They started their journey at Harvard School of Dental Medicine (HSDM) from computer screens in their bedrooms, which made the culmination of their achievements even more notable as the Class of 2024 marched together into Harvard University’s 373rd Commencement ceremony. More than 9,200 graduates from around the University processed into Harvard Yard on the morning of Thursday, May 23. The triumphant moment marked a culmination of years of hard work for the predoctoral and postdoctoral students who navigated the challenges that at times seemed insurmountable during a global pandemic.
Holding an oversized Harvard toothbrush and grinning from ear to ear, the HSDM Class of 2024 cheered loudly as Dean William Giannobile acknowledged HSDM graduates from the stage. HSDM awarded 56 degrees, which included 33 Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree recipients, 17 recipients of Master of Medical Sciences (MMSc), and 6 Doctor of Medical Sciences (DMSc) degrees. Interim Harvard President Alan Garber welcomed the HSDM graduates into the robust field of medicine.
Maria Ressa, Nobel Peace Prize-winning journalist, media entrepreneur, and leading advocate for freedom of the press, addressed the crowd of graduates during the Commencement ceremony. In her remarks to the new graduates, Ressa spoke about some of the lessons learned as a reporter covering the government of Philippine leader Rodrigo Duterte. She urged students to join her in support of democracy.
“This is about what we can do together to find what binds us together. Our world on fire needs you.”
After the University Commencement ceremony concluded, DMD graduates made their way back to Longwood campus for the HSDM/Harvard Medical School (HMS) Class Day ceremony. The annual event, which was briefly delayed due to thunderstorms, was held on the HMS quad in the afternoon.
Crystal Song, DMD24, served as co-moderator alongside her HMS classmates Andrew Chang and LaShyra Nolen. Song welcomed HSDM Class of 2024 president, Sapna Nath, DMD24, to the stage, where she addressed the graduating class.
“Today is the culmination of years and years of commitment and sacrifice...We have worked, studied, and dreamed our way here. And most likely, we are not the same people who started this journey so many years ago. I cannot wait to see the incredible impact each one of you will make on the world,” Nath said.
“If we see one another’s humanity and hold one another with love and dignity regardless of who they are, what they think, who they love, how they think, or where they come from, we will help them in their lives and you will come ever closer to achieving your aspirations. Be well and congratulations to you on all that you have achieved and will achieve,” said Gilliam.
Afterwards, HSDM Dean Giannobile and HMS Dean George Daley both addressed the graduating class and congratulated them on becoming doctors. Giannobile shared how their experiences, and resilience, will make a difference in the lives of their patients and make an impact in healthcare.
Following his remarks, each of the 33 DMD graduates was called to the stage to receive their diplomas and doctoral hoods. Out of the 33 graduating students, 26 have chosen to pursue post-doctoral residency programs. Seven will go into Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, four into General Practice Residencies, four into Orthodontics, three each into Pediatrics, Periodontology, and Endodontics, one into an Advanced Education in General Dentistry program, and one into Prosthodontics. Other students will go on to private practice and into military service.
“As you go out into the world today, I hope you are instilled with boundless confidence that anything is possible. Dare to dream big and be inspired by the connections and camaraderie you found at Harvard. All of us here today are so very proud of you and cannot wait to see where your dreams will take you. Congratulations, doctors!”
