Created in 2017 as part of the 100th year of alumni UBC, the Alumni Builder Awards recognize a cross-section of alumni representing both campuses who have significantly contributed to the university and enriched the lives of others, and in doing so, have supported alumni UBC’s vision of a global alumni community for an exceptional UBC and a better world.
2024-25 Recipient
Abbas Jessani, MSc 2014; PhD 2019
Dr. Abbas Jessani has been awarded the Alumni Builder Award in recognition of his outstanding contributions to oral health education, research and community service.
Dr. Jessani’s research focuses on barriers to accessing oral healthcare in marginalized communities, such as individuals living with HIV, members of the 2SLGBTQ+ community, high-risk youth, and other minority populations. He has led many community-based participatory research projects—where researchers collaborate with community members and other stakeholders in the research process—to ensure community empowerment and person-centred care.
He has also successfully implemented community-based outreach initiatives in Southwestern Ontario to address unmet oral health needs. On a global scale, Dr. Jessani has investigated the oral health quality of life among adolescents in Lesotho, Southern Africa, and established partnership programs in Uganda, Rwanda and Kenya to study oral healthcare disparities in high-risk populations.
Past Recipients
Dr. Christopher (Chris) Bryant, DMD 1991
Since 2012, Dr. Bryant has volunteered as a UBC dental mentor and program ambassador for the Faculty of Dentistry. He has donated his time, expertise, and even housing to dental students in the Summer Student Practitioner Program. Each summer, Dr. Bryant hosts one or more students in preparation for their fourth year while modelling strong advocacy for vulnerable community members. Going above and beyond, he stays in touch with every student he has mentored over the past 11 years and continues to support them throughout their careers.
Dr. Reza Nouri, DMD 1994, MSc 2004
Dr. Reza Nouri is a dedicated oral health professional who runs a private practice, teaches part-time, mentors students in volunteer activities, and sponsors their social sporting events. He is a major donor, has served on multiple professional committees, holds fellowships, and has received awards from numerous societies in Canada and the U.S.
Dr. Anu Rehtlane, BSc 1976, DMD 1981, LLB 1984
Dr. Rehtlane is a triple alum and her volunteerism and generosity in the community speaks to her widespread interests, both outside of UBC and as part of the Faculty of Dentistry.
Even at the onset of the pandemic, when so much was unknown, Dr. Rehtlane did not waver from her dedication to serve as a part time faculty member in a volunteer teaching capacity, even increasing her hours as needed, ensuring our students were able to graduate without delay.
Dr. Thomas O’Brien, BSc 1970, MSc 1974, DMD 1978
Dr. O’Brien’s life and career have been illuminated by his passion for volunteerism, both within and outside of his chosen profession of dentistry. Numerous accolades celebrate his dedication to improving the lives of young people through mentorship, and his tireless advocacy work on behalf of the profession of dentistry.
Dr. Wilczek is not only a loyal and engaged alumnus; as a long time leader in the profession, he inspires others with his selfless dedication to the underserved.
Dr. Greg Chang, DMD 1986
For his distinguished and inspirational community leadership, and tireless advocacy for the Faculty of Dentistry.
- Brenda Currie, Diploma Dental Hygiene 1976, BDSc 2004, MSc 2007
For her dedication to oral cancer prevention in British Columbia. - Dr. David Hemerling, BSc 1989, DMD 1993
For his long-time service as a volunteer dentist and student mentor at UBC Dentistry’s community outreach dental clinics. - Dr. Elizabeth Johnson-Lee, BSc 1988, DMD 1992
For her service as a UBC Dentistry volunteer, promoting dental outreach in marginalized or impoverished communities. - Dr. Angelique Leung, BSc 1984, DMD 1988
For her support of the Faculty of Dentistry and her long record of service to the dental profession in British Columbia. - Dr. Doug Nielsen, DMD 1972
For his long record of leadership and mentorship establishing volunteer dental clinics in BC and internationally. - Sherry Priebe, BDSc 2003, MSc 2009
For her many contributions to UBC Dentistry and her tireless efforts promoting dental hygiene and oral health. - Dr. David Sweet, OC, DMD 1978
For his passion and dedication to dental education and his leadership in forensic odontology. - Dr. Andrew Tsang, BSc 1996, DMD 1997
For his unwavering support of UBC Dentistry mission initiatives in Vietnam.