Leaders in Dentistry Interview Series

Professor Emeritus of Periodontics and Periodontal Prosthesis, as well as Norman Vine Professor of Restorative Dentistry, at the University of Pennsylvania. He is also Clinical Professor of Surgery at the Medical College of Pennsylvania, Hahnemann University. Dr. Amsterdam has received numerous awards from national and international organizations for his contributions to dentistry, including honorary degrees from University of Gothenburg, Sweden; University of Athens, Greece; and Dickinson College, USA. Dr. Amsterdam was also the recipient of the 1977 Achievement Medal of the Alpha Omega Dental Fraternity, as well as the recipient of the First Alumni Achievement Award from the University of Pennsylvania in 1993.

In 1995 he was awarded Honorary Member of the American Academy of Periodontology. He is generally recognized as "The Father of Periodontal Prosthesis", and a Professorship in Periodontal Prosthesis has been endowed in his name at the University of Pennsylvania, by United States Ambassador to the United Kingdom, Walter H. Annenberg.

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As Dean-Emeritus of the School of Dentistry, North Carolina University, he is considered one of the nation's outstanding deans. He moved quickly after graduation, through many clinical and administrative responsibilities prior to being selected as the Program Director for Health, W.K. Kellogg Foundation. Upon return to Chapel Hill, NC, he assumed duties of the Dean, School of Dentistry for eight years and served as Co-Director, The Pew National Dental Education Program. He also served as Member and Chair, of the American Dental Association's Council on Dental Education and Commission on Dental Accreditation. He is recipient of North Carolina's highest Civilian Award in addition to many other awards.

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Following the discovery of a group of individuals in Papua New Guinea who were disease free, Dr. Barmes led a special study in the etiology of dental disease. He was active in epidemiological and dental services in many countries worldwide. After serving in the Dental Health Standing Community of the National Health and Medical Research Council of Australia and the World Health Organization (WHO) Expert Advisory Panel on Dental Health, he was appointed Chief, Oral Health of the World Health Organization. After his retirement, he served as an NIDCR Special Expert for International Health in the USA. He passed away in January 2001.

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Dr. Israel Boris Bender, born in Uman, Russia in 1906, was Emeritus Professor of Endodontics, University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine; Chairman-Emeritus, Department of Dentistry, Albert Einstein Medical Center; and Advisor to the Journal of Endodontics. He was among the founders of the specialty of endodontics and received numerous national and international awards and honors.

In addition to writing, researching and teaching, he also maintained a private practice. He passed away in June, 2003 at the age of 97 in his adopted hometown of Philadelphia.

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As a senior scientist emeritus and former Director of the Eastman Dental Center, Dr. Bibby had a long and distinguished career in dental research and education, having published more than 225 scientific articles. He is credited with being the first to prove that fluoride's reaction with the enamel surface would prevent caries. He encouraged and trained researchers in dentistry, advanced the profession's knowledge about the role of oral bacteria and the effect of saliva on the ecological balance in the mouth, and pioneered research into the cariogenicity of food. In 1988 Dr. Bibby was awarded the ADA Gold Medal for Excellence in Dental Research. He passed away in 1998.

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The Executive Director of the American Dental Association (ADA). Formerly in private solo practice with a satellite dental facility in Iowa, he was selected as a Hillenbrand Fellow. He then accepted various responsibilities in different ADA Councils, the Commission on Relief Fund Activities and as Director of the ADA Council on Dental practice. In 1997, Dr. Bramson was selected as the Executive Director of the Massachusetts Dental Society. where he established a for-profit corporation. From 2001-2008, he served as the Chief Executive Officer of the American Dental Association with responsibilities of strategic and fiscal policy planning, as well as the administration of all activities of the ADA.

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The Father of Osseointegration and founder of the Brånemark Osseointegration Center in Gotenburg, Sweden with Osseointegration Centers around the world. His pioneering research has developed bone grafting techniques that allows bone to be built where original quantity is insufficient for fixture placement. These methods are now routinely used to replace missing teeth, limbs, ears, orbits and bone anchored hearing aids. He has been awarded 28 Honorary Doctorates, 43 Honorary Fellowships and many more academic and institutional recognitions. In 2005 he established the P-I Branemark Institute, Bauru, Brazil.  Professor Brånemark has dedicated his life to excellence and uncompromising surgical and prosthetic rehabilitation coupled with positive and caring patient interaction.

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With a wealth of experience in dental education at the University of Michigan School of Dentistry, he was named Associate Director of the W.K. Kellogg Foundation Institute for Graduate and Post-graduate Dentistry. Among his past activities at the national level was his service as a consultant to the ADA Council on Dental Education, and as a member of the ADA Task Force which developed the National Children's Dental Health Program. Dr. Brown went on to become the first dean of the University of Oklahoma College of Dentistry which opened its doors to the first class in 1972.

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Dr. Gordon J. Christensen, a practicing prosthodontist in Provo, Utah, is co-founder and director of Clinician’s Report [formerly, Clinical Research Associates (CRA).] This unique entity utilizes dental offices as clinical sites so that practicing dentists can evaluate dental products to confirm promotional claims and clinical efficacy. He is also the founder and director of Practical Clinical Courses, an international educational organization, providing courses and workshops for dental professionals.

Dr. Christensen holds a D.D.S. from the University of Southern California School of Dentistry; an M.S.D. from the University of Washington; and a PhD. from the University of Denver. Gordon is a Diplomate of the American Board of Prosthodontics, a Fellow and Diplomate in the International Congress of Oral Implantologists, a Fellow in the Academy of Osseointegration, American College of Dentists, International College of Dentists, American College of Prosthodontists, Academy of General Dentistry (Hon), Royal College of Surgeons of England, and an Associate Fellow in the American Academy of Implant Dentistry. In 2011, he was awarded the prestigious Outstanding Dental Leader Award from the International College of Dentists, USA Section.

