HBCU graduate Dr. Canise Bean, whose inspiring story is not just about thriving in the world of health sciences, but also about the profound impact of family ties and formative educational experiences. In the heart of our discussion, Dr. Bean shares the pivotal moments that led her to the doors of Ohio State University College of Dentistry, including a life-altering day in a dental ER and the influential decision to attend an HBCU and participate in the Ocean of Soul Marching Band, guided by her mother's wisdom. Her narrative is a vibrant tapestry that weaves the importance of mentorship, the calling to serve, and the drive to create a legacy that far surpasses her own career milestones.

Married to a pastor, Dr. Bean enlightens us on how their shared ministry within the AME church serves as a catalyst for positive change. We celebrate the trailblazing establishment of the first African-American private dental group practice in Cleveland, highlighting the significance of diversity in the field. Meanwhile, the Ohio Project comes into focus as a beacon of community dental care.  This initiative reveals the power of hands-on learning and service, as senior dental students venture into communities, providing vital oral health care, and in turn, nurturing a legacy of compassion and health. Dr. Bean's story and the Ohio Project together offer an enriching perspective to students dreaming of careers in health sciences, emphasizing that with curiosity, ambition, and the right guidance, one's impact on community health can be as boundless as it is profound.

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