College of
Dentistry
RECALL
usask.ca/dentistry
RECALL
1
Message Dean
from the
Dr. Gerry Uswak
What comes first, the chicken or the egg?
Strange way to begin a Recall message,
I know, but stay with me, there is a point to this!
Since university and college development is a central function
of higher education, let’s start with an explanation. What is
development? Well, lets look at the definition we use here
at the U of S.
Development’s role is to encourage and obtain philanthropic
support for the university. The office works in partnership with
academic and development colleagues throughout the university to build enduring relationships not only with our community
of alumni, but also with other individuals, private business and
foundations. This is accomplished through a combination of
resources embedded in the colleges and units and/or support
from central programs: annual giving, planned giving,
corporate relations, principal giving and major gifts.
So in this context development means fundraising, and it has
become a significant part of what we do in order to keep our
own college moving forward.
Some examples of current North American endowment
resources:
On that occasion, Dr. Floyd Puchala, D.MD/88, raised this: When we
raise and contribute money from our own College alumni, doesn’t
the University then claw back hare of the funding it gives us by
that amount or more?
Harvard University
32 billion (USD)
Yale University
20 billion (USD)
The short answer is, NO.
University of Toronto
1.88 billion (CND)
McGill University
1.27 billion (CND)
University of British Columbia
1.16 billion (CND)
University of Alberta
1.00 billion (CND)
University of Manitoba
431 million (CND)
University of Saskatchewan
250 million (CND)
University—level decisions to reduce our college’s funding are
independent of our own fundraising initiatives and results. In
other words, if our college raises a million dollars, the university
won’t cut its funding to us by that amount. However, that doesn’t
change the fact that the college has been asked to reduce its
budget over the years and that doesn’t sit well with anyone here.
Unfortunately, that has been and will continue to be a major issue
for us unless we are able to change to demonstrate that we are
performing financing like and as well as all other colleges at the
University of Saskatchewan.
So, why am I bringing up fundraising and development?
graduate), do research, and translate our teaching and research
in ways to improve society. Here at the College of Dentistry we
have always provided above-average dental education. That is
confirmed by our graduates’ being in demand as associates across
this country and their success in being accepted into graduate
program and more than any other health science college on this
campus, our students provide direct care to Saskatchewan residents. However, we do not have any graduate programs (except
for our post-graduate general practice residency program), nor do
we undertake much research. Until we do, we will always be under
threat.
So, what is the deal with the chicken or the egg?
It has been expressed by more than a few alumni that until the
university and the province commit to matching dollars raised
from alumni to fund renewal of our clinical infrastructure, they
themselves will not donate.
Here is the university’s mission statement:
Government does not fund 100 percent of university operations,
so universities and colleges need to raise money independent of
government funding.
You may be familiar with one such way of raising these monies,
namely through the concept of university endowments. Donors
give money and universities invest that money to earn interest
for funding projects.
The College of Dentistry
2
Many of you will have met Stacey Schewaga, our college’s leadership Giving and Donor Relations Officer. Her job is to engage
alumni & friends and raise money to fund projects to improve the
college. Recently, Stacey was in Yorkton and was asked a really
good question by one of our alumni. This question was so good,
in fact, that I asked permission to use both it and the name of the
person who asked it, because this question has come up before
and maybe it is time to provide an answer for everyone.
The University of Saskatchewan belongs to the people of Saskatchewan. As an academic community, our mission is to achieve excellence in the scholarly activities of teaching, discovering, preserving
and applying knowledge.
Accordingly all university colleges and their faculty members are
expected to deliver high quality teaching (undergraduate and
The reality is that it does not matter if we are the chicken or the
egg. To get the university’s and the government’s attention, what
really matters is that we have to be first in demonstrating that our
alumni and stakeholders care enough about us by enabling us to
amass a significant amount of the donations required to accomplish any particular project which are, most immediately, graduate programs and significant research. Then, and only then, our
dreams might be taken seriously.
RECALL
3
Message
from the
Associate Dean
Dr. Ken Sutherland
THE COLLEGE OF
DENTISTRY
2013-14 was one for the ages, perhaps the most tumultuous, unprecedented
University of Saskatchewan
Room 332
Dental Clinic Building
105 Wiggins Road
Saskatoon SK S7N 5E4
year in the history of our university. Last fall, all colleges were fully invested
in the TransformUS process, an all-encompassing review of the U of S;
its priorities, programs, processes and finances.
Dean:
Dr. Gerry Uswak
Associate Dean:
Dr. Ken Sutherland
Assistant Dean:
Dr. Reg Anholt
note:
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via e-mail, please send your
updated e-mail address to
andrea.storoschuk@usask.ca
University of Saskatchewan Printing Services
The College of Dentistry
4
If you read something in this issue of RECALL that you would like to respond to, please send
your comments to Andrea Storoschuk at the address right or andrea.storoschuk@usask.ca
Although we proposed innovative options for
the College of Dentistry, we found ourselves
facing the mandate of becoming a School
of Dentistry within the College of Medicine,
which would have meant no longer having
our own dean and losing half of our net
funding from the base budget. Changes in
senior leadership halted these plans.
creative initiatives to address these issues
while positioning ourselves to flourish going
forward.
Interim President Gordon Barnhart and Interim Provost Ernie Barber are experienced, capable leaders who calmed the controversy almost immediately. They have established new
directions for the University, an atmosphere of
co-operation and consultation, and a pathway
to a peaceful and productive future.
The college has identified a well qualified
candidate to be ADR. We are in the midst of
establishing an offer. While an ADR alone will
not make us instantly research intensive, it is
the critical first step in the process.
Our plans include the hiring of our first ever
associate dean, research (ADR), introducing a
unique "3 + 1" curriculum and establishing a
full cost recovery program.
However, dentistry cannot be complacent as
a college. Change happens no matter what.
We can allow it to be imposed on us or we can
seize the opportunity to adapt it to our best
interests. The status quo is not an option. Our
future is in jeopardy. Over the past quarter
century there have been three campus-wide
reviews. The first two recommended closure
of dentistry and the most recent would
probably have led to a similar fate. Should we
not respond in a dynamic, responsible and
productive manner, we put our very future in
jeopardy.
The "3 + 1" curriculum would be a three year,
year-round DMD granting program, followed
by a "residency" year in which students would
gain experience in private practices, longterm care facilities, community clinics or other
residency programs prior to being eligible for
licensure. It would be the only program of its
kind anywhere, perhaps inspiring a quantum
transfiguration in undergraduate dental
education. Our "3+ 1" graduates would be
the best prepared to meet the challenges
inherent in a dental career. From an historical
perspective, this could conceivably prepare
our graduates as well as the original five-year
program, yet be accomplished in four years.
Our strength is being a productive clinical
program. Our weaknesses include: a lack of
research intensity, lack of a unique, leading
edge program to differentiate us from the
pack and a lack of sustainable funding. This
is not a time to complain. It is a time for bold,
Full cost recovery will be addressed in a
variety of ways: increasing tuition for the
first three years, offset by a stipend during
the residency year which would make total
net tuition costs less than it is today; leasing
equipment to students; partnering with
the College of Dental Surgeons to provide
continuing education for Saskatchewan
dentists and other revenue generation
initiatives.
Are these plans ambitious? Yes. Will they
happen without debate, commitment and
change? No. Bottom line: anything less than
a reformation exposes our college to an
uncertain future. Nothing worthwhile comes
easy. Dentistry has avoided the inevitable for
decades. Change is coming and it is far better
to control and direct the process than to have
it dictated externally.
We will need the ingenuity and support
from our faculty, staff, students and alumni
to accomplish these initiatives. They will
change who we are as a college and how we
are perceived by academia, future students,
legislators, the profession and the public. We
will continue to reap the dividends of this
investment for years to come.
“There is a tide in the affairs of men.
Which, taken at the flood, leads on to fortune;
Omitted, all the voyage of their life
Is bound in shallows and in miseries.
On such a full sea are we now afloat,
And we must take the current when it serves,
Or lose our ventures.”
[Shakespeare]
RECALL
5
Message
from the
Assistant Dean,
IT IS MY PLEASURE TO PUBLICLY ACKNOWLEDGE
Clinical Affairs
THE EXTENSIVE COMMITMENT OF
Dr. Reg Anholt
Dr. Peter Konchak
As readers are well aware, we recently moved
to a Comprehensive CARE model. I believe this
was the right decision. As a professional, I firmly
believe that the best interests of the patient
should always trump the “business of dentistry,”
whether that business be a student’s need for
learning specific/particular procedures or a
health practitioner’s desire for profit. However,
unarguably one resulting fact is: for most
educational institutions, the transition to this
model has resulted in fewer student experiences!
to our College of Dentistry.
