BMSP Awards and Scholarships

Dr. Hasan Al Yousuf was born in Duhok, Iraq. He finished his first dental training and obtained a Bachelor of Dental Surgery degree in Erbil, Iraq in 2014. Dr. Al yousuf worked as a general dentist and teaching assistant in his hometown before moving to Michigan to obtain his second dental degree from the University of Michigan School of Dentistry in May 2021. After completion of his dental degree, Dr. Al yousuf started the Graduate Prosthodontics Program at the University of Michigan. Once he completes the program and obtains the certificate/master's degree, Dr. Al yousuf hopes to excel as a board-certified prosthodontist in private practice and work as a part time faculty member in a dental school to share his knowledge and experiences with other dental students.

Dr. McKenzie Maynor grew up in Southfield, MI and attended the University of Michigan for her undergraduate studies. She went on to graduate from the Ohio State University College of Dentistry in 2016, then completed a general practice residency at the Detroit Veteran Affairs Medical Center in 2017. Dr. Maynor joined the Graduate Prosthodontics Program in the summer of 2021 with the desire to gain a deeper understanding for complex treatment planning and the clinical skills needed to help people achieve the smile they have always wanted. Upon completion of the program, she plans on using her knowledge both in private practice and also staying in an education setting to teach. In her free time, Dr. Maynor enjoys spending time with her family and friends, cooking and traveling.

Dr. Uvoh Onoriobe was born and raised in Nigeria. He attended the University of Benin, Benin-City, Nigeria for his Bachelor of Dental Surgery degree. Upon graduation, he completed an internship in General Dentistry at the Military Hospital Lagos, Nigeria. Thereafter, he worked as a General Dentist for a non-profit organization offering dental services across various communities around the African continent. He obtained a Master of Public Health degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 2011. He also completed a residency in Dental Public Health in North Carolina Oral Health Section in 2012. He went to complete the Advanced Standing program for Internationally Trained Dentists and obtained a Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from the University of Illinois at Chicago in 2016. Uvoh has worked in private practice for the past three years. He is honored to be a part of the Graduate Prosthodontics Program at the University of Michigan. He has interests in Dental Research, Education and Cosmetic Dentistry. He enjoys traveling, spending time with his family and friends and runs a non-profit organization (Healing Hands) that seeks to address health disparities amongst low income families. Dr. Onoriobe currently serves as a Captain in the United States Army Reserve Dental Corp.

Dr. Robert Ault grew up in Lansing, MI. He attended Grand Valley State University as a collegiate athlete and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in business management. He then attended the University of Michigan School of Dentistry, receiving his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree in 2020 with awards in prosthodontics, periodontics, and oral surgery. Upon graduation, he was inducted into the Omicron Kappa Upsilon Dental Honor Society. In his free time, Dr. Ault enjoys hunting, fishing, and spending time with his family. He has chosen the prosthodontics program at the University of Michigan alongside his wife, Dr. Janet Zalucha, a resident of the periodontics program, to improve his clinical skill and knowledge in order to provide greater services to the people in his community. Upon completion of the program, Dr. Ault hopes to challenge the American Board of Prosthodontics for board certification and open a dual practice office with his wife offering services in both periodontics and prosthodontics.

Dr. Tyler Anderson was raised in lovely Portland, Oregon. He attended Portland State University where he studied Organismal Biology. He then moved east and earned his Master of Biomedical Science degree from Rutgers University and his Doctor of Dental Surgery from New York University. In 2015 he moved to Ann Arbor with his wife Sara Hinds Anderson, a Resident Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon at the University of Michigan. In his free time Dr. Anderson enjoys long distance running, fly fishing, rock climbing and any type of skiing. Dr. Anderson has chosen prosthodontics at the prestigious University of Michigan to expand his clinical skill set in dental procedures and complex restorative cases.

Dr. Anne Press was born in raised in the Metro-Detroit area. She attended the University of Detroit Mercy for both her Bachelors of Science in Biology and Doctor of Dental Surgery in an accelerated program. After graduation, she moved to Milwaukee, Wisconsin for an Advanced Education in General Dentistry program at the Milwaukee Veterans Administration Hospital. Dr. Anne Press enjoyed serving the veteran population, but moved back home to Michigan to further her education at the University of Michigan in the Graduate Prosthodontics Program. She enjoys spending time with family and friends and when she has free time she likes crafting. She loves her family dog, Buster.

