Graduation 2025 brings smiles to all
Several years of study and work led to success for 170 dental students, dental hygiene students and graduate students who earned their degrees May 25 from Texas A&M College of Dentistry in Dallas.
The procession was led by Teachers of the Year Dr. Amp W. Miller III, professor in the comprehensive dentistry department, and Professor Brandy S. Cowen, clinical assistant professor and clinic coordinator in the dental hygiene program. Student speakers included Justin Thamsorn, class president representing the dental students; Jennifer Truong, class president representing the dental hygiene students; and Dr. Athanasios Rigos, who represented the graduate students.
“This is a unique responsibility, and you are
reminded that although you have a degree and can
obtain a license to practice, it is an ephemeral gift
granted to you under public scrutiny,” Dr. Lily T. García, dean, told the students. “Your responsibility is a fragile privilege and an honor in order to earn the trust and take care of another person’s health. Please remember to covet this privilege, do not take it for granted; protect it and continue to learn throughout your professional life.”
Among the graduates is new dentist Daniel Hupp of Colleyville, who left the U.S. Marines after many years as an officer and joined the Navy to become a Navy dentist. In addition, Cristina Flores-Villarreal of Lewisville earned her bachelor’s degree in dental hygiene at the age of 58, making her the oldest in her class and possibly the oldest new graduate in the program’s history.
The dental college celebrates its 120th anniversary this year.
