Networking Brilliance: 'Connections in Motion' Introduces the Class of 2025 to the Saskatchewan Dental Community

Designed to initiate professional connections between soon-to-be graduates of the Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD), Dental Assistant (DA), and Dental Therapy (DT) programs with dental practices from across the province, "Connections in Motion – A Speed Networking Experience" event proved again to be a resounding success.

With over 60 students in attendance, the event attracted a diverse range of dental offices from across Saskatchewan, including representatives from Yorkton in the east to Lloydminster in the west, Estevan in the South to Meadow Lake in the North as well as a strong contingent from Saskatoon. The participating dental offices had varied objectives, highlighting the evolving needs of the province’s dental industry. Some sought to recruit dental assistants and dental therapists to strengthen their existing teams, while others aimed to expand their practices by hiring DMD graduates. Meanwhile, some offices were focused on succession planning, looking for the next generation of dental professionals to someday take the reins.
Dr. Walter Siqueira, Dean of the College of Dentistry, reflected on the events growing impact: “One year ago, we introduced this event with the hope of fostering meaningful connections between our students and the broader dental community. The overwhelming success of that inaugural gathering made it clear that this was something special—an initiative that deserved to become an annual tradition. And here we are today, continuing that legacy.”

A Speed Networking Experience Like No Other
Modeled after a speed dating format, "Connections in Motion" provided a unique platform for meaningful interactions between students and dental professionals. The goal was simple yet effective: every student and dental office in attendance would have the opportunity to connect. With ‘elevator pitches’ at the ready, students had approximately four minutes to engage with each attending dental office before rotating to the next table. This rapid-paced format ensured that valuable conversations took place, setting the foundation for potential professional relationships. The students learned about each dental office, the positions they were hiring for while representatives from the dental offices learned about each soon-to-be dental professional.

A Generous Partnership
The success of the event was made possible through the generous sponsorship of Audi Saskatoon, which provided the venue at its main showroom at 803 Melville Street. The space was transformed into a vibrant networking hub, complete with carefully curated decor, refreshments, and seamless setup—all coordinated by Audi Saskatoon. Dr. Siqueira expressed his gratitude: “Everything, including the food, drinks, decor, and all of the setup, right down to the smallest detail, was supplied and coordinated by Audi Saskatoon. The commitment from Audi Saskatoon and the Wyant Group to fostering connections within the dental community is truly commendable.”


Building a Lasting Tradition
With the resounding success of its second year, "Connections in Motion" has firmly established itself as a key tradition in the College of Dentistry’s annual calendar. More than just an event, it has become a vital platform for networking, collaboration, and the continued growth of Saskatchewan’s dental community.
For those interested in learning more about this opportunity or future engagements with College of Dentistry students and faculty, please contact Anu Kashyap, Director of College Development, at anu.kashyap@usask.ca.