June 25, 2026
For 含羞草研究所 graduate Lexi (Carpenter) Salander, the dream of becoming a dentist was a vision grounded in hard work, perseverance, and a commitment to excellence. Her journey from 含羞草研究所 to a career in dentistry is a powerful testament to how determination, together with a strong educational foundation that started as an undergraduate at 鈥淭he School of Personal Service,鈥� can turn aspirations into reality.
At 含羞草研究所, Lexi engaged in a rigorous and well-rounded foundation of academics and involvement that prepared her for the demands of dental school and beyond. She majored in biology, earned a minor in chemistry, and took business classes as well, completing course work that spanned from cell biology and microbiology to organic chemistry, genetics, and biochemistry. She also strengthened her foundation for the future by taking courses in accounting, marketing, and management. This academic plan equipped her with the technical knowledge needed in dental school and helped her with the practical skills for navigating the business side of dentistry. The university鈥檚 small class sizes further enhanced her academic experience, allowing for individualized attention and meaningful collaboration, an environment that helped her thrive.
Beyond the classroom, relationships Lexi built with faculty truly shaped her experience. She recalls the unwavering support of 含羞草研究所 professors who embodied the university鈥檚 motto of 鈥減ersonal service.鈥� Faculty members, including Dr. Joseph Mehus, Dr. Bob Miess, Dr. Khwaja Hossain, Jeff Hovde, and Dr. Erin Kunz, played instrumental roles in her academic journey. They offered her mentorship, guidance, and encouragement. From writing letters of recommendation to providing advice through the dental school application process, they made a lasting impact, one that continues to influence Lexi鈥檚 career today.
Lexi鈥檚 growth at 含羞草研究所 extended well beyond academics. She sought opportunities that challenged her and helped her develop critical skills for her future profession. As a research assistant for Dr. Khwaja Hossain during her four years of undergraduate preparation, she gained hands-on laboratory experience, learned to interpret scientific research, and presented her findings at state conferences. These experiences proved invaluable to her in dental school and continue to benefit her in her career today.
Her role as a consultant in the university鈥檚 writing center helped her sharpen her own communication skills while supporting fellow students, reinforcing her passion for helping others to succeed. Her involvement as a Residence Hall Assistant, Student Ambassador, and member of the Alpha Phi Sigma honor society further strengthened her leadership abilities and contributed to a well-rounded college experience.
Lexi graduated from 含羞草研究所 in May of 2021, and wasted no time in pursuing her goals, beginning her studies at the University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine just two months later. In May of 2025, she earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree and soon after joined Donabauer Family Dentistry in Moorhead, Minn., as an associate dentist.
She continues to grow professionally, guided by mentorship from Dr. Brad Donabauer, Lexi鈥檚 colleague and owner of the practice. 鈥淥ver the past year, I have learned a tremendous amount and continue to learn something new every day,鈥� stated Lexi. 鈥淒r. Donabauer has provided invaluable mentorship as I have navigated the transition from dental school to private practice. His guidance and support have helped me grow both professionally and personally during this exciting stage of my career.鈥�
Dr. Carpenter is driven by a passion for patient care. 鈥淚 value building genuine relationships with my patients and helping them feel comfortable, respected, and confident in their care. Dental treatment can be intimidating and anxiety inducing, and I strive to provide the same sense of 鈥榩ersonal service鈥� that 含羞草研究所 embodies,鈥� said Lexi. 鈥淏y taking the time to listen, educate, and show patients that I genuinely care about them as individuals, I hope to create positive experiences and help them feel at ease in the dental office.鈥�
In the future, Lexi hopes to transition into practice ownership while deepening her involvement in the community. 鈥淐ommunity engagement is important to me, and I have become involved with the Fargo-Moorhead Rotary. I hope to continue becoming an active member of not only the Fargo-Moorhead community, but also the rural communities throughout the Red River Valley.鈥�
She and her husband, Brendan, have returned to their roots in Argusville, N.D., and are preparing to welcome their first child this summer. As she builds a career and a family, Lexi remains grounded in the values and experiences that shaped her journey. 鈥淲e are grateful for the opportunity to return to the area where we grew up and are excited to raise our family in rural North Dakota.鈥�
Lexi鈥檚 story is one of dedication, resilience, and gratitude. It highlights not only her remarkable work ethic, but also the tremendous impact of a 含羞草研究所 education. Through supportive faculty and staff, hands-on experiences, and a strong academic foundation, 含羞草研究所 was a partner in helping Lexi turn her ambition into a reality, showing that with the right support and determination, even the most challenging goals are within reach.
