College of Dental Medicine–Illinois celebrates commencement
DOWNERS GROVE, IL – Midwestern University proudly celebrated the graduation of 140 new doctors of dental medicine (D.M.D.) during the College of Dental Medicine–Illinois (CDMI) commencement ceremony held on Thursday, May 29.
The event was one of six commencement ceremonies on the University’s Downers Grove Campus in late May, recognizing a total of 670 graduates preparing to enter healthcare professions across the nation.
CDMI student speaker and class representative Diana De Sanctis, D.M.D., addressed her fellow graduates during the ceremony.
“Today marks our very first milestone of success. It hasn’t fully settled in that this day has finally come. I’ve been reflecting on how the day-to-day rhythm of dental school, designing crowns, studying late into the night, and navigating treatment plans, somehow added up to something extraordinary. Those small, consistent efforts shaped us in ways we didn’t always notice in the moment, but over time taught us resilience, discipline, and a quiet confidence in our abilities,” Dr. De Sanctis said.
“Today marks our very first milestone of success. It hasn’t fully settled in that this day has finally come. I’ve been reflecting on how the day-to-day rhythm of dental school, designing crowns, studying late into the night, and navigating treatment plans, somehow added up to something extraordinary. Those small, consistent efforts shaped us in ways we didn’t always notice in the moment, but over time taught us resilience, discipline, and a quiet confidence in our abilities,” Dr. De Sanctis said.
Harold Haering, D.D.S., Dean of the College of Dental Medicine–Illinois, also shared remarks, highlighting the achievements of the Class of 2025 and their readiness to meet the challenges of modern dental practice.
“This class has transformed dental education. With unmatched clinical hours and an extraordinary faculty-to-student ratio, you have set a new standard. You’ve worked hard, stayed genuine, and you’re ready. Congratulations, Class of 2025,” Dr. Haering said.
“This class has transformed dental education. With unmatched clinical hours and an extraordinary faculty-to-student ratio, you have set a new standard. You’ve worked hard, stayed genuine, and you’re ready. Congratulations, Class of 2025,” Dr. Haering said.
Among the honored graduates were four military officers who will continue their service in healthcare:
• Captain Jared Ambrose, U.S. Army
• Captain Christine Malito, U.S. Army
• Lieutenant Nicole Mouganis, U.S. Navy
• Specialist Thomas Nuhfer, U.S. Air Force
The commencement ceremony reflected Midwestern University’s ongoing commitment to preparing compassionate and competent healthcare professionals who are ready to serve their communities and advance the field of dentistry.
• Captain Jared Ambrose, U.S. Army
• Captain Christine Malito, U.S. Army
• Lieutenant Nicole Mouganis, U.S. Navy
• Specialist Thomas Nuhfer, U.S. Air Force
The commencement ceremony reflected Midwestern University’s ongoing commitment to preparing compassionate and competent healthcare professionals who are ready to serve their communities and advance the field of dentistry.