​From Dean Huja: grateful for Pay It Forward, lobby renovation​

Dear James B. Edwards College of Dental Medicine alumni and friends,

As we enter into the 2024-2025 school year, I am, as always, grateful for the continued kindness of our alumni and friends.

Philanthropic support

During the 2024 fiscal year, we received $3.3 million in donations. Our Pay It Forward Scholarship Campaign has grown to nearly $5 million, and the college now has $13.3 million in endowments that provide perpetual, annual funding. Endowments are a top priority to help us build an even stronger future through student scholarships and faculty recruitment and retention.

We also had outstanding representation by alumni at the first MUSC Alumni Weekend in February. It was wonderful to spend time with everyone, and I hope you will come back every year!

New leaders, clinic and faculty

Dr. Joseph Gambacorta, associate dean for clinical affairs, joined the college and its Dean’s Leadership Council on Aug. 28. In addition to his proven strategic leadership at The State University of New York at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine, Dr. Gambacorta brings robust experience and strong expertise in guiding the operational aspects of a dental college’s clinical programs. He will oversee clinical education, operational policies and comprehensive patient care programs in the predoctoral and graduate specialty areas of the college.

Dr. Fabio Antonio Piola Rizzante began his new role as assistant dean for innovation on July 1. Since he joined the CDM family in 2022, he has been proactive in collaboratively advancing innovation in dental education, research and patient care. As assistant dean for innovation, he will engage constituents to develop and execute the college’s strategic goal, including the dean’s vision to foster a culture of innovation that will sustain a preeminent stature in patient care and learning experiences in the digital world that requires constant adapting to a changing landscape and technology.

MUSC Dental and Oral Health — Nexton, our new ambulatory clinic in ever-growing Summerville, South Carolina, opened in July 2024. While small in footprint, this clinic will make a big difference for our students. Our students will rotate through this practice, providing an opportunity to build their clinical skills in an environment similar to that of a private practice. With over half of our graduates going into private practice, this experience is highly relevant and better prepares them for their professional future. The clinic is directed by two-time MUSC alumna, Dr. Hee Young Hwang, ‘08 and ‘15.

Dr. Michael Cotter, Dr. Pongsakorn “Tom” Poovarodom and Dr. Natalia Trehan have also joined our faculty. These talented individuals will be right at home among our outstanding educators, researchers and clinicians. Each brings valuable and diverse experience and expertise, which is detailed in their linked bios.

Dr. Richard and Stacy Boyd Lobby renovation

Work on the much-delayed renovation of the main entrance to the James B. Edwards College of Dental Medicine will take place this fall. The renovation was made possible through a generous gift to the college by alumnus Dr. Richard Boyd, ‘82, and his wife, Mrs. Stacy Boyd. The lobby is the primary physical point of welcome to the college's academic and research activities. The rendering shown above incorporates a modern design and space for collaboration.

It is an exciting time for the college, and while change is never easy, we are committed to innovating the future of oral health and wellness. Please let us know how we can support you in your continued success, and know that you are always welcome here, at your MUSC home.

Sincerely,
Sarandeep Huja, D.D.S., Ph.D.
Dean, MUSC James B. Edwards College of Dental Medicine