Dental school faculty support new facilities

The School of Dental Medicine’s operatories have basically remained the same for more than 30 years. That’s not a good thing.

But that’s about to change, with major help from the school’s own faculty members. The school is undergoing a thorough modernization of its facilities, including 300 new operatories in Squire Hall.

“Some of our longtime faculty members have been front and center in supporting this initiative,” says Neil Dengler, assistant dean and director of philanthropy for the school.

Joseph Zambon, dean of the school, was among the first to commit his gift to name an operatory. Now, longtime faculty members Jane Brewer, Robert Genco and Sebastian Ciancio have joined Zambon with commitments to name operatories.

“They’ve taken the lead, and we’re so grateful,” Dengler says. 

The renovated operatories will be used to train dental students and offer clinical treatment to the community.

“There is a misconception that the dental school — and UB for that matter — is funded primarily by New York State,” Dengler says. “We need help from generous donors for projects like this.”

With many renovations taking place in Squire Hall, there are many opportunities for faculty, staff and alumni place their name on a space, such as an operatory or a clinic, Dengler notes.

“This is a great way to give back to the school,” Zambon says. “Some donors are even using this opportunity to remember someone special who played an important role their life.”

More information about the dental school renovations is available online.