Dr. Christensen has presented over 45,000 hours of continuing education world wide and continues to be a much sought after speaker and prolific writer.

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Dr. Rella Christensen, co-founded Clinician’s Report[formerly, Clinical Research Associates (CRA)], in 1976, and for 27 years she directed the dental products testing institute. Currently, she is the team leader of Technologies in Restorative and Caries Research, a non-profit institute whose mission is to carry out long-term clinical studies of restorative materials, preventive dentistry and dental caries. She has presented over 1040 dental continuing education programs, totaling over 5200 hours, at U.S. and international location.

She is a member of the American Academy of Esthetic Dentistry and the American Associations for Dental Research. She has been inducted as an Honorary Member of the International College of Dentists-USA Section, the Academy of General Dentistry and the Academy of Dentistry International.  In 2002, Dr. Christensen received an Honorary Doctorate from Utah Valley State University.

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Dr. Lois K. Cohen is the Associate Director for International Health and Director, Office of International Health. National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services. As a sociologist, she dedicated her career to national and international oralhealth issues and created a permanent home for behavioral scientists in dental research. Since her retirement from US Government service in 2006. Dr. Cohen  was named the Ambassador for Global Health Research by Research America and has served in that role and as an independent consultant for the NIH, the World Health Organization, the Pan American Health Organization, the American Dental Association, Harvard University School of Dental Medicine,  Compendium of Continuing Education in Dentistry and a number of non-profit organizations and associations such as Regulatory Affairs Professional Society, The American Dental Education Association and serves in leadership roles associated with the Friends of the Organization of Safety, Asepsis and Prevention, and on the Boards of the Alliance for Oral Health across Borders, Caplin Family Charities, Edward B. Shils Entrepreneurial Fund, Fit for Schools International, the Foundation Against HIV/AIDS and the Journal of the American Dental Association.  An accomplished scientist, administrator, educator and advocate for health promotion and disease prevention, Dr Cohen is a true leader in dentistry.

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Dr. D. Walter Cohen is a Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontics. He helped to establish the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine’s Department of Periodontics in 1963, and served as its first chair. In 1972, he was named Dean of the dental school, a position he held for more than a decade. During his tenure, Dr. Cohen advanced new concepts in education and elevated educational standards.

He has contributed to 22 textbooks and more than 125 articles. Dr. Cohen has received honorary degrees from Boston University, the Hebrew University in Strasbourg, the University of Detroit, and the Carol Davilla University in Romania.  The French government bestowed its Legion of Merit Award to Dr. Cohen in recognition of his many contributions dental education in France.  Dr. Cohen is one of only 23 dentists in the United States who have been elected to the prestigious Institute of Medicine of the National Academy of Sciences.

Dr. Cohen currently serves as Chancellor Emeritus at Drexel University College of Medicine and the Chairman of the Board of Directors of Encore Services, Inc, the organization which operates the Philly Pops with Peter Nero.

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Dr. Robert J. Collins is distinguished Public Health Dentist and former Chief Dental Officer, U.S. Public Health Service who advised the Surgeon General on all matters relative to the oral health and coordination of all categories of the USPHS Commissioned Corps. Earlier his career was centered on the operation and management of the Indian Health Service Commissioned Corps. Following his tenure as Chief Dental Officer, he assumed duties as Deputy Executive Director of the International and American Associations for Dental Research (1995-2006) and from June 2002 to April 2003, served as Interim Executive Director for these major organizations.

Currently, Dr. Collins is a Clinical Professor at the University of Pennsylvania, School of Dental Medicine. He is also Director, Division of Community Health and Director, Office of International Relations at the same university. He serves as a mentor for Penn Dental Medicine students enrolled in the DMD-MPH Dual Degree Program. 

He earned his D.M.D. from the University of Pennsylvania in 1971, and a Master of Public Health from the Johns Hopkins University. He has received numerous awards, including the Distinguishes Service Award, International Association of Dental Research (2007); Special Merit Award, American Association of Public Health Dentistry; Surgeon General’s Medallion (1995).  

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An internationally renowned orthodontist, trained at the University of Toronto and  Harvard School of Dental Medicine, Dr. Dale has dedicated his life to insuring that only the highest standard of care is provided to the public. Dr. Dale has been in private practice and has taught full time at the University of Toronto Dental School. His impact internationally on the specialty of orthodontics with over 5700 lecture hours at over 100 universities and hospitals and more than 400 associations and societies throughout the world is noteworthy. Dr. Dale has authored 110 publications, including 33 books. He has chaired both the American Board of Orthodontics and the Board of the Charles H. Tweed International Foundation for Orthodontic Research and Education; in addition, he has served as the President/Chairman/Director of over 15 other organizations. He has received Fellowships in ten organizations, as well as numerous other awards, including the Arbor Award, given to him and his wife, Anne, by the University of Toronto in 2009.

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Founder of the Dawson Academy and Concept of Complete Dentistry Seminar Series. The ultimate goal of these entities is the students will have the confidence and competence in their knowledge to not only apply it in their practices, but also be able to use it as a basis for evaluating other research, theories, and philosophies of dentistry to which they are exposed. Dr. Dawson authored the best-selling book, Evaluation, Diagnosis, and Treatment of Occlusal Problems, which has been translated into 14 languages. His latest book, the definitive textbook on occlusion for general dentists, Functional Occlusion: From TMJ to Smile Design was published in 2006. In addition to numerous awards and special recognitions, Dr. Dawson is the past president of the American Equilibration Society, a past president of the American Academy of Restorative Dentistry and the American Academy of Esthetic Dentistry.

