Dr. Charles T. Smith honored

Dr. Charles T. Smith, the second dean of the School of Dentistry (second from left), is congratulated by (l-r): George Gamboa, DDS, long-time faculty member, oral and maxillofacial surgery; B. Lyn Behrens, MBBS, president, LLUAHSC; and Judson Klooster, DDS, dean emeritus, School of Dentistry.

Charles T. Smith, DDS, dean emeritus and second dean (1960–1971), Loma Linda University School of Dentistry, was honored Monday, January 20, 2003, for his many contributions and strong leadership as dean.

Judson Klooster, DDS, dean of LLUSD from 1971–1994, warmly thanked dean Smith for the strong foundation he provided for those who would follow.

He recognized dean Smith and his colleagues for building the Faculty Dental Offices, moving the Taylor Street building to its current location, and acquiring the Graphics Studio (now Educational Support Services).

These acquisitions were necessitated by the growth of the School—the beginning of dental hygiene and dental assisting programs, along with dental auxiliary utilization training. Major additions in advanced education programs in orthodontics, oral & maxillofacial surgery, periodontics, endodontics, and the planning of other programs were initiated during this period of development.

Dr. Smith gave special emphasis to extramural activities, including the establishment of a dental program in Monument Valley for the Navajo Indians and the purchase of a mobile dental facility.

Dr. Smith relaxes in his new rocking chair, a gift from the School of Dentistry, while Dr. Behrens looks on.

Dr. Lyn Behrens, president and CEO, Loma Linda University Adventist Health Sciences Center, expressed gratitude for Dr. Smith’s dedication to the goals and objectives of the University and for his vision and mission—not only for academic excellence but also for the personal development of students, faculty, and staff.

Following Dr. Behren’s remarks, Dean Smith spoke with fondness of his years here at the School and challenged all present to stand firm to the principles of the founders of our School.

After a very thoughtful benediction by president Behrens, colleagues, former students, friends, his wife, Mary Lou, and daughter-in-law, Mrs. Valerie Smith, thanked him for the positive influence his life has had on others.

He was given a rocking chair engraved with his name—a gift to the dean emeritus from the School of Dentistry.