Office of Student Development hosts open house

Texas A&M School of Dentistry’s Office of Student Development hosted an open house Nov. 28 to share its mission and celebrate the upcoming holiday season. Along with plenty of snacks and door prizes, party-goers also learned how Student Development ensures the success of the school and students.

Student Development manages the school’s Bridge to Dentistry Program, which aims to attract and recruit future dentists to the school. In particular, they recruit students from underserved populations into the profession. The office also offers current students testing accommodations, academic counseling and tutoring services. Following graduation, they encourage alumni to stay connected to the school and consider career paths in academia.

“The Office of Student Development is a vital part of this school,” said Dr. Ernestine Lacy, associate dean for the Office of Student Affairs. “Basically, they provide support and services for students from before they’re dental students to after they graduate, offering guidance all along the way. We have an amazing and passionate team, and we couldn’t do it without them.”

Dr. Kerin L. Burdette is director of the Office of Student Development, taking the position in September 2022. She’s worked at the school since 2016 and said in a previous interview that her current position is one she’s wanted for years. The department does a lot of good work, she said, all of which centers around building a community.

“Coming together is a beginning,” Burdette said. “Keeping together is progress. Working together is success.”