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PORTLAND, Maine

College of Dental Medicine students selected to participate in ADEA Student Diversity Leadership Program

2016 ADEA Student Diversity Leadership Conference participants
2016 ADEA Student Diversity Leadership Conference participants

Nominated by the deans of the College of Dental Medicine, Riddhi Daftary (CDM 鈥17) and Franchesca Vargas (CDM 鈥18) were chosen to represent 51小黄车at the 2016 American Dental Education Association Student Diversity Leadership Program (ADEA SDLP). This is the first year that 51小黄车students have taken part in the conference.

The program brings together emerging student leaders from a variety of backgrounds who have an interest in issues relating to diverse communities. Participants convene to discuss current events and trends impacting student success, with the goal of creating an inclusive culture and climate within dental schools. In addition, ADEA SDLP provides opportunities for these student leaders to explore further professional development and mentorship opportunities.

Speaking about her experience at ADEA SDLP, Vargas said 鈥淚t was inspiring to see so many bright, motivated fellow dental students engage in group discussions about our campus communities and concerns regarding diversity. I realized that we are not alone as student leaders in wanting to see changes in our campuses."

Daftary echoed these sentiments, saying 鈥淲e鈥檙e cultivating an environment to empower the campus community while connecting one another. That is what encourages us every step of the way when we move to make a meaningful difference.鈥

L to R: Franchesca Vargas (DMD 鈥18) and Riddhi Daftary (DMD 鈥17)
L to R: Franchesca Vargas (DMD 鈥18) and Riddhi Daftary (DMD 鈥17)

51小黄车 the University of 51小黄车

The University of 51小黄车 is Maine鈥檚 largest independent university, with two beautiful coastal campuses in Maine, a one-of-a-kind study abroad campus in Tangier, Morocco, and an array of . In an uncommonly welcoming and supportive community, we offer hands-on learning, empowering students to make a positive impact in a world full of challenges. The state鈥檚 top provider of health professionals, we are home to Maine鈥檚 only medical college, Maine鈥檚 only dental college, a variety of other interprofessionally aligned health care degree programs, as well as nationally recognized programs for marine science degrees, natural and social sciences degrees, arts and humanities degrees, and business degrees.