The Dean's Academy of Distinguished Scholars is a formal organization developed to demonstrate the School of Dentistry's ongoing recognition of and commitment to excellence. The academy recognizes and rewards faculty members who exhibit excellence and/or extraordinary scholarship in teaching, education, research, or mentoring. Academy members serve as professional role models and mentors for faculty, residents, fellows, and students.
Winners of Dean's Excellence Awards automatically become members of the Dean's Academy of Distinguished Scholars. Candidates are nominated by department chairs or fellow faculty members. If accepted, new members are admitted for five-year terms, but may be admitted again in different categories, extending their membership.