Before
Thanks to our alumni in private practice
providing the college with limited procedures in
endodontics, removable, and crown and bridge
work in much the same way as you would make
a referral to a specialist, we have been able to maintain our high
standards in numerical requirements that I dare say are second to
none in North America.
Following are a couple of examples stemming from Comprehensive
CARE model applications that I would like to share with you.
Ashley Sproat (class of 2015) had the privilege of providing dentures
to this 107—year-old lady, whose desire was to satisfy some simple
pleasures of life, like smiling and enjoying a good meal. She
faithfully showed up for every appointment (and as we know, that
can be many in dental school!). Recently, she returned for her sixmonth follow up visit . . . Wow!
Michelle Wittal’s (class of 2014) patient was thrilled with the result from
a multi-disciplinary treatment; $8,000 of treatment at our discounted
fees (and another student completed $10,000 treatment plan)!
After
The dental specialties have stepped up by providing clinical
procedures including crown lengthening, gingival grafts, facial pain,
and more complex endodontics as well as prosthetic cases including
implants. These opportunities have offered high-achieving students
an enhanced clinical education. And the fact is, many students
achieve the minimum competencies early. To keep them engaged,
we have resurrected a form of the “option program” that many from
the five-year program will remember
Till next time,
Reg
Remember . . . .
learn from the best . . . .
to be the best that you can be . . . .
for the best of your patients!
S pe c ial
thank you
(L:-R) Dean Uswak and Dr. Wilson
The College of Dentistry
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(L-R) Dr. Sutherland and Dr. Wilson
On September 18, 2014, the college recognized Dr.
Thomas W. Wilson, MD, FRCPC, for many valuable
contributions to the College of Dentistry. Dr. Wilson
retired this June and the college wanted to say
congratulations and thank you. He had been a faculty
member at the University of Saskatchewan since 1973
and had taken part in clinical care, teaching and research.
Dr. Uswak, faculty, staff and students were in attendance
that day as well as some of his former students, namely,
Drs. Sutherland, Packota, Kolbinson and Monteith. The
college presented Dr. Wilson with an appreciation
plaque and cake was served to everyone in attendance.
A dental graduate of the University of Toronto in the mid‘60s, Dr. Konchak originally trained and served as a pediatric
dentist in Europe before returning to the University of Alberta
to obtain a post-graduate degree in orthodontics in 1981.
He has since been in a full-time faculty role at the University
of Saskatchewan, for a total of 33 years. Over this period
he was a great asset not only to our dental college but also
to numerous other thankful recipients of his professional
time. Outside of his duties on faculty, Dr. Konchak regularly
contributed to the Saskatoon Health Region (i.e. cleft lip and
palate team), the University of Saskatchewan (e.g. University
Council), and various other organizations locally, provincially
and nationally (e.g. Canadian Association of Orthodontists).
Dr. Konchak also donated a significant amount of time to me
personally throughout my progression to my current position
within the profession. I am sure other students-turnedpractitioners can say the same, but for me, his generosity was
quite special and cannot be overstated.
During his tenure at the U of S, Dr. Konchak was nominated
for and received various teaching awards including the W. W.
Wood Award for Excellence in Dental Education, sponsored
by the Association of Canadian Faculties of Dentistry. He
received funding from the Saskatchewan Health Research
Board, produced numerous technical reports, and lectured
extensively within both the college and the wider orthodontic
community. Additionally, Dr. Konchak ran a very respectable
private practice which included casework in both Saskatoon
and Regina. His patients loved the personal attention they
received, not to mention the spectacular outcomes.
Related to academics, Dr. Konchak must be specifically
commended for his distinctive vision of what should comprise
an undergraduate orthodontic curriculum. He was routinely
selfless (and, as I'm sure he would admit, often by himself) in
his philosophy that a dental student should be instructed in,
and exposed to, ALL aspects of orthodontics in order to gain a
complete perspective of the discipline. He saw this approach
as critically important not only so that the new general dentist
could understand what his/her patient undergoing complex
orthodontics was experiencing, but also so that many of the
subtle difficulties of orthodontic treatment planning and
mechanics could be demonstrated or even experienced. The
end goal of this vision was an intimate understanding of the
importance of a thorough diagnosis, a careful and precise
treatment plan, and, most importantly, proper case selection
should the student elect to perform full fixed treatment
in his/her office. Unlike a root canal that might go astray,
orthodontics is a bit harder to pass along to a specialist halfcompleted, especially if the treatment plan is imperfect from
the outset.
Dr. Konchak felt strongly that our students deserve better
than "You don't know what you don't know" when it came
to orthodontics. As a graduate of our extensive orthodontic
program in dental school – one of only a few in North
America to provide full braces treatment, let alone treatment
with extractions – I can say without hesitation that he
crafted the most comprehensive, and quite simply the best,
undergraduate orthodontic curricula that I have ever been
made aware of. I was incredibly well prepared for my postgraduate training, and principally have him to thank for the
feeling of comfort that accompanied my continued learning
and research.
As of this past summer, Peter has officially hung up his lab
coat and is no longer teaching or treating cases privately.
His final few months at the University were anything but a
decrescendo: I think many would agree that he worked even
longer and harder than usual to ensure that all aspects of his
cherished program were in safekeeping (yes, even including
his once-revolutionary DOS-based lateral ceph tracing
software and hardware). I am now privileged to succeed
such a passionate lecturer and careful, respectful clinician.
I have learned a great amount from Dr. Konchak and intend
to continue to share many of his theories, his stories, and the
instilled elements of his gentle-giant persona for years to
come.
I strive to do Dr. Konchak proud and I thank him (not
unlike how I thank my family) for his endless support of my
directions.
Peter, enjoy your growing family, your dog, your health, and
your beautiful cabin!
- respectfully submitted by Devon Anholt
RECALL
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“The
College of Dentistry
JANET SKLARCHUK
is my life.”
Janet with Saskatchewan Roughrider Scott McHenry
Janet and former student Dustin Satre
S =
SUPERWOMAN: Janet was the living version of the flying Superwoman she had hanging from the ceiling in her
office. Capable, multi-talented; whatever you needed, she provided.
K=
KNOWLEDGEABLE: The Dean’s Office is the nerve centre of our college. If you wanted to know what was going on
or how to most effectively accomplish almost anything within the university, you just asked Janet, the gold standard in
executive assistants.
L=
LOYALTY: Janet Sklarchuk faithfully served the University of Saskatchewan for 30 years, the past 15 as executive
assistant to the dean of dentistry. There are very few people you meet in a lifetime who have her heart, compassion,
and loyalty. She is your friend through thick and thin. She will be a friend to the college forever.
A=
ATTRIBUTES: She is Saskatchewan through and through: generous, welcoming and dedicated to a fault. Under her
guidance, Recall evolved from a newsletter of a few typed pages to a work of art, information and inspiration. She
became the heart, soul and face of our college, universally admired and appreciated.
R=
RELIABILITY: Always on time, always capable, always caring, always giving her best. She turned the lights on in
the morning and turned them off when she left at the end of the day. R IS ALSO FOR # 1 ROUGH RIDER FAN!
C=
CARING, CONSIDERATE, AND (VERY OCCASIONALLY) CRUSTY (NOBODY’S PERFECT; ERGO THE SAYING
“IF JANNIE ANNIE AIN’T HAPPY, AIN’T NOBODY HAPPY:” Janet has always maintained a special relationship
Janet and faculty (L –R) Back Row: Drs. Allen, Packota, Sutherland, Hedayat, Konchak Anholt Jr.
(L-R) Middle Row: Drs.Ochoa, Otero, Uswak (Dean), Anholt Sr., Lannigan
(L-R) Front Row: Dr. Zerehgar, Janet, Alyssa Hayes
with “her” students. Many return after graduation just to visit her; many refer to her as “my second mom;” many
invite her to their weddings. The extensive response to her caring and respect is as rare as it is admirable. Janet always
participated wholeheartedly in college functions often adding her special touch to the occasion. She served as a
confidant, as well as a birthday-celebration scheduler and flower provider for special occasions.
Response by Janet
On April 11, 2014, at one of the most anticipated
H=
HUMILITY: Janet would do anything and everything for anybody and everybody. She was always the first to
volunteer, as loyal and selfless as any human being could possibly be. Yet she doesn’t believe she is special,
and had to be coerced into allowing the college hold a special day to honour her.
U=
UNBELIEVABLE: Ubiquitous, unassuming, unpretentious, understanding, understated, unequal, unfailing,
unique, upbeat. U go girl!
