Fall 2024

 

Message from the Dean

It is an honor to serve as the interim dean of the School of Dentistry once again. During my previous time, I was impressed by the resilience shown by alumni, faculty, staff and students during the pandemic. It is more evident than ever the School of Dentistry is an invaluable part of UMKC and beyond, and I am fully committed to help the school maintain that merit.

Although I am the dean of the School of Pharmacy, my experience at UMKC has been influenced by the dental school through previously teaching in the dental curriculum, facilitating interprofessional opportunities and receiving dental care from faculty and alumni of the school.

I would like to thank Dean Steven Haas for his service. His leadership steered the dental school toward success, and although I cannot fill his shoes, I will do all I can for the school during my time here.

I’d like to express my appreciation to the many donors of the school who have been tremendously generous in supporting our students, programs and tradition. I cannot say enough how much your collective contributions – alongside our staff, faculty, administration, researchers and students – impact our school and future, but I hope this donor appreciation issue of Explorer is a start.

As you may know, we’re hard at work with our new Healthcare Delivery and Innovation Building (HDIB), slated to open in Fall 2026. Despite the change in leadership, the project continues to move forward. I’m grateful to see how many alumni have already taken active leadership roles to support the project as philanthropists and advocates.

While HDIB construction is of great importance, the work in our current school continues. We are looking at options for addressing dental shortages in underserved rural areas and are continuing to look at ways to serve the community through new partnerships that allow for a larger patient reach and a unique care experience for our students. Additionally, with the school’s accreditation process underway, we’re hard at work preparing for our site visit next year.

It is humbling and heartening to read through our list of donors (pages 2-3) who have chosen to include the school in their giving. To those who have chosen to donate, thank you. To those who haven’t, there are many ways you can help.

Donations are always welcome, particularly for the new HDIB (find out how on pages 2 and 9), but we also ask you to consider giving your time, talent and expertise. We have faculty positions available, both part- and full-time, that would allow you to give back as educators. You never know who you may touch. In this issue, you’ll meet UMKC dental student Michael Luong (page 18). He was working at a nail salon when he met an alumna who encouraged him to explore dentistry.

Although our time together is temporary, I enjoy taking this time to reflect on who makes UMKC’s prosperous future possible – you – our alumni, donors and friends. I cannot thank you enough for ensuring the school remains a top-tier education facility with graduates who are the best of the best.

With gratitude,

Russell B. Melchert, Ph.D.
Interim dean, UMKC School of Dentistry

 

Message from the Chair and Estate Gifts

The alumni who support the Rinehart Foundation have an indelible impact on the School of Dentistry. Your generosity culminated in another year of awarding more than $1.5 million in scholarships, faculty/staff development and free dental care at our community clinic.

As you know, the pre-doc clinic will have a new home inside UMKC’s Healthcare Delivery and Innovation Building (HDIB) in 2026. It will feature more chairs to treat more patients, providing a better educational experience for students. Other features, like state-of-the-art technology in the digital design center and the ability to treat emergency cases and after-hours patients in the acute care center, will take our already prestigious school to a new level of excellence.

As the first capital campaign in 50+ years for the School of Dentistry, the HDIB is our chance to give back like never before. We would not be the practitioners we are today – enjoying our careers and serving our communities – without the education we received. Now, it’s up to us to support the School of Dentistry in an unprecedented way. With your support, we can build tomorrow, together.

Thank you for your extraordinary commitment to the Rinehart Foundation and the UMKC School of Dentistry. I look forward to what the future holds because of your generosity.

Crystal Walker (DDS ’04, PEDO ’06) Chair, Roy J. Rinehart Memorial Foundation

Donor Honor Roll

Thanks to our many generous donors.

Estate Gifts:

THESE DONORS have indicated the UMKC School of Dentistry is in their estate plan. We are grateful for the legacy they are creating.

Dr. Lloyd Alquist*
Anonymous Donor
Dr. Dan L. Blackwell
Dr. Robert E. Butler
Dr. James M. Callender III*
Ms. Louise G. Chapman*
Dr. Robert and Mrs. Lucille E. Cowan*
Florence Irene Dengel*
Dr. J. Dennis Dlabal
Dr. David K. H. Dung*
Dr. Adam Edwin Ericsson*
Mr. Leonard Faulconer Jr.*
Dr. Newell O. Feeley*
Dr. Brett L. Ferguson
Dr. John E. Franks Jr.
Dr. Robert W. Fry
Dr. Frank R. Fullerton Jr.*
Dr. Carl and Mrs. Marguerite Fyler*
Dr. John D. Gardner
Dr. Otis B. Gentry*
Mrs. Ruth Somers Gilman*
Dr. Patrick K. Hardman
Dr. Grant B. Hatfield Jr.*
Dr. Richard M. Haun*
Dr. William J. Hayden Jr.
Dr. Phil E. Held
Mrs. Carolyn Abney Hodges
Dr. Frank J. Holtz*
Dr. Harry Jett*
Mrs. Hazel Johns*
Col. Onas Johns*
Dr. Gregory K. Johnson*
Dr. Michael G. Johnson*
Dr. Theron C. Johnson
Dr. Thomas A. Jones*
Dr. J. Edward Kendrick
Dr. Dan L. Lavitt
Dr. Carolyn S. Magnuson
Dr. Grant W. Merritt
Dr. Michael L. Milford
Dr. William and Mrs. Bonney Miller*
Ms. Ida Mae Niblo*
Dr. James W. Osborne
Dr. Robert E. Peterson*
Dr. V. Leroy Riley*
Myrtle H. Rinehart*
Ms. Tomiyo Seo*
Dr. William F. Slagle Jr.
Mrs. Eloise Sloan*
Mr. John and Mrs. Effie Speas*
Dr. Charles F. Squire
Dr. Rodger L. Suchman
Dr. Donald J. Thompson*
Dr. George X. Trimble*
Ms. Rosemary L. Wiley*
Dr. Terry C. Williams
Prof. Emeritus Leslie Young Jr.*

*Deceased

If you’re interested in making a donation through your will or estate plan or have already done so and wish to join the Rinehart Foundation’s Heritage Society, call 816-235-2173 or email Doug Anderson at douganderson@umkcfoundation.org.