Dr. John Bazzi was born and raised in Dearborn, MI. At the age of ten, John relocated with his family to South Charlotte, NC in Mecklenburg County to attend middle and high school. In 2007, Dr. Bazzi graduated from Weddington High School in Matthews, NC and came back to Michigan to pursue a BA in Business Management at Michigan State University. While in East Lansing, John was part of various clubs, IM sports, the MSU Food Bank, a participant of Patterson Dental study club meetings, and embarked on three alternative spring break trips, volunteering across America. Soon after graduation from Michigan State in 2011, Dr. Bazzi continued his education at the University of Michigan School of Dentistry where he obtained a DDS degree in May 2017. John enjoys spending time with friends and family, working out, traveling, and attending Detroit Red Wings' games. Dr. Bazzi is now a resident in the Graduate Prosthodontics Program at the University of Michigan and plans to practice in Michigan soon after graduation.

Dr. Blake D. Bufford was born and raised in Southfield, MI. He obtained his bachelor's degree in Biology from Morehouse College in 2014. He went on to obtain his dental degree from the University of Michigan School of Dentistry in May 2018. After completion of his dental degree, Dr. Bufford started the Graduate Prosthodontics Program at the University of Michigan. Once he completes the program and obtains the certificate/master's degree, Dr. Bufford hopes to excel as a board certified prosthodontist in private practice and deliver the gift of knowledge to dental students. Over the years Dr. Bufford has involved himself in many organizations, which feeds his passion for mentoring and promoting an increase in diversity in dentistry.

Dr. Joe Fazzio is a native of Michigan, being born in Southfield, MI, and spending most of his childhood in Bloomfield Hills, MI. He graduated from Michigan State University in 2014 with his BS in Human Biology from Lyman Briggs College as well as his BA in Finance from the Eli Broad School of Business. Immediately following graduation, he entered dental school and continued until earning his Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of Michigan in 2018. Throughout dental school, Dr. Fazzio remained very active at both the school and state level for organized dentistry, serving as the University of Michigan Chapter President for the American Student Dental Association. In addition, he served on the membership committee for both the Washtenaw District Dental Society and the Michigan Dental Association. In the future, Dr. Fazzio plans on practicing in the state of Michigan.

Dr. Connie Wang was born and raised in Michigan and spent most of her childhood in Troy, Michigan. She attended the University of Michigan and earned her B.S. in Microbiology with a minor in Asian Languages and Cultures. Upon graduation, she worked for one year as a receptionist and dental assistant at Bloomfield Children’s Dentistry. Dr. Wang then moved to New York City to attend the Columbia University College of Dental Medicine, where she earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree. After living in New York for four years, Dr. Wang decided to return to Michigan to pursue her graduate studies in Prosthodontics, where she hopes to continue her education in complex treatment planning and provide comprehensive, patient-centered care.

Dr. Brandon A. Gordon was born in Detroit’s Henry Ford Hospital and raised in the Grand Rapids area until 1994 when his family relocated to Marietta, Georgia. After graduating from Campbell High School, Dr. Gordon remained in Georgia to attend Morehouse College, a historically Black liberal arts college for men, renowned for its commitment to academic excellence and leadership development. Dr. Gordon graduated from Morehouse College in 2002 with a Bachelor of Science in Biology. In the summer of 2002, Dr. Gordon participated in a post-baccalaureate program at the UCLA School of Medicine, where he also volunteered in the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Clinic. The culmination of Dr. Gordon’s educational experiences inspired his return to Michigan to attend the University of Michigan’s School of Dentistry in Ann Arbor. He graduated in 2007 with a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree. While in dental school, Dr. Gordon also grew spiritually. He joined Second Baptist Church of Ann Arbor in 2004 and has been working in various ministries at the church since then. In April 2009, Dr. Gordon was ordained as a deacon. Dr. Gordon’s faith in God and participation in church ministries inform his perspective of dental care. He believes that providing optimal dental care to those in need is the primary ministry to which God has called him.

