The CU Anschutz School of Dental Medicine is proud to welcome the Graduate Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics Residency Class of 2029, a group of 12 residents beginning an intensive program that will prepare them to become future leaders in orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics.
The residency program combines advanced didactic education with extensive clinical training, research and teaching opportunities. Over the course of 30 months, residents will treat children, adolescents and adults while developing expertise in contemporary orthodontic techniques, interdisciplinary care and complex cases including orthognathic surgery and craniofacial anomalies.
Associate Professor and Residency Program Director Gerald Minick, DDS, MS, MSD, said, "Each individual brings unique experiences, talents and perspectives that will strengthen our learning community and patient care. We look forward to supporting their growth as clinicians and future leaders in the specialty."
The incoming class includes Breanna Aikens, Joshua Allen, Gary Boni Jr., Jason Carter, Rubi Diaz Delgado, Aria Gill, Kaysee Ishman, Mona Khaledi, Ryan Knapp, Daniel Lee, Hisham Sabri and Lea Safarpour.
Different Paths, Shared Purpose
This cohort of residents joined the program from a variety of backgrounds and experiences. Some grew up in Colorado and completed dental school at CU Anschutz Dental, while others traveled from across the United States, Canada and beyond to pursue advanced specialty training.
Several residents cited the opportunity to transform patients' confidence and quality of life as a primary reason for pursuing orthodontics. Breanna Aikens said her own experience with braces inspired her to enter the profession after seeing how treatment improved her self-confidence. Similarly, Lea Safarpour said she was drawn to the long-term impact orthodontists can have on patients' lives and self-esteem.
Others were attracted by the blend of science, problem-solving and lifelong learning that defines the specialty. Jason Carter described orthodontics as offering a unique challenge with every patient, while Hisham Sabri said he enjoys the combination of science and critical thinking involved in treatment planning and patient care.
For Kaysee Ishman, exposure to orthognathic surgery during her dental training revealed the profound impact orthodontic treatment can have on patients. "I wanted to be a part of the life-changing process from the orthodontic perspective," she said.
Preparing for the Future
As they begin the next phase of their professional journeys, residents share a common goal of providing exceptional care while continuing to grow as clinicians. While their long-term aspirations vary, many see residency as an opportunity to strengthen both their clinical expertise and their ability to serve patients.
Some are drawn to the collaborative nature of the specialty. Ishman hopes to one day practice in a group setting where colleagues can learn from one another and share knowledge, while Sabri envisions a career built on collaboration and lifelong learning.
Others are focused on refining the skills needed to provide comprehensive, individualized treatment. Khaledi hopes to establish her own practice centered on personalized care, and Diaz Delgado is eager to develop the confidence and adaptability needed to manage a wide range of cases.
Across the class, residents expressed a desire not only to become skilled orthodontists, but also trusted providers who build meaningful relationships with their patients. Safarpour aspires to become someone her patients genuinely look forward to seeing.
Their goals align closely with the residency program's emphasis on clinical excellence, interdisciplinary collaboration and patient-centered care, providing a strong foundation as they prepare for careers in the specialty.
Beyond the Clinic
Outside of orthodontics, residents bring a wide range of interests and experiences that enrich the learning community.
Among the group are a former U.S. Air Force dentist, a certified personal trainer, an avid film photographer, a fluent Portuguese speaker and a resident who has visited 16 countries. Their hobbies range from hiking, camping and skiing to tennis, horseback riding, yoga and travel.
As they begin their residency training, these 12 individuals bring varied perspectives, experiences and talents to the CU Anschutz School of Dental Medicine. Over the next 30 months, they will develop advanced clinical skills, contribute to education and research, and provide care for patients throughout Colorado. The school looks forward to supporting their growth and celebrating their achievements in the years ahead.
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