Monetary Gifts

$100,000-$499,999

• GEHA Solutions

$50,000-$99,999

• Dr. P. Nick and Ms. Christie Rogers

$25,000-$49,999

• Connie L. Drisko Trust

$10,000-$24,999

• Free Dental Clinic Trust Fund Goldman Sachs Gives
• Jack and Glenna Wylie Foundation
• Dr. Justin R. Kohlhorst
• McDavid Dental Educational Trust
• Pamela Rae Overman
• Dr. James L. and Ms. Helen Parrott
• Dr. Rodger L. Suchman Thompson Family Foundation

$5,000-$9,999

• Heather K. Cline-Newman
• Dr. Carol I. Dennison
• Marianne Dosch
• Dr. Sam E. Hayes
• Frances Hee
• Dr. Paul E. Hund
• Dr. Michael A. and Ms. Elizabeth LeBlanc
• MDIS/MedPro
• Dr. Crystal and Mr. Robin Walker
• Ron Wilkerson

$2,500-$4,999

• AdventHealth FoundationShawnee Mission
• Dr. Richard L. Briscoe
• Dr. Sara Haiderzad
• Dr. Randall S. and Gail T. Honda Dr.
• Brent L. Kincaid
• Drs. Emily and David Mattingly
• Dr. Mark R. and Barbara Medina
• Dr. Daniel C. Nielson
• Dr. Wendy D. Reynolds Spectrum Surgical
• Dr. Stanton D. Widmer
• Dr. Doug Allen Wyckoff 

$1,000-$2,499

• Dr. Dic Lawrence Anema
• Dr. Mark H. and Dr. Melodee R. Armfield
• Dr. Daniel Bednarczyk
• Dr. Mary Hagan Burke and
• Mr. Michael A. Burke
• Ms. Sherry Burns
• Cash Family Charitable Fund
• Dr. Kyle K. Catron
• Dr. Wesley J. and Ms. Frances Choy
• Prof. Emeritus Charles M. and Mrs. Sally J. Cobb
• Dr. Latedra M. Collins
• Commerce Bank
• Drs. Jonathan and Stephanie Copeland
• Creekwood Endodontics
• Dr. Dio L. Daily
• David J. Dung Charitable Gift Fund
• Dental Thirty Two
• Dr. Fred W. Distelhorst
• Dr. Jerad Divine
• Dr. & Mrs. Harry Jett Fund
• Endodontic Practice Partners LLC
• Eschenroeder Charitable Fund Thomas and Susan Eschenroeder Charitable Fund
• Dr. John Thomas Fales Jr.
• Dr. Jerry R. Fankhauser
• Financial Counselors, Inc.
• Drs. Adam and Hollie Flack
• Dr. Robert G. Fox
• Dr. John E. Franks Jr.
• Ms. Victoria Franks
• Dr. Robert W. and Mrs. Mary Louise Fry
• Dr. Milton M. Fujiuchi
• Dr. Neil B. and Mrs. Carol Furuya
• Dr. Jolynn Galvin
• Dr. Stuart G. Gibby
• Dr. Lance and Ms. Candance Godley
• Dr. Eric Gottman and Dr. Kyong Kong
• Drs. J. Reese and Rachael Graue
• Dr. Steven L. and Mrs. Leigh A. Hechler
• Dr. Paul J. Hechler
• Dr. Stephen and Amy Huber
• Drs. Jill and Brad Jenkins
• Dr. Michael Johnson
• Dr. Conrad and Mrs. Cherie Journee
• Kansas Dental Association
• Dr. Kurt Kavanaugh
• Dr. Liz Kaz
• Dr. Daniel D. and Ms. Tiffany Kieu
• Dr. Michael S. and Mrs. Terri Klein
• Mr. Brian C. Lumbard
• Dr. David Manzanares
• Dr. Daniel Margolis
• Mr. William A. Marse\
• Ken W. and Marsha Merritt
• Dr. Ashley Meyer
• Missouri Dental Association
• Dr. George R. and Mrs. Andrea P. Myers
• Dr. Robert A. Nadeau
• Dr. Bryan R. and Elyse Neuwirth
• Dr. Nancy L. Newhouse and Dr. Paul McGraw
• Dr. Bert W. and Ms. Pam Oettmeier
• Dr. Michael M. Okano\
• Dr. Virgil L. Palmer
• Dr. Robert Pierce
• Dr. Bryan M. Pope
• Dr. Joel W. Pratt
• Procter & Gamble Distributing Company
• Dr. Suzanne Newell Quigg and Mr. William C. Quigg
• Dr. Peter J. and Ms. Letticia S. Robinson
• Scott Robinson and Cindi King Fund
• Dr. Joseph P. and Mrs. Elizabeth B. Spalitto
• Dr. Michael Strand
• Suchman Giving Fund, Drs. David and Kelly Mack A. Taylor
• Prof. Emeritus Daniel E. and Mrs. Mary W. Tira
• Dr. Camden J. Tokunaga
• Trident CPA Services, LLC
• UMKC Dental Hygienists’ Alumni Assoc.
• Dr. Jody B. Vance
• Dr. Stephanie M. Warden
• Young Charitable Remainder Trust Fund
• Dr. Ralph E. and Mrs. Lynda Younger

Every effort has been made to accurately list each donor who has supported the UMKC School of Dentistry from July 1, 2023, through June 30, 2024. If you notice an error, we apologize and ask you to call the Office of Alumni and Development at 816-235-2060.

Donor Recognition and New Scholarships

Scholarship Recipients Honored at Annual Dinner

STUDENT SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS and donors gathered Monday, Oct. 14, in Pierson Auditorium for the School of Dentistry’s annual scholarship celebration. Students and donors enjoyed meeting each other, participating in a cross-generational trivia game and hearing about the impact scholarships have made on students’ lives.

“Your donations make impacts that reach well beyond our short time at UMKC,” said fourth-year dental student Justin Harper. “The relief from educational debt allows students like me a foot in the door when it comes time to buy into or start a practice, allowing us to impact countless lives in our communities.”

“(I) look forward to one day returning alongside my classmates to attend this event again, next time in the role of supporters of the dental program and future students,” Harper added. Crystal Walker (DDS ’04, PEDO ’06), Rinehart Foundation chair, inspired donors and students with her personal story.

“I remember sitting here as a student at the scholarship dinner and feeling so thankful, and also a little in awe of those in the room who had donated to make all of the scholarships possible,” Walker said. “I was a scholarship recipient for all four years of dental school and am so thankful for those who came before me to help me be successful and achieve my dream of becoming a dentist. As a matter of fact, I was a recipient of the Myrtle Rinehart Scholarship, Dr. Rinehart’s wife, and now here I am as chair of the foundation for which he is named.”

