Across generations, alumni reconnect at HSDM
Alumni returned to campus to reconnect with classmates and celebrate milestone reunions
Classmates and lifelong friends reunited at the Harvard School of Dental Medicine (HSDM) on June 5 and 6 for the School's annual Alumni Days and Reunion. The celebration welcomed more than 80 graduates from across the decades, including those marking their 5-to-60-year reunions.
Throughout the weekend, alumni gathered to reconnect with former classmates, exchange professional experiences, and reflect on the relationships and memories that have endured long after graduation. The program combined opportunities for learning and discussion with moments of recognition and celebration, highlighting both the accomplishments of alumni and the lasting strength of the HSDM community. For many attendees, the event offered a chance to return to campus, revisit familiar spaces, and strengthen connections with fellow graduates from across generations.
“This is one of my favorite days of the year. The tight-knit, supportive nature of this school was part of what brought me back to serve as Dean, and I love seeing it grow stronger,” remarked Dean William Giannobile.
“We haven’t seen each other in 40 years. We’re rekindling our friendship today. It’s very, very important.”
HDAA leadership transition
The program opened with the annual meeting of the Harvard Dental Alumni Association (HDAA), where outgoing president Mindy Greenblatt Streem, DMD05, welcomed alumni back to campus and reflected on the importance of staying connected to the HSDM community.
"My goal as president is to bring alumni together. I am delighted to welcome you to the Harvard School of Dental Medicine, for a celebration of alumni and friends during Alumni Day and Reunion weekend.”
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Outgoing HDAA President Mindy (center) poses with former president Miguel Rogue, DMD16, MMSc19, (left) and incoming president Adesegun “Shola” Tewogbade, DMD04.
Distinguished Alumni Award recognizes leadership and impact
A highlight of the celebration was the presentation of the Distinguished Alumni Award to Shahid Aziz, DMD96, in recognition of his leadership in advancing care for patients with cleft lip and palate conditions, craniofacial differences, and complex maxillofacial conditions.
A career shaped by mentorship and service
Shahid Aziz, DMD96, was recognized during Alumni Days & Reunion for his contributions to craniofacial care and surgical education. His journey reflects the lasting impact of mentorship, friendship, and a commitment to improving patients' lives.
“I’m overwhelmed by this honor. It’s been 30 years since I graduated, and I never would have imagined standing here today,” said Aziz. “This is an amazing place. We’ve talked about mentorship, and that’s how I got to where I am.”
Exploring the future of dental care
The day included a fireside chat featuring Dean William Giannobile and Streem, followed by the Alumni Day Symposium—The Future of Dental Care: Incubation, Innovation, and Impact.
The symposium brought together alumni entrepreneurs Leela Breitman, DMD21, CEO and co-founder of My Dental Key; Alfred Griffin III, MMSc17, CEO and founder of LightForce Orthodontics; and David T. Wu, DMD, DMSc23, program director of Advanced Graduate Periodontology and assistant professor of Oral Medicine, Infection, and Immunity.
Celebrating milestones across generations
As milestone reunion classes gathered alongside recent graduates, Alumni Days and Reunion highlighted the lasting impact of the HSDM experience. The weekend celebrated not only professional accomplishments, but also the shared commitment to advancing oral health, supporting future generations of students, and strengthening the School's global alumni network.
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