Dr. Kenneth May, an associate professor of dentistry in the Department of Biologic and Materials Sciences, has been named director of the School of Dentistry‘s Office of Multicultural Affairs and Recruitment Initiatives, says Dean Peter Polverini. May, who has been serving as interim program director for the past year, will work with the Office of Student Affairs to provide support in recruiting, mentoring activities, summer program development and implementation.
May received dental and prosthodontic training at U-M, earning degrees in 1988 and 1990, respectively.
“It’s a privilege to play a role in helping so many young people who are pursuing their dream of becoming dentists. The Michigan tradition is grounded in providing opportunities to all qualified students regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation or religion,” he says.
The Office of Multicultural Affairs recruits students from high school through graduate school for the dental profession.
Polverini says the appointment is part of his vision “to deepen our school’s commitment to live and thrive in a multicultural community.” Elements of that vision include “fostering a culture where everyone — students, faculty, staff and patients — are supported for their contributions to the school.” Another component is devoting the resources to programs that prepare underserved students to enter and succeed in oral health care professions.