K=
KINDNESS: Janet helped and supported everyone who crossed her path. She was always looking out for the
best interests of others, always understanding and empathetic, always compassionate and supportive.
events of the academic year, Janet Sklarchuk
was acknowledged and roasted by students,
staff, faculty, alumni, friends and guests in a
fond and heartfelt expression of gratitude and
appreciation for her exceptional and long-time
contribution to the college. When asked how
she managed to give so much for so long, she
Janet and Class of 2014
simply and profoundly said: The College of
Dentistry is my life.
Janet’s contributions were always above and beyond
expectations, so much that at her farewell reception, the
college unveiled the Janet Sklarchuk Above & Beyond Award,
replete with her bobblehead mounted on it. The award will
continue to recognize exceptional contributions from staff to
the College of Dentistry. Unarguably there is no more worthy
initial recipient than Janet, the first-ever “Jannie.”.
What is a Sklarchuk? A simple question, whose
very complex answer is attempted below
using the letters of her last name to describe a
remarkable human being and friend who has
added immeasurably over the course of her
career to both the college as a whole and also
They simply don’t come any more accomplished, more allinclusive or more loved. She’s one of a kind; the godmother
to our individual lives.
Tribute to Janet by Dean Gerry Uswak
The College of Dentistry
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of the college; the best BFF anyone could ever hope to have.
Janet, this tribute in Recall is not a farewell. It is not the end of
anything. It is a new beginning for you, a beginning you have
more than earned over the years, the opportunity to continue
to share your unique gifts. You will remain an integral part of
the fabric of our college forever.
As the Eagles sing, You can check out any time you like, but you
will never leave [our college and our hearts]. To send back the line
you so often threw out to us, “You are the best!”
Tribute to Janet by Acting Dean Ken Sutherland
RECALL
9
Spotlight on the
AMANDA BEAUDRY
Desired locations to work
upon graduation: Saskatchewan.
Hobbies: travelling, dance
Contact: alb659@mail.usask.ca
RYAN EOM
Desired locations to work
upon graduation: within a
two-hour drive from Toronto.
Hobbies: food, tennis
Contact: ryan.eom@usask.ca
FARRAH HASANIE-TALIC
Desired locations to work
upon graduation: Saskatoon area
Hobbies: reading, watching
movies and traveling
Contact: faa812@mail.usask.ca
ANOKHI PATEL
Desired locations to work
upon graduation: Regina,
Saskatoon or Calgary
Hobbies: travelling, reading,
basketball, playing guitar
Contact: app096@mail.usask.ca
Class of
2015!
DYAR BIKEY
Desired locations to work upon graduation:
Saskatchewan, Northern Canada
Hobbies: cycling, running, surfing, reading
Contact: dyb392@mail.usask.ca
CHRIS GOUDY
Desired locations to work upon
graduation: Rural locations between
Calgary and Saskatoon
Hobbies: sports, fitness, friends, family
Contact: ctgoudy@gmail.com
COREY HAYWARD
Desired locations to work upon
graduation: Calgary and surrounding area,
Edmonton and surrounding area, smaller
centres outside Saskatoon
Hobbies: travelling, sports, music
Contact: coreyhayward@sasktel.net
SARAH PAUL
Desired locations to work
upon graduation: Western Canada
Hobbies: travelling to new places, spending
time at Waskesiu Lake with friends and family,
knitting and [very] slowly learning to play guitar
Contact: sap065@mail.usask.ca
Unarguably, the College of Dentistry at the University of Saskatchewan graduates some of
the best students in the country. Here are a few who are currently exploring opportunities
for post-graduation employment. Feel free to contact them for further information.
ANAPAULA CAMPOS
Desired locations to work upon graduation:
Saskatoon, Victoria, Edmonton, Regina
Hobbies: soccer, guitar, singing, travelling
Contact: acampos@live.ca
IAN CHANG
Desired locations to work upon graduation:
any location in Canada that’s within
30 driving minutes of a photography studio.
Hobbies: wedding and fashion photography,
modelling
Contact: idc215@mail.usask.ca
KANDACE GRENIER
Desired locations to work upon graduation:
Prince Albert, Saskatoon or surrounding area
Hobbies: playing sports and
spending time at the lake with family
Contact: kdg803@mail.usask.ca
SIMON HAIMANOT
Desired locations to work upon
graduation: Saskatoon area
Hobbies: playing basketball, football, soccer,
watching any/all sports and travelling
Contact: Skh823@mail.usask.ca
BESHMI KULARATNE
Desired locations to work upon graduation:
Saskatchewan/Western Canada
Hobbies: travelling, reading, and anything to
do with the outdoors (unless I’m volunteering
or a football/basketball game is on.
Contact: bek589@mail.usask.ca
MIRANDA MARK
Desired locations to work upon graduation:
Western Canada/Saskatchewan
Hobbies: recreational sports, music
performance/composition (piano, ukulele,
guitar), baking, volunteering and travelling
Contact info: mcm927@mail.usask.ca
KELLYANA QUATTRINI
Desired locations to work
upon graduation: Saskatoon
Hobbies: I like to travel, read a good book,
go for relaxing runs, and enjoy family time
Contact: kellyanaquattrini@gmail.com
ADAM VANTOMME
Desired locations to work
upon graduation: Regina
Hobbies: soccer, playing the piano, travelling
Contact: adamvantomme@gmail.com
FRASER YOUNG
Desired locations to work
upon graduation: Lloydminster, SK
Hobbies: Basketball, keeping fit,
and going to the lake.
Contact: fraser.young7@gmail.com
The College of Dentistry
10
RECALL
11
Activity Day
The first College of Dentistry Activity Day
of the 2014-15 academic year took place
on Thursday, August 21 at the Western
Development Museum. Faculty, staff, and
students and their families gathered for
the afternoon to welcome the class of 2018
and celebrate the beginning of the new
school year.
Despite the cool weather, many guests
gathered outside in the park for volleyball,
Frisbee, ladder golf, and other outdoor
activities. Others chose to munch on
popcorn while relaxing and catching up
with friends inside the hall. The Kids Corner
proved to be a popular hangout spot for
students, many of whom spent the afternoon
entertaining children. Many guests also
enjoyed strolling through Boomtown and
touring the museum grounds by wagon ride.
And of course the afternoon would not have
been complete without Dr. Sutherland’s
favourite treat–ice cream sandwiches.
Thank you to all of the faculty, staff and
students who volunteered to help organize
the afternoon–the event would not have
been possible without you.
Regina Dentist Receives
AGD Mastership Award
Detroit, MI, June 28, 2014–The Academy
of General Dentistry (AGD) is pleased to
announce that Gregory L. Konotopetz,
DMD, MAGD, of Regina, Sask., received the
association’s Mastership Award during the
AGD 2014 Annual Meeting and Exhibits,
which took place June 26-29 in Detroit.
The Mastership Award is the AGD’s highest
honor and one of the most respected
designations within the profession.
To earn this award, Dr. Konotopetz
completed 1,100 hours of continuing
dental education.
As a Mastership Award recipient, Dr.
Konotopetz, joins more than 2,300 AGD
Masters who have gone above and
beyond the basic requirements to care for
their patients’ oral health. Dr. Konotopetz
was the only Saskatchewan recipient of
this award and he was one of only two
Canadian dentists who achieved this
honour in 2014.
Class of 2018 and (L-R) Dr. Ken Sutherland, (Associate Dean) Dr. Gerry Uswak, (Dean)
Dr. Reg Anholt, (Assistant Dean, Clinics), Jerod Orb, (Executive Director, CDSS)
International Students
My name is Chinami Fujita.
I am from Japan and a third-year student at
Okayama University. I belong to the dental
college in Okayama. My family members are
my dad, mom, my younger sister and myself.
My dad is a dentist and a medical practioner,
so I will take over his dental clinic after I finish
my degree.
The nature is beautiful in Saskatoon, so I like
Saskatoon very much. I especially like the
beautiful sky which appears endless. I am
interested in playing tennis and shopping. I
am a member of the tennis club in Japan. If
anybody likes to play tennis or go shopping,
please call me.
I’m Saki Fujita
I am a third-year dental student at Okayama
University. I have been living alone in
Okayama. It is nice place similar to Saskatoon.
But the skies of Saskatoon are more beautiful.
I like them and I was moved when I saw
them for the first time. I am fascinated by the
The College of Dentistry
12
“This award requires an extraordinary
amount of time and effort,” said AGD
President W. Carter Brown, DMD, FAGD.
“Dr. Konotopetz should be commended
for his unflagging commitment to
continuing education, which allows him to
provide the best possible dental care and
oral health education to his patients.”
Dr. Konotopetz graduated from the
College of Dentistry, at the University
of Saskatchewan in 1981 and currently
practices in Regina and Weyburn, Sask.
He and his wife, Laura have two children,
Jennifer and Lisa, and four grandchildren,
Justine, Ayden, Jaret, and Kirra.
