The Group Practice Leaders with Dr. David Russell
Faculty collegiality, research, and admissions were some of the areas of greatest success highlighted during Boston University Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine’s first Academic Program Review (APR), which occurred between March and June of this year. The APR includes a self-study report and site visit from internal and external experts. The process results in an improved understanding of the School’s value and contribution to the University.
The Office of the Provost at Boston University initiated the APR recently to “promote critical reflection, self-assessment, and strategic planning,” according to the Provost Jean Morrison’s website. Each School at BU undergoes the APR approximately every seven years.
The APR provides insight into not only the individual Schools, but also trends at the University. Associate Dean for Academic Affairs Dr. Cataldo Leone says, “The Provost’s Office is looking for a common thread across all the Schools at the University that BU can build into its strategic plan.”
The Site Visit team commended GSDM’s reputation of attracting national and international applicants, our high yield rate, student research opportunities, and focus on digital dentistry. The team pointed out that many of our international graduates assume academic leadership positions in their home countries. They called our Dental Public Health residency “outstanding, likely the best in the nation.”
GSDM’s self-study report Review Team included Dr. Douglas Faller, Dr. Ulla Hansen, Associate Provost for Strategic Initiatives Nicole Hawkes, and Manager of APR Amanda Urias.
The Site Visit team spoke with research faculty, teaching faculty, students, collaborators, junior faculty, administration, and staff. GSDM’s Site Visit Team included Dr. Faller; Dr. Jeremy J. Mao, Columbia University College of Dental Medicine; Dr. Mary L. Marazita, University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine; Dr. Carol Anne Murdoch-Kinch, University of Michigan School of Dentistry; and Dr. Merwyn Bagan, BU Board of Overseers.
In a summary statement, the Site Visit committee said, “The School is in a very strong position to move to the next level in each of its missions.” The committee also supported the School’s goal to secure a new building. “I’m extremely proud of the findings of the APR and I want to publicly thank Dr. Leone for leading this process,” said Dean Hutter.