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One of America’s outstanding orthodontists, he is also known for his role as an educator, writer and lecturer, and organized dentistry leader. He progressed through numerous faculty chairs and became dean of the School of Dentistry, University of the Pacific in 1978. In 2004, the school was renamed in his honor while he still held the position of dean. Although he stepped down as dean in 2006, he continues to be actively involved with the school and the university. Dr. Dugoni has presented more than 1000 lectures, papers and clinics and has authored more than 175 published articles. As a leader, he has been President of the ADA, the ADA Foundation, the California Dental Association, the American Board of Orthodontics, and the American Association of Dental Schools. He has received the Hinman Medallion for Leadership, the Albert H. Ketcham Award, the and Presidential Citation from the ADA.

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The youngest son of a dentist, Dr. Dummett was born in Georgetown, British Guyana, in 1919. He earned his dental degree and specialty certificate in periodontics from Northwestern University Dental School. He also earned a master’s degree in public health from the University of Michigan. Dr. Dummett was appointed chief of dental services at the Veterans Administration Hospital in Tuskegee, AL in 1949. He served in the U.S. Armed Services, achieving the rank of lieutenant colonel and receiving the Certificate of Merit of the Air Force Systems Command. He served as the editor of the National Dental Association for 22 years, he co-wrote the history of the NDA with his wife, Lois Doyle Dummett. He joined the faculty of the Ostrow School of Dentistry at the University of Southern California in 1966 where he taught dental history and community dentistry. Dr. Dummett passed away in 2011 at the age of 92.

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Besides contributing prodigiously to dental journals, Dr. Eames presented over 100 programs, television demonstrations, seminars and panel discussions in the US and abroad. He is known best for his research on the various factors in proportioning mercury and alloy ratios and condensing amalgam, the influence of clinical variables in marginal adaptation, and evaluation of trituration and condensing.


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Caswell A. Evans, a dental public health specialist, has led and founded numerous dental and public health programs, professional organizations and initiatives at the local, state and national levels aimed at improving the health of underserved populations.  His expertise in community water fluoridation and public health is sought internationally.  As Director, National  Oral Health Initiative, he provided guidance and assistance to the Surgeon General, US Public Health Service on oral health.  He served as Project Director and Executive Editor of Oral Health in America: A Report of the Surgeon General, the first such report on oral health. Under his leadership, the National Call to Action to Promote Oral Health was completed and released by the Office of the Surgeon General.  He is currently the Associate Dean for Prevention and Public Health Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago, College of Dentistry and also has an appointment on the faculty of the UIC School of Public Health.

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Dr. Ferguson, a brilliant and exceptionally skilled clinician, was one of the founders of and served as the first president of the Academy of Operative Dentistry. He served twenty-two year on active duty with the US Navy, including service as the Chief of the Dental Department, US Naval Station in Newport, Rhode Island. In 1966 he joined the Department of Operative Dentistry at the School of Dental Medicine, University of Buffalo, State University of New York where he retired in 1972 as Professor and Chairman of Restorative Dentistry. "Bill" Ferguson was best known for his leadership in operative dentistry. He passed away in 1991 at the age of 91.

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Dr. Jacob B. Freedland, an endodontist, was a founder and past president of the American Association of Endodontists. He also served as president of the American Institute of Oral Sciences, and was a former Director of the American Board of Endodontics. He was a lecturer consultant for the US Naval Dental School and a consultant/advisor for its Graduate Dental Training Program. Dr Freedland also served as a consultant for the US Army Institute of Dental Research. He was honored with the Pierre Fauchard Academy Award, the Thomas P. Hinman Medallion of Meritorious Service, the Distinguished Service Award from the Academy of General Dentistry, and the Distinguished Alumnus Award from the University of North Carolina.

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Dr. Genco is a graduate of The New York at Buffalo School of Dentistry. He completed his residency in periodontics and received a Ph.D. in microbiology and immunology from the University of Pennsylvania. He is presently Professor of the State University of New York at Buffalo's oral biology department and of the department of microbiology in the School of Medicine. He directs the school's periodontology graduate and Ph.D. programs.

For many years he served as editor-in-chief of the Journal of Periodontology. He is now editor emeritus. In addition to his role as editor, Dr. Genco has served the American Academy of Periodontology in many ways, including participation as a member of the Board of Trustees and active membership on numerous Academy committees and task forces.

Dr. Genco has published over 350 peer-reviewed articles describing his research and has contributed to 10 books. He holds nine patents and is a scientific director and founder of TherEX, a biotechnology company.

Dr. Genco is well known for his landmark research on the pathogenesis and management of periodontal diseases. His research on risk factors for periodontal disease has led the way to concepts of risk factor assessment and management in treatment and prevention of periodontal disease. He has been a leader in identifying the possible link of periodontal disease in increased risk for arteriosclerotic disease, heart disease and stroke, and kidney disease in patients with diabetes mellitus. Dr. Genco has been honored by the AAP for his many contributions to the Academy as well as the award-winning publication he raised in stature over nearly two decades.

Dr. Genco is active in many professional organizations, such as the American Society of Microbiologists, the American Association of Immunologists, the International and American Association for Dental Research, the American Dental Association and the American Academy of Periodontology.

He is also active in the community and serves on the Board of Directors of the Buffalo Museum of Science, the Nichols School, and the Sunstar Foundation for Oral Health. He also serves on the Board of Directors of two venture funds, the Western New York Business Development Fund and Excel Partners LLC.

Dr. Genco has served as president of the American and International Association for Dental Research, and was awarded the Gold Medal for Excellence in Research by the American Dental Association.

