Seven dental students were inducted into Omicron Kappa Upsilon Alumni membership, and two dental hygiene students were inducted into the Sigma Phi Alpha national honor society at the recent 2026 Omicron Kappa Upsilon Banquet and Induction Ceremony.
“Membership in Omicron Kappa Upsilon and Sigma Phi Alpha represents far more than academic achievement. It reflects a commitment to leadership, professionalism and service to others,” said Robin Hattervig, DDS, assistant professor of restorative dentistry and president of the UNMC College of Dentistry’s Alpha Alpha Chapter of OKU.
The UNMC College of Dentistry – Alpha Alpha Chapter also took the opportunity to recognize a handful of academic honors and teaching awards at its year-end ceremony.
Blake Rule of La Vista, Neb., is the 2026 recipient of the William S. Kramer Student Award of Excellence, presented by each respective OKU chapter across the nation to a junior dental student. Selection is based on scholarship, character, the potential for future advancement of the dental profession and a spirit of service to humanity, as embodied by the award’s namesake.
Bradley Krivohlavek, DDS, assistant professor of adult restorative dentistry, earned the OKU Four-Year Teaching Award, for faculty members who made a profound and lasting impact on the education of an entire graduating class.
“Dr. K goes far beyond simply teaching dentistry. He challenges us to grow not only as clinicians, but as people,” said Luke Andreasen, on behalf of the class of 2026.
Omicron Kappa Upsilon is a national dental honor society founded in 1914. Its mission is to encourage scholarship, advance dentistry and recognize outstanding students and educators. Today, chapters exist at accredited U.S. dental schools nationwide.
New OKU Alpha Alpha Chapter alumni members are: Quinn Adajar, Sioux City, Iowa; Luke Andreasen, Elkhorn; Maria Carolina Leme Biran, Sorocaba, Brazil; Lauren Herzberg, York; Mikah Hoppens, Ogallala; Logan McNeil, Omaha; and Julia Reimer, Hastings.
“Induction into OKU remains one of the highest academic honors in our profession,” Dr. Hattervig said.
Sigma Phi Alpha is the national dental hygiene honor society dedicated to promoting scholarship, leadership, and service among dental hygiene students.
New Sigma Phi Alpha inductees are: Natalie Blumenkemper, Bennington; and Darian Hadenfeldt, Grand Island.
“We are pleased to recognize two students for their outstanding academic achievement and professional promise,” Dr. Hattervig said.
Dr. Krivohlavek, who was recognized with the OKU Four-Year Teaching Award by the graduating class of 2026, also was inducted into OKU membership as a faculty member.
“Students widely regard him for his approachability, mentorship, and remarkable ability to foster confidence in clinical settings,” said Makena Sundine, DDS, assistant professor of adult restorative dentistry.