Faculty and future studentsfrom the Lyon CollegeSchoolofDentalMedicinevolunteered at the Special Olympics Special Smiles event held May 23 at Harding University. The outreach initiative offereddental screenings and oral health education to Special Olympics athletes and their families.

Dr. Meagan Inclan, pediatric dentist and full-time faculty member at LCSDM, helped to organize the event. In addition to her responsibilities at LCSDM, she serves as the Special Smiles clinical director.

As Special Smiles clinical director, Dr. Inclan leads efforts to improve oral health for individuals with intellectual disabilities by organizing local screening events, coordinating with community partners, and recruiting and training volunteer dental professionals from private practice, academia, and public health.

"It is truly an honor to serve as a Special Smiles clinical director," Dr. Inclan said. "Being part of a movement that not only champions inclusion but also delivers critical oral health services to athletes with special healthcare needs is both humbling and inspiring. Every screening is a chance to create smiles, build trust, and foster a healthier, more compassionate community."

Led and organized by Dr. Inclan, LCSDM volunteers included Dr. Burke Soffe, Dr. Ashley McMillan, Dr. Sarah Hardin, Dr. John Teed, Dr. Geoff Halversen, Dr. Ralph Teed, Dr. Gene Jines, Dr. LaShunda Roberts-Thompson, Dr. Saima Majid, Holly Johnson, and six dental students from the school's inaugural class.

“This was a meaningful opportunity for our team to serve the community while reinforcing our commitment to inclusive care. This event is truly rewarding as a dentist and it was so fun to be there with some of our faculty and students from our inaugural class,” said Dr. Soffe, founding dean of the dental school.