Associate Professor Dr. Raphael Freitas de Souza has been awarded the 2024 W.W. Wood Award for Excellence in Dental Education from the Association of Canadian Faculties of Dentistry (ACFD). The award is given each year in each Canadian faculty of dentistry to commemorate Dr. Bill Wood, whose academic career exemplified dedication to research, teaching and service.
"The W.W. Wood Award is a major recognition of the teaching excellence of a dental educator, which confirms that I have steered my career in the right direction. The education of our future dentists is a noble cause, for which I have dedicated a lot of energy, skills and empathy. It is worth mentioning that the award comes at a special moment for me, marked by the solidification of my academic skills and eight years of work at our university. I am wholeheartedly thankful to the strong support by our students, our Faculty, and the ACFD for my selection as an awardee," says Dr. de Souza.
As a prosthodontist, Dr. Raphael de Souza brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to his role at ÎÛÎÛ²ÝÝ®ÊÓƵ. He earned his DDS, MSc and PhD degrees from São Paulo State University and Habilitation (Livre-docência) from the Universidade de São Paulo in Brazil. His research and teaching activities focus on oral rehabilitation procedures and the provision and maintenance of treatment for edentulous patients.
In addition to his clinical work with patients, Dr. de Souza is deeply committed to research endeavors, particularly in evidence-based dentistry and innovative prosthodontic techniques. His passion for advancing knowledge in his field enhances his teaching and benefits his students.
"Teaching is one of the major missions of ÎÛÎÛ²ÝÝ®ÊÓƵ University, which is already a compelling argument to justify assiduous work in dental education" explains Dr. de Souza, "I see our DMD and graduate students as a valuable asset to our society, and I do my best to prepare them for the problems they may face in their professional lives. My teaching methods are grounded in my conviction that democratic values can pave the way for a better world. That leads me to treat them with respect and rational arguments as much as possible, trying to put myself in their shoes and striving for their growth."
Dr. de Souza's dedication to his students and significant contributions to the field of prosthodontics have distinguished him as an exceptional educator. Through his mentorship and guidance, he instills a deep understanding of patient care and fosters a commitment to excellence in his students. His dedication and expertise inspire and empower the next generation of dental professionals. "My message goes to our amazing current and previous students. Thank you for being a constant source of joy and learning. The life of an oral health professional is in constant evolution, so keep an open mind and use your limitations as chances to learn more and more."
The Faculty of Dental Medicine and Oral Health Sciences congratulates Dr. Raphael de Souza on this well-deserved honor!