Feb 28 2015
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.
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.
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.”