Multicultural Development and Recruiting

Dentistry offers independence, economical stability and a unique combination of basic and applied science, art and interpersonal relations. It is one of the ten most trusted and ethical professions in America, and one of the most profitable professions in the United States1. Dental practice brings unique opportunities to improve quality of life of others, and gives a high degree of professional satisfaction. These are some of the powerful reasons leading people to become dentists.

Social, economic and cultural barriers often discourage those who belong to minorities or to disadvantaged groups of becoming dentists. These are the same obstacles distancing patients belonging to those groups from appropriate dental care. As dentists from minorities and underprivileged groups do know such barriers, they can more easily break them and become an important part of the solution to their communities' unsolved health needs, as they develop successfully careers2.

There is an interesting window of opportunity for such dentists: As US population profile evolves, minorities' demand for dental services is increasing steadily, and focusing dental practice on minorities can be a rewarding economic opportunity. Also, dentists from minorities can be leaders in establishing health care policies that help to improve the health status and quality of life their populations.

The Office of Multicultural Development and Recruiting (MDR) at The Maurice H. Kornberg School of Dentistry supports minorities and other underrepresented students as they pursue a career in dentistry. This initiative was one of the results of the support of the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation through the Pipeline Profession & Practice Program. The Office is well-equipped to work with individual students and perspective students to help them meet any cultural or economic challenge that they may face at the School. Our commitment to diversity is strong. Learn more about our commitment on this web site, and fell free to contact the Office for more information and to see how we can help you prepare for the future.

Shawn Campbell, B.S., M.Ed Director of Multicultural Development and Recruiting diversity@dental.temple.edu Phone: (215) 707-9761 Fax: (215) 707-9760