Raven Selden

Immediate Past President

Serving as the 53rd National President of the Student National Dental Association has been one of the greatest honors of my life. Under the theme “Above and Beyond,” I had the privilege of leading with purpose, alongside some of the most dedicated and inspiring student leaders in the country.

Throughout my term, my focus was on elevating mentorship, wellness, academic excellence, service, and cultural celebration. We expanded initiatives that supported our members not just academically, but emotionally, culturally, and professionally.

From SNDA WELL and Study Club, to our FUBU Initiative, Smile Smart, and the USNDA Pathways Program, we invested in the whole student, building a pipeline rooted in purpose, preparation, and pride.

With over 1,200 active members, 400+ national conference registrants, and a record number of SNDA graduates transitioning into the NDA, we witnessed the impact of our work in real time. SNDA is strong and we are only getting stronger.

My greatest joy came from watching chapters across the country go above and beyond—reclaiming space, uplifting one another, and building community even in the face of social and political challenges. Together, we advocated fiercely, showed up boldly, and created spaces that reflect the beauty, resilience, and brilliance of who we are.

I walk away from this role deeply proud of what we built together. SNDA poured into me in more ways than I can count, and it was my greatest honor to pour back into this incredible community. I have grown tremendously as a leader and as a person, and I will forever be grateful for the opportunity to serve.

Above and beyond, always. Forever SNDA.

Dr. Raven Selden
University of North Carolina Adams School of Dentistry
DDS Candidate | Class of 2025

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Member Testimonials

After being accepted to dental school, uncertainty clouded my thoughts about the experiences, connections, and opportunities awaiting me among 140 classmates. Learning about Midwestern CDMI's inaugural SNDA chapter in my first year brought profound reassurance. SNDA represents a sanctuary, a platform for service, an advocacy realm, and a networking hub, among other things. This organization has catalyzed significant positive change for individuals with backgrounds like mine, and I'm immensely grateful for the chance to contribute to its enduring legacy. Through SNDA, I've found not only a supportive community but also opportunities for personal and professional growth. Its emphasis on diversity and inclusion has fostered an environment where everyone feels valued and empowered. SNDA has truly enriched my dental school experience, providing me with lifelong connections and a sense of belonging that I cherish deeply. I am excited to continue my journey with SNDA and see the impact we can make together in the future.

Sydnie Taylor

Midwestern University College of Dental Medicine Illinois - Class of 2026

It is hard to encapsulate what SNDA exactly means to me by using only a few words. During my dental school journey, SNDA has not only helped to make me a better scholar, but it has provided me with the resources and opportunities to make all my dreams into a reality. Through the support of SNDA, I was able to establish the first USNDA chapter on the campus of Michigan State University that provided social, leadership, academic, and volunteer opportunities to its members. I was able to attend the SNDA national conference where I got to make connections, meet fellow colleagues who look like me, and become more enthralled with this career path that I have chosen. SNDA to me is about building lifelong relationships with individuals who become like family. It is about supporting one another to achieve any goals you may have. It is about a community built on the principles of diversity, equality, and inclusion. Lastly, SNDA has helped mold me into the thought-provoking student clinician that I try to be today. I have been able to see first-hand where SNDA has taken me so far and I can only imagine where it will take me during the pursuit of my future aspirations.

James Bennett III

University of Michigan School of Dentistry - Class of 2026

Being a part of SNDA has undoubtedly been a pivotal aspect of my dental school journey. As I embarked on my first year, nerves tingled about starting this adventure miles away from home, but SNDA swiftly transformed into my comforting home away from home. Within SNDA, I discovered more than just a group; I found a close-knit community, unwavering support, invaluable mentorship, opportunities for personal growth through leadership roles, and the foundation for lifelong friendships. Moreover, the inclusiveness and well-versed members of SNDA played an integral role in shaping my dental school experience. Their openness and diverse perspectives helped foster an environment where everyone felt valued and supported, contributing to the richness of our collective journey. These experiences have deeply enriched my time in dental school, shaping me in ways I never imagined. For these reasons, and countless more, I will forever be grateful for SNDA and the remarkable family it has bestowed upon me.

Heywan Gessesse

University of Maryland School of Dentistry - Class of 2024

SNDA has been a guiding light throughout my dental career, offering invaluable support and opportunities that have shaped my journey in profound ways. Amidst the rigorous demands of dental school, SNDA serves as my anchor, keeping me rooted and connected to fellow individuals who share similar backgrounds and experiences in dentistry. Through SNDA, I've found a space where I can authentically be myself, surrounded by a welcoming community that embraces diversity and inclusion. The mentorship programs offered by SNDA have provided me with guidance, encouragement, and invaluable insights from seasoned professionals who have walked similar paths. As a young African American man navigating the field of dentistry, SNDA has provided me with an immeasurable network of support and camaraderie. SNDA has been instrumental in shaping my identity as a dental professional and has equipped me with the skills, knowledge, and support network needed to succeed in this challenging yet rewarding field.

Zack Thomas

Tufts University School of Dentistry - Class of 2025

Raven Selden

Member Testimonials

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