Dr. Nicholas Makhoul, DMD鈥�05, Associate Dean of Postgraduate Dental Education and Chief of the Department of Dentistry and Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at the 9I制作厂免费 Health Centre, has been recognized for his outstanding contributions to dental education with the Howard S. Katz Award for Excellence in Teaching.聽This award celebrates educators who demonstrate excellence and innovation in their teaching, and leadership in dental education鈥攓ualities that Dr. Makhoul has exemplified in the 12 years he has been with 9I制作厂免费. The award was presented to him by President and Vice-Chancellor Deep Saini during the Faculty鈥檚 Spring Convocation ceremony.
Reflecting on the significance of the award, Dr. Makhoul described the recognition as both an honor and humbling. 鈥淒r. Katz exemplified a lifelong commitment to education, and mentorship鈥攙alues that I strive to uphold in my own teaching,鈥� he shared, 鈥渢o be recognized by my peers and learners with an award that bears his name is both meaningful and affirming.鈥� For Dr. Makhoul, the award is not just a personal achievement but a testament to the collective spirit of collaboration and curiosity that defines his work with residents. Over the past twelve years, he has fostered an environment of clinical excellence, ensuring that the next generation of dental medicine practitioners is well-prepared for the challenges ahead.
Dr. Makhoul鈥檚 approach to teaching is anchored in two guiding principles: critical thinking and empathy. He encourages those he teaches to ask 鈥渨hy鈥� rather than just 鈥渉ow,鈥� challenging them to reach decisions using reasoning based on evidence and experience. His emphasis on patient-centered care is equally strong. 鈥淓very patient should be treated as they would treat a member of their own family,鈥� he explains, stressing that technical skill must be paired with judgment, humility, and compassion. This philosophy ensures that graduates leave not only as technically skilled, but also as deeply principled caregivers.
As the graduating class of 2025 prepares to embark on their professional journeys, Dr. Makhoul offers words of encouragement and wisdom. He reminds them that dentistry is a profession that demands both precision and humanity. 鈥淭rust the training you've received, but never stop questioning, learning, or improving,鈥� he advises. In moments of uncertainty or challenge, the most meaningful impact often comes not from technical skill alone, but from the way individuals carry themselves鈥攚ith kindness, presence, and unwavering care for their patients.
With the Howard S. Katz Award as a well-deserved recognition of his dedication, Dr. Makhoul continues to inspire the next generation of dental medicine practitioners with his passion for education and mentorship.
