Samantha Seewald
Samantha Seewald is a dental student at the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine, where she is pursuing her DMD as a member of the Class of 2029. She graduated from Duke University in May 2025 with a major in Biology, a minor in Psychology, and a certificate in Child Policy Research. During her undergraduate years, Seewald was actively involved in volunteer and advocacy organizations, primarily focused on improving resources and support for children and individuals with disabilities. She also conducted research examining barriers to oral health care for children with disabilities and emerging interventions aimed at improving access to care.
Through the LDI Summer Research Fellowship, Seewald is working under the mentorship of Dr. Alicia Risner-Bauman on a project examining oral hygiene outcomes among individuals with disabilities who receive caregiver assistance. The study evaluates differences in oral hygiene outcomes based on place of residence and seeks to inform future research on the effectiveness of caregiver interventions in improving oral health outcomes for individuals with disabilities. Through this work, Seewald continues to develop her interests in health equity, disability advocacy, and improving access to patient-centered care.
At Penn Dental Medicine, Seewald serves as Media Chair for Philly Phaces and D1 Representative for the Orthodontics and Special Needs Club. She also actively volunteers with Penntorship and other community outreach organizations.