School of Dentistry shines at HSDA 35th Anniversary Conference
Faculty and students from the School of Dentistry participated in the Hispanic Dental Association (HSDA) 35th Anniversary Annual Conference this year, held in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. This milestone event brought together dental professionals and students from across the country to celebrate achievements, share research and advance oral health in Hispanic communities.
Representing our school were two distinguished faculty members and six dedicated dental students who are active HSDA members in the School of Dentistry’s chapter. Juanita Pineda, DDS, MPH, associate dean for external affairs and director of the Hispanic Center of Excellence, and Christine Meiners, DDS, FICD, director of community learning and past HSDA President, attended and contributed to the conference’s success.
“Attending the conference was an incredibly inspiring and educational experience. I had the opportunity to hear from Hispanic dentists leading in areas such as research, business and digital dentistry, while also connecting with students from across the country. The experience reminded me how important the HSDA is in creating spaces for representation, mentorship and community. It made me even more proud to serve in a leadership role that helps build that same sense of community here at the School of Dentistry," stated Arabellah Lozano, third-year dental student and current vice president of the School of Dentistry's HSDA chapter.
Pineda was honored with the Faculty of the Year Award, recognizing her outstanding contributions to education and community engagement. Meiners, who has served in multiple leadership roles within HSDA, continues to provide invaluable guidance as a senior advisor for the HSDA.
School of Dentistry students showcased their talent and commitment through research presentations and competitions during this year’s conference. Shirley Flores, a fourth-year student in the International Dental Education Program (IDEP), presented her research poster titled, “Effectiveness of Dental Appliances in Pediatric Obstructive Sleep Apnea.” Her project explored evidence supporting dental appliances as an alternative or adjunctive therapy for children with OSA, particularly those with craniofacial abnormalities.
Shirley Flores, a fourth-year student in the International Dental Education Program (IDEP), with her research poster.
"Being part of HSDA has been such a meaningful experience. It’s a community that celebrates culture, mentorship and leadership while giving back through service and advocacy for underrepresented groups in dentistry," stated Flores.
Adding to the excitement, our student team earned first place in the EPIC Challenge 2025, a national campaign promoting oral health awareness through social media. This marks the first time our school has won this prestigious competition.
“As an international dentist and proud Hispanic, being part of the HSDA has been an incredible opportunity to represent our roots and our culture. I am honored to serve as an officer in this chapter and to contribute to our mission of empowering and uplifting Hispanic students. Winning the EPIC Challenge was a meaningful achievement that reflects our passion and commitment to excellence, both for our community and for the School of Dentistry," stated Yrene Peyramale, fourth-year dental student in the International Dental Education Program and Social Media Officer of the School of Dentistry's HSDA chapter.
The School of Dentistry’s presence at the HSDA 35th Anniversary Conference reflects our ongoing commitment to leadership and excellence in oral health. Through faculty achievements, student research and national recognition in competitions, the School of Dentistry’s HSDA chapter continues to make an impact that extends beyond our campus.