BCF: Creating Great Smiles - Nov. '09

As an ambassador for the Black College Fund, Udunka speaks around the United States about how the fund provides the foundational support that sets the stage for people to fulfill their potential. He is an active example as he continues to pursue his dream to become Dr. Simeon Udunka.

“God placed it in my heart to do my best to fulfill my God-given potential,” Udunka said. “I was always interested in the sciences and health care, so dentistry became a perfect fit.”

Another perfect fit is the intertwining of Udunka’s aspirations and Meharry’s motto to provide quality health care for an underserved population.

“I want to help uplift the community, especially when it comes to health care and more specifically dental-health care,” Udunka noted.

Udunka has found a sense of community on the campus, an extension of his family’s support before entering college. He has a strong relationship with extended family members and says his mother has been a major factor in his success.

“I knew at an early age that I was a priority in her life because of the commitment she gave me,” he recalled. “She is very important. A lot of what I do is to make sure she is seen in a shining light because she sacrificed so much for me.”

Leaders at Meharry also encourage students to embrace that family atmosphere because it helps them through the academic journey and produces quality graduates. Udunka emphasized this as another reason to support the Black College Fund.

“One should support the Black College Fund because it’s about growing and giving back to your future,” said Udunka. “The individuals trying to get into school will be the future doctors, dentists, lawyers, health-care providers, leaders in government and teachers.”

He added, “It is not just about giving money away. It is about giving to God’s kingdom and investing in your future.”

To learn more about the Black College Fund and the colleges and universities it supports, please visit www.gbhem.org/bcf.