"Our mission at TCDM is to expand access to quality healthcare, and that includes ensuring individuals with disabilities receive the specialized care they need," said Dr. Alan Kadish, president of Touro University. " We are creating a lasting impact by training future providers in specialized treatment and increasing care options for underserved communities. These efforts will improve patient outcomes and strengthen the healthcare system as a whole."

Over one million dollars in gifts and pledges raised during this year’s event will continue to support the launch of TouroCAREs, a specialized oral healthcare facility designed to serve patients with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), along with other compounding medical conditions. This state-of-the-art facility will be specifically equipped to provide care for multiple patients every day, addressing a critical need for accessible and compassionate oral healthcare in the Lower Hudson Valley.

Access to Oral Healthcare for Those Who Need It Most

“Oral healthcare access remains a critical challenge, particularly for individuals with disabilities who often struggle to find appropriate treatment,” said Ronnie Myers, DDS, dean of TCDM. “With TouroCAREs, we are dedicated to addressing this need by not only delivering essential care to underserved patients but also equipping future providers with the specialized training necessary to treat individuals with IDD. This initiative will strengthen the dental workforce and ensure long-term access to compassionate, high-quality care for those who need it most.”

Beyond delivering essential dental care, TouroCAREs will serve as a teaching facility, giving dental students hands-on experience in managing and treating individuals with IDD and complex medical conditions. By integrating this training into TCDM’s curriculum, future dentists will be better prepared to accommodate these patients in private practice, helping to prevent unnecessary emergency room visits for emergent oral healthcare needs.

“Reflecting on my time at the Touro College of Dental Medicine, I am filled with gratitude,” said Student Government Association President, Jeremy Lichter. “This institution has truly been transformative, providing us with not only a comprehensive dental education but also a foundation for our future, a supportive community, and opportunities that have exceeded our expectations. From the state-of-the-art facilities to the dedicated faculty, every aspect of the school has been meticulously designed to facilitate our success.”

Outstanding Honorees

The 8th Annual Gala honored three outstanding individuals and a family for their contributions to TCDM:

• Corporate Leadership Award: Honoring Excellence in Healthcare Innovation, presented to Adam Dreyfus, Director of University, Government & Institutions, on behalf of National Dentex Labs.
• Community Impact Award: Recognizing Generosity and Dedication to Patient Care, awarded to Ammir Rabadi, M.D.
• Legacy of Care Award: Celebrating Generations of Dedication to Healthcare and Education, given to The Hashim Family: Lana Hashim, DDS, Alumna Dentist, TCDM Class of 2020; Elias K. Hashim, DDS; and Adele El-Kareh, M.D., Ph.D., FACOG.
• Spiritual Leadership and Education Award: Honoring Dedication to Holistic Education, given to Rabbi Baruch Fogel, Campus Rabbi, Touro University