University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine

Congratulations to Noah Herrick, PhD, Pitt Dental Medicine postdoctoral scholar in the Department of Oral and Craniofacial Sciences, for winning the Best Poster Award at the 2026 Gordon Research Conference.

Dr. Herrick says: “The Gordon Research Conference for Craniofacial Morphogenesis and Tissue Regeneration in Ventura, California was an incredible learning and networking experience. Gordon Research Conferences are focused on advancing the frontiers of science through presentations of cutting-edge, unpublished research. It was an honor to share our research that identified novel genetic associations to different forms of isolated cleft lip and to be recognized with the best postdoctoral poster award. I’m very grateful for the opportunity and left inspired by the quality of science and discovery driving the field forward”. Under the mentorship of Dr. Mary Marazita, Noah’s presentation was entitled “Trio-based GWAS reveals novel loci associated with different forms of isolated cleft lip”.

Congratulations to the Pitt Dental DMD and Dental Hygiene Class of 2026. Your future is bright, and your impact is just beginning. 🦷💙💛

Pitt Provost, Joe McCarthy, interviews Pitt Dental Medicine dean, Dr. Marnie Oakley in this recent podcast >

Reimagining Dental Education at Pitt and Across the Commonwealth Dean of the School of Dental Medicine Marnie Oakley joins the podca...

“Real strength has to do with helping others.”
—Mr. Fred Rogers

Thank you to our department administrators and our team in patient services who work every day to solve problems, find answers, provide reassurance and help others. Working together truly makes for a beautiful day in this neighborhood.

For someone living in a rural area, transitioning quickly into a local healthcare career isn't just a career move—it’s a way to strengthen the very fabric of your community. Here are the primary benefits of taking this path:

Apply now at the link in the comments >

1. Immediate Job Security and Stability
Healthcare is one of the few industries that remains "recession-proof," especially in many rural Pennsylvania areas where medical professionals are in short supply. By completing the Dental Assistant Training Program, you can move into a stable, well-paying role with long-term security in a matter of months.

2. Keeping Talent Right Where You Live
When rural residents have access to quick, local education, they don't have to move away to find success. This keeps talented people, tax dollars, and resources within the town, helping the local economy thrive instead of shrinking.

3. Vital Community Impact
In small towns, a healthcare worker isn't a stranger in a lab coat. They are a neighbor, a friend, or relative. Patients are often more comfortable and honest with providers who understand their local way of life. And by providing care in your community, elderly neighbors or families don't have to drive hours for basic check-ups.

4. Opportunities for Career Advancement
Just because you begin your career quickly doesn't mean you have to stop there. Many rural healthcare facilities offer tuition reimbursement or "earn-while-you-learn" programs. Starting as a Dental Assistant today can provide the financial foundation to become a Registered Dental Hygienist or administrator tomorrow.

5. Improving Health in Your Community
A community with a robust local dental workforce often has better overall health. Quick entry into the field allows you to fill critical gaps in local clinics, leading to faster clinical response times and better preventive care for everyone you know.

University of Pittsburgh at Titusville
University of Pittsburgh at Bradford

“All of us, at some time or other, need help. Whether we're giving or receiving help, each one of us has something valuable to bring to this world. That's one of the things that connects us as neighbors—in our own way, each one of us is a giver and a receiver."
—Mr. Fred Rogers

Think about our researchers and the scientific investigations that happen every day. Maybe we change protocol or seek data or question results. Each of you is part of the true community in our neighborhood, all dedicated to the same goal of improving oral health.

“You’ve made this day a special day, by just your being you. There’s no person in the whole world like you, and I like you just the way you are.”
—Mr. Fred Rogers

What’s it like to be Mr. Rogers?
Pitt Dental Medicine staff and faculty may join us for Dress like Fred Day on Thursday!
Mr. Rogers began every episode changing into his signature cardigan and sneakers. To celebrate his spirit of acceptance, kindness, and authenticity, embrace his sartorial style for the day*.

* Staff and Faculty may wear clothing or accessories that embrace the style of Fred Rogers on Thursday if you can keep within your regular professional guidelines for patient care. In clinical areas, please adhere to our health and safety protocols for appropriate dress. (I. A. 12 Pitt Dental Medicine Dress Code, pages 14-15)