John Barnes, left, and David RodenThe alumni association serving the University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Dentistry hosted its annual Alumni Weekend on Feb. 1-4 at the Hyatt Regency Wynfrey Hotel. The weekend consisted of continuing education courses and opportunities to connect with exhibitors, as well as reunion times for classes stemming as far back as the class of 1953.
“Having 12 separate class reunions, 2,000 attendees, and collecting more than $100,000 in philanthropic contributions throughout the weekend are reflective of the strong bond our alumni have with their classmates and professors, as well as their commitment to the success of the school,” said Scott Huffman, executive director of Development for the school and the alumni association. “We’re proud of the strong legacy our alumni have left on the school and are fortunate for their support in ensuring that the School of Dentistry remains a premier dental school.”
As part of the weekend’s festivities, incoming Alumni Association president, Stanley Beard, DMD, was announced during one of the weekend’s programs. A general dentist with a private practice in Jackson, Alabama, Beard will oversee the association’s alumni base of 1,500, which includes national and international members, as well as philanthropic contributions and communication for the association.
Two alumni received awards recognizing their commitment to the School of Dentistry and field of dentistry in Alabama. John Barnes, DMD, was the recipient of the 2017 Distinguished Dentistry Award, and David Roden, DMD, received the 2017 Outstanding Young Alumnus Award.