Congratulations to Selina Master on being awarded the Faculty Engagement Medal from the Royal College of Surgeons of England in recognition of her outstanding contributions to the dental profession.
The Faculty Engagement Medal is awarded triannually to individuals who have made a significant impact in advancing equality, diversity, and inclusion within the field of oral health. It is a prestigious honour that celebrates actions leading to meaningful change in these areas. The medal bears the inscription: "By our actions let us be judged."
Selina has been a longstanding and valued member of the British Society for Special Care Dentistry (BSSCD), having served on its Executive Committee from 2003 to 2011, including a term as President in 2004-2005.
Her dedication to the Special Care Dentistry (SCD) community is exceptional. Selina was the founding Chair and Examiner of the Diploma in Special Care Dentistry (DSCD) exam from 2002 to 2008, and she served as an Examiner for the Membership in Clinical Community Dentistry (MCCD) exam from 1992 to 2002. She also chaired the MCCD exam from 1996 to 2002.
A pivotal achievement in Selina’s career was her tireless work alongside colleagues to secure the recognition of SCD as a GDC-recognised specialty, which was officially granted in 2008. Around this time, she also began her important work with the Specialist Advisory Committee in Special Care Dentistry, serving for nine years during a period of significant change. The recognition of SCD as a specialty was celebrated at the Winter Presidential Conference in 2005, a milestone for the profession.
Selina was awarded MBE in 2014 for Services to Vulnerable People and Improving Oral Health.
In addition to her work within SCD, Selina made significant contributions to the Royal College of Surgeons of England. She was elected to the Faculty of Dental Surgery (RCS England) Board in 2013, serving as Junior Vice-Dean from 2017 to 2018 and Senior Vice-Dean from 2018 to 2019. During her time on the Board, Selina was instrumental in raising the profile of SCD and contributed to various committees, including Clinical Standards, Postgraduate Education, and Exams.
Selina has had a distinguished career as a specialist in both Special Care and Paediatric Dentistry, working across Community and Hospital Dental Services in South West London and Surrey.
Despite her many accomplishments, Selina remains remarkably humble, loyal, and approachable. She has been a mentor to countless individuals, offering guidance, support, and wisdom throughout her career. Even in her well-deserved "retirement," she continues to provide invaluable advice and remains a trusted resource for those in the profession.
Selina's unwavering dedication, leadership, and advocacy for equality, diversity, and inclusion make her a truly deserving recipient of the Faculty Engagement Medal.