Reflections from the dean: Year one of the Bitonte College of Dentistry

by Jared Slanina
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Serving as dean of a college is no small task. But serving as dean for a college’s first year of existence takes a special form of leadership.

Sorin Teich, D.M.D., M.B.A., proved to be up to the task during a remarkable inaugural year of the Bitonte College of Dentistry. However, he makes it clear that the “chain of achievements” he describes from year one were made possible by the efforts of many.

“Our faculty has been going above and beyond to make sure everything is running well for the College and our students,” said Dr. Teich. “They have very positive attitudes that have really made a difference.”

He also credits the resiliency of the students.

“It’s such a strong group of students,” Dr. Teich said of the inaugural class. “They are dedicated and resilient and come in every day working to get better. All of them are here because they want to help the lives of others, and it certainly shows in their character.”

Dr. Teich just welcomed the second class in the College’s history. Of the 52 new students, 60% are Ohio natives.

“Many of our students strive to eventually open practices in Ohio in or around the communities where they were raised,” Dr. Teich said.

He also has praise for the University community that helped get the College up and running.

“NEOMED has a national reputation, and has well-established Colleges and programs,” Dr. Teich said about being part of NEOMED. “We have had so much support from the administration and staff throughout the University, from gaining accreditation to opening of the dental clinic, and so much more that was accomplished in a short amount of time.”

The Bitonte family has also remained involved after making the initial $10 million donation that made the opening of the College possible.

“The Bitontes visit regularly and are just amazing people,” said Dr. Teich. “Their support has been so vital to our early success.”

There is one singular event that Dr. Teich is most excited about for the future of the Bitonte College of Dentistry – the graduation of the first class of students. While this will not occur until 2029, it will be well worth the wait for Dr. Teich and the many others who were instrumental in the creation of the College.