Dr. Gordon takes great pride in his ability to deliver the highest quality of dental care. By the grace of God, he is able to administer this type of treatment both in the United States and abroad. Dr. Gordon participates in a yearly outreach program sponsored by HealthCare International that provides dental and medical care to rural areas of Jamaica. In keeping with his commitment to provide the highest quality of service, Dr. Gordon also participates in a wide range of top quality continuing education programs for professionals. In particular, his emphasis on integrating the most advanced technology and treatment options with genuine care allows him to maintain the highest level of quality dentistry. In July 2016 Dr. Gordon started the Graduate Prosthodontics Residency Program at the University of Michigan School of Dentistry. Once completed, Dr. Gordon not only plans to serve the community again, but also to begin another career teaching undergraduate dental students the fundamentals of Prosthodontics.

Dr. Daniel Hammaker was born in Dayton, Ohio, but has spent most of his life in southeastern Michigan. He graduated from the University of Michigan with a Bachelor of Science in Biology in 2010, and earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of Michigan in 2014. Before entering the Graduate Prosthodontics Program, Dr. Hammaker spent time working in private practice and teaching at the School of Dentistry. In the future, he hopes to own a private practice in southeastern Michigan and continue teaching at the University of Michigan School of Dentistry.

Dr. Jesse Kane earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree from the University of Michigan School of Dentistry in 2014. His desire to properly manage complex dental cases and restorative options involving implant therapy has led him to the field of prosthodontics. He began the graduate prosthodontics program at the University of Michigan in the fall of 2014 where he plans to obtain the combined certificate/masters degree. His plans once he graduates are to work in a private practice in southeast Michigan.

Dr. Andrew Dill was born and raised in Ann Arbor. He graduated from Albion College with a Bachelor’s in Music Performance (French Horn) and Biochemistry. He went on to complete his DDS degree from the University of Michigan in 2011. Immediately after graduation Andrew began a private practice, West Ann Arbor Dentistry, practicing general dentistry. He also taught in the CRSE department of the University of Michigan School of Dentistry as an Adjunct Clinical Assistant Professor to third and fourth year dental students. He continues to maintain his practice on evenings and weekends during the graduate program. In his free time, he continues to play his French horn in the UofM Life Sciences Orchestra. After graduation, Andrew plans to apply his knowledge in Prosthodontics to expand his private practice and continue to teach dental students either as an adjunct or in a greater role.

Dr. Stefos was born and raised in Farmington Hills, Michigan. She attended the University of Michigan where she received her Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology (with honors). Upon graduation in 2008, she was accepted to the University of Michigan School of Dentistry and received her D.D.S in 2012. Dr. Stefos was accepted to join the Graduate Prosthodontics Program immediately after graduation. Dr. Stefos is proud to be completing her academic pursuance at The University of Michigan. Upon graduation she plans to work in private practice as well as teach in a University setting.

Dr. Elhage was born and raised in Novi, Michigan, in the Metro-Detroit area. He attended the University of Michigan-Dearborn where he received his undergraduate degree in Biochemistry. Upon graduating in 2007, he was accepted at the University of Michigan School of Dentistry and received his D.D.S. in 2011. Dr. Elhage was accepted into the Graduate Prosthodontics program immediately after graduating from dental school. He has maintained a part-time office while completing his specialty training, working on weekends and evenings since graduating from dental school. In addition, Dr. Elhage contracts with local nursing homes as the on-site dentist, treating elderly patients who are unable or have difficulties traveling to the dentist. As a proud member of the Class of 2014, Dr. Elhage plans on practicing in the Metro-Detroit area as a Prosthodontist, continuing to research and teach as well.

Lisa Kane earned her dental degree from the University of Detroit. She was inducted into the dental honor society Omicron Kappa Upsilon in 2001. Dr. Kane’s research interests are in the field of metals and ceramics produced by CAD/CAM technology for clinical use in dentistry. She practiced as a general dentist for several years prior to returning for her specialty training and has worked in public health, managed care, and private practice.

