Get to know Paul Hammond
Paul Hammond joined NEOMED in August as the project manager for the Bitonte College of Dentistry. He recently shared with The Pulse a little about himself and his role at NEOMED.
Tell us about your role as project manager. What are some of your main responsibilities for the Bitonte College of Dentistry?
My role is to assist the provost and the dean with managing the many project components in preparation for the opening of the College in fall of 2025. My main responsibility will be to act as the BCOD direct liaison with the construction project team, including the architect, construction manager, contractors and NEOMED campus operations staff to complete the construction project on time and within budget. Also, I will be coordinating the procurement of the capital equipment for the simulator lab and clinic, building the annual operations budget, and managing special events.
How has your experience been working for the College as it prepares to welcome its first class of students next fall?
The BCOD dean and the entire NEOMED campus community have been very welcoming! With 22 years prior experience at The University of Akron (UA) overseeing athletics facilities and operations, the transition from UA Athletics to NEOMED has been very seamless having previously completed several construction projects utilizing a near identical business compliance process. I look forward to working with NEOMED colleagues to establish a first-class dentistry student experience!
Where did you grow up, and what’s something you appreciate about that area?
Although originally raised in Lancaster, Ohio, I have resided in Northeast Ohio the majority of my career, including Wooster, Wadsworth, Cuyahoga Falls and now, for several years, Kent. Despite the cold and sometimes extended and frustrating lake effect season, I have enjoyed living in this area.
What is something most people would be surprised to learn about you?
I like to bake sweets and breads for family get-togethers, friends and (hopefully NEOMED) colleagues. I enjoy cooking, especially using the grill and smoker year-round. To offset the eating, I have competed in a few 10K and half-marathon races.
Where are some of your favorite places to visit in Northeast Ohio?
I like to get out and enjoy the local restaurants and craft breweries in Northeast Ohio. I have also spent many long weekends each spring at Hocking Hills in Southeast Ohio. Summer vacation includes an annual week-long stay at Sunset Beach, North Carolina. The Apple Fritters at the K&K Bakery kiosk at Cleveland’s West Side Market are the best!
What is the most recent series or movie you watched that you would recommend to others?
I have been catching up on Netflix Somebody Feed Phil series. I enjoy classic TV sitcoms, some over and over and over again!