Celebrating the achievements of the 2025 College of Dentistry graduates

The event celebrated the achievements of students from the College of Dentistry, who have successfully completed their rigorous programs and are now prepared to embark on their professional journeys. The ceremony honored 46 students earning their Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degrees, 34 students receiving their Dental Assisting Certificates, and another 6 students earning their Bachelor of Science degrees as well as one PhD.

Dr. Greg Kost, Interim Assistant Dean, Clinics, highlights that convocation is not only the completion of students’ academic journey but marks a transition saying, "We now transition from professors, instructors and students - to colleagues and friends.” Dr. Kost noted how proud he is of each and every student saying, “I am comforted and reassured in knowing that the public is in the capable hands of the DMD and DA class of 2025”.

Terrie Donald, the Academic Director of the Dental Assisting program, shared her thoughts on the day's significance: "We celebrated not just the achievements of our students, but the dedication and effort they've shown throughout their studies. I am proud and honored to participate in the culmination of the students' success."

Gold Medal Award Winner
The highlight of the convocation ceremony was the presentation of the College of Dentistry’s prestigious Gold Medal Award, given to the student with the highest overall four-year academic standing. This year, the honor was awarded to Kristen Diakow, recognizing her exceptional academic achievements and dedication throughout her studies.

Dr. Kristen Diakow and Dr. Walter Siqueira. Photo: Dave Stobbe

Voices from the Graduates
The day was filled with joy and anticipation as graduates reflected on their journeys and looked ahead to their futures. Liam Kerr expressed his excitement, stating that “convocation is the culmination of 7 years of hard work…and it couldn’t be a beautiful day to have it on” He looks forward to working at the same dental office that he went to as a boy, adding, “It’s full circle!”

Madeline Sills, a graduate of the Dental Assisting program, emphasized the importance of the clinical experience she received, which she believes will be key to her long-term success. "It gave us an understanding of what it will be like in private practice," she noted. Ava Wotypka agreed, saying that working on real patients alongside DMD’s was invaluable in her training.

For DMD graduate Valerian Igbelina, the extensive clinical experience provided by the USask program was particularly noteworthy. He expressed appreciation for the hands-on training, saying the program, “has so well prepared him for the real world.” Similarly, Annie Pham highlighted the value of patient interactions during her training, stating that the depth of training was invaluable giving her, “a solid foundation to begin working as a dentist.”

DMD students preparing for convocation processional. Photo: Dave Stobbe

Best Wishes for the Future
As the graduates embark on their new careers, faculty members extend heartfelt congratulations and words of wisdom. Dr. Amrinderbir Singh expresses his wishes for the graduates, encouraging them to continue learning and growing, and to approach their work with empathy and integrity. "My heartfelt wish for these graduates is to carry forward the knowledge, skills, and compassion they have cultivated here. May they continue to learn and grow, embracing every challenge as an opportunity to excel. I hope they use their abilities to bring health and happiness to those they care for, making a lasting, positive impact on countless lives."

Dr. Kost adds, “Enjoy this moment. It was a pleasure to teach all of you and I wish each and every one of the DMD and DA class of 2025 happiness, health and success in your personal and professional life.” Terrie Donald echoed these sentiments, hoping for the graduates to “find fulfilling careers in the dental field”.
Dr. Walter Siqueira advises the graduates to see this milestone not as an end but as the beginning of a lifelong journey. "Graduation is not the end; it's just the beginning. As you move forward, remember to always stay curious, keep learning, and most importantly, approach your work with empathy and integrity. Your success will be measured not just by your skills, but by the positive impact you have on your patients' lives."

Looking Ahead
As the 2025 graduates of the College of Dentistry step into their future roles, they carry with them the values and education imparted by the University of Saskatchewan. Their journey, marked by this significant achievement, promises to bring advancements and compassionate care to the field of dentistry. The leadership and faculty of the College of Dentistry looks forward to witnessing the continued success and contributions of its graduates, confident that they will uphold the highest standards of their profession and make meaningful impacts in their communities for many years to come.