Dr. Chan grew up in Northern Virginia, a suburb of Washington D.C. He graduated from the University of Virginia in 1999, receiving his B.S. in Engineering Science with a focus in Biomedical Engineering. After undergraduate studies, he worked full-time as a computer network engineer for four years at the National Institutes of Health while completing his M.S. in Biotechnology with an emphasis in Bioinformatics from the Johns Hopkins University in 2003. Dr. Chan received his D.M.D from Tufts University School of Dental Medicine in 2007 and completed one year of AEGD residency at the University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine from 2007-2008. He then returned to Tufts University in 2008-2009 and taught full-time in the dental school's undergraduate clinic and pre-clinic as a removable and fixed prosthodontics instructor. He is now very proud and excited to be a part of the Class of 2012 in the Graduate Prosthodontics program at the University of Michigan School of Dentistry where he will improve his ability to rehabilitate the most challenging clinical restorative cases.

Dr. Pogoncheff was born and raised in Lansing, Michigan. He attended Lansing Catholic Central High School, received a bachelor's degree from the University of Michigan in 2005, and graduated from the University of Michigan School of Dentistry in 2009. Upon graduation from Dental School he received numerous awards including the Francis B. Vedder Award for Crown and Bridge Dentistry, the Comprehensive Care Award, and the American College of Prosthodontists Undergraduate Achievement Award. In addition, Carl maintains a part-time private practice in Lansing. He is very interested in the field of Prosthodontics and is excited to study in the graduate program at the University of Michigan.

Dr. Al-Munif was born and raised in Saudi Arabia. He received his undergraduate degree in biology from Virginia Commonwealth University, and then proceeded with his dental education at the Medical College of Virginia School of Dentistry. He graduated in 2003, and moved back to Saudi Arabia. He completed a 12-month internship (GPR) at King Faisal University (Hospital), followed by working as a general practitioner at King Fahd Military Medical Complex in Saudi Arabia. Dr. Al-Munif’s wife, Wala, is a student at Eastern Michigan University. They both live in Ann Arbor along with their beautiful daughter, Manar.

Dr. Giroux was born and raised in Rochester Hills, Michigan. She graduated from Saint Louis University in 2003 with a B.S. in Exercise Science. She then went on to attend dental school at Creighton University in Omaha, Nebraska. There she developed an affinity and fondness for prosthodontics. After receiving her DDS degree in 2007, she was accepted into the graduate prosthodontics program at the University of Michigan. She is thrilled about being back in Michigan with her family nearby.

Dr. Suh was born in Seoul, South Korea, and then her family moved to Atlanta, Georgia in 1988. She completed her undergraduate training at the Medical College of Georgia in Augusta, Georgia with a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene. After graduation, she worked in private practice for two years and decided to pursue further training in dentistry at the Medical College of Georgia. There, her interest in Periodontics and Prosthodontics emerged and her decision to specialize in Prosthodontics solidified. She is ecstatic to start a new chapter in her life in Ann Arbor and she feels very fortunate to be surrounded by knowledgeable, amiable, and supportive professors and colleagues.

Originally from Taiwan, Dr. Wu has spent much of his education in North America. After finishing high school in Vancouver, Canada, he graduated Cum Laude with an A.B. degree in biochemistry and minor degrees in Business and biomedical physics from Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri. He subsequently received his D.D.S. degree from New York University, College of Dentistry, in 2003. After completing a GPR program from the Brooklyn Hospital Center and an AEGD program from the University of Rochester, Eastman Dental Center, he decided to pursue a graduate degree in Prosthodontics. Dr. Wu feels fortunate to have supportive parents, good friends, and teachers to help him continue and complete his education. He is proud to be a member of the Prosthodontics program at the University of Michigan, and hopes that this will be a most rewarding and challenging learning experience.

Averil graduated from the University of Michigan School of Dentistry in May 2004. While here she was awarded the American College of Prosthodontists Undergraduate Achievement Award. She also has a Bachelor of Science degree in Physiology from Eastern Michigan University. She says she is very happy to have been accepted to the University of Michigan Graduate Prosthodontic Program and hopes to obtain a Master's Degree. She would like to practice in the area as well as teach here at the University at least part-time after graduation. Her very supportive husband, Matthew, is a Firefighter/Paramedic for Canton Township. They are currently living in Gregory, Michigan, but hope to move closer to campus and to Canton. Her family lives in Canton, and she says it will be nice to be closer to them. They have two Great Dane dogs that are very affectionate and are quite spoiled.