Walker reminded those in the room that the ongoing tradition of support at the School of Dentistry is in their hands.

“I hope as you consider giving to your favorite charities, you keep the Rinehart Foundation as a priority,” Walker said. “Because as you can see tonight, you are truly changing the lives of UMKC School of Dentistry students through your generosity.”

This year, the school distributed an outstanding 407 scholarships to 210 students, totaling $1,558,782.77 in educational support – once again breaking the school’s and the Rinehart Foundation’s record in scholarship support.

Three New Scholarships Awarded

Class of 1971 Scholarship

The Class of 1971 Scholarship provides financial assistance for DDS students who are in financial need and have a minimum 3.0 GPA. Recognizing parents who attend dental school can sometimes face increased financial burdens, this class scholarship gives preference to a School of Dentistry student who has child dependents.

Dr. Jerome K. Reid, Jr. Scholarship Fund

Wanting to give back and help students from his home state, Jerome K. Reid established this fund to award scholarships to dental students from New Mexico enrolled at the School of Dentistry.

Class of 2005 Scholarship

The Class of 2005 Scholarship provides funding to DDS students who have 3.4 GPAs or greater and are working toward going into private practice general dentistry or private practice specialty dentistry. The scholarship’s goal is to help students with dreams of opening their own practice while contributing to the communities in which they work and live.

Endowed Class Scholarships

A Family’s Legacy, A Foundation For The Future

Suchmans Join Build Tomorrow, Together Campaign With Donation
By JOHN MARTELLARO

In the Spring of 1970, Rodger Suchman completed his DDS degree in what was then the brand-new, state-of-the-art UMKC dental school building at 25th and Holmes streets. Now, a half-century later, he and his family are taking the lead in ensuring UMKC dental school students and faculty – and their patients – will have access to state-of-the-art teaching and patient-care tools well into the 21st century.

The Suchman family has made an initial major School of Dentistry alumni gift for construction of the UMKC Healthcare Delivery and Innovation Building (HDIB), a high-tech, ultra-modern research, teaching and patient-care facility to be built on the corner of 25th and Charlotte streets. The School of Dentistry will have a significant presence in the five-story, 160,000-square-foot building, which will house dental clinics on the second, third and fourth floors. Dentistry’s lecture halls, research areas, advanced program clinics and pre-clinic lab work will remain in the current building.

The family also includes Rodger’s son, David Suchman (DDS ’00, AEGD ’01), and David’s wife, Kelly Suchman (DDS ’00, AEGD ’01). All three say their donation is a gift of gratitude for all that their UMKC educations have made possible for their families and careers. A commitment to maintaining first-rate education and patient care in Kansas City is another strong motivating factor.

“I am excited UMKC is going to have a state-of-the-art facility for teaching and treating patients,” David said. “And it’s something we can showcase to student applicants and potential new faculty members. Digital dentistry is where it’s going right now – taking digital impressions and digital printing of restorations and dentures.”

Steven E. Haas, DMD, J.D., MBA, former dean of the School of Dentistry, said this latest gift is indicative of the Suchman family’s commitment to UMKC, the School of Dentistry and dental health.

“Once again, the Suchman family has stepped forward to set an example for alumni,” Haas said. “I truly appreciate their leadership and generosity. I am hopeful their gift will spur their alumni peers to help build this better tomorrow. Alumni support for this project is vital, and given their proud history, I am confident graduates will step up once again.”

With this initial alumni gift, the Suchmans hope to “encourage other alumni and other families to contribute to the new building,” Kelly said.

Why should they?

“To help promote the future of our profession and the next generation of dentists,” David said.

Impact of the Gift
The new building will bring end-odontics, oral surgery and emergency care together into one self-contained acute care clinic with its own radiology services. This unique design will allow patients to remain in one location while providers come to them for treatment, as in a hospital emergency room. The new digital design facility on the fourth floor will house state-of-the-art technology for producing a variety of restorations from 3D scans. The design area will have the latest 3D- and AI-based treatment and case-planning software. The new digital lab will be able to 3D-print appliances and mill restorations and dentures using the latest technologies and materials.

“We knew it was extremely important to treat patients in a more updated facility,” Kelly said. “It’s a different environment and workstyle.”

Haas agreed that exposing students to digital restorative dentistry technologies, while improving patient care, is a key component of their education.

“The new building will provide leading-edge pre-doctoral dental clinics, enhancing UMKC’s ability to graduate top-notch dentists while also providing care to those who need it most,” Haas said. Dental and dental hygiene students serve more than 15,000 patients a year in the clinics. “Patients will benefit by completing their treatment in less time, while having a more comfortable, low-stress experience.”

A Long History of Support
The commitment to supporting the School of Dentistry is nothing new for the Suchmans. The family has a long history of both philanthropic giving and personal involvement.

David served as chair of the Roy J. Rinehart Memorial Foundation, the philanthropic support arm of the School of Dentistry, from 2020 to 2022. Kelly was a member of the faculty from 2016 to 2022, serving as an assistant clinical professor, innovation clinic director and director of the advanced education in general dentistry program.

Rodger was vice chair of the foundation for many years, and he and his former practice partner Stan Hite (DDS ’72) have endowed a scholarship in their parents’ names: The Jean M. Hite and Leslie Suchman Scholarship. He has long participated in the school’s RV Tucker Study Club, in which highly skilled practitioners mentor other dentists in the community in the art and science of crafting gold restorations.

“I’m proud to have our family name associated with it,” Rodger said of the new building. “The education I got at UMKC opened a lot of doors for me and gave me a chance to succeed, so I guess I felt grateful.”

That feeling was deliberately passed from father to son.

“My parents always emphasized giving back, to church and community,” David said. He said that ethic was ingrained in his School of Dentistry education, and also in his early life expe-riences in church, high school and the Boy Scouts, where he earned Eagle Scout status and later served as a scoutmaster for several years. “The UMKC School of Dentistry has given me everything I’ve had in my life, since childhood. Our son (Jacob, 19) benefits as well. So, it’s easy for us to be involved when it’s been so much of our lives. I’m just happy to help contribute to the future.”

“I think our family recognizes that our lifestyle is attributed to having graduated from the UMKC School of Dentistry,” Kelly said. “We’re grateful for the things that education has given us.”

Woven into the Fabric of Lives and Careers
People from the UMKC School of Dentistry have been a constant presence in the Suchman family’s longtime, multi-generational dental practice in Independence, Missouri, and in their personal lives as well.

