Pediatric dentist puts student interests first

October 19, 2004

Pediatric dentist puts student interests first

	The 2004 Rosemary Gill Awards recognize outstanding commitment to student service. Today we are introducing Dr. Donald Cunningham, of the Faculty of Dentistry, in the first of a four-part series.

Dr. Donald Cunningham's most recent volunteer activity as a co-chair of 'See Differently,' Dalhousie's first open house in more than a decade, speaks volumes about his dedication to the campus community.

Indeed, he has served the Dalhousie community for over thirty years, currently as Dentistry's Assistant Dean for Student Affairs and as Director of Clinics.

"He inspires students to strive toward being the best that they can be," according to dentistry students Jessica McMilland and Michelle Power. Many generations of dentistry and dental hygiene students have benefited from his expertise as a pediatric dentist.

"In all his dealings with students he is fair, compassionate, professional and very patient. The students probably see him as a father figure, says Helen Ryding, Associate Dean for Academic Affairs in Dentistry. "He not only provides support but at times also challenges them as adult learners and junior members of the professions of dentistry or dental hygiene."

His leadership at a local and national level is demonstrated by developing a new standardized admissions interview for Dalhousie, which has been accepted by the Canadian Dental Association.

Dr. Cunningham's interest in ethics and professionalism will have a lasting impact on future students, by involving current students in decision making, specifically engaging them to develop professional guidelines.