Dr. Robert Kinzer receives Teacher of the Year Award

Dr. Kinzer (right) receives the Teacher of the Year Award from Dr. Goodacre.

Robert Kinzer, SD'58, professor, restorative dentistry, was given the Teacher of the Year Award during School of Dentistry commencement ceremonies on May 30, 2004.

Dr. Kinzer began teaching at Loma Linda in 1964, moving to help open a dental school in Augusta, Georgia from 1969–77, and then returned to the School of Dentistry. He served as chair of restorative dentistry for 22 years, from 1977 to 1999. In addition he served as president of the Academy of Operative Dentistry, the School of Dentistry Alumni Association, and National Association of Seventh-day Adventist Dentists. He is now working on an interactive computer program that enhances students' decision making skills as they assess the way a tooth has been prepared.

While serving on the faculty development committee, Dr. Kinzer helped design the Teacher of the Year medallion he would later be awarded.

The Teacher of the Year Award recognizes an educator who best exemplifies the ideal teacher. This person's high regard for students and dentistry is demonstrated by personal dedication to students, educational innovation, extensive knowledge, Christian attitude, and teaching effectiveness.