Dr. Williams received his D.D.S. degree from the University of Michigan in 2001. Upon completion of the Graduate Prosthodontics Program, Dr. Williams plans to attend the M.D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, Texas, to further his education in the area of Maxillofacial Prosthodontics. Eventually he plans to return to his native Detroit to continue his practice, splitting time between private practice and a hospital setting. Dr. Williams currently lives in Ypsilanti with his wife.

Dr. Rob Schumacher grew up in White Pigeon, Michigan, where he completed his pre-college curriculum. He finished his undergraduate degree at Asbury College in Willmore, Kentucky. He graduated from the University of Kentucky College of Dentistry in May 2001. Rob is married to Elizabeth, and they have a two-year-old daughter named Ashley. Upon completion of his Prosthodontic program he aspires to earn his National Board Certification in Prosthodontics. He also desires to serve as a missionary, either overseas or here in the United States. Finally, he would like to contribute to the ever-growing body of prosthodontic knowledge through clinical practice and teaching.

I was born and raised in Ann Arbor. I attended Hampton University in Virginia and received a Bachelor of Arts degree with high honors in Biology in 1990. I then attended The University of Michigan School of Dentistry. I earned my D.D.S. in 1994, and then began the Master's degree program in Prosthodontics at the University of Michigan. I am practicing dentistry in Ann Arbor with my father, Lee Jones, part time. I am very glad to have continued my education here at Michigan. Everyone in the department has been very supportive while keeping me focused on my educational goals. My future plans include teaching and practicing part-time in Ann Arbor.

Dr. Saumya Kapoor was born and raised in Lucknow, India. She completed her Master of Dental Surgery (Prosthodontics) from Manipal University, India, and then worked as a senior resident at the Department of Prosthodontics, King George’s Medical University. To further enhance her knowledge and skills in the latest techniques and research, she started the Graduate Prosthodontics Program at the University of Michigan School of Dentistry, where she aims to gain advanced education in Prosthodontics, Digital Dentistry and Implantology and to offer the best specialty care to her patients. Her goal is to excel as a board-certified Prosthodontist and share her knowledge and experience in global academic institutions. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her husband, traveling, and exploring different cuisines.

Dr. Christiana Onisiforou was born in Washington DC, but grew up in her hometown of Limassol, Cyprus. She obtained her Doctor of Dental Medicine degree in 2019 from Semmelweis University in Budapest, Hungary. After graduating from dental school, she joined a Prosthodontics-Periodontics private practice in Limassol, Cyprus for one year. In pursuit of further dental education and training in the United States, she moved to Ann Arbor to join the Graduate Prosthodontics Master’s Program at the University of Michigan. Upon completing her master’s degree, Dr. Onisiforou plans to apply her research, acquired knowledge and expertise with complex rehabilitation cases to best serve her patients in private practice. Outside dentistry, she enjoys spending time with her family, cooking and traveling to new places.

Dr. Bhavinkumar Patel was born and raised in Gujarat, India. He completed his Bachelor of Dental Surgery with Evidence Based Dentistry Curriculum and Rotatory Internship for 1 year at K.M. Shah Dental College & Hospital, Sumandeep Vidyapeeth University (NAAC - “A” Grade), Gujarat, India, in September 2016. After his graduation, Dr. Patel worked in general dentistry practice for 2 years. He moved to the United States in August 2018 and joined the Dental Postgraduate Program in Prosthodontics at the University of Michigan. In Summer 2020, as a next step in his career, Dr. Patel started the Graduate Prosthodontics Master’s Program at the University of Michigan School of Dentistry, where he plans to obtain the combined Advanced Education in Graduate Prosthodontics Certificate/Master’s Degree. His goal is to excel as a board-certified Prosthodontist in specialty practice and also share his knowledge by teaching dental students at a university.

Dr. Asil Ellauzi was born and raised in Amman, Jordan. She obtained her Doctor of Dental Surgery Degree from Jordan University of Science and Technology (JUST) in 2015. Upon graduation, Dr. Ellauzi started the Dental Postgraduate Program in Prosthodontics at the University of Michigan. After finishing the program, Dr. Ellauzi worked for 2 years as a general practitioner in a private practice in Jordan. To further her education, Dr. Ellauzi decided to join the Graduate Prosthodontics Program at the University of Michigan in pursuit of the knowledge to manage complex rehabilitation cases that will allow her to best serve her patients.

