Message from Dr. Scott Koopman, President

Dear Members of the Monroe County Dental Society,

It is truly an honor to serve as your President as I begin my first term in this role. I am grateful for the trust you have placed in me and excited for the opportunities ahead as we embark on this new two-year chapter together.

I look forward to seeing how our county dental society continues to shape the practice of dentistry. Through collaboration, education, and shared experience, we strengthen our practices and elevate dentistry throughout our community.

I am also pleased to share an important update: the Rochester Dental Study Club has officially been renamed the Monroe County Dental Society Study Club. This change better reflects our commitment to representing and supporting the entire county while continuing to provide high-quality educational and networking opportunities for our members.

Before looking ahead, I would like to take a moment to express my sincere gratitude to the past presidents of the Monroe County Dental Society. Their dedication, leadership, and service have laid a solid foundation for our organization. I would especially like to thank Dr. Taylor Squires, our Immediate Past President, for his commitment, guidance, and leadership. His efforts have helped move the Society forward, and I am grateful for his continued support.

As a member of the Monroe County Dental Society, you enjoy valuable benefits, including:

• Six (6) hours of virtual continuing education hosted by the Monroe County Dental Society Study Club
• Continuing education and networking events sponsored by MCDS that provide opportunities for you and your staff to connect with colleagues, enjoy a great meal, and earn low-cost CE credits
• Volunteer opportunities to serve as a MCDS board or committee member, working on local initiatives that benefit you and your practice
• Local programs, including community health fairs and our scholarship program supporting regional dental students
• Access to health insurance options for you and your staff

I encourage you to take full advantage of these benefits and to remain actively involved in the Society. Together, we can continue to strengthen our profession and support one another in meaningful ways.

Thank you for your continued membership and support. I look forward to serving you and working together over the next two years.

Sincerely,

Scott J. Koopman, DDS

President, Monroe County Dental Society

Dr. Scott Koopman - President

Dr. Scott Koopman - President-Elect

Dr. Vincenzo Marino - Vice President

Dr. Katie Strong - Secretary

Dr. Michael Grassi - Treasurer

Dr. Taylor Squires - Immediate Past-President 2024 & 2025

Dr. Todd Pedersen - Immediate Past-President 2023

Dr. Abdullah Al Qaraghuli (term ends 2026)

Dr. Ethan Barkin (term ends 2029)

Dr. Robert J. Buhite, II (term ends 2026)

Dr. Steven Damelio (term ends 2029)

Dr. Peter D'Elia (term ends 2026)

Dr. Sindhu Kanikacharla (term ends 2029)

Dr. Kyle Kenyon (term ends 2026)

Dr. Jaqueline Kim (term ends 2029)

Dr. Aaron Sigona (term ends 2027)

MCDS hosts Dr. Thomas Dudney

On November 7, 2025, our members spent the day learning and laughing with Dr. Thomas Dudney, diving into "Be Aware of Wear" and "MACdentistry," a full day of CE credits at Brook-Lea Country Club. A huge thank you to Dr. Dudney for sharing his expertise and keeping us inspired, and an extra special shoutout to Dr. Taylor Squires for his incredible leadership as Monroe County Dental Society President over the past two years.

MCDS Showcases Dental Careers at MCC Career Expo

On Monday, June 16, 2025, Monroe County Dental Society had the opportunity to connect with future professionals at Monroe Community College’s Career Expo Launching Futures in High-Demand Fields.

They shared insights about the world of dentistry, the many career paths within the field, and how oral health plays a vital role in overall well-being.

Thanks to MCC for spotlighting healthcare and other in-demand industries. and to all the students who stopped by to learn more about the power of a smile!

MCDS Presents Awards during MCC Pinning Ceremony

Dr. Taylor Squires, Monroe County Dental Society President, and Ms. Andrea Hughes, Administrative Communication / Event Manager, presented two awards during Monroe Community College’s Dental Studies Program Pinning Ceremony held on May 28, 2025.  Two graduates received a certificate and monetary award for dental hygiene and dental assisting.  Congratulations to these deserving students!

MCDS hosts Dr. Samson Ng

Monroe County was proud to host Dr. Samson Ng for a dynamic and insightful lecture on May 2nd at Comedy @ The Carlson. Dr. Ng delivered a compelling presentation on, "Lumps and Bumps in the Mouth: Mastering the Fundamentals." He deepened the understanding of oral pathology and left attendees informed and inspired. A great time was had by all!

MCDS hosts Dr. Sebastiano Andreana

Monroe County Dental Society hosted its first lecture of the year Friday, March 7th at Casa Larga Vineyards. Dr. Sebastiano Andreana a clinical professor and director of The Center for Implant Dentistry at New York University gave a presentation focused on implant dentistry and all the details that drive results. Thank you to our sponsors, DDSmatch, EDA, GRB, RTG Lab, and Walsh Duffield.

Monroe County Dental Society kicks off 2025 Careers in Dentistry Program

The Monroe County Dental Society kicked off the 2025 Careers in Dentistry Program at the District Office Tuesday, January 28th. Over 20 area high school and college students came out to learn about careers in dentistry from presenters: Drs. Taylor Squires, Katie Strong, Aaron Sigona, Gerry Cellura, and Swetha Sathasivam.

Careers in Dentistry Program Visits UB School of Dental Medicine 
Monroe County Dental Society concluded the 2025 Careers in Dentistry series of events with a tour and presentation at the University of Buffalo School of Dental Medicine. Local high school and pre-dental college students were fortunate to hear from Dr. Marcelo Araujo, Dean of the Dental School, who shared his journey to becoming dean and a future focused on people, innovation, education, and community.