AUGUST 15
First Year Orientation /
Meet & Greet at Louis’
• First year “newbies” were welcomed
into the college and their first of many
college photos were taken
• Afterwards, faculty, staff and students
were invited to stop by Louis’ and
catch up with old friends and make
some new ones
AUGUST 18 – 22
Welcome parties hosted by the
second, third and fourth year students
for the incoming first-year students
• Olympic events, scavenger hunts and
a whole lot of ice-breakers were all
part of the fun arranged to welcome
the new class
AUGUST 21
Activity Day #1
• Members of the college (faculty,
staff, and students and their families)
were invited out to the Western
Development Museum to relive
the days of 1910 Boomtown and
experience the excitement that can
be offered only by tractor and farm
machinery
SEPTEMBER 6
Kent McLeod Memorial Golf
Tournament
• A day for a great time at the golf
course even if you can’t golf!
• Group costumes were at an all-time
high at this anticipated event so
the Spirit of Big Wood faced their
toughest decision to date
SEPTEMBER 20
(L-R) Chinami Fujita and Saki Fujita.
different colours everyday. I would like to
know more about Saskatoon. I am interested
in jogging, listening to music, cooking and
so on. My hometown is Tokushima. It is in
the country. Awaodori festival is held in my
hometown every summer. It is a traditional
dance and very famous. I go there wearing
yukata (taditional japanese kimono) every
year. Please pay a visit.
Mouthguard Clinic
• This fundraiser to help the graduating
class would not have been possible
without the combined efforts of the
student body and supervisors
f amily
Our Dental
THE YEAR
IN REVIEW
• A great success for the graduating
class and the participating patients
• Initiation took place at the
Cosmopolitan Senior Citizens Centre
• The first-year class was officially
welcomed to the college by their
fellow classmates (no seniors were
harmed in the process)
• This was a particularly festive day:
mouthguards by day, and a whole
lot of welcoming by night
OCTOBER 4
Fall Welcome Banquet
• This formal night was filled with award
presentations, great speeches, dinner
and dancing
Eden
Chelsea Schmidt (class of 2006) and husband
Scott, along with big brothers Noah and
Logan, welcomed baby girl Eden Alivia
Schmidt January 17, 2014.
• Some wise MCs with sage advice,
awesome entertainment and lively
photo booth action made this annual
event an enjoyable one
OCTOBER 7
Activity Day #2
• The annual Table Clinic presentations
were made by the third-year class
• The afternoon of some of the best
research yet was kept running
smoothly by a great team of
presenters and organizers
• Congratulations to the winners!
OCTOBER 31
Halloween Shaker
• For the second time, this event was
held at Sutherland Hall
Ruby
Robert Steed (class of 2016), wife Brandie, and
big sisters Allie and Emma welcomed Ruby
Maxine on August 6, 2014.
• Amazing costumes and music made
for another entertaining night of
hanging out for the students from
the college
UPCOMING EVENTS:
• Ugly sweater Christmas bowling
• White coat ceremony
• Dentistry student curling tournament
With only a few months having passed, we have moved at a fervor speed
to welcome new events and maintain lasting traditions! There is no better
way to experience life than to do it flying by the seat of your pants
– forging friendships and memories along the way.
Allison
Congratulations to Chelsea and Mark
Berscheid (class of 2011) and big brother
Matthew on the birth of their daughter
and sister, Allison Deanne, born on
September 7, 2014.
RECALL
13
C
engagements
&
Wedd i ng s
1
D
2
E
3
ENGAGEMENTS
Ashley Toporowski (class of 2017)
and Nathan Deck were engaged
on February 1, 2014. Wedding to
take place at Candle Lake, Sask.,
on July 16, 2016.
B
Joshua Marshall (class of 2016)
and Jordan Storoschuk were
engaged on June 20, 2014 in
Saskatoon. The wedding will take
place on August 8, 2015.
The College of Dentistry
14
6
5
7
A
B
A
4
WEDDINGS
C
Kelsey Lothian (class of 2016) became
engaged to Jesse Ross in the summer
of 2013. The wedding will take place
in Palm Springs, Calif., on June 5, 2015.
D
Alyssa Komada (class of 2016) and Kyle
Laird were engaged on July 11, 2014,
while the two were vacationing in
Santa Monica, Calif. The wedding will
take place in fall 2016.
E
Dylan Barker (class of 2016) and
Jasmine Lothian were engaged
on July 13, 2014 in Regina, Sask.
1
Anna Kondrashova (class of 2016)
married Michael Burns on
September 7, 2013, in Regina. The
happy couple honeymooned in
Hawaii during Christmas break.
2
Danielle Vanchu (class of 2014)
married Stuart Scheurwater on
December 28, 2013, in Regina, Sask.
3
Chris Goudy (class of 2015)
married Britney DeBruyn on
December 31, 2014. The wedding
took place in Chatham, Ont.
4
Dacre Hamilton (class of 2015)
wed Amy Merkosky on
Saturday, July 5, 2014,
in Saskatoon. The newlyweds
then honeymooned in
Portugal and Barcelona.
5
Michael Goldie (class of 2016)
wed Austin Ogrins on
Saturday, August 9, 2014,
in Lethbridge, Alta. The two
travelled to Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
for their honeymoon.
6
Proud father Dr. Ken Sutherland
(class of 1977) gave his daughter
Kenzie Sutherland’s hand in
marriage to Kevin Bergeron in
Saskatoon on July 26, 2014.
7
Jessie Halabura (class of 2017)
married her beloved Dax Zoorkan
on Saturday, September 27, 2014.
RECALL
15
2014 Kent McLeod
Memorial Classic
Golf Tournament
Once again, the annual Kent McLeod Memorial Classic
Golf Tournament, held on Saturday, September 6, was a
huge success. This student-run tournament honours Kent
McLeod (class of 1996), who passed away unexpectedly
in 1998.
This has become one of the highlight annual events for
the College of Dentistry with tremendous support from
the faculty, students, alumni and various sponsors. Moon
Lake Golf and Country Club has become the tourney’s
home. On September 6, the course was packed with
close to 160 eager golfers. While the true golfing was left
up to faculty, alumni, sponsors and guests, the students
impressed us with their creative costumes and matching
decorated golf carts.
The Spirit of Big Wood trophy was presented by Drs.
Graeme Lackie, Dustin Wawryk, Geoff McIntosh, and
Michael Paul awarded annually to the best costumes and
spirit of the tournament was given to Erin Kotelko, Jade
Kehoe, Alyssa Komada, and Jenn Bozek.
Congratulations to the winners of the 2014 Kent McLeod
Memorial Classic: Dr. Matt Soroski, Tyson Lundquist, Dr.
Daniel Crooke, and Dr. Russell Burton.
Last, but not least, a huge thanks to all of our sponsors
and the supporting dental community for their ongoing
support in making this tournament a success. Without
you, this tournament would not be the highlight that it is!
Special thanks to Josh Marshall, Shane Van Biezen and
Evan Jarvi for all their hard work in organizing this event
over the summer months. Well done!
The College of Dentistry
16
RECALL
17
C o n v o c a t i o n 2 014
Class of 2014
Dr. Ken Sutherland
Drs. Darcy Allen and Vincent Torresyap
Drs. Francisco Otero and Dean Kolbinson
Dr. Alan Heinrichs giving his graduation address
A
Drs. Darcy Allen and Vincent Torresyap
Class of 2014 (Ladies) (L-R) Sarah Howe, Sarah Ohnander, Jehan Nanji, Kelsey
Nagy, Allison Rowein, Kimberly Hunter, Jessica Davies, Danielle Schuerwater,
Meagan Gratton, Michelle Wittal, Yi Yang Wang (missing Blerina Muzina)
Dr. Vincent Torresyap and Johnny Tran
Dr. Peter Konchak acknowledging retirement
Dr. Frank Hohn
Janet Sklarchuk acknowledging retirement
Class of 2014 (Gentlemen) (L-R) Back Row: Javier Cabrales,
Tyler Phaneuf, Chad Cantham, Johnny Tran, Blake Mitchell,
Greg Trischuk, Kris Marshall, Ullas Kapoor, Anis Haji
Michael Fowler and Dr. Alan Heinrichs
nother June came and went in Saskatoon, and with it,
convocation for students . Once again, the College of
Dentistry's senior students got to punch their ticket
and venture into the real world; the more junior
students said goodbye to upper year friends and shuffled
forward along the line of their own dental education; and
faculty donned elegant robes, applauded appropriately and
reminisced about their own graduation ceremonies. My own
graduation was 10 years ago and it got me wondering where
the heck the time went and where exactly did I park the car?
Students in the class of 2014 were some of the first students
that I taught when I returned to our college in 2011, and have
a special place in my heart. They have now graduated from
being my students to being my colleagues and my friends.
