Micheal McCunniff (D.D.S. '83)

This honor annually recognizes an outstanding alumnus for his or her lifelong commitment and contributions to the University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Dentistry, the UMKC Dental Alumni Association and the profession of dentistry.

Dr. Michael McCunniff graduated from the UMKC School of Dentistry in 1983. He also holds a bachelor of science degree from Creighton University in Omaha , Neb. In 1991 he joined the School of Dentistry clinical faculty full time. From 1993-95 Dr. McCunniff completed a sabbatical at the University of Iowa , earning a master of science degree in dental public health. Upon returning to UMKC, he joined the Department of Dental Public Health and Behavioral Science faculty as an assistant professor. In 2000 he became the school’s first director of Outreach Programs. Before joining the UMKC dental faculty full time, McCunniff maintained a private practice in Kansas City , Mo. , from 1983-91, while also serving as a part-time clinical faculty member at the School of Dentistry . McCunniff has been twice honored by the University of Missouri-Kansas City:  in 1997 with the UMKC Outstanding Community Service Award “in recognition of outstanding achievement, superior performance and exemplary service to the community and this university”; and the UMKC Alumni Association Presidential Citation for Outstanding Alumni Service Award “in recognition of his outstanding effort and dedication in providing oral health care to under-privileged children in Missouri.” He has been honored with Distinguished Teacher Awards at the School of Dentistry in 1992, 1993, 1998 and 1999. He was selected as Instructor of the Year in 1998 and 2000. McCunniff resides in Lee’s Summit , Mo. , with his wife, Janice, and their three children:  David, 18, Erin , 15, and Kelly, 11.