LIZ KAZ, DH ’86, MS DH ’87, became associate dean for academic affairs on Oct. 1, after Dr. Pam Overman retired. Dr. Kaz came back to UMKC in 2015 and most recently served as director of continuing education and interim director of dental hygiene. She also brings experience from leadership positions at the A.T. Still Missouri School of Dentistry and Oral Health in Kirksville.
“As the saying goes, ‘Those are some mighty big shoes to fill,’ and all who have met Dr. Overman know exactly what I mean,” Dr. Kaz said. “There will be an adjustment for the students, faculty and staff to be sure, but Pam’s legacy of service, student-first and outright devotion to UMKC, the School of Dentistry and the dental field is one I intend to carry forward. I am excited by the future direction of education and the opportunities occurring in dentistry.”
Reflecting on the appointment, Dean Marsha Pyle said, “Dr. Kaz brings significant experience as an academic dean. She has served in various roles on Commission on Dental Accreditation committees and has broad experience with curriculum design and administration. We are very excited about her taking on this critically important role in our program.”