2nd Annual Sarah Umeko Qureshi Memorial Endowed Lecture in Forensic Dentistry and the Forensic Sciences

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Table of Contents

• About the Qureshi Lectureship
• Course Aim
• Course Description
• About the Lecturer
• FAQs
• Refund and Waitlist Policy
• COVID-19 Information
• Enrollment and Cancellation

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About the Qureshi Lectureship

The Qureshi Lectureship was graciously established by Joan Viantha Qureshi, D85, B.Sc., DipBact., M.Sc., D.M.D. cum laude, FADI, FPFA, C.D.E., in loving memory of her daughter, Sarah Umeko Qureshi. This distinguished lectureship stands as the inaugural of its kind at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine (TUSDM) within its Department of Comprehensive Care.

Every year, this lectureship empowers TUSDM to host discussions on forensic dentistry and the broader realm of forensic sciences. This encompasses areas like forensic anthropology and crime scene investigation. These sessions offer dental students, practicing dentists, dental hygienists, and dental assistants a unique chance to engage with and learn from leading scholars in these specialized areas.

Course Aim

Within the framework of this immersive course, participants will engage in a hands-on experience, collaborating closely in teams. Your central task will be to decipher and identify individuals from a meticulously crafted, simulated aircraft crash scenario. This interactive exercise is designed not only to test your skills but also to enhance your understanding of real-world forensic challenges.

In addition to the practical component, the course ensures a comprehensive educational journey by delving into the intricacies of forensic dental identification. Through structured modules, participants will be exposed to the foundational theories, methodologies, and contemporary tools utilized in the field. This foundational knowledge ensures that every attendee is equipped to address forensic challenges with expertise and precision.

Course Description

This course is meticulously designed to equip participants with vital knowledge in the realm of forensic odontology. By the end of this course, attendees will possess not only a foundational grasp of the key principles governing this specialized role but also the practical skills necessary to conduct forensic dental identifications. This competence is especially pivotal when dealing with human remains, often serving as a crucial component in medico-legal death investigations.

This course doesn't stop at practical applications. It also ensures that participants gain a thorough understanding of the underlying theories and methodologies. Attendees will be introduced to the fundamental tenets of forensic dental identification, ensuring they are well-versed in both its traditional and cutting-edge techniques.

Furthermore, an integral part of this course is dedicated to familiarizing participants with the mission and day-to-day operations of the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency. By shedding light on this agency's critical role, the course aims to contextualize the broader implications and societal significance of forensic odontology, emphasizing its contribution to justice and historical reconciliation.

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About the Lecturer

Dr. Kevin R. Torske

Dr. Kevin R. Torske is currently a Forensic Odontologist affiliated with the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) based at Offutt AFB, Omaha, Nebraska. In July 2023, he culminated his three-decade-long service by retiring as a Captain from the U.S. Navy. He is specialized in Oral & Maxillofacial Pathology and Forensic Dentistry.

Dr. Torske's educational background is impressive. In 1993, he graduated “high distinction” from the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry with a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree. He pursued his Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology residency until 2000 at the Naval Postgraduate Dental School and simultaneously achieved a Master of Science degree from George Washington University. This academic venture was succeeded by a fellowship in Otorhinolaryngic and Endocrine Pathology at the Armed Forces Institute of Pathology. He holds the esteemed title of Diplomate from the American Board of Oral & Maxillofacial Pathology.

Professionally, his navy tenure saw him in various capacities. He played pivotal roles as a staff pathologist both at the Armed Forces Institute of Pathology in Washington, DC, and the Naval Medical Center in Portsmouth, VA. Dr. Torske headed the Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology Residency Program at the Naval Postgraduate Dental School in Bethesda, MD. He also contributed as a Forensic Odontologist at the Joint POW/MIA Accounting Command in Honolulu, HI. Notably, Dr. Torske has mentored multiple military dental and medical residency programs in the realms of Oral Pathology and Forensic Dentistry, further serving as the U.S. Navy Specialty Leader in these areas.

On the national spectrum, Captain Torske holds the roles of Director and Secretary-Treasurer for the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology. He's also a member of the Editorial Board for the Head and Neck Pathology journal. His academic contributions encompass multiple textbook chapters and articles in peer-reviewed journals. He has been a regular speaker at the American Academy of Oral & Maxillofacial Pathology annual gatherings and various Continuing Education events.

Since 1992, he's been happily married to Holly J. Mosher.

Why should you take this course?

For starters, Dr. Torske isn't just any regular dentist; he brings to the table a deep well of knowledge on a topic that's more than a little intriguing: forensic dentistry. Most of us in the dental field have a general idea about forensic dentistry, but only a handful truly understand the ins and outs.

Dr. Torske's teachings won't just give you some cool facts to share at a dinner party. It equips you with practical knowledge that could make a significant difference in critical situations. Plus, diving deeper into an area that's a tad off the beaten path could be the breath of fresh air your dental career needs.

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Refund Policy

Participants are eligible for a full tuition refund or credit for cancellations made at least two weeks before the course's commencement. Unfortunately, refunds or tuition credits won't be available after this period or for those who fail to attend.

Waitlist Policy

Should a CE course garner significant registrations leading to a waitlist, the CE office will approach individuals with pending payments. These individuals will need to settle their balances to confirm their spot. In case of non-payment, their reserved spot might be offered to another paying participant on the waitlist.

COVID-19 Guidelines

Tufts University prioritizes a secure campus environment. As of now, attendees of the Continuing Education/Lifelong Learning and Distance Education courses at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine don't need to undergo any screening. However, mask usage is advised in clinical areas and remains optional in classrooms.

Enrollment and Cancellation Procedures

The Office of Continuing Education has the discretion to limit registration when a course reaches its maximum capacity. It also retains the right to amend, cancel, or change any course content or faculty if deemed necessary. Should a course cancellation occur, participants will receive a full refund. Efforts will be made to notify participants promptly regarding any cancellations. However, the school is not accountable for any disruptions caused to the participants' travel plans.

In case of unforeseen circumstances like severe weather conditions, the Office of Continuing Education may either cancel or reschedule a course. Participants will be informed via the provided contact details about any such changes. If in doubt about a course's status, participants are encouraged to get in touch directly with our office on the course day.

Contact Us

Email us at dentalce@tufts.edu or call us at (617) 636-6629