Community outreach is part of what defines fourth year dental student Clifford Goodwine.

As president of UofL’s Student ToothFairy chapter, community service rep. for both the Hispanic Student Dental Association and the Students Society of Pediatric Dentistry, as well as the fundraising chair for Alpha Omega Dental Fraternity – he is focused on service. 

In February, he led an effort to collect more than 3,000 oral health care products as part of a national campaign aimed at raising awareness and access to basic dental supplies for local underserved children. 

To recognize this success, America’s ToothFairy National Children’s Oral Health Foundation presented Goodwine with an award. 

Goodwine, who plans to become a pediatric dentist, says he understands first-hand what it means for children. 

“I grew up in an underserved, rural area of Kentucky and I know what good programs like this can do for a child. Receiving treatment and help that I did as a kid had a transformative effect on my life and I hope that I can pass that gift forward to others,” he said. 

Donated items including toothbrushes, toothpaste and floss were distributed to Louisville’s Home of the Innocents, Blessings in a Backpack, and UofL’s community dental outreach. 

“I am very happy for Clifford to receive this recognition for his unstoppable commitment for community work. He is an example for the student body to understand the importance of giving time and service to a population in need,” said Liliana Rozo Gaeth, pediatric dentistry faculty member.