I was honoured to be asked to introduce the class of 2014
at the Saturday evening banquet with my partner in crime
Dr. Vince Torresyap (one of the greatest straight men in
comedy that JKS has seen in years). While I had the dubious
honour of sorting through the class stories in an attempt to
select anecdotes both humourous and boot play - worthy,
it was Dr. T’s perfect comedic timing that had most people
roaring with laughter.
Dr. Alan Heinrichs then stole the show with an address to the
graduates that was both humorous and thought-provoking.
His comments on pacing ourselves, finding balance in life, and
redefining our perspectives were as poignant and relevant for
alumni as for the newest members of our profession.
Good food, sage wisdom and excellent friends: a fitting
platform from which to embark on the next leg of our journey.
Congratulations to the class of 2014, “May the road rise to
meet you . . ."
Dr. Ken and Cheri Sutherland
The College of Dentistry
18
Dr. Kabir Virdi
Dr. Frank Hohn
Dr. Frank Hohn
Submitted by Dr. “D” Allen, class of 2004
RECALL
19
ICD Award
Awarded to a student in the penultimate year of the program
who exhibits the highest degree of both academic proficiency
and participation in extracurricular activities. Kale Wuldrich is
this year’s recipient—congratulations Kale!
(L-R) – Kale Wuldrich, Dr. Gerry Uswak, Dean
Carl Hawrish Memorial Award
In memory of Dr. Carl Hawrish, who served the Academy
for many years as Executive Secretary - awarded annually
to an undergraduate dental student in Western Canada
who has completed the third year of their program and has
shown clinical skill and knowledge in the Arts and Science
of Endodontics. Meghan Saganski is this year’s recipient—
congratulations Meghan!
(L-R) – Dr. Carlos Ochoa, Meghan Saganski and Dr. Gerry Uswak, Dean
The College of Dentistry
20
RECALL
21
F all
Welcome
2014
It was an excellent night, filled with great
food and even better looking people. The
welcoming of the class of 2018 was kickstarted with some creative introductions
led by Dr. Sutherland and Dr. Hayes. Very
heartfelt acceptance speeches from the
recipients of the Kirk Johnston Spirit of
Dentistry Award were given by Richard
Andrews (class of 2016) and Meghan
Saganski (class of 2015). Ashley Sproat (class
of 2015) also accepted the W.A. Cotter
Memorial Award.
Dr. Robert Wright was presented with the
Student’s Choice for Excellence in Teaching
for both pre-clinical and clinical teaching.
Musical performances by Jennifer Qing
and Trichromatic Color Theory added some
variety to the evening, and some of the
more humorous awards (Bronze Boot-Play
Award and the Most Likely to Succeed
Award) capped off the end of the program.
Everyone had a great time at the dance that
followed the formal portion of the evening.
If you weren’t there, you will have to come
next year to see what all the hype is about!
Awards Presented At Fall Welcome
Dental Anatomy Award (Year 1)
ERIC TUTTOSI
Anthony A. Blasko Memorial
Scholarship (Year 2)
STEFANI SHNIER
W.A. Cotter Memorial Award (Year 3)
ASHLEY SPROAT
Dr. Kirk Johnston Spirit of Dentistry Award
(Year 2 and 3)
RICHARD ANDREWS AND MEGHAN SAGANSKI
Excellence in Teaching Award
DR. ROBERT WRIGHT
Dr. Teplitsky “Desire to Win” Award
ERIK JOHNSON
Bronze Boot-Play Awards
ROBERT STEED AND SIMON HAIMANOT
Most Likely to Succeed Award
PATRICK JUNOR
The College of Dentistry
22
RECALL
23
2014 FALL WELCOME CONTINUED
Newly “coated” Class of 2016 (L-R) Back Row: David Alport, Dylan Barker, Dustin Roth, Richard Andrews, Andrew Davidson, Stefani Shnier, Joshua Marshall (L-R) Middle Row: Jennifer Bozek, Justin Ficor, Erin
Kotelko, Evan Jarvi, Michael Goldie, Chad Peterson, Michael Lam, Danielle Briere (L-R) Front Row: Alyssa Komada, Jade Kehoe, Kelsey Lothian, Chelsea Trudeau, Danielle Gray Reclining: Shane Van Biezen
WHITE COAT CEREMONY 2014
The College of Dentistry’s annual White Coat Ceremony
was held on January 3, 2014, at Convocation Hall
on the University of Saskatchewan campus.
Family, friends, faculty, staff, students and
members of the broader dental community
joined the 29 members of the class of 2016 as
they were cloaked with crested white coats
in the ceremony that marks the transition
in their training in the simulation lab to live
patient care and clinical treatment. The
white coat is symbolic of the ethics and
professionalism inherent in a career in
dentistry.
The College of Dentistry
24
Dr. Peter Doig, class of 1983 and president of
the Canadian Dental Association, delivered
the keynote address. He suggested that
there is much more to being a dentist than
just performing the dental procedures. Dr.
Doig explained that “dentistry, as a health
profession, requires that we treat our whole
patients, not just their oral cavities. Truly
successful dentists are those who develop
rapport with their patients and spend the
time to appreciate their personal situations
and lives.” He emphasized that the real
rewards in dentistry come from treating
patients as whole beings, not just as “teeth
and gums.”
Students Jason Kopchynski, Sarah Ohnander,
and Vladimir Yatsina as well as Dr. Arjunn
Sachdev (class of 2013), treated all those
present to a special musical interlude.
Following the ceremony, everyone gathered
at the University Club for a reception.
RECALL
25
2014
Samantha Kirkpatrick, Jade Kehoe, Chelsea Trudeau
Alyssa Komada, Anna Burns, Erin Kotelko (Third Place Windners)
Ahmad Abdulamir, Dustin Roth, Justin Ficor
Dr. Jim Thornhill, Dr. Alan Heinrichs
TABLE CLINICS
Dr. Ken Sutherland
The College of Dentistry held its annual Table Clinic
competition on October 7, 2014, when 12 groups
comprising the Year 3 students presented their table
clinic research to the faculty, staff and students of the
college. The event was held in the E-Wing Theatre of
the Health Sciences Building and was attended by a
number of alumni and friends of the college. Present
that day was Dr. Jim Basinger, associate vice president
research, University of Saskatchewan and Richard
Rhebergen from DENTSPLY. Rhebergen presented
Year 4 students Anapaula Campos, Jenna Schmitt
and Kellyana Quattrini with a plaque and certificates
in recognition of their first place victory in the 2014
CDA/DENTSPLY Student Clinician Research Program
competition that took place last March during the
Pacific Dental Conference in Vancouver. The national
competition invites dental students from the ten
accredited Canadian dental schools to present
research table clinics in front of qualified judges.
Jenna, Anapaula and Kellyana were our 2013 Table
Clinic winners with their study A Novel Mercury-Free
Restorative Material.
The annual Table Clinic competition is the culmination
of 22 months of preparation and pursuit of research
activities that begins in Term 2 of Year 1 Dentistry
and ends in the middle of the first term of Year 3. In
Year 1 the students learn how to access and critically
evaluate dental literature. They form research groups
and undertake a literature review of a selected topic
in dental research, and each group submits a scientific
review paper on the topic of interest. Additionally,
the students individually acquire the Tri Council
Policy Statement (TCPS) certification, which signifies
their understanding of ethical practices relevant
to the dental research they are about to pursue. In
Year 2, the students submit a Research Ethics Board
(REB) application to the Research Ethics Office to
acquire the approval necessary to pursue their dental
research. In addition to developing their research
skills, the students are trained on how to translate
the knowledge and information into a manuscript, a
poster and an oral PowerPoint presentation.
During the Table Clinic competition, each group
is allowed 12 minutes to present their research,
followed by three minutes to respond to questions
The College of Dentistry
Chad Peterson, Rob Steed
26
from the judges and the audience. This year, the panel
of judges comprised of five distinguished faculty
members: Dr. Jim Thornhill, Dr. Mike Hammer, Dr. Jay
Hoover, Dr. Alan Heinrichs and Dr. Dean Kolbinson.
They selected three Table Clinics to move on to the
final round of competition that occurred that evening
at a dinner hosted by the College of Dental Surgeons
of Saskatchewan at the University Club. Following
dinner, the top three contesting groups presented
their Table Clinic projects, and the members of the
CDSS in attendance voted as follows:
• First place: Dania Alkhani for her Table Clinic
Potency and Preferential Cytotoxicity to Human Oral
Tumor Cells Displayed by Some Synthetic Piperidone
Derivatives, which was supervised by Dr. Johnathan
Dimmock (College of Pharmacy).