Before launching his own practice, Rodger worked as an associate under UMKC alumnus Henrik A. Knudsen (DDS ’57). Rodger started his own prac-tice in 1972. David joined as a partner in 2001. Years later, when Knudsen retired, David and Rodger brought his patients into their practice.

After Rodger retired, David brought in UMKC alumnus Mac Darnall (DDS ’07) as a partner. Two years ago, they hired another UMKC alumna as an associate: Michelle Hendrix (DDS ’21).

Another important tie? Kelly and David met at the school.

“A lot of romance blooms at the School of Dentistry. We started dating begin-ning of first year, got engaged during the last year of school and got married during our residency,” David said. “The professors said they wouldn’t graduate me unless I proposed to Kelly.”

Their son, Jacob, served an internship last summer at the UMKC School of Pharmacy. He’s pursuing a career in biotechnology and did genetic research during his internship.

A Catalyst for Future Growth
UMKC marked the start of construction on the Healthcare Delivery and Innovation Building on Wednesday, Sept. 11, with a celebration at the site  of the project. David and Rodger joined the standing-room-only crowd to hear from multiple speakers, including UMKC Chancellor Mauli Agrawal, who said the HDIB “is the first piece of a much larger vision for our UMKC Health Sciences District.”

In addition to the dental clinics, the building – set to open in 2026 – will be home to the UMKC Health Equity Institute, the UMKC Data Science and Analytics Innovation Center and the university’s Biomedical Engineering program. The long-range plan is for the HDIB to serve as a catalyst for developing the UMKC Health Sciences District into a major regional academic medical center in the Kansas City region.

“What might we see here in five years? Ten? Fifteen?” Agrawal asked. “Here’s what I imagine: a thriving, dynamic district, full of buildings and green spaces, embedded in the heart of our city.”

And David pointed out there is a degree of self-interest for alumni donors to contribute to that exciting future. “The UMKC School of Dentistry has an excellent reputation around the country,” he said. “It’s good for all of us to help keep that reputation going.”

Patients as Dedicated as Their Dentists

UMKC’s dental clinics have developed a devoted patient pool spanning decades
By BRYCE PUNTENNEY

Since its inception more than a century ago, the UMKC School of Dentistry has been dedicated to serving the Kansas City community and beyond. Last year alone, more than 70,000 patients received oral healthcare in its clinics. Through the years, many of those patients have become as passion-ate about the school as its loyal alumni.

Take Linda Haag, 79, whose his-tory as a patient in the school’s clinics spans nearly 75 years and two buildings – soon to be a third. Allen Norman, 86, who has lived blocks from the school for 30 years, has been a patient for even longer, and will tell any of his neighbors how important the school and its Health Sciences District partners have been to the nearby Longfellow neighborhood that he calls home.

Haag grew up in that same neighbor-hood, and her connection to the school began when she was a kindergartener at Longfellow Elementary School. When her class visited the UMKC School of Dentistry on a field trip, her mom happened to be a class helper that day and was so impressed with the dental school, she decided it would be a good fit for their family’s dental care.

“That’s where it got started,” Haag said. “And that’s the only dental office I have ever been to.”

Patients like Haag and Norman have built loyal ties to the school – along with its dental and dental hygiene students – and are dedicated to contributing to the school’s mission of educating the next generation of dental professionals while receiving top-notch oral care.

Long-lasting Loyalty Between Patient and Provider
Haag’s first visit as a kindergartener was at the school’s longtime address of 10th St. and Troost Ave., where she also received orthodontic treatment. Later, as a young teen, Haag connected with a pair of married dental students and began babysitting for them. She would arrive at their house before they went off to school and would spend the day with their daughter.

“When she was sleeping, I would read dental textbooks so I would know what my dentist was doing,” Haag said.

Another alumni couple, Travis (DDS ’15) and Lauren (DDS ’16) Blaich, can attest to Haag’s loyalty as a patient. They practice at Blaich Dental Arts in Poplar Bluff, Missouri. In 2015, when Travis was a fourth-year dental student and Lauren a third-year, Travis put in a gold crown for Haag. When it was determined she needed another crown, Travis knew Lauren had yet to place one. According to Haag, Travis had been one of her more meticulous dental students, so when he asked if Lauren could do the next procedure, Haag was all in.

The Blaiches remember Haag fondly. “I remember being impressed with the work she had done before,” Travis said. “The amount of time she has been coming to the school clinic – as well as the quality of the care provided – is a testament to the dental care patients receive at the clinic.”

Haag was not the first or the last patient Travis passed on to Lauren. He was always on the lookout for patients who would follow through on their treatment and who needed comprehensive care. Linda fit the bill.

Lauren said, “We wouldn’t be here if it weren’t for patients like Linda. Travis only handed off his good patients, and Linda was one of them.”

A lifelong learner herself, Haag said the teaching and learning that occur during her appointments are the main draws for her as a patient.

“I’m a young old person, so I enjoy being around all these young people,” Haag said. “I enjoy being there for their learning process.”

Haag has always been impressed with the student and faculty interactions, noting the students’ eagerness to learn new techniques.

At Haag’s most recent appointment, current senior dental hygiene student, Hannah Sloan, was impressed with Haag’s knowledge of the ins and outs of the school – what doors to take, what turns to make getting through the clinic, what the next step in treatment was.

“It is really cool to me that we have patients coming to the clinic for as long as Linda has because it shows how loyal they are,” Sloan said. “They care about helping us as students.”

A Grateful Neighbor
Ever since Allen Norman moved to the Longfellow neighborhood in the 1990s, he’s been committed to rebuild-ing and advancing the community as a homeowner as well as in his work rehabilitating other houses in the neighborhood. He sees the same commitment to the community at the UMKC School of Dentistry.

According to Norman, the investment UMKC – and its Health Sciences District partners – have made in the area has played a big part in preserving the Longfellow neighborhood.

“Look at the streets with crosswalks and sidewalks; look at the transportation corridors,” Norman said. “They wouldn’t be there without the Health Sciences District.”

Norman said he feels privileged to have watched the district grow in the 30 years he has lived in the area. He’s witnessed the construction of the UMKC Health Sciences Building as well as the expansion of Children’s Mercy Kansas City and University Health. He’s also an enthusiastic supporter of the new $145 million UMKC Healthcare Delivery and Innovation Building.