Dr. Maria F. Alfaro was born and raised in San Jose, Costa Rica. She earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery Degree from University of Costa Rica (UCR) in 2010. Upon graduation, she worked as a general practitioner for 3 years. Her affinity to the field of Prosthodontics drove her to enroll in an Advanced Prosthodontics Observership Program at University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) in 2013. During her time at UIC, she also worked as a Research Scholar under the guidance of Dr. Cortino Sukotjo where she studied "The Tribocorrosion Behavior of Dental Implants in a Simulated Oral Environment". Her work has been presented at numerous conferences and was awarded with 1st place in the scientific table competition at the 87th Annual Meeting of the American Prosthodontic Society (APS). In 2015, Dr. Alfaro was offered a full-time position as the Assistant Director of Digital Health Sciences and Technology at UIC Restorative Dentistry Department where she worked for 2 years with various CAD/CAM systems in the foundation of prosthetic design, materials and fabrication. To further her education, Dr. Alfaro decided to join the Graduate Prosthodontics Program at the University of Michigan in pursuit of the knowledge to manage complex rehabilitation cases that will allow her to best serve her patients.

Dr. Valentina Coelho was born and raised in Caracas, Venezuela. She obtained her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree in 2013 from the Universidad Santa Maria in Caracas. After graduating, she worked as a general dentist in a private practice for one year. In March of 2014, she obtained a certification in digital smile design from the Federación Odontológica Colombiana in Bogota, Colombia. In September of 2014, she moved to Barcelona, Spain where she worked at a private practice while also pursuing a postgraduate residence in prosthodontics at the Universidad Internacional de Catalunya (UIC). After working in private practice for a few years, Dr. Coelho moved to Michigan to pursue a Master’s Degree in Prosthodontics at the University of Michigan. Upon completing the master’s program, Dr. Coelho wishes to work in a private practice as a prosthodontist while also dedicating some of her time to teaching undergraduate dental classes at a university.

Dr. Chenxuan Wei obtained her degree of Bachelor of Dental Surgery in 2010. After graduation, Dr. Wei did 2 years of postdoctoral training in restorative Dentistry in Shanghai Jiaotong University. In 2013, she went to the University of Hong Kong to pursue her PhD in oral biology and dental biomaterials. Her main research areas include bio-integration, tissues regeneration and infection control of implant materials, dental filling materials, and dental ceramics. Her work has received awards twice from the International Association for Dental Research (IADR). During her PhD, Dr. Wei also founded startups seeking a way to transfer research into practice. In the next step in her career, Dr. Wei joined the Graduate Prosthodontics Program at the University of Michigan in hopes of deepening her knowledge of advanced prosthodontics practice, and understanding how research and technologies could serve a better part.

Dr. Nuntaporn Rojanasakul was born and raised in Bangkok, the capital city of Thailand. She earned her DDS degree from the Faculty of Dentistry, Chulalongkorn University in 2007. Immediately after graduation, she began practicing in the Dental Division, Faculty of Medicine, Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University until she received a scholarship and was accepted to further study in the Graduate Prosthodontics Program at the University of Michigan in 2015. After graduation, Dr. Rojanasakul plans to take back what she has learned here to serve and help the people in her Thai homeland.

Dr. Yuan-Lynn Hsieh received his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree in 2011 from the National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan. Upon graduation, he started to work in the University Hospital and accepted specialty training in Periodontology. In July 2014, he became the chief resident in the Department of Periodontics and aided teaching in clinic, preclinical and dental school. Later, he worked ad honorem as an attending doctor in the National Taiwan University Hospital. Dr. Hsieh's clinic and research interests revolve around regeneration, guided surgery, implant prostheses and digital dentistry. He wants to deepen and further his knowledge/skill in the regime of full mouth reconstruction in the University of Michigan’s Graduate Prosthodontics Program. In the future, he hopes to become a passionate university educator and an empathetic clinician, who can bring knowledge to the dental students and deliver comprehensive oral care to the patients.