Dr. Jim Thornhill
Tatiana Novoselova
1)
Danielle Briere, Andrew Davidson
Dr. David Stark
• Second place: Joshua Marshall, Shane Van
Biezen, and Michael Lam for their Table Clinic
Efficacy and Safety of LPT+P Dental Gel: A Novel
Compounded Topical Anesthetic for a Routine
Dental Procedure, which was supervised by
Dr. Francisco Otero and Dr. Devon Anholt.
• Third place: Alyssa Komada, Erin Kotelko, and
and Anna Burns for their study: A Self-Condensing
Mercury-Free Hydroxyapatite-Enriched Restorative
Dental Material which was supervised by Dr. Azita
Zereghar and Dr. Assem Hedayat.
Evan Jarvi, Dylan Barker, Dave Alport
Dr. Dean, Kolbinson, Dr. Mike Hammer, Dr. Jim Thornhill, Special Assistant to the Vice-President Research, Dr. Alan Heinrichs
Aline Xiang, Stephanie Shnier, Eun Ah Rha
The 2014 winner, Dania Alkhani, will represent
the College with her table clinic at the 2015 CDA/
DENTSPLY Student Clinician Research Program.
Many members of our college contributed to the
success of the Table Clinics day. Kelly Mulligan
and Lori Luczka tirelessly organized the afternoon
event; Dr. David Stark organized the CDSS event;
and our Year 1 volunteers: Kyle Diakow, Samantha
Kowalko, Goli Sammak, Codie Lambert, Assem
Sharma, Austin Andrews and Jennifer Qing, well as
two visiting students from Japan, Saki Fujita and
Chinami Fujita, did an excellent job as ushers. Year
4 student Ian Chang is to be credited for all the
beautiful photographs taken during the morning
and evening events.
Dr. Jim Basinger, Associate Vice President Research
Dania Alkhani (First Place Winner)
Mike Goldie, Richard Andrews, Josh Kirkpatrick
Mr. Richard Rhebergen, Representative from DENTSPLY,
Kellyana Quattrini, Jenna Schmitt and Anapaula Campos
Dr. Kunio Komiyama
Danielle Gray, Kelsey Lothian, Jennifer Bozek
Michael Lam, Shane Van Biezen, Josh Marshall (Second Place Winners)
Dr. Assem Hedayat
RECALL
27
Safety Award
News on the
National Front
R ECIPIENTS
THE ROYAL COLLEGE OF DENTISTS OF CANADA
Student
Volunteers
Submitted by Kevin Bitinsky
In the College of Dentistry, the
number of preventable incidents
has been higher than we would
like (of course, our target is zero).
Under the leadership of Gloria
Luedtke and Eleanor Ferwerda,
the clinic has been consistently
making improvements to both
minimize the occurrences
and maximize our responses.
They have been developing
and refining our emergency
response plans, infection
control guidelines, incident
and exposure protocols, and
preventative measures. Their
mentorship and promotion of
safety deserves to be noted
and recognized.
Dr. Garnet Pakota (R) awarding Dr Carlos Ochoa-Suarez (L)
the RCDC Fellowship in Endodontics
The 49th Annual Convocation of the Royal College of Dentists of
Canada (RCDC) was held in Halifax, Nova Scotia on September
20, 2014. The RCDC administers the National Dental Specialty
Examination (NDSE) for all dental specialties. Once a candidate
passes the NDSE, he/she is eligible to be licensed as a specialist in all
provinces in Canada and is eligible to become a Fellow of the RCDS
and use the title (FRCD(C)).
Congratulations to Dr. Carlos Ochoa-Suarez for receiving his RCDC
Fellowship in endodontics on that occasion.
Effective September 1, 2014 past president of the RCDC Dr. Garnet
Packota was appointed acting registrar. His term as acting registrar is
indefinite and will continue until a permanent Registrar is hired later
this year or early in 2015.
Congratulations to Dr. Paul Teplitsky (class
of 1972) who recently received the Canadian
Academy of Endodontics Life Membership.
The College of Dentistry
28
that the deciding panel awarded
it to both ladies!
A reception was held in May to
present the award and honour
Eleanor and Gloria. This award
was presented by a group from
the University of Saskatchewan
Safety Resources. College
faculty, staff and summer
students attended the reception.
Dr. Sutherland and Kevin Bitinsky
(business manager, clinical
affairs) made presentations that
highlighted the necessity for
safety and that recognized the
contributions of all of our staff
under the leadership of Gloria
and Eleanor.
( L-R) Supervising Doctor, in Kandy General Teaching Hospital, Corey Hayward and Lindsay Scherr
This past summer, fourth year students Corey Hayward and Lindsay
Scherr spent three weeks volunteering under the Work the World
organization in the dental department at Kandy General (Teaching)
Hospital in Kandy, Sri Lanka. They were able to experience four
different clinics at the hospital: outpatient (performing restorations,
extractions and scaling); oral and maxillofacial (observing surgeries
in the operating room/theatre and assisting in examining/diagnosing
oral pathology); restorative (observing root canal treatments; and
orthodontics. Outside of the clinic, they spend their evenings and
weekends around the town and across the country, travelling to
beaches, tea plantations, a safari and historic cultural sites.
Volunteer Work
in Tanzania
Congratulations, Eleanor and
Gloria! On their behalf, I would
like to remind everyone to be
mindful of your environment
and to work safe.
(L-R) Miranda Mark and
Sarah Paul distributing
toothbrushes to students
(L-R) Beshmi Kularatne
and Anokhi Patel
with Nurse Volunteer
This past summer the four
other fourth year students and
I (Beshmi Kularatne, Sarah Paul,
Anokhi Patel, Miranda Mark
and Anapaula Campos) went to
Arusha, Tanzania for a dental
internship with Work the World.
Working in a developing country
was an incredible opportunity
for us to use, develop and share
our dental knowledge while
gaining insight into diseases and
pathologies that are rare in the
western world.
We worked alongside other
dental professionals in rural
clinics and public hospitals doing
extractions, fillings, cleanings,
and diagnosing and assisting
with surgical procedures.
We saw patients of varying
ages and social classes. An
interdisciplinary approach to
problem solving was invaluable
as we collaborated with other
OTHER NEWS
Dr. Joseph Schwann (class of 1982) was
installed as president of the Canadian
Academy of Endodontics at the 49th Annual
General Meeting held of September 19, 2013
in Ottawa, ON.
I am proud to announce that
this past spring, both Gloria
and Eleanor were the joint
recipients of the 2014 University
of Saskatchewan Safety
Recognition Award. This award
recognizes the outstanding
performance of the University
of Saskatchewan employee
who promoted health, safety
and environmental issues in the
workplace over the past year.
Normally this distinguished prize
is awarded to one person per
year, but evidently we have such
a talented and dedicated staff
Abroad
dentists, doctors, nurses,
physical therapists and midwives
from all across the globe to
provide medical and health
support in an under-resourced
environment.
Our experience was amazing!
The dental care provided in that
region was vastly different from
what we see in Canada; we left
feeling that we really made a
difference while volunteering
there. It was definitely a one-ofa-kind experience that will most
definitely affect our future dental
careers.
We would like to add a
special thanks to the College
of Dentistry for providing
toothbrushes that were donated
to school children in the Maasai
village of Engaruka and to the
dental units we worked with
throughout the city of Arusha.
Dr. Joseph Schwann
RECALL
29
ALUMNI GIFTS
PROVIDE MUCH NEEDED
G.V Blackhawks
The G.V Blackhawks (for those few of
you who do not know) is the University
of Saskatchewan College of Dentistry
recreational hockey team. The G.V
Blackhawks regularly compete in the
university-wide, campus-rec league against
teams from the Colleges of Medicine, Law
and Agriculture.
The G.V Blackhawks consist of men and
women from all years enrolled in the
College of Dentistry and, over the years, the
G.V Blackhawks have seen many talented
hockey players come and go. The goal for
for the players, however, has always been
the same: have fun, play hard, and get
geared up for the annual students vs. profs/
Alumni!
The College of Dentistry
alumni hockey game. At this annual event,
the legendary Challenge Cup is awarded to
the winner of the game.
claiming victory in the first two years of
the game's existence, a streak they have no
intention of stopping anytime soon!
Although the G.V Blackhawks have done
exceptionally well of late, winning the
Campus Recreation League Championship
for the past three years, they have yet to win
the coveted Challenge Cup during that time.
This year, the student team hopes to remedy
that trend and be victorious in the annual
head-to-head grudge match! Another
exciting event the G.V Blackhawks are
hoping will become an annual tradition is
the much-anticipated medicine vs. dentistry
game. The event has been a big success,
with the College of Dentistry’s Blackhawks
So, there you have it, a little sneak peek
into the excitement that is going on with
the College of Dentistry’s G.V Blackhawks.