“I’m excited about the new building,” Norman said. “It’s great to see the schools of dentistry and medicine out-grow themselves. From the federal and state governments to individual donors, there’s so much investment going into our health system.”
— ALLEN NORMAN, SCHOOL OF DENTISTRY PATIENT

Convenience brought him to the dental school for treatment, but the professionalism of the students has kept him a dedicated patient for three decades.

“People don’t understand what goes into a dental education,” Norman said. “The school isn’t just teaching students how to clean teeth – they’re teaching their students to go deeper.”

Norman recalled an appointment when he was especially grateful for the comprehensive approach of his student dentist. Norman arrived at the clinic with a tooth that was bothering him, thinking he might have to get a crown put on it. What impressed him was that the student and instructor took into account his past open-heart surgery as they assessed his case. The student found an infection in the tooth, which if left untreated could have created further cardiovascular problems. They extracted the tooth, added some bone back and sutured it up.

“They could have just slapped a crown on it and sent me on my way,” Norman said. “But they were really looking out for me that day.”

Patient Patience and Wisdom
Fourth-year dental student DJ Davis recently had Norman in his dental chair to check a couple bridges and crowns and experienced Norman’s passion for the school.

“Allen could not stop praising the school,” Davis said. “He has a very good understanding of how things work.”

Davis sees this unique knowledge in other patients as well.

“That was really cool to hear how much they understood about the school” Davis said, “and how eager they were to be a part of the process.”

When a recent patient needed a filling replaced, Davis called over his instructor Jared Gerhardt (DDS ’08) to evaluate his plan. Gerhardt recognized the patient and then realized the filling Davis was about to replace was Gerhardt’s work as a student 21 years ago.

The patient longevity also helps Davis’ confidence as a provider.

“When I see there are patients coming here for 10 or 15 years with many student dentists having served them,” Davis said, “it instills me with confidence that I, too, will be able to do this work.”

According to Davis, the one-on-one patient experience is another special connection. He calls them about appointments, and his conversations go beyond the treatment plan. One of his patients works with a food critic, so she will even offer restaurant recommendations.

“I tell my patients, ‘You are never going to bother me. I’m here for you,’” Davis said.

Sophia Dowling (DDS ’20) was another of Norman’s dental students in 2020. Now, she has her own practice in Dodge City, Kansas. But as a student, she appreciated Norman’s good humor and patience, even as they waited in line together at radiology.

“Allen and I always had great conversations,” said Dowling. “It was an honor to be his student doctor.”

When Dowling was a new clinician, she remembers the long-term patients gave her a chance to breathe and relax a little.

“There was already so much to worry and stress about, that getting to treat a patient who knew what to expect helped so much,” Dowling said. “I was able to focus more on performing the procedure instead of managing expectations of our clinic.”

Dowling is grateful for all the people who sat in her chair during her time at UMKC.

“Without them, it would be impossible to learn the great profession of dentistry,” she said.

Alumni News

Class Notes

Classes of the 1950s

Tonk Mills (DDS ’55) is no longer flying gliders, but is still playing golf three to five times per week.

David L. Moore (DDS ’55) is 94 years old. He says there were only three in the Class of 1955 who attended the last reunion. Moore enjoyed teaching at the School of Dentistry for more than 50 years. During his time at UMKC, he was honored to be recognized by the Class of 1965 with a faculty award. Moore still enjoys life with his wife of 62 years, Janell. Their two sons and their families live nearby and are blessings in their lives. Moore recalls many happy memories with friends and students in his dental career.

Donald L. Yowell (DDS ’55) is 93 years old and retired. His son, Glenn Yowell (DDS ’86), is practicing in Iowa City, Iowa. Glenn’s son, Andrew, is also a dentist and recently joined the practice.

Classes of the 1960s

Edward J. Lamb (DDS ’60, AEGD ’65) had a private dental practice in Olympia, Washington, from 1972-1994. In the 1980s, he was part of a People to People trip to Europe and Russia with the Washington State Dental Association (WSDA). Lamb and his wife went on to implement the Smilemobile Program with WSDA and Delta Dental from 1996-2000. He’s spent the last 40 years RVing, and the last 25 by motorhome. Lamb turned 90 years old last December and is still playing golf three times a week. He’s going for triple digits in age, and is hoping to still be playing golf by then, too!

Eugene H. Wray (DDS ’60, OMS ’63) says he was published in the 2023-2024 edition of Who’s Who in America.

Robert C. Burns (DDS ’65) retired in 2010, and his son, David R. Burns (DDS ’86), also retired recently. David’s son, Taylor Burns (DDS ’16), is now running the family practice. Robert says he feels lucky and pleased

George Stewart Roller (DDS ’65) is a retired Naval Reserve Captain after serving 30 years. He’s also a retired California Military Reserve Captain.  He spent 18 years active.

Lewis Roller (DDS ’65) is loving retirement – he’s spending his time playing pool, riding his bike and playing bridge.

Patrick D. Shannon (DDS ’65) is retired.

William P. Smith Jr. (DDS ’65) is the author of the book, Growing A Healthy Child: Secrets from A Wise Old Doc and the research article, “Understanding Bruxism, Sleep, and TMD,” published in the February 2024 issue of the Arizona Dental Association Journal Inscriptions. Smith Jr. also gives lectures on the same topic. He sees patients on an as-needed basis, and his practice is limited to the diagnosis and treatment of TMJ and sleep symptoms. Smith and his wife, Anne, enjoy traveling both in the U.S. and internationally.

Classes of the 1970s

Joe (Joseph) Figlino (DDS ’70) enjoyed three careers: dentistry, home building and teaching eighth graders science. His pastimes include woodworking with his grandchildren, building model cars and ships in a bottle and making bowls and pens.

Patrick Hardman (DDS ’70) is retired and enjoys photography and hiking in the Rocky Mountain chain (Canada to New Mexico). He’s climbed all 54 peaks above 14,000 feet in Colorado and has attempted Aconcagua (23,000 feet) in the Andes Mountains of Argentina.

Larry Kanning (DDS ’70) retired in 2018 – and says he doesn’t miss working. He enjoys traveling in his RV. Kanning and his wife, Amy, will celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary in August 2025.

Mark Kreutner (DDS ’75) retired from dentistry in 2013.

Max D. Smith Jr. (DDS ’75, OMS ’80) retired in 2009.

Classes of the 1980s

Terry W. Demaree (DDS ’80) retired from dentistry in 2010, retired from farming in 2021 and now enjoys woodworking. Demaree has three sons (two pharmacists and one cosmetic surgeon) and six grandchildren (four girls and two boys).

