Sherry Babbage Melisizwe '72, '81

From the moment she first set foot on the University of Louisville campus, Dr. Sherry Babbage Melisizwe has represented the CARDINAL principles in every aspect of her life.

While pursuing her bachelor’s degree in medical technology, she was UofL’s first African American varsity cheerleader. At the School of Dentistry, she was the only African American in her DMD class and only the seventh in the school’s history. She then went into private practice on West Broadway, which allowed her to combine two passions: improving oral health and investing in a predominantly African American community.

While in private practice, Dr. Babbage returned to the School of Dentistry as a part-time faculty member and she later moved into a full-time faculty role. Every day, she shares her passion for dentistry with students and cares for patients in the emergency clinic. Dr. Babbage was among the group honored with a COVID-19 Heroes award for keeping that clinic open during the pandemic.

Dr. Babbage has played a key role in recruiting and retaining diverse students at the School of Dentistry. She serves on the Admissions and Diversity committees and is the dental director for the SHPEP summer enrichment program and Central High School career exploration program.

Outside of the school, Dr. Babbage serves on many boards and committees dedicated to giving the citizens of West Louisville a voice. Early this year, she took on an additional role helping to increase COVID-19 vaccinations among African Americans. She is also a faithful member of St. Stephen Baptist Church.

Dr. Babbage has received many awards, including YMCA Adult Achiever of the Year. The School of Dentistry is honored to add Alumni Fellow to her long list of accolades, in recognition of the immense impact she has made on the university, the community, and the field of dentistry.

Donors who wish to celebrate Dr. Sherry Babbage’s achievements as an honoree are encouraged to make a gift to the Minority Alumni Scholarship for Dentistry.

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