In his short one and half years at the College of Dentistry, Bradley J. Krivohlavek, DDS, a clinical instructor in the department of adult restorative dentistry, has already built a reputation for being an exceptional teacher and mentor.
As a testament to his outstanding teaching efforts and the respect he has gained from students, the dental class of 2021 recognized Krivohlavek with the college's prestigious teaching award, the Dr. Kenneth Batenhorst Memorial Faculty Award. The award is given to a faculty member who has made a significant contribution to students' education and has shown great dedication to preparing them to be leaders in dentistry.
Zach Pederson, president of the dental class of 2021, presented Krivohlavek with the award at the college's Senior Celebration, held in May 2021.
"It’s awesome to have faculty like you who can join the college and immediately connect with the student body. Some people get it and some don’t. You definitely fall into the category of getting it," Pederson said. "The way you handle clinical situations, never making a student feel inept while also encouraging them through sharing your own personal experience, is something that is very valued among the students."
Krivohlavek has been a clinical instructor at the college since January 2020. He graduated from the UNMC College of Dentistry in 1979 and owned a dental practice in Norfolk, Nebraska, before retiring. He says that his time at the college after retirement has been a blessing.
"I thoroughly enjoy working with all the students. I have a passion for dentistry and am very happy to help teach future dentists," Krivohlavek said. "I was honored and humbled to receive the Batenhorst Award. To be chosen by the students was a pleasant surprise, and I look forward to continuing to work with these outstanding students."