William T. Kane (DDS ’80) is still practicing five days a week, volunteering at the Smiles of Hope Clinic, serving on the Missouri Dental Board and enjoying his eight grandchildren and one great grandchild. He says, “life is great!”

Kay Mash (DDS ’80) retired in 2019 from a long teaching career at Baylor College of Dentistry, now the Texas A&M College of Dentistry. She will celebrate 50 years of marriage to Anthony Aragona in December 2026. Their son and daughter-in-law are both dentists in Colorado Springs, Colorado. They have three grandchildren – Enzo (10), Luca (8) and Charlotte (6). Their younger son teaches math in Texas. Mash is still working part time as a clinical consultant for MB2 Dental Solutions in Dallas. On dental school, Mash notes that she found the atmosphere difficult, but doesn’t regret the opportunities her education gave her – meeting some of the kindest, most talented and generous people she knows. Mash and her husband renovated a small place in Acireale, Sicily, 10 years ago, and are now in the process of renovating another house nearby. Mash says, “God has richly blessed our family and we are thankful for every day we have left on this earth.”

Thomas A. Nuckols (DDS ’80) is happily retired as of December 2021.

David Greaves (DDS ’85) sold Butler Hill Family Dentistry after 36 years in April 2021 and has been teaching full time as a comprehensive care unit director at A.T. Still University of Health Sciences’ Missouri School of Dentistry & Oral Health since. His son Matt is studying orthodontics at UMKC and his son Michael is studying endodontics at Southern Illinois University.

Charles Haspels (DDS ’85) is retired.

Mark Mosier (DDS ’85) is happily married and enjoying his grandkids, mountain biking and flying. Mosier is still working with DSOs and says life is good in southern Texas.

Classes of the 1990s

Gilbert Specht (DDS ’90) is retired and is currently working as an options trader.

Stephanie Altenburg (DDS ’95) celebrated 40 years at Barry Road Dental Group in 2023. She worked as an assistant from 1983-95, as an associate from 1995-2004, then was an owner and operator from 2004-21. She then sold her practice to another UMKC graduate and started working  as an associate again. She says it’s “crazy to think” she has spent her entire adult life working at the same office. Altenburg is enjoying life immensely. She says, “treating three generations of families is an honor and a blessing.”

Valle Wilhite Rischer (DDS ’95) is still living in Columbia, Missouri, with Jon. They have two kids – Christian, who is 21 and plays golf at Missouri State University, and Audrey, who is 19 and plays golf at The University of Oklahoma.

Classes of the 2000s

Joanne Brown (DDS ’00) loves to travel the world.

Adam DeCota (DDS ’00) was named clinical instructor at the Kois Center in 2022.

Laura Menees-Moore (DDS ’00) sold Menees Family Dentistry, in Prairie Village, Kansas, in 2020 to Alex Clark (DDS ’15). Currently, Menees-Moore is an adjunct professor in the hygiene clinic at Johnson County Community College. Her daughter is set to graduate high school in Spring 2025 and was recently accepted to the University of Kansas’ School of Architecture & Design. Her father, Bob Menees (DDS ’68), lives nearby, and her stepfather, Grant Merritt (DDS ’70, ENDO ’73) recently moved to Laguna Beach, California, and lives by her stepsister.

Pete Spalitto (DDS ’00) says his daughter Olivia (20) is studying abroad in Denmark and his daughter Anna (17) is a senior at St. Joseph Academy. His son Henry (15) is a sophomore at De Smet Jesuit High School.

Sarina Harman Tinnel (DDS ’05) is in the midst of a new office build.

Stuart Z. Samples (DDS ’05) is living in Carrollton, Missouri, with his wife Suzanne and son Zachary. He owns practices in Carrollton, Chillicothe, Brookfield and Hamilton, Missouri. He says his most exciting news is that his daughter Emily is in the early reserved admittance Class of 2029.

Classes of the 2010s

Craig Atchison (DDS ’10) lives in Bluffton, South Carolina, with his wife, Ashley, and kids, Kinley and Kellen. He completed the endodontics graduate program at the Medical University of South Carolina in 2018.

Corinne A. Bates (DDS ’10) was inducted as a fellow in the International College of Dentists in September 2024.

Christopher Hawkins (DDS ’10) has three amazing children – Kate (13), Ben (11) and Jude (9). He is a private practice owner and lieutenant colonel in the Missouri Army National Guard. He’s also a fellow in the Academy of General Dentistry. He says he’s loving life!

Eric Stull (DDS ’10) has two daughters with his wife, Jane – Andie (7) and Emery (3). He co-owns Valley Dental in Onalaska, Wisconsin, a multi-doctor and multi-specialty clinic. Stull’s clinic time focuses on IV sedation, advanced restorative and surgery cases.

Leighton Werth (DDS ’15) just added twins to his family.

In Memoriam

• Jon Lance Ficken (DDS ’70)
• Robert W. Haggerty (DDS ’80)
• Jackson D. Haraway (DDS ’56)
• Professor Emeritus Jim Kelley Hocott (DDS ’60)
• W. Brant Mozo (DDS ’75)
• Clyde W. Payne (DDS ’60)
• M. Dean Perkins (DDS ’76)
• Pamela J. Pogson (DDS ’86)
• Herbert Laurence Stanton (DDS ’60)
• Donald E. Tunks (DDS ’61, PERIO ’63)
• Benjamin H. Walter (DDS ’63)
• Arnold M. Williams (DDS ’60)
• Courtney Nicole Wilson (DDS ’23)

Dental Day at The K

The newest dental and dental hygiene classes spent a night at the ballpark on Aug. 20 thanks to the Dental Alumni Association. Those who attended enjoyed a tailgate with tacos and games, and the good weather almost made up for the Royals’ loss to the Los Angeles Angels. Win or lose, attendees agreed that the event is a fun tradition; many alumni still remember it fondly from when they were students.

Roo Reconnections

Former Dean Hits the Road to Meet with Alumni

Former Dean Steven Haas, DMD, J.D., MBA, took a road trip in September to meet with alumni in Missouri and Kansas. The social occasions gave alumni the chance to reconnect and reminisce over appetizers and drinks. Attendees also got to hear a special presentation from Haas about the School of Dentistry’s plans for the new Healthcare Delivery and Innovation Building.

