50 Receive Degrees at SIU Dental Medicine Commencement

Keynote speaker Dr. Paul F. Kattner, an orthodontist with Kattner Orthodontics in Waukegan, Ill., addressed 2014 graduating class at the Southern Illinois University School of Dental Medicine commencement Saturday, June 7. The ceremony was held in SIUE’s Meridian Ballroom in the Morris University Center can be seen on siuetv.

Fifty students received a doctor of dental medicine degree. A record 12 alumni participated in the Hooding Ceremony. The School allows an alumnus who is an immediate family member of a graduate to hood their family member as they walk across the stage.

SIUE Chancellor Julie Furst-Bowe congratulated the graduating class. “While we know higher education is heavily promoted today, an advanced professional degree is over and above the typical level of achievement,” she said.

Kattner acknowledged that the class is absolutely positioned for success, but urged them to live a life of significance. “Use great care when you choose your measure of success,” he said. “The choice that you make is going to shape you.

“Pursuing significance smoothes down the sharp edges of pursuing success. It requires the adoption of a radical notion that your goals are not necessarily the most important things in every one of life’s transactions. Choose to take notice of the needs of people around you. It requires a conscious decision to walk toward that person’s needs.”

At the highest designation of achievement, Kattner has obtained Fellowship status with the American College of Dentists, the International College of Dentists, the Academy of Dentistry International, the Pierre Fauchard Academy and the World Federation of Orthodontists. He is a lifetime member of the American Association of Orthodontists, the American Dental Association, as well as the Illinois State and Chicago Dental Societies.

SIU SDM Dean Dr. Bruce Rotter provided five points of advice for the graduates. “Strive to perform the best dentistry that you can and continue a life-long pursuit of knowledge and excellence,” he said. “Treat both your patients and your staff with utmost respect.

“Maintain a moral compass, striving to do what’s right. Maintain a social conscience and share your expertise with those less fortunate, who may need your help.

“Return the love and support to your family which they have given to you and which they so richly deserve.”

Photo: The SIU School of Dental Medicine Class of 2014.