makes our community an incredible place to work and learn. Inspired by the philosophy of our own Pittsburgh neighbor, Mr. Fred Rogers, we know that kindness always matters–but this week, let’s give it the extra attention it deserves and 143! If you haven’t seen them yet, be sure to keep an eye on our digital signs this week to see special quotes from Mr. Rogers to brighten your day and keep kindness at the heart of everything we do. What’s it like to be Mr. Rogers? Join us for Dress like Fred Day on Thursday, May 21. Mr. Rogers began every episode changing into his signature cardigan and sneakers. To celebrate his spirit of acceptance, kindness, and authenticity, embrace his sartorial style for the day*. * You can wear clothing or accessories that embrace the style of Fred Rogers on Thursday if you can keep within your regular professional guidelines for patient care. In clinical areas, please adhere to our health and safety protocols for appropriate dress. (I. A. 12 Pitt Dental Medicine Dress Code, pages 9-10) Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood was produced in Pittsburgh by WQED and Family Communications, Inc. from 1968 to 2001. Mr. Rogers quietly taught viewers the importance of showing empathy, patience, kindness, and respecting ourselves and others — “Neighbors are people who are close to us. And friends are people who are close to our hearts. I like to think of you as my neighbor and my friend”.
Digital Access Training at Pitt
As Pitt Dental Medicine continues to work diligently to meet all accessibility standards and requirements, we want to remind you there are resources available to help guide you. In addition to trainings provided through the school, you have access to trainings, information, and more through the University. In fact, the Office of Institutional Engagement and Wellbeing houses a series of videos done through the U.S. Department of Education Office of Civil Rights. They also offer direct links to helpful information through LinkedIn Learning for topics such as creating accessible web pages and PDF's, and even offer virtual workshops. You can find that and more on the Accessibility Training webpage >
Dental Central is in the process of getting a new look and adding some new options. Now, in addition to Panther Praise you can find an option for Staff Accolades. Staff Accolades is a University-wide program aiming to recognize the external accomplishments of Pitt staff in areas such as professional achievement, service, and leadership, beyond their University accomplishments. Submission forms can be completed for a single individual or groups of two or more. To learn more about Staff Accolades or how to submit a form, please visit Dental Central and click on the "Staff Accolades" button found in the right hand column. Stay tuned for more changes coming to Dental Central like the newly created Pitt Dental Medicine Bright Ideas section.
Pitt Dental Medicine Panther Praises
This month, the following staff members were recognized for embodying the characteristics of collectivity, community, collaboration, collegiality, and support. Ashley Tavella, in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, was recognized by Raechel Perlik for her kindness. "I started about 2 months ago; Ashley was my shadow. Ashley helped me with everything that I need to know. She made me feel like l’ve been here. She is an awesome co-worker and friend. Thank you for everything!" Cassie Cline Elyes, Department Administrator of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics, was recognized by Suzie Skumburdes for her support. "Thank you for being such an incredible support as I transitioned into my new role. Your constant availability, deep knowledge, and kindness made all the difference. I truly appreciate your patience and willingness to answer my many questions – and even more calls for help."
What You Need to Know About Summertime Snack Spots on Campus!
These options are available at the Rec Center on O'Hara Street.
Have questions about summer dining? Email pitteats@pitt.edu. For more information on summer dining, visit the dine on campus website >
Join Us in Welcoming the Newest Members of the Pitt Dental Medicine Community.
Danielette Horton Patient Experience Specialist, Clinical Affairs Eric Allen Patient Experience Specialist, Clinical Affairs Moira Geary Laboratory Research Technician, CCR Alyzeh Hassan Dental Assistant, UDHS Thomas Heupel Dental Laboratory Manager, Clinical Affairs Olivia Michl Patient Experience Specialist, Clinical Affairs Thaynara Rosario Dental Assistant, UDHS Ganesh Prabagaran Laboratory Research Tech, CCR
Upcoming Events
Memorial Day: May 25, 2026 (University Closed) Juneteenth: June 19, 2026 (University Closed) Independence Day: Observed July 3 (University Closed) White Coat Ceremony: August 21, 2026 Mission of Mercy (MOM): October 16-17, 2026 Be sure to check out the Dental Central calendar to see what other exciting events are coming up.
Credits:
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