Doctor of Dental Surgery Candidate

Kerra Alexis Kelly is a Doctor of Dental Surgery candidate at Howard University College of Dentistry. Kerra was born in Birmingham, Alabama, and raised in McDonough, Georgia, where she graduated with honors from Eagle’s Landing Christian Academy.

Kerra continued her academic journey at the illustrious Florida Agricultural & Mechanical University (FAMU), where she majored in Biology with a concentration in Pre-Dentistry. During her time at FAMU, she was selected as the only undergraduate 2021–2022 White House HBCU Scholar—an esteemed national recognition that gave her the opportunity to represent undergraduate students and collaborate with other scholars to address critical issues affecting HBCU campuses and surrounding communities. Her story was also featured in The Grio’s The Rise series, where she shared the powerful impact mentorship has had on her life and success as an HBCU student.

Graduating Summa Cum Laude from FAMU in 2023, Kerra immediately began her dental school journey at Howard University College of Dentistry. She quickly became active in student leadership, serving in multiple roles including:

• 2024–2025 D2 Class President

• 2025–2026 Vice President of the HUCD Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD)

• 2025-2026 Vice President of the Student Professionalism and Ethics Association (SPEA)

• 2025-2026 Parliamentarian for the HUCD Chapter of Student National Dental Association (SNDA)

Kerra remains deeply committed to advancing research and community service particularly in children. She attributes her continued success to the unwavering support of her family, friends, mentors, advisors, and professors.

“This is not mine alone; this is our journey, and I carry each of you with me every step of the way.”