Part-time Faculty Spotlight: Dr. Katherine Strong at EIOH
In the vibrant city of Rochester, New York, Dr. Katherine Strong has become a beacon of hope for children in need of dental care. Currently working full time as a pediatric dentist at Twelve Corners Orthodontics and Pediatric Dentistry in Brighton, Dr. Strong's commitment to her profession extends far beyond the walls of her practice.
Dr. Strong's journey in dentistry began during her undergraduate studies at the University of Rochester, where she nurtured her interest in the field by shadowing dentists in General Dentistry. A fateful encounter at a Monroe County Dental Society (MCDS) scholarship luncheon during her second year of dental school marked the start of a mentorship with Dr. Ritu Shah, an EIOH faculty member.
Dr. Shah played a significant role in guiding Dr. Strong through job applications and interviews in the Rochester area, ultimately leading to her current position at Twelve Corners Orthodontics and Pediatric Dentistry. When Dr. Strong sought an opportunity to work part-time in a public health setting, Dr. Shah introduced her to Dr. Gajendra at EIOH, setting the stage for Dr. Strong's involvement with the EIOH SmileMobile program.
The SmileMobile program, a crucial initiative by EIOH, aims to eliminate barriers of access to care by directly visiting elementary school students in Rochester. For over two years, Dr. Strong has been an integral part of this program, providing much-needed dental care to countless children who might otherwise go without.
Dr. Strong's dedication to her community is evident in her work on the SmileMobile. Many children in Rochester are in need of dental care, and the SmileMobile may be the only time some of them are seen by a dentist. Dr. Strong finds immense fulfillment in her work, feeling a sense of connection to the city she serves.
Dr. Sangeeta Gajendra, a colleague at EIOH, praises Dr. Strong's commitment and her ability to connect with children on the SmileMobile. In addition to her work at EIOH, Dr. Strong is a board-certified pediatric dentist, a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, a fellow of the American Laser Study Club, and a member of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and American Dental Society.
This year, Dr. Strong and Dr. Taylor Squires, an EIOH Orthodontics alumni, reinstated the MCDS Careers in Dentistry program for local high school and college students. Through this initiative, they aim to inspire the next generation of dental professionals, ensuring that the spirit of community service continues to thrive in Rochester.
Dr. Katherine Strong's story is a testament to the power of mentorship, community service, and a passion for making a difference. Her work on the SmileMobile and her dedication to her community make her an invaluable asset to Rochester and a shining example of the impact that one person can have.
Dr. Katherine Strong's diverse interests extend beyond her professional work in dentistry, encompassing fields such as science, health-and-wellness, education-and-self-development, and career-development. For instance, she reinstated the MCDS Careers in Dentistry program to inspire the next generation of dental professionals.
In her pursuit of personal and professional growth, Dr. Strong continues to seek opportunities for learning, such as her fellowship in the American Laser Study Club and membership in the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and American Dental Society.
