Stories of Change

On Thursday, September 4, the University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine (CU SDM) welcomed 49 guests to its annual event, held in the Fulginiti Pavilion at the Center for Bioethics and Humanities Building on the CU Anschutz campus. The evening brought together students, faculty, benefactors and community partners to celebrate the transformative power of philanthropy in dental education, research, patient care and community engagement. 

Scott Arthur, Vice Chancellor of Advancement at the CU Anschutz Medical Campus, opened the evening with welcoming remarks that set a tone of gratitude and inspiration. He emphasized the essential role of scholarships in shaping the future of dentistry and acknowledged the generosity of those who make these opportunities possible. 

Dean Denise Kassebaum, DDS, MS, opened the evening with a dynamic overview of the school’s mission and recent innovations, emphasizing the transformative role of philanthropy. She spotlighted groundbreaking research led by Jeff Stansbury, PhD, whose team is developing 3D-printed dentures with antimicrobial properties. These prosthetics offer a lifelike feel and can be easily reprinted, a game-changer for patients in long-term care. In patient care, Dean Kassebaum highlighted the CareFirst Initiative’s new clinic model, the integration of Overjet’s AI diagnostic tool and the heartwarming Paws for Smiles program, which brings therapy dogs like Sunshine — whom guests had an opportunity to meet earlier in the evening — into waiting rooms to comfort patients. 

Dean Kassebaum delivers her remarks in the Fulginiti Pavilion during the 2025
School of Dental Medicine Power of Philanthropy celebration.

A highlight of the evening was Clint Carlson’s engaging presentation on the school’s new AI Avatar technology, which is revolutionizing dental education and communication through interactive, intelligent learning tools. Dean Kassebaum also shared updates on the Advanced Clinical Training and Service (ACTS) Program, which continues to expand access to care across Colorado through partnerships with 21 organizations and more than 45 clinical sites and is supported by over 80 volunteer faculty preceptors. 

After her remarks, Dean Kassebaum introduced benefactor speaker Julie Collett of the Colorado Dental Association (CDA) Foundation. Ms. Collett reflected on the CDA Foundation’s 20-year partnership with CU SDM, which has provided over $100,000 in scholarships to 31 dental students. She shared the inspiring story of Kjeld Nelson, DDS, a past recipient who now serves on the CDAF board, exemplifying the lasting impact of scholarship support. Ms. Collett also highlighted the foundation’s broader efforts to advance oral health and support dental professionals through grants and wellness resources. 

The evening continued with remarks from dental student Stephanie Qi, who shared her personal journey into dentistry. Growing up in a multigenerational household, Qi was inspired by her grandmother’s experience with tooth loss and her mother’s sacrifice of a dental career after immigrating to the U.S. Qi spoke passionately about her desire to combine clinical practice with service and how scholarship support has empowered her to pursue her goals without financial strain. Her message underscored the profound influence of philanthropy on students’ lives and futures. 

CU School of Dental Medicine students Stephanie Qi and Rebekah Jacoby
with Trevor Williams and Elizabeth Ramos.

After hearing from all the speakers, guests were invited to tour the new Dental Advanced Simulation Hub (DASH), a state-of-the-art facility designed to enhance hands-on learning and clinical readiness. Dean Kassebaum shared her excitement about the DASH program, noting its role in preparing students for real-world practice through immersive simulation experiences. Students joined the tours to share insights and showcase the future of dental education. 

Touring the new Dental Advanced Simulation Hub (DASH) facility.

The reception concluded with mingling, refreshments and a shared sense of purpose. It was a night that celebrated generosity, innovation and the bright future of dentistry at CU.