Dental hygienist’s compassion results in 2013 alumni honour
Sean Moore
A long-time practitioner in community oral health has been named the recipient of the 2013 Alumni of Distinction award from the School of Dental Hygiene at the University of Manitoba.
Ms. Pattie Moore of the Class of 1971 has spent a career dedicated to community oral health and public service and, because of these efforts, she has been selected for one of highest accolades in Manitoba oral health.
“This kind of dedication speaks volumes and really sets a great example for those who will soon become members of our profession,” said Joanna Asadoorian, Director of the School of Dental Hygiene. “Dental hygiene is far more than just cleaning teeth; it’s about a long-term commitment to promoting health for the public we serve.”
This year’s recipient has spent over 30 years in the field as a full-time public health dental hygienist with the City of Winnipeg Health Department and the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority. In that capacity, she has worked on many first-of-its-kind outreach initiatives, including the Machray School Project that reduced decay in at-risk, inner-city children from 90% to under 10%. Ms. Moore has also worked as a speaker and researcher on oral health care for disadvantaged communities.
“Pattie’s career is an excellent example of the impact that a dental hygienist can have on a community,” said Cindy Isaak-Ploegman, president of the University of Manitoba School of Dental Hygiene Alumni Association. “It goes beyond the operatory and the clinic and reaches into the lives of those who are in need of help.”
Ms. Moore will be formally presented with the award at the Faculty’s annual Alumni of Distinction Awards Banquet and Celebration on September 20 at the Fort Garry Hotel in Winnipeg. A co-production of the Faculty of Dentistry and School of Dental Hygiene and their respective alumni associations, the annual autumn event is a salute to oral health excellence in Manitoba.
This article appeared in the May 23, 2013 edition of The Bulletin.