Special event at Codman Academy introduces middle school students to the field of dentistry.
Tufts Student National Dental Association Hosts “Dr. Lonnie Norris Day in Dentistry”
The Student National Dental Association (SNDA) at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine proudly partnered with Codman Academy Charter Public School to host the inaugural “Dr. Lonnie Norris Day in Dentistry” for 6th–8th grade students.
Organized by Jasmine Jenkins (D27) and led by Aeneas Thompson (D28), Gregory Leatherwood (D27), and Alexis Coulibaly (D28), this special outreach event was created to introduce middle school students to the field of dentistry through hands-on learning, mentorship, and oral health education. Named in honor of Dr. Lonnie Norris, DG80, M99P, A01P, the first Black dean of Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, the event aimed to inspire middle school students, especially from backgrounds that are historically underrepresented in the profession, to explore careers in healthcare and dentistry.
Current Tufts dental students led an engaging afternoon filled with interactive presentations, educational games, and hands-on activities. Students rotated through multiple stations where they learned about oral hygiene, participated in dental-themed games and Jeopardy activities, explored what life is like as a dental student, and even practiced taking dental impressions on models.
The event also featured a Q&A panel where students had the opportunity to ask Tufts dental students questions about college, dental school, and careers in dentistry. Throughout the program, students were encouraged to see themselves represented in healthcare professions and to understand the importance of oral health at an early age.
To conclude the day, each student received a Dr. Lonnie Norris Day in Dentistry event t-shirt, hygiene bag filled with oral care supplies, and children’s dental books to continue learning beyond the classroom.
Tufts SNDA is grateful to Dr. Jonathan Stephens and Codman Academy for welcoming us into their school community and to Dean Lonnie H. Norris, DG80, Endowed Fund for the Tufts Chapter of the SNDA, allowing us the opportunity to serve and inspire the next generation of healthcare leaders. The success of this event reflects the power of mentorship, representation, legacy, and community outreach in creating meaningful impact for youth.
