Community outreach endeavors play a tremendous role in shaping the student dentists of the future. As part of S.M.I.L.E Week — Students Matriculating Into the Learning Experience — incoming first-year DMD students had the option to participate in a service project in the greater Lexington community. This was the first time that D1 students have had the opportunity to experience this level of service as an entire cohort before classes began. 

Students volunteering at the Hope Center worked in the community garden, which provides fresh, nutritious produce to feed over 800 men, women, and children each day. Casey Cairo, community relations manager expressed great appreciation for the help student dentists provided.

“This was a great way for students who are new to Lexington to learn about the Hope Center’s programs and services, and take an active role in feeding the homeless in our community,” Cairo said.

Students also volunteered at the American Cancer Society Hope Lodge, which provides a safe and supportive housing environment for cancer patients who travel to Lexington for treatment. Melissa Darsey, assistant manager of the Hope Lodge, says students went above and beyond their service duties.

“They were kind to every guest they came in contact with, and did their work with joy. We were blessed to have them with us and welcome them back anytime they wish,” Darsey said.

First-year DMD student Danielle Pikenpaugh described volunteering at the Hope Lodge as an eye-opening experience.

“Just 30 seconds walking distance from the football stadium, I would have never known that a peaceful, hopeful home existed for those undergoing treatment for cancer. I cannot wait to go back and serve again. The joy that exists there is contagious!” 

In addition to working with the Hope Center and ACS Hope Lodge, students socialized animals at the Lexington Humane Society, supported Habitat for Humanity ReStore, and baked sweet treats for patients and their families at the Ronald McDonald House.

S.M.I.L.E Week, an initiative of the UKCD Office of Academic and Student Affairs, was created with the University’s Four Pillars of Academic Success — belonging and engagement, health and wellness, academic success, and financial stability — in mind. It serves as an opportunity for incoming DMD students to familiarize themselves with the resources they need to succeed both inside and outside the classroom.

Through diverse outreach and service-learning opportunities, UK Dentistry seeks to foster an awareness of access to care issues in students, while allowing them to develop an altruistic, professional aspiration for volunteerism and social responsibility.