MEANINGFUL EVENTS, experiences and pathways leave indelible imprints on each of us. The impact of these rich encounters and experiences propels us toward our goals, and even our toughest experiences can have a positive impact by leaving us stronger, smarter and more ready to face each new day and challenge.

This issue of Explorer celebrates the positive impact of the UMKC School of Dentistry’s faculty, staff and students. We also honor our many donors who make our projects and achievements possible. We hope you accept our gratitude for your contributions and enjoy reading about the impact of our faculty’s research endeavors, the impact of school renovations made possible by your substantial giving, and the impact of the care and accomplishments of our alumni around the world- — often in unexpected roles and locations.

One notable outcome of your giving is our newly renovated Pre-clinical Lab space, which I hope you will have a chance to visit. It is the largest training space in the United States so well equipped with the latest technology. This significant project came together with commitments of support from our alumni associations, the Rinehart Foundation, friends of the school and the Sunderland Foundation. Working together, we have made a deep and lasting impact on learning.

Besides infrastructure improvements, your giving fuels the scholarships that ease the daily routine of students navigating the cost of their education. Hearing students’ personal stories and their sincere gratitude completes a circle of positive impact.

Our students also bring us their enthusiasm and leadership abilities. We are proud of the student leaders who have helped us showcase the UMKC School of Dentistry this fall by playing host to an ASDA meeting and Student National Dental Association regional meeting at our school. The future of these committed individuals will continue to make our profession and school stronger!

We also give thanks for our many longtime faculty who recently have transitioned to retirement. Their impact touched thousands of students and peers over decades. Their work helped to develop competent beginning general dentists, specialists and dental hygienists, and their style will not be forgotten for years to come. These transitions opened new opportunities for the school to add other seasoned academics and practitioners. I am excited now to see how their contributions to the cycle of growth and renewal will advance the school, our curriculum and our culture in the years ahead.

With gratitude,

Marsha Pyle, DDS, MEd
Dean, UMKC School of Dentistry