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Robert James Gorlin was a professor and researcher at the University of Minnesota, known for pioneering research into craniofacial disorders, genetic defects, syndromes and oral maxillofacial pathology. Dr. Gorlin died August 29, 2006 at the age of 83.

Dr. Gorlin earned his doctor of dental surgery degree from the Washington University School of Dentistry in 1947, and a master's degree in oral pathology from the State University of Iowa in 1956. That same year, he joined the faculty at the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry, as an associate professor and chair of the divisions of oral histology and oral pathology. At the time of his death, he was the UM Regents Professor Emeritus of Oral Pathology.

Dr. Gorlin's long list of honors included the ADA's Gold Medal Award for Excellence in Dental Research (2003) and the Norton M. Ross Award for Excellence in Clinical Research (1995). He was a Senior Fellow in the Institute of Medicine of the National Academy of Sciences and holder of the Premio Phoenix Anni Verdi Award from the Italian Medical Genetics Society and Harvard University Goldhaber Award.

His academic credentials were augmented by leadership roles in organized dentistry as a past president of the International Association for Dental Research and the American Academy of Oral Pathology.

In 2002 he was recognized with UM's highest award, and Honorary Doctor of Science Award. Two years later, he received the American Society of Human Genetics Award for Excellence in Human Genetics Education and was an invited presenter at the Nobel Foundation conference in Stockholm, Sweden.

Dr. Gorlin loved people from all walks of life and had a wide array of friends. He was a loving husband, a wonderful father, a consummate and caring clinician, and an astounding humorist.

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America's most distinguished dental historian actively involved in the founding of The National Museum of Dentistry in 1996 in Baltimore, Maryland, the home of the first dental school in the United States. In general practice in Cinncinati, Ohio for over 35 years, he served extensively in organized dentistry in Cinncinati, in Ohio, and at the national level. His enthusiasm and leadership have made the National Museum of Dentistry a showpiece for our profession and serves as the initial Chairman of the Board and National Campaign Chairman. He has received The Hayden Harris Award, The Ohio State's Distinguished Alumni Award, The Ohio State Dental Association Distinguished Service Award and The Outstanding Dentist Award.

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One of America's leading public health dentists, Dr. Greene moved through the Public Health Service (PHS) ranks to become the Deputy Surgeon General. After a successful career with the PHS he was appointed Dean at the School of Dentistry at the University of California, San Francisco. His dental leadership was recognized by his election to Chairman of the AADS Administrative Board of the Council of Deans, the American Association of Dental Research and the International Association of the Dental Research. The Institute of Medicine, recognizing his role as a leader in health care appointed him as member in 1980. Dr. Greene has been active in addressing issues vital to the future of the profession through his work with the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and the Pew Health Professions Commission. He is a winner of numerous awards and has been nationally recognized for lifetime achievements in public health, education and research.

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Dr. Harris, born in the Ukraine, received his dental education at University of Michigan and continued his training at Forsythe. Among the first dentists in the US to concentrate his practice on children, he founded in 1927, the American Society of Dentistry for Children. His success with this society in the US led to serving as a catalyst for the founding of similar societies around the world. These became the present International Association of Pediatric Dentistry. He discontinued his active children's dentistry practice after 54 years to focus his energies on philanthropy. Dr. Harris' major gift made possible the creation of a national museum for dentistry. The Samuel D. Harris National Museum of Dentistry was dedicated in June, 1996. Dr. Harris died on February 27, 2003. Throughout his life, Dr. Harris’s prime interest was in the promotion and support of dental and medical prevention.

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Dr. Hein is an internationally known dental researcher. He received his D. M. D. degree from Tufts College Dental School and earned his Ph. D. at the University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry. He was Dental Director for the Colgate-Palmolive Company in New York for four years; Dean of Tufts University School of Dental Medicine from 1959-1962; and Director of the Forsyth Dental Center from 1962-1995. He is a Past President of the International College of Dentists. Many honors and awards have been bestowed on Dr. Hein.

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Dr. Hillenbrand was one of the best known of all of dentistry's leaders because of his long tenure (23 years) as Executive Director of the ADA and his many national and international accomplishments. Dr. Hillenbrand served as executive director from 1946 until his retirement in 1970 when he was named the association's first executive director emeritus. Under his leadership, membership in the ADA nearly doubled and the assets of the organization grew by more than 40%. The ADA may be considered a monument to his financial acumen, his belief in making no little plans and for his abiding faith in the ongoing future of dentistry. He was the first dentist to serve as an adviser to the United States delegation to the World Health Organization and one of the first dentists to be elected a senior member of the prestigious Institute of Medicine. He passed away in 1986 at the age of 79.

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Dr. Hine, who passed away in 1996 at the age of 89, was considered one of the nation's outstanding dental educators. He served as dean of the University of Indiana School of Dentistry from 1945 to 1968. In 1968, he became the first Chancellor of the IUPUI, a partnership between Indiana University and Perdue University at Indianapolis, Indiana, a position he held until 1973. He served as president of the American Dental Association, held seven honorary degrees and authored five books and numerous articles. He was one of the founders of the American Board of Endodontics. 

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Dr. Ingle is a pioneer, educator, mentor and international leader in the field of Endodontics. He was born in 1919 in Colville, Washington and received his DDS degree from Northwestern University in 1942, and a MSD from the University of Michigan. After serving as a dentist for four years in the U.S. Army Air Force during World War II, Dr. Ingle joined the faculty at the University of Washington in Seattle for 16 years where he was Professor and then Chairman of Periodontics and Endodontics.

In 1964 he was appointed Dean of the School of Dentistry at the University of Southern California where he served as professor and dean for eight years. This appointment was followed by six years' service for the Institute of Medicine at the eminent National Academy of Sciences in Washington, D.C.

