March 3, 2020

Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry alumni and supporters from across the country gathered in San Francisco over the Leap Year weekend for two days of learning, socializing and opportunities to reconnect with classmates and meet new people.

The 121st Annual Meeting, held Feb. 28-29 at the famed Fairmont Hotel, attracted nearly 1,400 alumni, associates and friends. The annual event is among the largest dental school alumni conferences held anywhere in the United States.

Attendees participated in continuing education courses presented by notable dental practitioners and educators. Other activities included class reunion dinners, receptions, research table exhibits, commercial exhibits and awards.

At the Friday alumni recognition lunch, Mr. Stan Constantino and Dr. Debra Woo ’86 were honored with the Medallion of Distinction — the association's highest honor. Constantino serves as assistant dean for admissions, student affairs and diversity at the Dugoni School, and Dr. Woo serves as assistant professor and clinic coordinator of emergency services in the Department of Clinical Oral Healthcare. The distinction is given to individuals who have made significant contributions to the school, the Alumni Association, the profession of dentistry or society in general.

The event also included a remembrance of Dr. Dennis Shinbori ’75, chair of the Annual Meeting Committee, who recently passed away. This year’s meeting had already been dedicated to Dr. Shinbori in honor of his life of leadership, service and involvement in the Dugoni School family, the profession and the wider community.

Also at the lunch, the Alumni Association welcomed Dr. Alan Budenz as its incoming president as well as other newly elected board members. He follows in the footsteps of outgoing president Dr. David Eshan ’95.

Dean Nader A. Nadershahi ’94 provided remarks at the luncheon, highlighting some of the school’s accomplishments in the last decade and his excitement for the future.

“I’m excited about the next decade and I hope you are too!” he said. “By working together, thinking big, and supporting our school’s unique culture, we will help ensure that the Dugoni School continues to be a global leader in oral health education for the next ten years and beyond.”

The annual Legacy Ball for supporters of the Dugoni School was held on Saturday night in the Fairmont’s Grand Ballroom. The “Leap Year”-themed celebration of philanthropy featured live music, dancing, dining and festive company.

University of the Pacific President-Designate Chris Callahan participated in activities, including the Legacy Ball. Before officially joining the university on July 1, President-Designate Callahan is conducting a “listening and learning” tour of Pacific’s three campuses, meeting with students, faculty, staff, alumni, donors and other university community members and supporters.

For more information about the Alumni Association's other upcoming events and programs, or to renew or join as a dues-paying member, visit www.dugonionline.org. The association offers an active membership category for alumni of the Dugoni School, as well as an associate membership category for those who are not alumni.

View photos from the Alumni Meeting in the online gallery. 

Contact: Office of Marketing and Communications, 415.929.6434, pr@pacific.edu

Categories: Alumni, Events, Faculty, Featured, Honors, Staff, 2020

Contact: Office of Marketing and Communications, 415.929.6434, pr@pacific.edu