16 July 2025

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Alumni honored for advancing prosthodontics and community

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Two esteemed graduates of Harvard School of Dental Medicine (HSDM) were honored on Friday, June 13 during the School’s Alumni Days. Faheem Rasool and Neda Shah-Hosseini received the 2025 Distinguished Alumni Awards for their leadership in the field and lasting contributions to the mission of the School. The two met as students at HSDM, and own a private practice together in Brookline, MA. They are the first married couple to receive Distinguished Alumni Awards.

Dr. Faheem Rasool

Faheem Rasool, MMSc93, DMD95, a recognized leader in the field of prosthodontics, was honored for his outstanding contributions as both a clinician and academic leader. 

After graduating from HSDM, Rasool joined as a full-time faculty member, where he spent nine years helping shape the future of prosthodontic education. He also served as head of the Division of Prosthodontics and was a key contributor to the Faculty Group Practice in Longwood. 

When accepting the award, he recounted how as a student he initially felt intimidated coming to Harvard from Pakistan, but HSDM mentors made a big difference in his experience. 

“Contrary to my fears, I was met with kindness, mentorship, and encouragement at HSDM. I have so many people to thank for shaping and supporting me along the way,” said Rasool.

Rasool remains closely connected to HSDM, where he continues to teach part-time and mentor the next generation of dental professionals. 

“I am deeply touched to receive this award. This is the highest honor—one I’m not sure I deserve—but I accept with humility, deep pride, and immense gratitude.” 

Dr. Neda Shah-Hosseini

Neda Shah-Hosseini, DMD96, PD96, was honored for her outstanding contributions to the field of prosthodontics as a clinician, where her expertise and compassionate care have made a lasting impact on her patients and the profession.

Shah-Hosseini came to HSDM as an international student from Iran. When accepting the award, she described times as a predoctoral student when she was at risk of not being able to stay in the DMD program due to financial constraints. 

“I’m here today because of the extraordinary people at HSDM who made my dreams possible. Your unwavering support made it possible for me to stay and graduate,” she said. 

After earning her DMD at Harvard School of Dental Medicine, Shah-Hosseini pursued a two-year general practice residency at Brigham and Women’s Hospital and gained valuable experience in managing complex patient cases. Following her residency, she advanced her expertise with a postdoctoral fellowship in prosthodontics at Boston University.

Currently, Shah-Hosseini serves as a part-time faculty member in HSDM’s Restorative Dentistry and Biomaterials Sciences. In addition to teaching, she plays a vital role as a mentor to students and young alumni, guiding and supporting them as they navigate the challenges of their professional journeys. Through her work, she is committed to inspiring and shaping the next generation of dental leaders.

“This award is more than a recognition to me. It is a powerful acknowledgement of what it means to give back,” she said. 

For nearly 30 years, Rasool and Shah-Hosseini have remained dedicated to the School and committed to supporting HSDM students, faculty, and alumni. 

Since 2022, they have served as co-chairs of HSDM’s Annual Fund, playing a pivotal role in the HSDM’s recent fundraising achievements. With their advocacy, gifts of all sizes, especially leadership gifts to the School, have grown, making an immediate and tangible impact through philanthropy 

“Faheem and Neda have done so much for HSDM. Their shared commitment to the profession and to the HSDM community reflects a partnership grounded in purpose, service, and lasting impact,” said Dean William Giannobile.

Source: https://www.hsdm.harvard.edu/