Alumni Update - Rodrick "Donnie" Wiggins - 2011 graduate
While in high school Donnie played on the football team, track team and was a member of the National Honor Society. He was a student of CVCC (Cuyahoga Valley Career Center) where he received his Dental Assisting certification.
After graduating GHHS, Donnie attended Kent State University where he received his bachelor’s degree in Biology in 2015. After graduating from Kent, he worked as a dental assistant prior to applying to dental school. Upon being denied his first attempt, he then moved to Miami, Florida where he received his master’s degree in Biomedical Sciences at Barry University. After enhancing his credentials as a dental assistant and graduate student, he applied one more time to dental school, to which he was offered 8 interviews. Donnie accepted the offer to Tufts University School of Dental Medicine where he now resides.
Perseverance, dedication and a strong desire definitely paid off for Donnie!
What’s next?
Donnie intends on completing his Doctor of Dental Medicine degree which is four years, not including a residency.
In addition, Donnie plans to launch two ventures that he is very excited to be spearheading.
Starting in June, he will begin conducting research for Tufts University on a bioactive dental restorative material called, Cention N. The study will be an emphasis on the biomimetic properties of the product and how they might contribute to the remineralization or regrowth of enamel.
He has also been curating a multifaceted brand known as Teeth Studios; A Smiling Initiative. The initiative is to advocate for those showing a sense individuality and authenticity through expression of life. We hope to push the idea of overall oral health by promoting individuals to smile and live their life through their passions and expressions.
Donnie loves to cook, travel, and do outside excursions such as hiking and free climbing. He enjoys eclectic places such as museums, arboretums and old estates.
Congratulations on your successes Donnie! We are excited for you and what your future holds as you continue to pursue your dreams!
#GHCSPride