Detroit, MI - The Mortuary Science Program in the Wayne State University Eugene Applebaum College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences today announced it has received a $10,000 grant to support its 3D technology project from Service Corporation International (SCI). Titled "3D Printing in Restorative Art," the initiative seeks to develop an interactive learning module for mortuary science students to create anatomical models for laboratory learning and prosthetics for body and feature restoration on deceased individuals.
The project will illustrate how 3D technology can be used in mortuary science education to meet community needs. Specific objectives include developing a set of core competencies students need to successfully reconstruct body parts, providing a model for other educational institutions, and integrating engagement and expertise of allied educators and industry practitioners into students' learning experiences.
"Our faculty, staff and students are excited about this initiative," said Mark T. Evely, director of Wayne State's mortuary science program. "A key feature missing from funeral service education is the technology needed to restore missing or damaged parts of deceased individuals' bodies with natural precision. We appreciate this award from SCI because it strengthens our curriculum by providing our students with access to this technology. Students will use 3D technology to explore elements of anatomy and practice reconstructing parts of the human body, which improves their marketability and prepares them to address real-world issues."
Begun in 2011, the SCI Advancing Mortuary Science Education grant program seeks to promote the development of innovative funeral service programs that provide opportunities for students to develop their skills in delivering exceptional customer care and service. The program recognizes those mortuary programs with a defined sense of purpose and demonstrated commitment to preparing students to serve their client families and communities as compassionate funeral service professionals.
"The '3D Printing in Restorative Art' proposal submitted by Wayne State University's Mortuary Science program is not only a forward-thinking idea, but it also embodies a program that will strengthen students' learning and enhance their professional development," said Jennifer Lane of SCI. "Service Corporation International is proud to participate in the ongoing educational process and program enhancements, which we anticipate will prepare students for the dynamic customer-driven changes confronting funeral service professionals today. As leaders, we believe investing in education will have a positive impact on the future of the funeral service profession."
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Service Corporation International consultant and Robert Vandenbergh ('68) (fourth from the right) presents a check for $10,000 to Mark T. Evely ('04) (third from the right), director of Wayne State University's mortuary science program. Representatives from both organizations shared in the celebration. Pictured, left to right: Dr. Howard J. Normile, associate dean of the Department of Health Sciences; Tim McGillen, general manager of Kaul Funeral Home; Kevin Bullock, general manager of Harry J. Will Funeral Homes; Nelson Thulin, Detroit market director for Service Corporation International; Vern Pixley ('82), senior managing director for Service Corporation International; and Dr. Peter D. Frade, chair of the Department of Fundamental and Applied Sciences.
About the Mortuary Science Program at Wayne State University
Begun in 1939, Wayne State's mortuary science program is dedicated to teaching individuals the professional discipline of mortuary science through high-quality educational exposures in classroom didactics, practicum, internships and clinical experiences. One of the first programs of its kind, it is still the only accredited undergraduate degree program leading to state licensure in Michigan. In addition, it is one of the three programs in Carnegie Research Universities' (very high research activity) core-based accredited programs in the nation. For more information, mortsci.wayne.edu.
About the Eugene Applebaum College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences
The Eugene Applebaum College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences is committed to advancing the health and well-being of society by preparing highly skilled health care practitioners and conducting groundbreaking research to improve models of practice and method of treatment in pharmacy and the health sciences. To learn more, visit cphs.wayne.edu.
About Wayne State University
Wayne State University is a premier urban research institution of higher education offering more than 370 academic programs through 13 schools and colleges to nearly 28,000 students. For more information, visit wayne.edu.
About Service Corporation International
Service Corporation International is North America's leading provider of deathcare products and services. SCI has more than 25,000 dedicated employees who provide the finest funeral, cremation and cemetery services to hundreds of thousands of families each year. Operating from a network of more than 2,000 funeral homes and cemeteries, the people of SCI assist families with compassion and guidance at difficult times, helping them celebrate the significance of lives that have been lived and preserving memories that transcend generations with dignity and honor. Find more information about SCI at http://www.sci-corp.com.