Alumni Socials

School of Dentistry alumni let the good times roll, or “laissez les bons temps rouler,” on Thursday, Oct. 17, while gathering for a social in New Orleans. Classmates, colleagues and friends reconnected during the 2024 ADA Annual Meeting, SmileCon.

Alumni in St. Louis met up Thursday, Oct. 24, during the Mid-Continent Dental Congress. Classmates reunited and also got the chance to meet UMKC alumni from other graduating classes.

School News

Welcome New Advanced Education Residents

On July1, the School of Dentistry welcomed 14 new residents to five advanced education residency programs:

Advanced Education in General Dentistry
Rodolfo Plech, DDS, Universidade Luterana do Brasil
Marina Figueredo Florez, DDS, Universidad Central de Venezuela
Erica Morelli da Silva, BDS, Universidade Santo Amaro
Yasmine Hassan, DDS, University of Khartoum-Sudan

Advanced Education in Endodontics
Daniel Shimansky, DMD, University of Pennsylvania
Daniel Lee, DDS, University of California, Los Angeles

Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
Jared Hatcher, DDS, University of Tennessee
Dylan Dufour, DDS, University of Colorado
Sinan Akkoseoglu, DDS, University of Nebraska Medical Center

Advanced Education in Periodontics
Tanner Robert, DDS, University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Dentistry
Sean Powell, DDS, Creighton University

Advanced Education in Orthodontics
Elias Witte, DDS, University of Nebraska Medical Center
Forest Hulet, DDS, Creighton University
Nicholas Carrillo, DDS, New York University

Dean Haas Leaves Lasting Mark

IN OCTOBER 2024, Steven Haas, DMD, J.D., MBA, announced his resignation after serving as dean of the dental school for three years. During his time at UMKC, Haas helped to ensure the success of the School of Dentistry, introduced new programs and prioritized expanding the school’s reach.

Assuming his role in a post-pandemic rebuild phase, Haas successfully reinstated the Advanced Education in Dentistry Program and introduced the Advanced Standing Program, which has received hundreds of applications. Haas also played a vital role in shaping School of Dentistry plans for the new Healthcare Delivery and Innovation Building. In addition to his influence on the school’s impact in Kansas City, Haas made strides in providing more dental care to those living in rural communities in our region.

“Serving as your dean has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my career,” said Haas.

Russell Melchert, Ph.D, dean of the UMKC School of Pharmacy, will serve as interim dean during the national search for Haas’ replacement.

New Faculty

 

Andrea Tresner, RDH, MSDH, recently joined the Division of Dental Hygiene as an assistant clinical professor. She received her dental hygiene degree from Flint Hills Technical College in Emporia, Kansas, and her Master of Science in Dental Hygiene from the University of New Mexico. In addition to her clinical experience, Tresner has experience teaching in multiple dental assisting and dental hygiene programs in Missouri and Kansas.

Paul Aubrey, DDS, recently joined the Department of Restorative Clinical Sciences as an associate clinical professor. Aubrey received his DDS from the University of Iowa in 1987 and completed his Prosthodontic Residency program at the VA Medical Center in Detroit from 2006-09. In 2011, he completed a one-year fellowship in periodontics at the VA Medical Center in Indianapolis.

From Nail Salon to Dental Operatory

Chance encounter launches long line of dental mentors for former nail tech

MICHAEL LUONG was taking a break from college, working as a nail technician, when alumna Kelly Farmer (DDS ’06) sat down at his station for a pedicure. As Luong worked on Farmer’s nails, the dentist saw his transferable skills almost immediately.

“We got to chatting and she started listing all the reasons I would be a good dentist,” Luong said. “She said, ‘You’re obviously good with people, you work with your hands, you’re smart. You would be a great dentist!’”

Nine years later, Luong has begun his third year of dental school at UMKC and  is president of his class.“If it wasn’t for Dr. Farmer coming in the nail salon that day,” Luong said, “I wouldn’t be here.”

As a first-generation college student whose parents immigrated from China, Luong has forged his own path toward dentistry.  Although Farmer was the catalyst that day in the nail salon, it was still an uphill battle for Luong to get in to dental school. He had to apply more than once.

But he persevered, and he credits the UMKC dental alumni who inspired him to keep going – those who are tireless promoters of the profession and saw something in Luong. There was Farmer, who introduced Luong to the field and was the first dentist he shadowed. There was Dustin Burelson (B.A. ’00, DDS ’04, ORTHO ’06), an orthodontist who hired Luong and took the time to introduce him to the basics of dentistry. And Harlen Hassen (DDS ’81), who was the first general dentist Luong worked under and is still his mentor today.

“Every dental office I worked at,” Luong said, “they would all cheer me on.”

Luong’s first exposure to the life of a dentist happened after Farmer encouraged him that day in the nail salon. Her sales pitch worked well enough that Luong set up a time to shadow her at the practice where she worked. The profession hooked him immediately, so he asked her what he needed to do in order to have a future in it. She told him to finish the last two years of his undergraduate degree and get a job in dentistry.

“It’s fun to think back on that time,” Farmer said. “I’m not surprised Michael is where he’s at today. I knew he had a lot of motivation.”

Luong followed Farmer’s advice and finished his degree in microbiology at the University of Kansas. He also began to work as a dental assistant at Burelson’s orthodontics practice in Kansas City, Missouri.

“Mentoring Michael was a highly rewarding experience,” Burelson said.

“From the very beginning, Michael showed a keen interest in learning all aspects of dentistry, even beyond orthodontics.”

While working with Burelson, Luong also had the opportunity to assist him with Smiles Change Lives, a nonprofit organization that provides access to orthodontic treatment for children from families who can’t afford the full cost.

“Michael’s work with Smiles Change Lives was transformative,” Burelson said. “I have no doubt the profound impact it had on him fueled his passion for the field.”

There was one particular patient who made a lasting impression on Luong. The young patient opened up to him about being bullied at school for her teeth. He got to see the complete transformation that came with her treatment, and it was life changing – for the patient and Luong.

“You could see the change in her from correcting her smile, making her feel more confident,” Luong said. “I saw firsthand the tremendous impact dentistry could have.”

Luong also worked for New Horizons, a dental support organization, where he connected with Hassen, who is now on faculty at the School of Dentistry and one of Luong’s go-to mentors.

“You could see that spark in Michael,” Hassen said. “That’s why I kept in touch with him – I kept trying to encourage him to continue on and not give up on anything.”

