Columbia University College of Dental Medicine

06/05/2026

What happens after a suspicious lesion is identified can be just as important as finding it in the first place.

As part of Oral Health Month, we're highlighting insights from Dean Dennis Mitchell's keynote address at the 3rd Annual Head & Neck Symposium: Focus on Oral Cavity Cancer.

A central theme of Dean Mitchell's remarks was the concept of the "warm handoff": a coordinated, real-time transition that helps connect patients to the next stage of care after a potential oral cancer diagnosis.

Drawing on lessons from public health, Dean Mitchell argued that disparities grow when patients are left to navigate the gaps between community outreach, dental care, diagnosis, and treatment on their own. He highlighted how Community Health Care Coordinators, integrated EPIC records, and stronger connections between dentistry, ENT, and oncology can help close those gaps and improve access to timely care.

06/04/2026

After graduation, there's only one thing left to do: dance the night away! 🎉💃

Check out highlights from our Postdoctoral Formal at Chelsea Piers.

06/03/2026

Congratulations to Dr. Michelle Mirsky, DDS ’77, who was honored last week with the University Alumni Medal for her dedicated service to the College of Dental Medicine and the University.

As past president of the Association of Dental Alumni and an active participant on the Board of the Columbia Alumni Association, Dr. Mirsky has generously shared her time and expertise to foster community, support and mentor students, and help strengthen our institution.

06/02/2026

Columbia University College of Dental Medicine remembers Dr. Norman Kahn, Robinson Professor Emeritus of Pharmacology and Dental Medicine, whose decades of service left a lasting impact on students, colleagues, and the school he loved.

Through a $1 million bequest designated for student scholarships, matched by Columbia University for a total of $2 million, Dr. Kahn's commitment to supporting generations of dental students will continue for years to come.

Read more about Dr. Kahn's life, legacy, and enduring connection to the College of Dental Medicine: https://bit.ly/438uO7U

The College of Dental Medicine honors the life and legacy of Dr. Norman Kahn, whose decades of service to Columbia and $1 million bequest reflect a lifelong commitment to the institution.

06/01/2026

Happy National Oral Health Month! 🦷🪥

When you look after your oral health, you’re looking after your whole-body health.

Follow us throughout June as we highlight the importance of oral health.

05/28/2026

One week since commencement, and we’re still reflecting on a memorable celebration for the Class of 2026. As our graduates begin their next chapters in residency, research, specialty training, and practice, we’re proud to share more about a few of their journeys in our latest story. Read the full story here: https://bit.ly/4dM1M2v

05/26/2026

Congratulations to CDM alumna Dr. Soomin Park, DDS ’24, on receiving the Henry M. Thornton/SCADA Fellowship Award!

Now pursuing combined PhD and orthodontics training at UCLA through the NIDCR Dental Scientist PhD Program, Park is conducting research focused on tissue regeneration and new technologies for monitoring oral health conditions.

Read more about Park’s research journey, mentorship at CDM, and vision for the future of clinician-scientist training: https://bit.ly/4fHNd2G

05/22/2026

From crossing the stage to celebrating with classmates and family, yesterday’s predoctoral ceremony was filled with joy, excitement, and reflection on how far this class has come. We are so proud of all that you’ve accomplished, and can’t wait to see what you do next. Congratulations to the Class of 2026! 🦷🎓

05/19/2026

A warm welcome to the next generation of alumni! Last week, the College of Dental Medicine Alumni Association hosted the Class of 2026 for a Senior Sendoff.

05/18/2026

Columbia College of Dental Medicine was proud to take part in PUSH (Pick-Up Sports & Health) on May 15th, highlighting the power of interprofessional collaboration in advancing community health through education, mentorship, and service. Through partnerships like Give Kids A Smile and the New York County Dental Society, dentists play a critical role far beyond the clinic such as promoting health literacy, prevention, and access to care for the next generation.

Special recognition to Dr. Mina Kim, President of the Alumni Association, and Dr. Anna Viron for their leadership and dedication to community oral health initiatives. Their work continues to demonstrate how dentistry and medicine come together to uplift and empower our communities.