We hope to see you at one of the heated
matches this year because, to be honest
with you, there is no better place to be
during a freezing cold Saskatchewan
winter than watching some good old
fashioned hockey.
Remember what it was like to be
a dental student stressing over
completing your requirements!
To support our third and fourthyear students, we are asking you
to refer patients who require all
types of dental treatment.
Ideally, we are seeking referrals
for specific treatments such as
dentures. In such an instance,
30
FACELIFT!
the patient can return to your
office when the treatment is
complete OR alternatively you
can recommend a patient for
complete treatment.
Submitted by
Erik Johnson (Class of 2015)
The Class of
1980 Fund has
generously
provided the new
chairs and tables
located in the third
floor classrooms.
The old furniture
had been here for
far too many years
and sorely needed
replacing. Because
the College of
Dentistry uses the
classrooms only
for your dental
students, there
was no funding
available from
the university
to upgrade the
classrooms. So the
Class of ’80 stepped
up to enhance
student learning
by making the physical space a bit more
comfortable.
Feedback from students includes “The chairs
are a much-needed improvement” and
“They look much better than the old ones!
It’s great when alumni choose to support the
next generation” One of the 1980 alumni
shared his thoughts about the gift and
pointed out that he doesn’t look at the gift
for what it is physically, but rather as just one
way of giving back to the profession: “We
[my class] were properly prepared by the
school for the challenges that we eventually
the college to
view the new
tables and chairs
in conjunction
with the Oral
Health Conference
in September.
They even began
brainstorming on
what their next
project should be!
It was wonderful to
be able to share the
realization of their
gift and, as you can
see in the photo,
the alumni were
excited to try
them out.
had to face and I will simply say that I owe
all that I have done and experienced in
this profession to my roots that began at
the college. So we owe it to the college
to do our part to keep it going strong and
support it so that others may be given the
same opportunities that my classmates and I
enjoyed. We owe it and the school deserves
and needs it!” Another alumnus of 1980
challenged other classes to create a class
fund in honour of a milestone to support the
college and our future dentists.
Some members of the class of 1980 visited
BEFORE
The College,
including the Dean,
faculty, staff, and
especially the
students, want
to thank the Class of 1980 for their most
welcome donation. Thank you from the
bottom of our hearts for making us smile.
Your generosity is greatly appreciated.
A class reunion gift to the College of
Dentistry helps ensure that today’s
students receive the best dental education
experience as possible. If you or your class
wants to participate in making a lasting
impression in the Dental College, please
contact Stacey Schewaga, Donor Relations
Office, at stacey.schewaga@usask.ca or
306-966-4001 for more information.
AFTER
Please note that we will
screen each patient to ensure
that patient and student
requirements are being met.
THANK YOU for your support!
RECALL
31
REUNION
HIGHLIGHTS
Class of 1974 celebrating 40 years
In September, it was with great pleasure we welcomed
back to the college six of the nine Class of 1974 graduates
for their 40th reunion. The class had never been to our
current space and very much enjoyed a tour led by Dr. Ken
Sutherland. Their weekend of events also included the
Oral Health Conference, as well as informal gatherings and
dinners. The class is honouring its milestone by contributing
to the Infrastructure Revitalization Fund to help the college
purchase much needed new dental chairs and lights.
Everyone has been busy since graduation in 1974 and they
shared what they have each been up to:
David G Amundrud
John A. Billett
1974 – 1979: Served with the Canadian
Armed Forces for five years. He practiced
in St. Hubert (Montreal) for two years and in
Germany (Lahr) for three years.
1979 – 1982: Entered the Graduate
Periodontics pProgram at the University
of Manitoba and obtained his Diploma in
Periodontics in 1981 (and was married the
same year), then stayed at the University of
Manitoba for one more year to complete a
Master’s of Science degree in Oral Biology.
1982 – 2012: Moved back to Saskatoon and
set up a specialty practice in periodontics,
which he maintained until retirement in 2012.
During his time of practice in Saskatoon, he
was a clinical instructor in periodontics for a
number of years at the College of Dentistry.
2012 – present: Lives in Victoria, where he
and his wife are enjoying retired life.
1974 – 1980: Worked in private practice with
classmate Marvin Steffen in Saskatoon.
1980 - 2003: Renovated a heritage home
in Saskatoon and worked there solo until
retirement.
2000 – present: Living the good life in
Victoria, B.C. with his partner, Danielle Goulet.
Christine Eckel
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1974 – 1985: Private practice in Regina.
1985 – 1991: Chief of dental services for the
RCMP and Veterans Affairs.
1991 – present: In a group practice and
looking forward to a few more years of
fulfilling time on a dental stool before retiring.
Mel has been married for 42 years and has
two adult children and two grandchildren.
Barb Gordon
1974 – 1977: Practiced in public health
dentistry in Calgary for a year and then did
a hospital residency in Toronto's Hospital
for Sick Children, where she met husband,
Mike Janusz.
1974 – 1975: Worked for the
City of Calgary.
1977 – present: Moved to Vancouver.
Working in private practice as well as
having a 35 year Friday commitment to
hospital dentistry.
1977, May – August: Did a locum in
Humboldt, SK. for four months
Christine and Mike have four grown children
and both feel fortunate to still enjoy and be
able to continue working in their professions.
The College of Dentistry
Mel Gattinger
1975 – May 1977: Worked in private practice
in Victoria, B.C.
1977, Sept – May 1996: Had a private practice
with her husband (Dr. Tom Gordon, Class of
1972) in Kelowna B.C.
1996 –present: Barb continues to reside in
Kelowna, B.C.; her husband passed away in
2012. The Gordons have two children and five
grandchildren.
Rosamund Harrison
1974 – 1979: Worked in general practice in
Saskatchewan.
1979 – 1981: Moved to England for two years
as a lecturer in child dental health in London.
1982 – 1985: Completed specialty training in
pediatric dentistry and MSc at Eastman Dental
Center/University of Rochester, New York.
1985 – 1989: First Canadian academic position
was at Dalhousie University in Halifax.
1989 – present: Been at the UBC Faculty of
Dentistry and in private specialty practice.
She is currently head of the department of
Oral Health Sciences and Chair of Pediatric
Dentistry. A 2004 recipient of the Canadian
Dental Association Oral Health Promotion
Award, the BC Dental Association also
awarded Rosamund Honorary Membership
in 2006 for her oral health promotion
initiatives for vulnerable BC families. In 2010,
she was the recipient of the 3M-Espe National
Dental Teaching Award. Rosamund resides
in Vancouver with her husband Bill and has
two grandchildren
Errol Needham
1974 – 2007: Upon graduation, Errol
associated with the office of Dr. Racine and, in
later years, with various other dentists within
the city of Saskatoon.
2007 – Present: He enjoys his family (two
daughters and several grandchildren) and
spends a quiet meditative retirement in
Saskatoon.
Marvin Steffen
1974 – 2003: Practiced in Saskatoon until
he retired.
2003 - 2012: Retired and moved to Creston,
B.C., then to McKenna, WA. where he passed
away in November 2012. Marvin’s wife
predeceased him and, at the time of his death,
he had two children and one grandchild.
Heather Thomson
1974 – 1975: Spent one year in general
practice residency at RUH.
1975 – 1978: Moved to Uranium City and
practiced part-time with the government
Children's Dental Plan and part-time in private
practice. Met husband, Bill, and left Uranium
City in 1978 and moved to Tisdale.
1978 – present: Joined Ted Phenix and Dick
Kovach in dental practice and has remained
in practice there ever since. Heather and
her husband Bill raised four children and
presently have five grandchildren. Recreation
time is spent at Candle Lake, where they
have a retirement home and enjoy outdoor
activities such as boating, fishing, gardening
and snowmobiling.
RECALL
33
MAKING
GIVING
EASY
The generosity of our college’s alumni, parents, faculty and staff, as well as friends,
corporations and foundations, enables the University of Saskatchewan’s College of
Dentistry to continue to serve as a model across Canada for superior dental education.
Your gift shows a commitment to our vision of serving as a leader in dental education,
research, community outreach, engagement and professional support. Whether you
want to leave a legacy for future generations or are grateful for the education you
yourself received here, we hope you are able to find all the information you need when
considering your philanthropic goals.
DID YOU
?

PETER GOODE
Know
In an effort to try to keep his mind sharp and dexterity in his hands, Dave
Stark (DMD 1990) returned to playing the guitar about five years ago.
He even started weekly lessons in guitar and beginner piano. Dave had
played guitar through elementary and high school and into his first years
at the University of Saskatchewan in the late 1970s. He and his singing and
songwriting partner, Sugith Varughese (who studied drama at the
U of S, and recieved a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the University of
Minnesota, and Master of Fine Arts from the York University), were a bit of
a hit at the old drama department’s Hangar Buildings’ Friday noon shows
a long time ago.