Dr. Daniel Cortes was born and raised in Monterrey, México. In 2012, he graduated from dental school at the Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo Leon in Monterrey, Mexico, receiving his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree, with honors, being 1st place in his class. After finishing his undergraduate studies in 2013, Daniel started a community service project in the dental clinic "Guadalupe Dental Module" in Monterrey México, which is administrated by the National Ministry of Health. During this year, he practiced in clinical oral rehabilitation, surgery, endodontics, periodontics and diagnosis. Finally, it is his objective to assume a leadership position as a dentist that participates in activities to improve the quality of prosthodontics in Mexico, by delivering high quality work in every project that he enrolls in. He truly believes that the Graduate Prosthodontics Program will allow him to undertake new challenges and enhance his personal and professional development.

Dr. Juliana Castro-Lapeira received her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree in 2011 from the ULACIT University in San Jose, Costa Rica. In 2012, Dr. Castro did a one-year internship at the Prosthodontic Graduate Program at the University of Costa Rica. After finishing with her studies, Dr. Castro worked as an associate general dentist in a private office in San José. She is currently enrolled in the University of Michigan's Prosthodontics Graduate Program with the intent of becoming an excellent clinician and expanding the learning to Costa Rica's future dentists.

Dr. Garcia Hammaker was born and raised in Caracas, Venezuela. She attended dental school at the Universidad Central de Venezuela, where she obtained the degree of Doctor of Dental Surgery in December 2011. After completing her graduation she started working as an assistant with two different Prosthodontists with private practice in Caracas to observe, learn and practice about the specialty. During dental school training, she worked ad-honorem as a Teaching Assistant in Department of Removable Partial Dentures. In March 2012, she became part of the Department of Crown and Bridge where she performed as a Collaborative Professor in the pre-clinical and clinical environment. She started the Graduate Program of Prosthodontics in September 2013 and she is willing to develop and improve clinical and laboratory skills. After obtaining her Prosthodontist degree, Dr. Garcia Gazaui would like to teach and work in private practice.

Dr. Anastasia Katsavochristou received her DDS degree in 2010 from the School of Dentistry at the University of Athens, in Greece. For the following two years, she worked in private practice in Athens, practicing general dentistry with an orientation in the field of prosthodontics. At the same time, she was also involved in a private practice office oriented in prosthodontics and orofacial pain management.

In 2012, Dr. Katsavochristou was accepted in the 3- year graduate program in Prosthodontics at the University of Michigan School of Dentistry. Her plan is to specialize in the field of prosthodontics, in combination with pursuing a Master of Science degree. Dr. Katsavochristou’s aspiration is to become an expert clinician, skillful researcher, and to contribute in the academic domain.

Dr. Binrayes was born and raised in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. He graduated from King Saud University (KSU) with a Bachelor’s degree in Dental Surgery (BDS) in 2008. He completed a one-year internship training program at KSU as well as several other hospitals. Dr. Binrayes was selected as a teaching assistant at KSU, Department of Prosthetic Dental Sciences, in 2009. He taught full-time in the dental school's undergraduate clinic and pre-clinic as a removable and fixed prosthodontic instructor.

Dr. Binrayes believes that a prosthodontist has the responsibility to create foundations with patients that will last a lifetime. To obtain this knowledge and expertise will require a well-structured postgraduate program, which is why he joined the Graduate Prosthodontic Program at the University of Michigan, School of Dentistry. This program will help him achieve his goals and ambitions, to continue his excitement in being a prosthodontist, and enable him to bring complex prosthetic cases to reality. After graduation, Dr. Binrayes plans to join a PhD program, which will enable him to be proficient in delivering prosthodontic education to future dental professionals in Saudi Arabia.

Dr. Schaefer went to dental school at the Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo Leon in Monterrey, Mexico. She graduated with a degree in dental surgery in spring 2011. After which she did a year of social service assisting the Prosthodontics graduate program there, getting the chance to observe and practice what residents in this specialty do. She also worked part time as an assistant with three different Prosthodontists during dental school.

She is thrilled to be starting the Graduate Prosthodontics Program at University of Michigan in January 2013 where she would like to obtain the combined certificate/masters degree. She is very proud to be fulfilling her dream and is confident that upon completion of the program she will have gained the skills and knowledge to pursue a successful career as a Prosthodontist. Her plans once she graduates are to work in a private practice and to continue with further research back in her hometown in Mexico.

