The annual tradition celebrates the values that will guide PNWU’s future dentists.
On Friday, August 22, Pacific Northwest University of Health Sciences (PNWU) marked a historic milestone as the School of Dental Medicine (SDM) hosted its inaugural Professionalism Ceremony.
The event, hosted at the Yakima Convention Center, celebrated the SDM Class of 2029, symbolizing their entry into the profession and their commitment to practicing dentistry with compassion, integrity, and service to others.
“It marks the beginning of a journey in which our students commit themselves not only to clinical excellence, but also to service, compassion, and leadership.”
“Today’s ceremony is about more than achieving a milestone,” said Dr. Michael Mittelman, President of PNWU. “It marks the beginning of a journey in which our students commit themselves not only to clinical excellence, but also to service, compassion, and leadership. At PNWU, we believe these are the qualities that will define their careers and strengthen the communities they will serve.”
The program opened with a processional and a land acknowledgment from Dr. Fotinos Panagakos, Dean of PNWU-SDM, followed by a ceremonial blessing offered by Davis “Yellowash” Washines of the PNWU Board of Trustees. Dr. Mittelman then welcomed attendees with an inspiring address that underscored the responsibilities and opportunities ahead for the inaugural SDM class, before keynote speakers Dr. Robin J. Henderson and Dr. Laila Hishaw further encouraged the student doctors with wisdom drawn from their own distinguished careers in dentistry and healthcare leadership.
A highlight of the ceremony came as the Class of 2029 stood together to take the Student Oath of Professionalism and sign the Professionalism Book, formalizing their pledge to uphold the values of their profession. Closing reflections were shared by Class President Rebeca Gomez, followed by final remarks from Dean Panagakos.
“It is a testament to our dedication to shaping future dentists who will make a meaningful impact in the communities they serve.”
“The Professionalism Ceremony embodies the core values of the dental profession and our school: integrity, service, and excellence,” said Dean Panagakos. “It is a testament to our dedication to shaping future dentists who will make a meaningful impact in the communities they serve.”
Founded in 2024, the School of Dental Medicine was created to address the dental workforce shortage in rural and underserved communities across the Pacific Northwest. With its innovative curriculum and early clinical experiences through partnerships with Federally Qualified Health Centers in Tacoma, Kennewick, and Yakima, PNWU-SDM prepares its students to provide primary dental care where it is needed most.
To learn more about one of the most innovative dental programs in the country, click here.