According to Hassen, it’s a point of pride to see Luong’s progression through the profession. He loves seeing young people become stewards of dentistry. When Hassen was in the beginning stages of his career, there were many dentists who helped him along the way, so it’s important to him that he pays it forward.

“I had a dream and desire to do this job, and it meant a lot to have people that were there in my corner, that were pulling for me,” Hassen said. “And it’s quite fun to watch the students come back from rotations realizing that they can do this job.”

Luong’s story is one of triumph that Hassen plans to use to inspire others.

“Michael can be an example for other students,” Hassen said. “He did not come from a long line of dentists.

He had to work for years to get to this point. But he’s worked his way here and he’s made a difference and will continue to make a difference.”

Student Organizations

Do you remember your time in our student organizations? Reach out to us at explorer@umkc.edu and share your favorite memories. Scan the QR code to see what some of the UMKC School of Dentistry student organizations have been up to lately.

CURRENT STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS
• American Student Dental Association (ASDA)
• American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry Student Club (AAPD)
• American Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research -Student Research Group (AADR/SRG)
• American Association of Orthodontics UMKC Study Group
• American Association of Public Health Dentistry (AAPHD)
• American Dental Education Association (ADEA)
• Association of Women Dentists (AWD)
• Christian Medical and Dental Association (CMDA)
• Dental Student Council

Incoming Class Demographics

Welcome to the UMKC School of Dentistry

The UMKC School of Dentistry welcomed the Dental Class of 2028 and Dental Hygiene Class of 2026 during Orientation from Aug. 14-16.

Throughout the three-day event, students prepared for their dental school journey with computer checks, composite photos, locker move-in, prep work and more – all designed to help start their first year off smoothly.

Orientation also included an opportunity for the new students to meet with school administrators as well as a variety of activities to allow the incoming classes to get to know one another. Presentation topics covered student success, school culture and the dental school’s alumni associations.

All the information was mixed in with some fun, like cold treats from One More Scoop ice cream truck, sponsored by the Missouri Dental Society and Greater Kansas City Dental Society.

The annual pancake breakfast, a longstanding tradition at the dental school, kicked off the last day of Orientation. Afterward, both classes took their first official group photos, did some team building, learned more about how to set themselves up for success in dental school and found out how to get involved with different dental school organizations.

Legacy Students

FACULTY AND STAFF at the School of Dentistry are proud of the many families who have had multiple generations begin their dental careers at UMKC. These families are a part of our school’s rich history – with roots dating back to 1881 – and have greatly contributed to our success. Here are the legacy students in the DDS Class of 2028.

Hamad Alkhamees
Yaqoub Alabwah (DDS ’07), Cousin

Mckinlie Bethel
Paul Thompson (DDS ’86), Uncle

Nathan Buckley
Phillip Buckley (DDS ’14), Sibling

Riley Clarke
Blake Clarke (DDS ’23), Sibling

Andrew Cuba
Jessica Nieva (DDS ’01), Aunt

Sara Domann
William Geisendorf (DDS ’07), Uncle

Porter Dombrowski
Mikaylie Parco (DDS ’26), Spouse

Dakota Douglas
Casey Miller (DDS ’19), Cousin

Joseph Gadbois
Katie Mefrakis (DDS ’26), Sibling; James Lutz (DDS ’14), Uncle;
Gabriel Mefrakis (DDS ’26), Brother-in-law

Carson Harris
David George (DDS ’80), Uncle

Catherine Holt
David Dung (DDS ’83), Uncle; Christopher Dung (DDS ’87), Uncle; Wesley Choy (DDS ’89), Uncle

Carson Huerter
Gerard Huerter (DDS ’97), Father

Alexis Kynaston
Brian Kynaston (DDS ’03), Father; Taylor Kynaston (DDS ’26), Sibling

Spencer Locke
Grant Smith (DDS ’01), Cousin

Michaela Massey
Mark Massey (DDS ’95), Father; Connor Massey (DDS ’24), Sibling

Jessie Ornelas
Vanessa Phye (DDS ’98), Cousin;
Sara Gasaway (DDS ’10), Cousin

Adam Simokaitis
Francis Simokaitis (DDS ’84), Father

Jaden Stevens
Paul Stevens (DDS ’95), Father; Mikayla Stevens (DDS ’22), Sibling; Nicole (Stevens) Vogel (DDS ’11), Sibling; Christopher Vogel (DDS ’11), Brother-in-law

Faculty and Staff Retirements

SIX FACULTY AND STAFF members have retired. The School of Dentistry thanks them for their dedication and wishes them luck on what comes next.

Brenda Cindrich – 20 years
Dental Services Supervisor, Central Sterilization

Eileen Cocjin (DDS ’05) – 22 years
Clinical Professor, Department of Pediatric Dentistry

Lorie Holt (BSDH ’93, M.S. ’97, Ph.D. ’20) – 27 years
Associate Professor, Division of Dental Hygiene

Doug Pearson (DDS ’77) – 29 years
Assistant Clinical Professor, Department of Restorative Clinical Sciences

Rosie Weaver – 20 years
Office Support Assistant IV, Department of Restorative Clinical Sciences

Linda Wells – 13 years
Associate Clinical Professor, Department of Restorative Clinical Sciences

Grant Awards

Sarah Dallas, Ph.D., received R01 five-year grant funding for “Dynamics of Bone ECM Assembly and Resorption,” totaling approximately $440,000 over five years.

Timothy Cox, Ph.D., received R01 grant funding for “Impact of maternal dietary vitamin A on risk and severity of cleft lip/palate in genetically sensitized embryos,” totaling approximately $1.25 million.

Promotions

Erin Bumann, DDS, Ph.D., M.S., has been promoted to associate professor with tenure.

Sarah Dallas, Ph.D., has been named a UM Curators’ Distinguished Professor.

Eric Gottman (DDS ’01, PROSTH ’04) has been named interim associate dean for Clinical Programs.

Rose Wang, Ph.D., has been promoted to associate professor on a tenure track.

Luke Wezeman, DDS, MAT, has been named the new vice chair of the Restorative Clinical Sciences Department.

Grant Awards

Sarah Dallas, Ph.D., received R01 five-year grant funding for “Dynamics of Bone ECM Assembly and Resorption,” totaling approximately $440,000 over five years.

Timothy Cox, Ph.D., received R01 grant funding for “Impact of maternal dietary vitamin A on risk and severity of cleft lip/palate in genetically sensitized embryos,” totaling approximately $1.25 million.

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