Page 10 - Bulletin Vol 31 No 1 - Jan. - April 2026 FINAL_

In Our Society | Giving Back

NCDS Past President, Dr. Albert Granger of Premier Endodontics of
Long Island recently sponsored a Long Island alumni gathering at the
Nassau Country Club, bringing together members of the Columbia
University College of Dental Medicine community for an evening of
professional connection and discussion about the future of dental
education.
The event featured Columbia’s newly appointed Dean of the College
of Dental Medicine, Dr. Dennis Mitchell, who shared insights into
several key initiatives underway at the school. A central focus of his
remarks was the growing role of artificial intelligence in dental educa-
tion. Dr. Mitchell discussed how Columbia is working to integrate A I
technologies into both clinical training and academic curricula,
preparing students to utilize emerging tools that can enhance diag-
nostics, treatment planning, and patient care.
Dr. Granger addressing Columbia Alumni
In addition to advancements in technology and education, Dr. Mitchell highlighted several newly estab-
lished scholarships created to honor distinguished members of the Columbia dental community. These
scholarships recognize the legacy and contributions of notable alumni and faculty, including Dr. Louis
Mendel, Dr. James McIntosh, and Dr. David Albert. The initiatives aim to support future generations of
dental students while preserving the tradition of excellence associated with Columbia’s dental program.

The evening provided an opportunity for alumni, faculty, and local dental professionals to reconnect
while learning about the school’s ongoing commitment to innovation, scholarship, and leadership in
dental medicine. Dr. Granger’s sponsorship of the event reflected the strong ties between Columbia
alumni on Long Island and their continued engagement with the advancement of dental education. Also
in attendance was our 2026 NCDS President, Dr. Maureen Tredwell.
In Our Society | General Membership Meeting

On Monday evening March 2 we had a General Membership Meeting at
the Inn at New Hyde Park. Our members enjoyed a free event that

included an international buffet dinner and a lecture by Dr. Glenn
Gittelson, “MRI and the TMJ Patient, Why It’s So Important” We thank
Dr. Gittelson for sharing his knowledge with our members and we thank
our sponsors that evening for helping to make this free member benefit
possible: The Law Office of Rivkin Radler, LLC; MLMIC, and Surgimac.

Dr. Tredwell presents Dr. Gitttelson
with a Certificate of Appreciation for
his lecture.

10 | Nassau County Dental Society ⬧ www.nassaudental.org