Life and studies got in the way, however, and sadly, the music stopped.
This summer though, Dave and his guitar teacher, Stephen Hardy, put
together a show and performed a couple of times at d’Lish by Tish, a
little restaurant on 14th Street in Nutana. The program was diverse
and eclectic: the audience heard songs by Bob Dylan, the Beatles,
Robbie Robertson, the Waterboys, Elton John, Paul Simon and others.
The evening was such a success that Dave and Stephen will likely do
something similar again closer to Christmas, perhaps at d’Lish by
Tish again or at Mystic Java or at Saskatoon’s Village Guitar and Amp
Company. Watch for it!
The University of Saskatchewan is a registered non-profit organization; therefore, any
gift to the university is tax deductible. In the past five years, more than $900,000 has
been raised. This is a true testament to the extraordinary generosity of more than 600
alumni and friends who have rallied behind us to support student enhancement and
learning. Donations to our college continue to provide and enable the best patient/
student experience through providing equipment upgrades to our aging clinic, training
students through travel opportunities, inspiring and supporting faculty and student
research, and ensuring students can reduce their financial burden with scholarships and
awards. Every gift is truly appreciated and really does make a difference!
THE INFRASTRUCTURE REVITALIZATION FUND: Helping with capital and
equipment enhancements. Currently, we have an urgent need to replace 13 dental
chairs in the clinic. We have been able to purchase six chairs through donations and
need to purchase another seven chairs by end of December 2014. Donations specifically
for these chairs can be directed to this fund!
THE OUTREACH FUND: Enhancing support of Saskatoon West Dental Clinic and
student funding for patient accessibility to service.
THE ENDOWMENT FUND: Providing financial support for student awards and
enhancements including teaching, research and clinical equipment, and development
of new courses.
CLASS FUNDS: Currently, these are in place for the Classes of 1972, 1977, 1980, 1983,
1984, 1986, 1991, 1996, 2001 and 2003. Class Funds are created to support various needs
of the College of Dentistry at any given time including student awards, clinic-related
capital projects, travel for students to conference, funding for guest lecturers, general
support for college programs and much more.
Submitted by Dave Stark (class of 1990)
The College of Dentistry
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RECALL
35
Where Are They
Reunion News
NOW?
Each year the college proudly reports
on the career paths of our most recent
grads, this time the Class of 2013:
CLASS OF 1984:
The Class of 1984 gathered to celebrate their 30-year milestone during
the weekend of the Oral Health Conference in Saskatoon. Dr. Brian
Baker organized a lively reunion weekend that included attendance
at the Oral Health Conference, golf, a Class of ’84 dinner, a college
tour, and the Saturday evening conference gala where some of the
class members were honoured for their years of service. Those who
attended the class tour, Drs. Tim Ayers, Brian Baker, Tim Barker and
Craig Goplen, shared many memories over the course of the weekend.
The Class of 1984 has developed a class fund and is discussing options
to purchase new equipment for the Dental Clinic.
CLASS OF 1994:
Some members from the Class of 1994 who were attending the Oral Health Conference in Saskatoon gathered for a college tour to honour their
20-year milestone. Such an enjoyable time was had, that they decided to call it “Part A” of the 20-year milestone celebration, with “Part B“ to
occur in conjunction with the Pan Pacific Dental Conference in Vancouver, March 5-7, 2015. All 1994 alumnus are encouraged to email Cindy at
cindyahansen@yahoo.ca for further details regarding the “Part B” event.
LET US HERE AT THE COLLEGE OF DENTISTRY
HELP YOU ORGANIZE YOUR CLASS REUNION!
ADAM ABDO
General Practice Residency, London, ON
BLERINA MUZINA
Private Practice, Kindersley, SK
SAUD AHMAD
General Practice Residency, Toronto, ON
KELSEY NAGY
Private Practice, Regina, SK
JAVIER CABRALES
Private Practice, Swift Current, SK
JEHAN NANJI
Private Practice, Sherwood Park, AB
CHAD CANHAM
Private Practice, Regina, SK
WOODY NEILSON
Private Practice, Vernon, BC
JESSICA DAVIES
Private Practice, Saskatoon, SK
SARAH OHNANDER
General Practice Residency, Saskatoon, SK
MICHAEL FOWLER
Private Practice, Regina, SK
TYLER PHANEUF
Private Practice, Regina, SK
MEAGAN GRATTON
Private Practice, North Battleford, SK
ALLISON ROWEIN
Private Practice, Sherwood Park, AB
ANIS HAJI MOHAMMAD TAGHI
Private Practice, North Battleford, SK
DANIELLE SCHUERWATER (NEE VANCHU)
Private Practice, Regina, SK
SARAH HOWE
General Practice Residency, Saskatoon, SK
JOHNNY TRAN
General Practice Residency, Toronto, ON
KIMBERLY HUNTER
Private Practice, Saskatoon, SK
GREG TRISCHUK
Private Practice, Yorkton, SK
ULLAS KAPOOR
Private Practice, North Battleford, SK
YIYANG WANG
Private Practice, Edmonton, AB
KRIS MARSHALL
Private Practice, Saskatoon, SK
MICHELLE WITTAL
Private Practice, Swift Current, SK
BLAKE MITCHELL
Private Practice, Saskatoon, SK
VLADIMIR YATSINA
Private Practice, Prince Albert, SK
Any class reunions groups are encouraged to share their event with us here at the College of Dentistry. Stacey Schewaga,
Donor Relations Officer, is able to assist with contacting alumni, arranging tours and much more. Feel free to contact her
at 306-966-4001 or stacey.schewaga@usask.ca, and watch for your email invitation regarding your class milestone soon!
The College of Dentistry
36
RECALL
37
YES! I’d like to support
my College of Dentistry!
DONATION / PLEDGE FORM
You can make a gift online at https://give.usask.ca/online/advancement.php
• Designate the College of Dentistry in the dropdown box and in the comments box,
write your grad year and “Donor Advised Fund.”
Credit card payment:
Visa MasterCard
American Express
Card Number:
I’d like to make a gift of: $_______________________________________________________________
This will be a:
Card Expiry Date: ________________________ / _______________________ (month/year)
Cardholder’s name (as it appears on card):
One-time gift
Cardholder’s signature:
Monthly gift of $___________________ for ___________ months for total of $________________
Is this a corporate credit card? Annual gift of $____________________ for ___________ years for total of $__________________
If yes, please provide the name of the company:
Yes No
Thank you! In recognition of your gift, the University of Saskatchewan, College of Dentistry is proud to honour donors
through invitations to special events, listings in online and print publications, and updates on the impact of your gift to
the college and our students.
I’d like my gift to support:
Email address:
Class of _______________ Donor Advised Fund
Dean’s Infrastructure Revitalization Fund (help us replace existing or acquire new equipment, etc.)
General Program and Operations – use my donation where it’s most needed!
Outreach and Community Initiatives such as the Rural/Urban/Northern (RUN) Program
Existing Funds, Scholarships or Student Awards, specifically, _________________________________
Creation of a new scholarship (please call the Development Office at 306-966-2236 to discuss)
Your preferred published name:
This is a joint gift with:
Please note: if you choose not to be publicly recognized for your gift, we will honour your wishes as indicated below:
Please do not publish my name with regard to this gift.
Please do not publish my name with regard to all gifts.
I certify that the above information is accurate.
I’d like to give by:
SIGNATURE
Cheque or money order
DATE
FIRST NAMEMIDDLE INITIALLAST NAMEGRAD YEAR
Pre-authorized monthly debit (please complete and return a Pre-Authorized Debit Agreement found
on our website at http://give.usask.ca/how/other.php or contact our Development Office at 306-966-2236
to have the agreement mailed to you)
Your mailing address:
I am interested in learning more about other ways to give to the College of Dentistry, including gifts of
stock, life insurance and bequests
Leadership Giving and Donor Relations Officer
Stacey Schewaga
College of Dentistry
University of Saskatchewan
105 Wiggins Road, Saskatoon SK S7N 5E4
Please make cheques payable to the University of Saskatchewan. Note College of Dentistry in memo section.
38
Post-dated cheques
VISA, MasterCard or American Express (make your donation online or fill out credit card info opposite page)
The College of Dentistry
Please return form and any relevant correspondence/material to:
stacey.schewaga@usask.ca
Phone: 306-966-4001
Fax: 306-966-5126
Canada Revenue Agency Charitable Organizations
Registration No. 11927 9313 RR0001
RECALL
39
College of Dentistry
University Of Saskatchewan
Dental Clinic Building
105 Wiggins Road
Saskatoon SK S7N 5E4
Telephone: (306) 966-5121
Fax: (306) 966-5132
www.usask.ca/dentistry
The College of Dentistry
40