Commencement, 2003
A time of celebrations

Graduates, with their loved ones in the background, wait for their names to be called so that they may receive their diplomas during the May 25 graduation ceremonies. Graduation was held on the Loma Linda University campus mall. Note Prince Hall in the background with the 50th Anniversary banner.

One hundred fifty-six diplomas and certificates were presented during School of Dentistry commencement ceremonies on Sunday, May 25.

Year-end events leading up to commencement included the School Awards Chapel, the dental graduation banquet held at the Mission Inn in Riverside, and the dental hygiene pinning on Friday, May 23. The Baccalaureate Service for the Schools of Dentistry and Medicine was held during church services at the University Church, on May 24.

Harold C. Slavkin, DDS, dean, University of Southern California School of Dentistry, was the speaker for the commencement ceremonies. Dr. Slavkin's address was titled, "Poised for discovery."

During commencement, Richard H. Hart, MD, DrPh, chancellor, presented the University Alumnus of the Year Award to Alden B. Chase, DDS, MS, emeritus professor of orthodontics. Louis Venden, PhD, director, Center for Spiritual Life and Wholeness, received the Distinguished University Service Award.

During commencement ceremonies, two School Distinguished Service Awards were given. David Anderson, DDS, professor, dental anesthesiology, received the School Distinguished Service Award "for his continued support and contributions to the school." Mary Hartwell, dental clinics manager, was recognized for her spirit of generous service and years of dedication to the School.

Daniel Tan, DDS, professor, restorative dentistry, was chosen by faculty, staff, and students, to receive the Teacher of the Year Award.

Shawna Kirschenmann, president of the graduating class of dental hygiene, and Brian Dudar, president of the graduating dental class, presented the responses for graduates.

Graduating dental hygienists Sharika Boland and Rebecca Porch performed a duet, singing "In the Silence." Glenn DeLaRoca, SD'03, George Miranda and Marlon Daniel, SD'03 were joined by Daniel Lee and Jay Ignacio, friends from the School of Medicine, in a saxophone quartet.

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