2026 AAPHD Student Symposium

Welcome / General Session

Dr. Michelle Henshaw, Boston University Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine
Nicole Leonardo, DMD ‘27, AAPHD Student Chapter at BU President
David Peña, Jr., AAPHD Executive Director

Panel Discussion #1: Beyond the Clinic: Shaping Oral Health Through Public Health Careers

Moderator:

Dr. Mary Tavares, Boston University Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine

Panelists:

Dr. McAllister Castelaz, Wisconsin Department of Health Services

Dr. Precious Ettah,  ADEA, Director of Faculty Engagement and Research Analytics

Dr. Donna Hackley, retired, Harvard School of Dental Medicine

Dr. Matthew Horan, Founder & Principal Consultant, Horan Consulting LLC

Interested in making an impact beyond individual patient care? This dynamic panel will explore the diverse career pathways available to future dental professionals in public health at the state and federal levels. Learn how opportunities in research, dental public health residencies, policy development, government agencies, and Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) can influence oral health outcomes for entire communities. Panelists will share their career journeys, discuss the skills needed to succeed in public health settings, and highlight how dentists can become leaders in advancing health equity, expanding access to care, and shaping the future of oral health policy. Whether you're considering a residency, a research-focused career, or community-based practice, this session will provide valuable insight into how you can create meaningful change on a larger scale.

Panel Discussion #2: Oral Health in Underserved Areas: Challenges & Opportunities in Dentistry

Moderator:

Dr. Catherine Hayes, Harvard School of Dental Medicine

Panelists:

Dr. Bethy Turton, Boston University, Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine

Dr. Kadambari Rawal, Boston University, Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine

Dr. Helen Nguyen, Pediatric Dental Resident

Dr. Tara Prasad, Boston Healthcare for the Homeless Program

Dr. Christine Riedy, Harvard School of Dental Medicine

Access to quality oral healthcare remains a significant challenge for many underserved communities, including rural populations, low-income families, and historically marginalized groups. This panel will explore the barriers that contribute to oral health disparities, such as workforce shortages, financial constraints, geographic limitations, and social determinants of health. Panelists representing a range of practice settings will discuss innovative approaches to expanding access to care, improving health outcomes, and addressing the unique needs of underserved populations. Attendees will gain insight into the critical role dentists play in advancing health equity, as well as the professional and personal opportunities that come with serving communities in need. Through shared experiences and practical perspectives, this discussion will inspire future dental professionals to become advocates for accessible, patient-centered oral healthcare.

Featured Speaker: Trailblazing: Leadership, Advocacy, and Career Lessons

Renée W. Joskow, D.D.S., M.P.H., D.Sc.h.c

Join nationally recognized public health leader Renee Joskow as she shares her professional journey, leadership experiences, and the lessons that have shaped her impactful career. Through stories of service, advocacy, mentorship, and innovation, Dr. Joskow will offer valuable insights for students seeking to develop their leadership skills and make a meaningful difference in oral health. This featured presentation is an opportunity to learn from a distinguished leader whose career exemplifies the power of dedication, collaboration, and lifelong service.

Voices for Change: Advocacy and the National Issues Shaping Dentistry

Voices for Change: Advocacy and the National Issues Shaping Dentistry

Join Dr. Kathryn Rothas, D.D.S. – Chair of the AAPHD Council on Policy & Advocacy for an engaging discussion on the key national issues influencing the future of dentistry and oral health care. This presentation will explore current policy challenges, legislative priorities, and advocacy efforts that affect dental professionals, patients, and communities across the country. Attendees will gain insight into the role of advocacy in advancing oral health equity, expanding access to care, and shaping the future of the profession. Whether you are new to advocacy or looking to deepen your involvement, this session will highlight how dental students and professionals can become effective voices for change at the local, state, and national levels.

Leading the Way: Insights & Innovations from AAPHD Chapter Leaders 

Moderators:

Mya Leonardo, DMD ’29, AAPHD Student Chapter at BU, Education Committee Chair 

Alizah Tariq, DMD ’29, AAPHD Secretary

Join AAPHD chapter leaders from across the country as they showcase the initiatives, programs, and successes that are making an impact on their campuses and communities. In a series of engaging 10–15 minute presentations, student leaders will share innovative projects, lessons learned, advocacy efforts, community outreach experiences, and strategies for building strong public health-focused organizations. This session offers a unique opportunity to learn from your peers, exchange ideas, and discover practical approaches that can be adapted to strengthen your own chapter and leadership journey. Whether you're a current leader, aspiring officer, or passionate advocate for public health dentistry, you'll leave inspired by the creativity, collaboration, and impact of fellow AAPHD members.

Closing Session / Door Prizes

Nicole Leonardo, DMD ’27, AAPHD Student Chapter at BU President 

David Pena, Jr., AAPHD Executive Director