JOPLIN ASDA

KCU ASDA is a student organization at Kansas City University College of Dental Medicine. All pre-doctoral students at the school are automatically enrolled in ASDA when they are enrolled at the school. The KCU ASDA's committees work together to form connections between students and faculty at KCU, and colleagues from other schools in the district and across the country. Additionally, we have many outside dental organizations that students can network with thanks to events organized by ASDA. Overall, KCU ASDA helps create a more enriching dental school experience for our students, and provides opportunity to explore many aspects of dentistry.

Who Are We?

KCU ASDA is the student-led chapter of the American Student Dental Association at Kansas City University College of Dental Medicine. We represent and support KCU dental students by creating opportunities for leadership, advocacy, professional development, community service, and meaningful connection.

Our chapter brings students together through educational programs, volunteer initiatives, social events, and engagement with organized dentistry. Whether students are looking to strengthen their professional skills, serve the Joplin community, build lasting relationships, or help shape the future of dentistry, KCU ASDA provides a place to get involved, grow, and lead.

Our Executive Board

President:
Jared Silvey

My name is Jared Silvey and I am a third year dental student and the president of my ASDA chapter. I went to the University of Mississippi for my undergraduate education and Nova Southeastern for my Masters. I chose dentistry because it provides a unique balance of building relationships, trust, and healthcare for our patients. Being able to positively impact the patients I see is why I see myself in this profession for decades to come.

President Elect:
Jack Doan

Hi! My name is Jack Doan and I am a second year dental student and the President-Elect for KCU ASDA. I attended the University of Oklahoma and chose dentistry because I want to use the skills that I have developed in school to provide my future patients high quality comprehensive care. My hobbies include going to the gym, playing sports, and hanging out with my friends.

Treasurer:

Parth Patel

Hi! I’m Parth Patel, the KCU ASDA Treasurer and a third-year dental student (D3). I attended the University of Illinois Chicago for my undergraduate education. I chose dentistry because I want to use my skills to help people in need and make a meaningful difference in their lives. Outside of dental school, you can usually find me on the golf course.

Secretary:

Nandani Patel

Hi! I’m Nandani Patel, a second-year dental student and the KCU ASDA Secretary. I earned my undergraduate degree from Georgia College & State University and my master’s degree from Kansas City University. I chose dentistry because it combines science, hands-on skill, and meaningful connections with people. Beyond providing treatment, I want to help my patients feel heard, comfortable, and respected. My goal is to be a dentist who sees the person beyond the procedure and takes the time to understand each patient’s unique needs. To me, dentistry is an opportunity to turn my passion for caring for others into practical skills that make a lasting difference. Outside of dental school, you’ll find me playing pickleball or volleyball, or spending quality time with friends!

Latest Events

FEVER WEEK!

ASDA Fever Week is a weeklong celebration of student involvement, professional growth, and school spirit at KCU College of Dental Medicine. The week features sponsored lunch-and-learns, networking opportunities, friendly activities, and social events that give students a chance to connect outside the classroom. With support from the ADA, Lumio Dental, Orascoptic, Pacific Dental Services, and Heartland Dental, Fever Week highlights the many ways ASDA helps students learn, lead, and build lasting relationships throughout dental school.

D9 Conference

The ASDA District 9 Conference brings together dental students from chapters throughout the district for a weekend focused on leadership, professional development, networking, and collaboration. Attendees participate in educational sessions, hear from speakers and dental professionals, explore opportunities within organized dentistry, and exchange ideas with students from other dental schools. The conference allows KCU ASDA members to build meaningful connections, strengthen their leadership skills, and bring new ideas and experiences back to our chapter.

For more information, look at our event blogs!

ORASCOPTIC MIXER

Sponsored by Orascoptic, our evening social at Tee Time offered KCU dental students a fun and relaxed opportunity to connect outside the classroom. Students enjoyed an evening of golf, conversation, and friendly competition while building relationships with classmates and representatives from Orascoptic. The event combined networking and recreation, providing a memorable way to unwind and celebrate the KCU ASDA community during Fever Week.