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When Mirdza (Mitzi) Neiders, PMCert ’74 came to the United States at age 17, she could not speak English. Her family had fled Latvia after World War II and spent six years in a camp in Germany awaiting passage to the U.S. A life of hard work in the classroom, learning English and excelling in math and the sciences lead her to University of Michigan where she earned her DDS degree.
Dr. Neiders has always been a trailblazer. She was the only woman in her dental school class and when she joined the UB School of Dental Medicine in 1962 she was one of the first female faculty teaching an all-male graduating class. Throughout her nearly 60-year career teaching at UB Dr. Neiders has played a significant role in transforming the gender balance as both a teacher and a mentor.
In 2022 Dr. Neiders created a fund to help female professors in the two departments where she taught and did research—oral diagnostic sciences and periodontology—to attain more training and help more women rise in the ranks of dental academia.
“These funds helped pay the tuition of my Advanced Education Program in Periodontics,” said Isolde Rojas-Rudolph (pictured right), clinical assistant professor in the Department of Periodontics and Endodontics, and one of to benefit from this fund. “Obtaining this clinical certification has significantly improved every aspect of my professional life, as it has not only helped me to become a better clinician but also a better educator and scientist.”
A STORIED CAREER
Dr. Neiders was the recipient of numerous awards and honors during her career. In 2001 she received the SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Teaching and was named “Teacher of the Year” by the Alpha Omega dental fraternity. In 2002 she achieved the prestigious rank of SUNY Distinguished Teaching Professor. In 2004 she received the UBDAA Honor Award, and she was one of three initial recipients of the newly created award for Outstanding Contributions to International Education at UB in recognition of her involvement in the University’s relationship with Lavia.
Dr. Neiders had a stellar research career and developed expertise in the areas of oral pathology, periodontal disease, immunology, and immunofluorescence, she published many articles in scientific and professional journals, served on ‘Study Section’ of NIDR and, for several years, did intra-mural research in the National Institutes of Health. In addition to her very successful career as a teacher, mentor and researcher, she served on many important dental school and university-wide committees, including the President's Review Board for Promotion and Tenure (PRB), which she chaired.
A MENTOR AND ROLE MODEL
Former students and colleagues reflect on how Dr. Neiders & this fund impacted their education and career.
“She has been an inspiration and a role model to me, not only professionally but also at a personal level. To me she is the true representation of a Mentor. Having her in my life has transformed my experience at UB dental. She took an interest in me when I was a new faculty member at UB dental over a decade ago and helped me find my way to develop and grow as a professional and as a person. I will be forever grateful to her.” Isolde Gina Rojas-Rudolph, DDS, PhD Clincal Assistant Professor, Department of Periodontics and Endodontics, University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine. -Rojas-Rudolph, Clinical Assistant Professor, Department of Periodontics and Endodontics
“Dr. Neiders has always supported women through education, mentorship, and strong personal relationships. The Dr. Mitzi Neiders Educational Fund for Women Faculty is an extension of that generosity. Dr. Neiders started the fund at the same time I was interested in pursuing an academic career full-time and she encouraged me to apply. To date, her fund has enabled me complete 3 years of education towards a PhD in Epidemiology, a research credential that will complement my career in Periodontology and role as Program Director. Additionally, my appreciation for this opportunity has deepened my love for learning and desire to pass this passion to others in my teaching as well as by donating to her fund.” -Lisa Yerke, Clinical Associate Professor, Director, Advanced Education Program in Periodontics
"Receiving the Dr. Mitzi Neiders Educational Fund for my residency training in endodontics was a pivotal moment in my career. It allowed me to better understand the U.S. educational system and the complex challenges that our students face. This invaluable experience equipped me to be a more impactful faculty member dedicated to shaping the next generation. Dr. Neiders is not just a mentor, but a beacon for women faculty, inspiring us to reach our full potential. Her unwavering support is something I will always carry with me." - Hacer Aksel, Clinical Assistant Professor, Department of Endodontics
Commemorate Dr. Neiders nearly 60-year career where she served as a teacher, dentist, researcher, mentor, role-model, friend, and critic for thousands of faculty, students, and patients of the University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine.
Honor Dr. Neiders 'firsts'. She was one of the first women to become faculty in the UB School of Dental Medicine. She was also one of the first recipients of the Outstanding Contributions to International Education at UB Award.
Celebrate Dr. Neiders' tireless efforts to advocate for women in academia and dentistry, helping to pave the way for future generations.
Honor Dr. Neiders' lifelong commitment to academic excellence and her lasting impact on the thousands of students, faculty and patients she helped through the UB School of Dental Medicine.
Commemorate Dr. Neiders' trailblazing spirit, which not only opened doors for others but also fostered a culture of inclusivity, mentorship, and innovation.
The average amount that recipients of the fund need to continue their education and career development.
