In 2025, the Niigata University Faculty of Dentistry marked its 60th anniversary. To commemorate this milestone, a special event was held on Saturday, November 1st, at Hotel Okura Niigata in Chuo Ward, Niigata City. The program featured a wide variety of activities, including a public forum, lectures, a commemorative ceremony, and exhibition booths.
Public Forum
The public forum was hosted by Ms. Yui Ugajin, a freelance announcer and Niigata University Ambassador.
The keynote lecture was delivered by Ms. Mizuho Ise, a freelance announcer, who spoke on the theme “Facing Cancer Without Giving Up Smiles”, sharing her personal experience with illness.
Following the lecture, a panel discussion was held under the theme “Building a Community That Supports Health Together.” The discussion was moderated by Professor Kaname Nohno of the Faculty of Dentistry. Panelists included Ms. Ise, Dr. Masaki Matsuzaki (President of the Niigata Dental Association), and Professor Makoto Inoue (Dean of the Faculty of Dentistry). They exchanged views from various perspectives on the role of dental care in the community and initiatives to protect health and smiles.
Opening remarks by Dean Makoto Inoue
Lecture by Ms. Mizuho Ise
Panel discussion
Lecture Session
The lecture session focused on the theme “Current Status and Outlook of Niigata University Faculty of Dentistry”, featuring four presentations:
– Current Status and Outlook of University Dental Hospital
(Prof. Koichi Tabeta, Div. of Periodontology)
– Current Status and Outlook of Dental Education
(Prof. Noritaka Fujii, Div. of Dental Clinical Education)
– Current Status and Outlook of the Department of Oral Health and Welfare
(Prof. Kaname Nohno, Department of Oral Life and Welfare)
– Current Status and Outlook of International Exchange Activities
(Prof. Hiroshi Ogawa, Div. of Preventive Dentistry)
Each presentation introduced the School’s achievements and future directions in education, research, clinical practice, and international exchange, helping participants gain a deeper understanding of its diverse initiatives.
Commemorative Ceremony
During the commemorative ceremony, congratulatory messages were delivered by distinguished guests:
Dr. Tatsuo Ushiki, President of Niigata University
Dr. Junko Takada, Director of the Dental and Oral Health Promotion Office, Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare
Mr. Hideyo Hanazumi, Governor of Niigata Prefecture (message read by Dr. Yoshin Nakamura, Director of the Welfare and Health Department)
Dr. Hideto Takahashi, President of the Japan Dental Association
Dr. Masaki Matsuzaki, President of the Niigata Dental Association
Additionally, video messages from partner institutions overseas were screened, offering a moment to appreciate the School’s expanding international connections.
Scenes from the commemorative ceremony
Exhibition Booths
Inside the venue, panel displays showcased the School’s educational, research, and clinical activities across various fields. Visitors had the opportunity to learn about the School’s history and its forward-looking initiatives.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all who attended and supported the 60th Anniversary Celebration of the Niigata University Faculty of Dentistry.
