Planet Smilez Launches Workforce Development Symposium for Youth
In response to the critical shortage of oral health professionals, Planet Smilez is dedicated to creating pathways for future oral health providers. By emphasizing early exposure, practical learning, and mentorship for students from underserved academic and economic backgrounds, the organization aims to tackle this pressing issue. By engaging with students from dental health professional shortage areas at an early age, Planet Smilez seeks to illuminate the various careers available in dentistry, bridging vital workforce gaps and enhancing care access in communities that need it most.
Empowering Future Oral Health Workers
The organization's goal is to motivate a new generation of oral health professionals to pursue careers in this field and ultimately return to support their own communities. In alignment with this mission, Dr. Kathryn Pawlak, along with the leadership team from Planet Smilez, will host the Discovering Dentistry Symposium (DDS) at their alma mater, the University of Maryland School of Dentistry. The event will feature a series of workshops led by Drs. Kathryn Pawlak, Lauren Gritzer, Kristine Oladipo, and Nadine Mirza.
Funding and Support for the Initiative
Planet Smilez has garnered significant support from Delta Dental, which demonstrates a commitment to advancing the future of the oral health workforce. Since 2023, Delta Dental has allocated over $1.7 million toward programs that foster innovative solutions, pilot initiatives, and models aimed at encouraging children from diverse backgrounds to explore careers in oral health. Being recognized as a 2024 awardee further solidifies Planet Smilez's mission by enabling them to conduct 10 experiential workshops across the country.
The Discovering Dentistry Symposium
Excitement is building for the upcoming DDS event on November 15, 2025. Scheduled from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM at the University of Maryland School of Dentistry, this symposium is meticulously designed to ignite interest in oral health and STEM fields. Participants will have the chance to learn about the connections between oral and systemic health, discover a variety of dental careers, and experience firsthand the daily lives of professionals in the oral health domain.
Engaging the Next Generation of Professionals
The symposium caters to middle and high school students, offering engaging hands-on activities, mentorship opportunities, and extensive career exploration. Attendees can connect with dental professionals and students in oral health, deepening their understanding of this critical field and unveiling the rewarding opportunities available within dentistry. This inspiring event would not be possible without Delta Dental's generous support.
Vision for the Future
Dr. Pawlak has emphasized the transformational power of education and mentorship. She states, "I believe education and mentorship have the power to transform lives." Her vision for the DDS program is to equip children with essential knowledge about oral healthcare and practical experiences in dentistry. This initiative aims to empower them to envision a future in dentistry while nurturing a cadre of oral healthcare professionals who are equipped to meet their communities' needs.
Learn More About Planet Smilez
To discover more about Planet Smilez and its impactful initiatives, please visit www.planetsmilez.org.
Contact: Kathryn Pawlak (kathryn.pawlak@planetsmilez.org)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Discovering Dentistry Symposium?
The Discovering Dentistry Symposium is an event aimed at introducing students to careers in oral health, featuring hands-on activities, mentorship, and career exploration.
Who are the main speakers at the symposium?
Main speakers include Dr. Kathryn Pawlak, Dr. Lauren Gritzer, Dr. Kristine Oladipo, and Dr. Nadine Mirza.
When is the symposium taking place?
The symposium will occur on November 15, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM.
Who supports Planet Smilez's initiatives?
Planet Smilez receives support from Delta Dental, which has invested over $1.7 million in programs to develop the oral health workforce.
How can students get involved with Planet Smilez?
Students can participate in the Discovering Dentistry Symposium and other workshops designed to inspire future careers in oral health.