Dr. Ingle has played a significant role in the advancement of the endodontic specialty. He is widely known as the author of the authoritative textbook, Endodontics, first published in 1965 and followed by numerous editions. In addition to his textbook, Dr. Ingle has published over 75 articles and has lectured extensively around the world.

Dr. Ingle is a Diplomate and founding member of the American Board of Endodontics and a Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology as well. He served as President of the American Association of Endodontists (AAE) from 1966 to 1967. In 1987 he received the AAE's Ralph F. Sommer Award, and in 1999 its highest honor, the Edgar D. Coolidge Award. In 2001 he was inducted into the USC School of Dentistry's Hall of Fame, the highest honor the school bestows on an individual. He is presently President of Palm Springs Seminars in California, one of the nation's leading institutions of dental continuing education and lives with his wife Joyce in San Diego, California.

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In 1974 Dr. Franklin Monroe Kenward was appointed registrar of the International College of Dentists and served in that position for fifteen years. During his tenure Dr. Kenward traveled the world to induct Fellows and to facilitate the presentation of numerous clinics and courses on dental education at home and abroad. He was responsible for establishing ICD member groups in both China and South America.

Dr. Kenward received his dental degree in 1952 from Loyola University in Chicago, graduating cum laude and class salutatorian. In 1963 he was elected president of the Miami Dental Society. He was a past national president of Psi Omega Dental Fraternity and served as editor of the Frater, the national fraternity magazine, for 15 years. He was also editor of the Florida Dental Journal, president of the American Association of Dental Editors and a member of the Council on Journalism of the American Dental Society. He also was appointed by Gov. Bob Graham to the Florida State Board of Dentistry and served as its chairman. 

Dr. Kenward passed away on April 24, 2005 after a long, valiant battle with pulmonary fibrosis. He was 85 years old. 

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Rear Admiral Kleinman is Chief Dental Officer of the U.S. Public Health Service and Deputy Director of the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research at the National Institute of Health. As a Diplomate, American Board of Public Health, she has championed many national public health issues and was a major contributor to the Surgeon’s Report on Oral Health.. She has published extensively and spoken at hundreds of venues on a wide range of research issues. Dr. Kleinman has participated in many professional organizations and has served as president of these organizations including the American Association of Women Dentists.

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Leaving his position as Dean and Professor of Periodontology at the University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine, he became the Director of the National Institute of Dental Research until his retirement in 1994. During his tenure, he fostered the broadening of oral health science. From a narrow concern with teeth and gums, the discipline now encompasses all the oral and craniofacial tissues, as well as behaviors associated with the cause and prevention of disease and the maintenance of oral health. He is internationally known for his contribution to dental disease research and his authorship of over 300 papers.

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Although probably best known for his early studies of gingival fluid and dental plaque, he has created a body of literature that has formed a cornerstone of modern-day preventive dentistry. As an educator, researcher, and author, Dr. Mandel has motivated others to use research as a means to advance the practice of dentistry. He has served as consultant to the ADA's Council on Dental Therapeutics, chaired the Council on Dental Research, and served on the ADA's Special Committee on the Future of Dentistry. He was awarded the 1985 ADA's Gold Medal for Excellence in Dental Research.

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A proponent of conservative cavity preparation, he has been credited with combining pins with amalgam for restorations and crown buildups. A noted lecturer, Dr. Markley was a documented "half-million miler" in commercial air travel. He presented his material in all 50 states, as well as a total of 32 dental schools, both in the United States (22) and abroad (10). His publications were used as teaching materials in numerous dental schools. Dr. Markley passed away in 2000 in Denver, Colorado at the age of 96.

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An experienced educator, researcher, lecturer, and author, Dr. Massler, established the Department of Pediatric Dentistry at the University of Illinois at Chicago College of Dentistry. Along with Dr. Isaac Schour, he created the seminal chart of tooth development. He authored or co-authored six textbooks and presented more than 400 programs. He consulted to seven international dental schools and helped to establish the Tel Aviv University postgraduate dentistry program. He joined the faculty at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine in 1973. Dr. Massler stressed that dental caries should be treated as an oral infection and that restorations or appliances placed in a mouth with active caries break down quickly. Dr. Massler passed away in 1990.

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A distinguished oral surgeon and a physician, Dr. McCallum became Dean of the School of Dentistry, University of Alabama after serving as Chairman of Oral Surgery and a professor of dentistry. In 1977, he became Vice President for Health Affairs and Director of the Medical Center at The University of Alabama in Birmingham In 1987 he became President, University of Alabama at Birmingham. Upon retirement, he was awarded status as Distinguished Professor Emeritus. A member of many professional organizations, he has held numerous offices in many of these organizations including President of both the American Association of Dental Schools and the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. He has received numerous awards, including honorary degrees from six universities. From 2000-2008, he served as mayor of Vestavia Hills, a growing suburb south of Birmingham, AL. In 2010, a park in the community was named in his honor.

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Beginning his academic career in operative dentistry, Dr. Medina investigated epoxy resin die materials and elastomeric impression materials to improve the quality of cast gold restorations. He also studied instrumentation for both rotary and hand cutting tooth structure with its associated factors. Author and teacher, his most significant contribution was in the field of dental education. Born in Santurce, Puerto Rico, in 1926, Dr. Medina entered undergraduate studies at Johns Hopkins University in 1942 as a gifted 16-year-old. He was accepted by the Baltimore College of Dental Surgery at the University of Maryland in 1944 at the age of 18, and graduated cum laude in 1948. He joined the Baltimore College of Dental Surgery faculty after graduation, eventually attaining the position of assistant dean and professor of operative dentistry. In 1967, Dr. Medina joined the faculty of the University of Florida College of Dentistry, becoming Dean (1969 to 1974). He oversaw the development of the school, recruiting faculty and welcoming the inaugural class of students. He was appointed as the Director of Health Center Space Planning and Utilization at the University of Florida in 1974, and was promoted to Assistant Vice President for Facilities Planning and Operations in 1976, a position he held for 10 years. Dr. Medina passed away in 2007 at the age of 81.

