Each month an ADEA Connect Ambassador will be highlighted based on their contributions to ADEA Connect. Learn more about ambassador responsibilities in the ADEA Connect Ambassador Overview.
Dr. Casey D. Wright is the Community Ambassador for the ADEA Section on Behavioral Science . Read more about Dr. Wright and his professional experience below.
Say Hello to Casey Wright, Ph.D., M.S.
Director, Predoctoral Program for Behavioral Sciences and Ethics
Marquette University School of Dentistry
What professional tips or advice would you like to share about your profession?
I am passionate about the human side of dentistry and always try to convey that to my colleagues and especially to my students. For the predoctoral students, in 5-10 years when their hand skills are dialed in, one of the aspects of their care that will vary the most is the person sitting in their operatory. Knowing and understanding how one’s oral health affects their life and how their life affects their oral health will make them a better clinician and make a broader impact on society. Moreover, understanding the nuances of how to build and maintain those professional relationships will benefit them greatly as a provider.
What is your #1 reason for becoming an ADEA member?
I joined and have become an active participant in ADEA because I want to connect with like-minded people working to improve dental education for all.
What has been the most rewarding experience of your career?
The most rewarding experience(s) of my career have been the “thank you” cards, emails from, or in-person conversations with students at the end of a semester when they say our discussions, lectures, or experiences made a difference for them and their patients. I still believe in the broad vision and mission of higher education as a transformative experience, and I thoroughly enjoy observing that process in the lives of my students.
How has ADEA Connect been useful to you?
ADEA Connect has been helpful in identifying others with similar interests, as well as providing a forum for getting questions answered. It is neat to hear what others are doing or thinking about as I continue to learn in my own work as well.
What is your favorite hobby or place to travel?
I enjoy spending time with family and really enjoy meeting others from around the world. Snow-skiing is one of my favorite hobbies and I enjoy traveling to places where I can do more of that. Oddly enough, I also really enjoy yard work.