09 September 2025

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Gator Nation: A unifying force at the FDC

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It’s great to be a Gator Dentist, especially at the Florida Dental Convention

The robust spirit of the Gator Dentist Nation was on full display at the 2025 Florida Dental Convention, or FDC, Florida’s premier annual gathering for dental professionals, educators and innovators from across the state. 

The convention provides a vital opportunity for the University of Florida College of Dentistry, or UFCD, community to engage in lifelong learning and connect with peers while exploring the leading edge of dental technology and research.  

“What makes me proudest at events like the FDC is seeing our graduates not just as skilled clinicians, but as the leaders, educators and innovators we knew they would become,” said UFCD Dean Isabel Garcia, D.D.S., M.P.H. “It’s inspiring to watch our alumni, faculty and students come together to share knowledge and strengthen the networks that ultimately benefit the communities we serve.” 

This sense of comradery and pride is most evident at the highly anticipated Gator Dentist Reception, an event hosted annually by our college during the FDC. The 2025 reception drew more than 300 attendees including UFCD alumni and their families, faculty and students. Alumni represented more than 25 graduating classes, showing the strength of their network across generations. It’s a chance for our alumni to reconnect with their classmates and faculty while engaging with the next generation of Gator Dentists.  

Beyond networking, the FDC is an ideal venue for practicing Gator Dentists to fulfill continuing education requirements. Many of these educational sessions are led by UFCD’s own renowned faculty, showcasing the ongoing excellence and innovation happening at their alma mater. Meanwhile, in the convention exhibition hall, the UFCD booth provides a hub for prospective students and peers to engage with our team and learn about our college’s top-tier educational opportunities.  

The convention also highlighted the leadership of our alumni. We are proud of the Florida Dental Association’s, or FDA’s , continuous work in hosting such an impactful event, and especially proud to see it has been led by one of our own. 

The immediate past president of the FDA is alumnus Jeff Ottley, who graduated from UFCD with his DMD in 1998. Recently, Ottley delivered an inspiring address at the Professional Coating Ceremony, offering our DMD Class of 2027 a glimpse of the leadership pathways their UFCD education prepares them for.  

The energy and collaboration at events like the FDC are what propel us forward. This momentum is fueling the future of the UFCD as we advance our commitment to excellence.  

Upcoming infrastructure investments will usher in a momentous building expansion and facility renovation project, allowing us to expand UFCD’s role as a leader in dental education, research and oral health care.  

Source: https://dental.ufl.edu/