Dr. Alshhrani was born and raised in Saudi Arabia. He graduated from King Saud University with a BDS degree in dentistry in 2007. For two years he worked part-time for four different dental centers. Dr. Alshhrani was then selected to join the Prosthdontics department at King Saud University as a teaching assistant. He also taught full-time in the dental school's undergraduate clinic and pre-clinic as a removable and fixed prosthodontics instructor. In 2010, Dr. Ashhrani joined the prosthodontic post-doctoral program at University of Michigan. He is now very proud and excited to be a part of the Class of 2014 in the Graduate Prosthodontics program at the University of Michigan School of Dentistry where he will improve his ability to rehabilitate the most challenging clinical restorative case. After graduation, he plans to join the PhD program at University of Michigan and then go back to Saudi Arabia to teach and practice dentistry at King Saud University.

Dr. Chronaios is from Greece and he graduated with his dental degree from King's College in London in 2007. For two years before he joined the Prosthodontic program, he worked in a private practice in Athens, Greece. Dimitrios also worked for a year as a general dentist in the Greek Navy, while doing his service. Specialized education in prosthodontics interests Dimitrios, since the first time he understood what prosthodontic and restorative dentistry involved. He is certain that his studies at the University of Michigan will help him get a complete education in prosthodontics.

Dr. Eliades was born and raised in Limassol, Cyprus. From 2000-02 he served his two-year military service as an Officer of the Special Forces in Cyprus. He received his DDS degree in 2007 from the University of Athens, School of Dentistry, in Greece. He then practiced dentistry for one year in a private clinic in Cyprus. Dr. Eliades has always been determined to pursue a career in Prosthodontics and is very proud of his acceptance into the Prosthodontics Graduate Program at the University of Michigan. He looks forward for this new challenge in his life and is confident that the University of Michigan will provide him a strong background for the demanding profession of Prosthodontics.

Dr. Al-Salihi was born and raised in Baghdad, the capital city of IRAQ. She graduated from the school of dentistry, Baghdad University, in 1996 and then completed two years as a dental rotator and a general practitioner in the suburban’s public dental clinics of the Ministry of Health. After receiving her MSc in prosthodontics in 2001, she worked as a full-time lecturer at the School of Dentistry, University of Baghdad. She received a scholarship to join a graduate program in Prosthodontics in 2005. She is excited and very proud to join the graduate prosthodontics program at the University of Michigan.

Dr. Spyropoulou was born and raised in Athens, which is the capital of Greece. She graduated from the University of Athens, School of Dentistry in 2006 and worked for one year as a General Dentist in a private clinic in Greece. From the first years of her studies Penny realized that she would like to pursue a career in Prosthodontics, and that she also wanted to do her specialty training in the USA. Dr. Spyropoulou feels very lucky that she was accepted into the Prosthodontic Graduate Program at the University of Michigan, School of Dentistry and is looking forward to experiencing a new life in Michigan.

Dr. Yang was born and raised in Taiwan. He received his DDS degree from the National Taiwan University, School of Dentistry, in 2005. After graduation, he served as a Military Dental Officer in the F-16 Air Force Base for one year. Dr. Yang continued his private dental practice in Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company for another six months before being accepted into the Graduate Prosthodontic Program at University of Michigan.

Dr. Yang is proud to have supportive parents and mentors, who gave him invaluable encouragement and motivation for pursuing a specialty in Prosthodontics. Dr. Yang is very excited to start a new life in Ann Arbor and hopes to broaden his vision by increasing his prosthodontic knowledge at this great University.

Romeo (Jun) Paculanan was born and raised in Manila, Philippines, where he graduated and received his DDS Degree from Centro Escolar University, College of Dentistry in 1988. After graduation he had a private practice as a General Dentist for several years before moving to Toronto, Canada. He is happily married to a lovely and supportive wife, Teo, and they have two children, Francis and Franchesa. In Toronto Dr. Paculanan learned the laboratory aspect of preparing and processing complete and partial dentures. He was the supervisor of a lab in the Denture Department where he worked before coming to Michigan. He knows that it will take a lot of hard work to finish the prosthodontic graduate program, but knowing that in the future he will be able to give his patients the best possible treatment they deserve is a great motivation.