Inaugural DPH Student Symposium Held at WesternU CDM Draws Regional Participation and National Recognition

Pomona, California – October 18, 2025 — The American Association of Public Health Dentistry (AAPHD) held its inaugural Dental Public Health (DPH) Student Symposium at the Western University of Health Sciences, College of Dental Medicine (WesternU CDM). The landmark event drew 84 attendees from three states and five universities, uniting future dental professionals under the theme: “Creating Pathways in Dental Public Health While Making a Difference.”

This full-day symposium, organized and hosted by the AAPHD Student Chapter at WesternU CDM and generously underwritten by both the AAPHD Foundation and the California Dental Association Foundation, provided students and emerging professionals with valuable insight into careers in dental public health, health equity, and leadership.

The agenda featured two dynamic panel discussions, two targeted presentations, and a nationally recognized keynote speaker, offering diverse perspectives and lived experiences from leaders in the field. The event spotlighted the real-world applications of public health in dentistry and emphasized the urgent need for innovation, compassion, and inclusion in the profession.

Speakers and panelists included:

MC:
Dr. Marisa Watanabe, DDS, MS, FIDC - WesternU CDM Associate Dean for Community Partnerships and Access to Care

Presenter:
Alicia Gordon, BA, Co-Presidents AAPHD Student Chapter at WesternU CDM
 
Moderators:            
Dr. Anna Chandsawangbhuwana, DDS  - WesternU CDM Pediatric Dentist
Dr. Krystle Rapisura, DMD, MS, FAAPD – WesternU CDM Assistant Dean for Community Patient Care

Panelists:                
Dr. Paula Ortega-Verdugo, D.D.S., M.S., Ph.D., Assistant Professor at UCLA School of Dentistry
Dr. Christina Demopoulos, DDS, MPH, Professor/Associate Dean at UNLV School of Dental Medicine
Dr. Abhi Thakkar, DDS, FICD, FACD, FPFA, Dental Director at Camarena Health
Dr. Arlet Arratonian, DDS, Chief Dental Officer at ParkTree Community Health Center

Seminar Speaker:
Dr. Jennifer Holtzman DDS, MPH,  Interim Executive Director at The Center for Oral Health 

Keynote Speaker:
Dr. Brian Novy, FACD, FADI, FICD.  

These distinguished professionals shared their journeys and expertise, inspiring attendees to consider the many impactful roles available in public health dentistry—from community-based care to academic leadership and policy advocacy.

The symposium marked a significant step in fostering collaboration among institutions and reinforcing the importance of public health in dental education and practice. The enthusiastic turnout and engaging dialogue underscored a growing momentum among students to integrate public health principles into their future dental careers.

As the first of its kind for AAPHD, this symposium sets a strong precedent for continued investment in student-led public health initiatives. AAPHD and its partners remain committed to empowering the next generation of dental public health leaders through mentorship, education, and community engagement.