College Hosts First Diversity in Leadership Event
On April 19, 2022, Dean Carroll Ann Trotman hosted the first of what will become an annual gathering: the College of Dentistry’s Diversity in Leadership Dinner and Networking Event. Designed to strengthen leadership at all levels within the college, the event was enjoyed by student organization presidents, administrators, and faculty and staff leaders.
“Our college is diverse and we have different perspectives on every problem and situation,” Dean Trotman said as she opened the event. “This range of perspectives helps us shape the college’s values and goals as leaders. This event is an opportunity for our student and college leaders to informally network, find things we have in common, discover ways we can work together, and learn from each other.”
Akil Houston, PhD, the college’s new assistant dean for diversity, equity and inclusion and chief diversity officer, discussed how a diverse dental office staff can positively impact patients’ experiences and help providers connect with their patients. “For those of you soon to complete your time in dental school, it is vital to think about how diversity and your ability to interact with different types of people will impact your careers. I am not just speaking about the interaction you may have with patients in your chair, but also about the lives you lead in the communities in which you serve and live.”
Third-year dental student David Campbell echoed Dr. Houston’s sentiments, describing how diversity in the college’s Admissions office impacted his decision to come to Ohio State. “Diversity can improve recruitment and retention of talented individuals, including those who may be future leaders in dentistry.” A first-generation college student, Mr. Campbell is president of Ohio State’s chapter of the Student National Dental Association, a participant in the college’s Commitment to Access Resources in Education—or CARE—program, and a recipient of the prestigious National Health Services Corps in the U.S. Health Resources and Services Administration Scholarship. When he graduates, Mr. Campbell intends to return home to Cleveland to provide care in an underserved community.