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Dr. Moriyama received his dental degree from the Tokyo Dental College in 1950. He was the research assistant to Dean Tsurukichi Okumura for four years and was lecturer, Department of Microbiology at the school. His outstanding contribution to dentistry comes from his many historical publications, documenting and preserving the history of Japanese Dentistry. He has made several trips to Mexico and studied and written about tooth mutilations in Mesoamerica. He is Secretary-General of the Japanese Section of the I. C. D. Dr. Moriyama also maintains a private practice in Tokyo.

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Dr. Morris is a noted educator specializing in dental therapeutics and administration. He was named Dean of the University of Kentucky School of Dentistry, became Special Assistant to the President of U.K., and was later elevated to Vice-President for Administration at the University. In 1976, he was named Executive Director of the Association for Academic Health Center located in Washington DC. In 1979, he was appointed Director of the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine's Long Range Planning Committee, and chaired the seven member Search Committee for a new ADA Executive Director.

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Dr. Morrow has dedicated her career to professional dentistry. A practicing dentist from Anchorage, Alaska, she was elected in 1991 as president of the American Dental Association, the first woman to hold this office. Arriving in Alaska in 1956 she served three years with the Indian Health Service caring for the dental health needs of Alaska's Aleute, Indian and Eskimo population. Dr. Morrow was also the first woman to hold the presidency of the Alaska Dental Society and was its first paid executive director. Continuing her contribution to the professional dentistry, Dr. Morrow served as the first A.D.A. state delegate, council member, council chair and trustee. She ran Delta Dental Corporation of Alaska which managed Alaska's welfare, Medicaid and many other public funded and risk prepaid dental insurance programs and was also Director and Dean of the University of Alaska's Allied Health Sciences School which administered as many as 16 health and dental career courses of study. In that role, Dr. Morrow obtained legislative support for the construction of a multi-million dollar Allied Health Sciences Building on the University campus.

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Dr. Neidle is a noted and foremost authority in physiology as well as an outstanding researcher in pharmacology/therapeutics, an educator, a prolific writer (over 60 publications), and a renowned presenter (over 100). She has held professor and department head positions at the New York University School of Dentistry, was an Assistant Executive Director of Scientific Affairs for the ADA for 6-1/2 years, and has been an outstanding spokeswoman for the profession. Dr. Neidle has held consultant positions for numerous organizations. A recipient of a large number of honors and awards, she is an honorary Fellow in the ICD, an honorary member of the ADA, and received the Colgate Palmolive/ADA Award for Outstanding Service to the Public and Profession.

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Dr. Niessen received her DMD, MPH and MPP from Harvard University. She is a Fellow in The International College of Dentists, a Fellow of The American College of Dentists and The American Academy of Esthetic Dentistry. She has served as President of The American Association of Women Dentists, The American Association of Public Health Dentists, and The American Board of Public Health Dentists. She presently serves as President and Chief Clinical Officer for Dentistry International. She has authored over 70 publications, and a text titled, "Geriatric Dentistry: Aging and Oral Health". In addition, Dr. Niessen is clinical professor in the Department of Public Health at Baylor College of Dentistry -- Texas A&M University, in Dallas, Texas. She also hosts Dental Health Check, a weekly syndicated television news report on dental health.

Dr. Niessen is very positive on the future of dentistry. Recently, during an interview with the publication Inside Dentistry, she stated the following. "I think the future of dentistry is incredibly exciting. Our students graduating in 2012, can look forward to a challenging and ever-changing career as they dedicate their lives to improving the oral health of their patients. Because we cannot predict the future, and we know the rate of change will only increase, a dentist's commitment to lifelong learning and critical thinking are essential to ensure a successful and intellectually nourishing career in dentistry."

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Taking office in January 1995, Dr. Norwood represents the 10th District in Georgia in the US House of Representatives. He comes to this office after 25 years as a successful general practitioner in Augusta GA. Dr. Norwood is a decorated Vietnam Veteran serving as a military dentist in the US Army from 1967-1969. He held a number of offices in the Georgia Dental Association rising to President. In 1984-85, Dr. Norwood served as ADA Delegate. In addition to receiving recognition for his efforts to reduce government expenditures, Dr. Norwood remains an active voice for dentistry in Congress and has taken a prominent role in healthcare legislation.

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Dr. Lindsey D. Pankey, was born on July 31, 1901. He received his DDS Degree from The College of Dentistry at The University of Louisville. He practiced in New Castle, Kentucky, for one year. He then went to Coral Gables, Florida, where he practiced dentistry until 1969.

Dr. Pankey was always interested in clinical occlusal rehabilitation. He collaborated with Dr. A. W. Mann of Fort Lauderdale, and C. H. Schuyler of New York City and developed a teaching manual on that subject. Using that manual, they began teaching seminars throughout the United States, and internationally as well. It soon became known as the Pankey-Mann-Schuyler Technique.
Eventually, because of the many dentists who were taught their philosophy of occlusal rehabilitation, The L. D. Pankey Foundation, Inc., and The L. D. Pankey Institute were formed.

