Bonded by Dentistry: Members of the Class of 2025 Find Love at Ohio State

Emma Bergman and Tim Feeney met at a dental school party, but it wasn’t until they began studying together that their friendship blossomed. They soon became inseparable. At a dinner celebrating the class’s transition into clinic, the pair—who were still friends at the time—won an award for “Cutest Couple That Never Was.” That vote set their relationship in motion, and they graduated as an engaged couple with their wedding planned for this summer.” They have entered an established practice together in northwest Ohio. “Having a best friend and a partner who understands your strugglesand knows how to help you even made the hardships of dental school enjoyable,” Dr. Bergman said.

Lance Talmage, ’25 DDS, and Ellen Peters, ’25 DDS

Ellen Peters and Lance Talmage met during orientation and connected when Lance asked Ellen to teach him to square dance during a class night out. They both agree that having a partner who understands the demands of dental school was invaluable. “We were able to hold each other accountable with studying and help each other in the pre-clinic. We were able to share in the victories of clinic and be there for each other when things didn’t go as planned,” Lance said. The couple married in May, just days after graduation. Now, Ellen is continuing her dental career at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital as a pediatric resident, while Lance has begun his service in the Air Force at Wright Patterson Air Force Base as an AEGD resident. “We don’t know where we will be long-term, but we will always remain proud Ohio State alumni, Ellen said.

Phillip Krayterman, ’25 DDS, and Audrey Grammel, ’25 DDS

Audrey Grammel and Phillip Krayterman first connected during fixed lab remediation when Phillip orchestrated a standing ovation for Audrey when she was the first to finish. Since that day, they’ve “continued to be each other’s biggest cheerleaders.” Newly engaged and with graduation behind them, Dr. Grammel is splitting her time between two general practices in central Ohio—including her family’s practice where her parents (who also met in dental school) continue to work. Dr. Krayterman is also splitting his time between two practices. “Dental school was a roller coaster ride for the both of us—from some of the most stressful times in our lives to some of the happiest memories we will cherish forever,” Dr. Krayterman said. “We are very grateful to have met each other and to see our dream jobs become a reality. We are so excited for what the future holds. Go Bucks!”

Ben Dunlap, ’25 DDS, and Michelle Tokman ’25 DDS

Michelle Tokman and Ben Dunlap met on the first day of orientation when they were placed in the same anatomy group. They quickly became a couple and found comfort in navigating dental school together. Some of their favorite memories at Postle Hall involved giving back to the community—especially working together during Give Kids A Smile and Give Veterans A Smile. They hope to bring those meaningful experiences to their own practice someday. For now, Dr. Dunlap has entered the Army Dental Corps, and Dr. Tokman has entered private practice. “We always have each other’s back,” Dr. Tokman said. “Celebrating successes is even sweeter when you have someone to share it with.”

Fun fact: The Dental Class of 2025 had more couples than any class in recent memory. While this observation isn’t exactly scientific, it’s a great excuse to profile some of our recent “dental power couples” and learn about their plans for the future. We can’t wait to see where their careers—and their relationships—take them next!