University of Florida College of Dentistry

At five years old, Aileen Cruz Lezama already knew what she wanted to be when she grew up: A Dentist! Her early positive experiences when going to the dentist helped pave her way to dental school. She says she liked the feeling of her teeth being clean, plus having the chance to play video games during her appointment made it an even more encouraging and enjoyable time.

Throughout her time in dental school, she was able to foster community among her peers, go on student organization trips and get involved in community service. She discovered her love for Oral Surgery, gained interest in Public Health and improved her motor skills that did not come easily at first. It was practice and guidance that helped her master the craft.

Now, as the materialization of what 5-year-old Aileen dreamed to become is a reality, she will be going to St. Pete to complete the Advanced Education in General Dentistry Program (AEGD), taking her knowledge to the next level.

Congratulations, Dr. Aileen Cruz Lezama!
#GatorDentist hashtag#ClassOf2026 #UFCD #Graduation #UFGrad 🦷🎓🔶🔷

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This is the moment when all of our seniors finally see the fruit of their hard work. Alongside more than 90 peers, Nanditha Rajini is closing this chapter of her life. She came to UF CD to become a dentist, and along the way she gained confidence in explaining treatment plans to her patients, a skill that only real‑world interaction can teach, she discovered the best way to explain treatments while treating patients.

She may no longer play impromptu volleyball games or grab coffee runs with friends, as everyone will follow different paths. Yet the fun memories will linger forever to be shared at future gatherings.

Looking ahead, soon‑to‑be Dr. Rajini will continue her education as a resident in the Periodontics Department.

Congratulations, Dr. Rajini! We can’t wait to see what she achieves next.
#GatorDentist #ClassOf2026 #UFCD #Graduation #UFGrad 🦷🔶🔷

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Alexis’s journey to graduation can be summarized in three powerful words: self‑awareness, resilience, and giving back. By turning her personal experiences into strengths, she proved that being a “perfect student” isn’t necessary to become a professional who can excel in the field of dental health. During admissions, she highlighted this pluralistic perspective scope of talent among our student body.

Her work at the FreeDOM Clinic further put her learning into practice, allowing her to serve patients inside and outside of the Gainesville community while deepening her commitment to public oral healthcare. This hands‑on experience shaped her vision for the future: building a career dedicated to helping others.

Alexis knows that her success is rooted in multiple sources. Mentorship played a pivotal role, and she’s proud to have walked this path alongside classmates and her Gator Dentist Family. From a small town in Pennsylvania to North Central Florida, she is now ready to continue serving the communities she’s part of with the best dental care possible.
Congratulations, Dr. Alexis Selli!
#GatorDentist #ClassOf2026 #UFCD #Graduation #UFGrad 🦷🎓🔶🔷

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The saying goes: “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” That captures the path walked by soon‑to‑be Dr. “Zigg” Francis, who will add the esteemed D.M.D. to his last name.

It took him 15 years to reach the finish line, which will be sealed and certified with his diploma at the commencement ceremony on May 15th. During those years, “Zigg” did every job possible, learned how demanding and challenging dental school is, yet he was never alone. At each step along the way, his wife, mom, friends, family, and faculty (shoutout to Dr. Sandow!) stood with him to support and encourage him.

Zigg feels immense joy, immeasurable gratitude, and a strong desire to give back, holding the door open for those who wish to pursue their true passions.

Congratulations, Dr. Francis! We look forward to seeing you grow even wiser in the Oral and Maxillofacial Department.
#GatorDentist #ClassOf2026 #UFCD #Graduation #UFGrad 🦷🔶🔷

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Celebrating the Phanord family for 2022 #BlackHistoryMonth. Two generations of #GatorDentists talk about their legacy at the University of Florida College of Dentistry, starting in the 1980s when Dr. Roger Phanord made it his mission to start a program to recruit undergraduate African Americans interested in dentistry.

Then came twins, Dr. Kevin Phanord and Dr. Kyle Phanord, who both proudly continued the legacy as mentors and leaders during their time at #UFCD.
They’re as humble as they come and exemplify leadership, and especially service to others.

So proud to call all three Gators. Thank you, Phanord Family, for all you do in your South Florida community and beyond.

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The inaugural UFCD Giving Day Cup Challenge is ON! We're challenging all current and alumni #GatorDentist classes and residency programs this Gator Nation Giving Day. The class or residency program with the greatest participation will claim the first-ever Giving Day Cup! Let's hear you holler students, residents & alumni!

Our goal this year is 250 gifts to our college, with half of those directed toward student scholarship. Gator Nation Giving Day is all about unifying our community to support and celebrate our great university and college. Join us!

📲: http://bit.ly/UFDentistry

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Our DMD students are celebrating the incredible generosity of UF College of Dentistry donors. We are incredibly grateful for you, and we celebrate you, and your contributions to our college, this #GratefulGator Day!

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Fun Facts about the DMD Class of 2022

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UF College of Dentistry Class of 2022 -- fun facts for the class members as D1s in 2018-19.

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