Since that time, The Pankey Institute has instructed over 17,000 dentists from all over the world. "The Institute has provided a place for dentists to explore the meaning of excellence and renew their commitment to the kind of dentistry they want to be doing". – L. D. PANKE

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Born in Vienna of Russian parentage, Mr. Petrovic graduated from Monmouth College with a major in journalism and sociology. Working first with Eastern Airlines, he was hired as Director of Special Projects (annual convention and educational programs) for the American Health Care Association. He then became the Chief Executive of the Packaged Ice Association. Since 1977, he has been President of the American Dental Trade Association. In 1980 he was elected to a term as Chairman of the Greater Washington Society of Association Executives, the youngest chairman in that organization's history. In 2009, Nikolai M. Petrovic received Honorary Fellowship from President Halik into the Pierre Fauchard Academy.

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For decades he was one of the foremost authorities in the field of dental materials science and research. Throughout an eminent career that spanned 50 years, Dr. Phillips was widely recognized as the most dynamic and sought after lecturer. He appeared on more than 1,000 programs in the US and around the world, and authored 300 scientific papers and books including the Science of Dental Materials, one of the most widely used textbooks in history.

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As an author of 20 books and 360 papers on oral biology, he has given guest lectures in 34 countries and has served as editor or associate editor of 9 journals. Dr. Pindborg was on the scientific expedition for WHO to New Guinea and consultant on field surveys on oral pre-cancer in five countries. He is a noted researcher and authority on odontogenic tumors and allied lesions, and heads the EEC Clearing House for oral problems related to the HIV infection.

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An internationally renowned lecturer, Dr. Ramfjord has won numerous awards for his research efforts in periodontics and oral pathology. He is professor emeritus of the Department of Periodontics at the University of Michigan School of Dentistry. He has played an active role in many professional organizations, is a former Director and Chairman of the Board of the American Board of Periodontics, and served 20 years as a dental consultant to the WHO in Geneva. He has published more than 130 articles and co-authored textbooks on periodontics and occlusion.

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A distinguished Pediatric Dentist, former military career in the U.S. Navy in research, assumed the position of Assistant Dean at the new Dental School at the University of Mississippi, contributing prolifically to dental literature with over 75 publications and speeches worldwide. He served the American College of Dentists as Executive Director. Dr. Rovelstad has served as President of the American Academy of Pedodontics and International Association of Dental Research and American College of Dentists.

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After a long and distinguished active military career, he was appointed Director of Dental Services Army Headquarters and Chairman of Dental Services of the Department of Defense in Australia. He was active in dental journalism and as a teacher, author, and research worker, he made many contributions to the field of prosthodontics and dentistry generally both at home and abroad.

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His experience is divided between general dentistry, dental materials research, and dental education. His more than 35 publications in major dental journals deal with denture base materials, amalgams, cements, composite resins, acid etch retention, and mercury hygiene in the dental office. He is best known for his study of dental composites and dental bonding. His service as a research associate for the ADA and as associate director of the National Bureau of Standards are highlights of his career.

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Dr. Herbert Schilder, Professor and Chairman., Department of Endodontics, Boston University Goldman School of Dental Medicine, is past president of the Massachusetts Dental Society, American Academy of Dental Science, the American Association of Endodontics and past First Vice-President of the American Dental Association. He has served as a consultant to the U.S. Navy and U.S. Army. He has been awarded the Louis I. Grossman and Edgar D. Coolidge Awards, the International Pierre Fauchard Award and Alumnus of the Year Award by New York University College of Dentistry. He has lectured at 32 universities in 22 countries and has over I00 publications to his credit.

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From Seaman Recruit to Rear Admiral, following a distinguished 30 year active Navy Dental Corps career, Dr. Selfridge became Dean, Washington University School of Dentistry in St. Louis, MO for ten years. He then assumed the responsibilities of the Executive Director of the American Board of Orthodontists where he revised testing procedures. His impact on the Board Certification process for orthodontists has been significant. He has served in many positions in the International College of Dentists most noteworthy as International President. He has participated extensively in local and national dental evaluations and in dental education evaluation.

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During her remarkable, varied career Dame Margaret, a specialist in Oral Surgery, has pioneered many new frontiers in all aspects of dentistry, its workforce and its leadership. She spearheaded critical reviews of dental delivery systems, with NHS Dentistry; Options for Change as her most recent bold report. She served as President of numerous organizations, including the General Dental Council and British Dental Association. She has overseen the profession's knowledge base in her role as editor of the British Dental Journal and International Dental Journal. Recruited from retirement, Dame Margaret was appointed as the Chief Dental Officer at the Department of Health for England from October 2000 through September 2002. In recognition for her numerous contributions to dentistry, she was made Commander of the British Empire in 1994 and awarded Damehood in 1999, making her the first Dame in dentistry.

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During a distinguished Navy Career, serving ashore, afloat and overseas, he was selected and served for 6 years as Chief of the Navy Dental Corps. He was the first Navy Dentist to command a major medical facility, the National Naval Medical Center which included the President’s Hospital at Bethesda, Maryland. Following his Navy career, in 1989 he was selected as the Secretary General of the International College of Dentists and Registrar of the U.S.A. Section. where he served for 10 years. He has continued to serve as chairman of several ICD Committees. He has participated extensively in local and national organizations. He has been recognized by local, national and foreign countries for outstanding contributions to the profession of dentistry.

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A tribute to Dr. Shephard noted that he was a giant among men, respected by his peers, admired by his contemporaries, and loved by those he served as mentor. As an author and teacher of orthodontics, his skill in organizational work marked his prominence as a leader. Through his guidance, the American Board of Orthodontics emerged as one of the most respected certifying boards in dentistry.


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A distinguished oral surgeon, former Chief of the US Army Dental Corps (Major General), teacher, and Dean of Tufts University Dental School, he has been a lecturer and clinician at dental meetings in all 50 states and 24 foreign countries. A prolific writer and editor, he has contributed more than 50 articles to dental literature, written chapters in 12 dental textbooks, produced 14 dental teaching films for clinicians, served as an editor, and is a past president of the ADA.

