AADOCR NSRG - Vice President Candidate
Reasons for Running
An essential component of every dental trainee’s development is understanding the foundational science behind craniofacial biology. AADOCR/IADR and NSRG play the vital role of connecting students to research opportunities and mentors that enhance their educational experience and make them more effective clinicians. The supportive NSRG network has enabled students like me to find a home in dental research. As the NSRG Midwest Regional Representative, I prioritize engaging students with fulfilling research opportunities to give back to the community that has benefited me. I am running for NSRG Vice President so I can make dental research accessible and meaningful for all students.
As an underrepresented minority student, I have witnessed how impactful diverse leadership teams can be, even on my local SRG board. Therefore, I aim to resolve the longstanding absence of African American males in NSRG leadership and be a voice for positive change. As Vice President, I will diligently work to foster an inclusive, supportive environment with a collaborative, integrity-driven, and compassionate leadership approach. My vision is to advance diversity in dental, oral, and craniofacial research by designing programs that welcome all students, especially students from underrepresented backgrounds, so we can all find our home in dental research.
Research Conducted / Student Activities
Research Conducted
- Molecular Mechanisms of Unstable Mandibular Fracture Healing: To drive future therapeutic advancements, my research interrogates how cells respond to an unstable micromechanical environment during mandibular fracture healing. I have received NIDCR (F30), NSF (Bridge to the Doctorate), and AADOCR (Student Research Fellowship) funding.
- Dysregulated miRNAs in Chronic Periodontitis: My project examined how microRNAs influenced immunological responses in periodontitis and the oral microbiome more broadly.
- Cervical Cancer Health Disparities on Chicago’s South Side: In response to disparities in cervical cancer incidence in adjacent Chicago neighborhoods, I investigated potential causes and designed interventions.
Student Activities
- NSRG Midwest Regional Representative: I engage with students from Midwest dental schools and inform them of upcoming NSRG activities. For my service, I earned the Outstanding Regional Representative Award.
- Treasurer – UIC Dental Student Research Group: I oversee the financial matters for the UIC DSRG and assist with event coordination.
- Vice President – Black Graduate Student Association: I support the President and maintain relationships with our campus partners and other organizations.
- Graduate Student Council, UIC Senate: I represent and advocate for the needs of graduate students. Additionally, on the UIC Senate Research Committee, I discuss and vote on research policy and other university matters.
