As a passionate advocate for dental education and a dedicated professional with over 34 years of experience in dental academia and clinical practice, I am honored to serve as Dean at the University of Louisville School of Dentistry (ULSD). My commitment to excellence, innovation, and student-centered education has guided my journey in academic dentistry. I believe deeply in our responsibility to train technically skilled clinicians and thoughtful, compassionate professionals who understand the broader connection between oral and systemic health. This role has only deepened my appreciation for our school’s legacy and for the extraordinary people—faculty, staff, students, and residents—who make our mission a reality. With an annual operating budget of approximately $78.6 million, ULSD is a dynamic and multifaceted institution, currently home to 609 students across multiple programs, including 60 in Dental Hygiene, 480 in the DMD program, 57 in MSD/certificate programs, and 12 in the MSOB program. Our academic enterprise is supported by 279 dedicated staff members and 148 full- and part-time faculty who bring tremendous expertise and commitment to their work.