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A distinguished dental educator of international renown, administrator, lecturer and clinician, she became the first female head of a prosthetics department and later became the first and only female dean of a dental school, Howard University School of Dentistry. She has authored over 70 publications, notably a manual on crown and bridge prosthodontics, and a curriculum for dental materials and oral physiology.

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Leaving after 27 years at USC Center for Craniofacial Molecular Biology where he created the first Ph.D. program in Craniofacial Biology, he became the the Director of the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research in 1995. NIDCR supports about 450 scientists and administrators participating in research. He has published more than 200 scientific papers in peer-reviewed journals and has received more than two dozen awards and honors including three honorary doctorates in sciences degrees. He is passionate about education, the future of dentistry and life.

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Dr. Sturdevant is known world-wide as a leader in dental education and as an authority on operative dentistry. Throughout his long career, he has been actively involved in numerous dental organizations, and in fact was a charter member of the Academy of Operative Dentistry. Among his accomplishments is the text book, The Art and Science of Operative Dentistry, first published in 1968 and still recognized as a leading textbook in operative dentistry. As an innovator in operative dentistry for years, he was involved in the design of many devices such as the light body injection syringe for impression materials, "Jiffy tubes" for cement application, and various instrument and bur designs. Dr. Sturdevant was presented the 1995 Academy of Operative Dentistry Award of Excellence.

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While serving as the Senior Associate Dean for Research at the University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Dr. Tabak was appointed the seventh Director of the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research at NIH in 2000. Prior tocoming to NIDCR, he directed many institution-wide research programs. Dr. Tabak has received many honors and awards for his research. He has been elected to membership in the Institute of Medicine of the National Academy of Science.. He is directing a new initiative advanced at the NIDCR through extensive dental research networks. He has authored scores of research papers.

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A general practitioner, he is the pioneer and developer of such concepts as "washed field dentistry", the "canister tray," and "Euthenics dentistry". A leader in gold foil technique and practice administrator, he served on faculties of several dental schools. Dr. Thompson has lectured before many local, state, and national organizations.

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Recognized as one of the nation's authority in operative dentistry, Dr. Vernetti, was born in Globe, Arizona of immigrant parents. He enjoyed a successful 38 year dental practice in Coronado, CA. As a leader in his field, he served as a Associate Clinical Professor at the UCLA and Loma Linda Schools of Dentistry. Upon retirement, he joined the faculty at the University of Texas School of Dentistry as a Full Professor. In his honor, the Vernetti Award of Excellence was established. Dr. Vernetti holds memberships in 16 professional, international and U.S. dental organization and has been president of three International organizations. He been the recipient of four Fellowships, the ACD John Geis Award, the Academy of Operative Dentistry Award of Excellence, the Academy of Gold Foil Operators Distinguished Member Award, the ADI Hillenbrand Award, The Pierre Fauchard Academy Gold Medal Award, and was cited by Northwestern School of Dentistry as one of the ten Legends of Operative Dentistry.

In his hometown of Coronado, he was president and Rotarian of the Year, recipient of the BSA Silver Beaver Award of his Rotary Club, recipent of the Coronado Distinguished Citizen Award, given the Key to the City on Jim Vernetti Day, July 23, 1975 , recipent of the BSA Silver Beaver Award, the Freedom Foundation Award, and President and Executive Secretary of the Thousan Smiles Foundation. He is chairman of the project naming Coronado"The All American Flag City".Recognized for his baseball interest, Coronado named the new Little League Park, the "Vernetti Stadium."

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Dr. Harold O. “Westy” Westerdahl was born in Bolingbrook, Illinois, January 1, 1907. He served as the Secretary-General as well as the Deputy Registrar of the International College of Dentists – USA Section from 1954-1974. He assisted in forming the European Section of the International College of Dentists. He also helped with creating of the official ICD cap and gown design. Dr. Westerdahl was the first dentist to be selected for the ICD Leaders in Dentistry series of interviews. 

He was a graduate of the University of North Dakota and the University of Minnesota Dental School. Dr. Westerdahl may have been St. Louis Park, Minnesota’s first dentist. His office was in the Moldestad (1937) and then Park Theater Building (1942). “Westy” was captain of Park’s 1932 Champion Football team. 

He passed away April 1, 1987.  

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As a distinguished Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon in private practice, Dr. Whiston has dedicated his professional career to serving the public culminating in his election as the President of the American Dental Association (ADA) in 1999. Following graduation from the School of Dentistry West Virginia University, and Oral Surgery training, his participation started in the local dental societies and the Virginia Dental Association. He was elected Trustee of the 19th District of the ADA prior to his election as President Elect in 1998.

Approaching many important issues including Licensure/Accreditation, Legislative/Regulatory advocacy, and quality enhancement made his tenure very productive and rewarding for the dental profession. He was then appointed the ADA's Representative to the American Medical Association following his presidency. He actively serves on many committees and Boards serving Dentistry and is on the Board of Visitors of the National Museum of Dentistry.

Dr. Whiston has been appointed to the Board of Commissioners of the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations. It is the nation's oldest and largest standards-setting and accrediting body on healthcare.

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Dr. John S. Zapp — Executive Director of the American Dental Association since 1993. Formerly in private practice in Oregon, Dr. Zapp was called to Washington, D.C. to be the initial Special Assistant of Dental Affairs, U.S. Department of Health Education and Welfare (HEW) and then served as the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Health Legislation in HEW. Prior to being selected by the American Dental Association, he served in the American Medical Association for 19 years. He has received many honors including an Honorary Doctor of Science Degree, College of Medicine. and Dentistry of New Jersey and Boise State University, Alumnus of the Year.

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