50th Anniversary Commemorative Celebration

Three deans were present for the celebration. Pictured (from left) are Charles J. Goodacre, DDS, MS, (current dean); Judson Klooster, DDS, 1971–1994; and Charles T. Smith, 1960–1971.

Nearly 900 alumni and friends of the School of Dentistry assembled in the Gentry Auditorium Sunday, February 9, to commemorate the founding of the School.

The auditorium was transformed with candlelight and flowers for the 50th anniversary commemorative celebration, and the School’s history was traced through words, music, and multimedia presentations.

In his welcome message Charles J. Goodacre, SD’71, MSD, dean, stated, “It is an inspiring process to reflect upon the founding of this School.”

Alan B. Woodson, SD’87, served as emcee for the evening. Other participants included B. Lyn Behrens, MBBS, president and CEO, LLUAHSC; Richard H. Hart, MD, DrPH, chancellor; Michael Boyko, DDS, SD’75, immediate past president, School of Dentistry alumni association; W. Eugene Rathbun, DDS, MS, (class of 1965), current alumni association president; Willis L. Schlenker, SD’57, MS, a member of the first class; and Duane R. Wacker, SD’64, president, National Association of Seventh-day Adventist Dentists.

Participants relived the School’s 50-year history through reflections, music, and fashion. In addition, many individuals were honored for their service and philanthropy.

Among the honored guests were six of the seven living original faculty members; 13 of the School’s earliest faculty members; and three of the School’s four deans: Charles J. Goodacre, DDS’71, MSD, current dean; Charles T. Smith, dean from 1960 to 1971; and Judson Klooster, DDS, dean from 1971 to 1994. The School’s first dean, M. Webster Prince, served as dean from 1952 to 1960.

Dr. Goodacre highlighted the accomplishments that occurred during each dean’s term of service.

“The School is blessed with incredibly loyal faculty and staff,” said Dr. Goodacre. “Everyone reaps the benefits of their experience on a daily basis.” Long-term faculty and staff were asked to stand, and the School’s longest-term staff member, Gloria Ramirez, manager of clinical services division for the main clinic, was presented with a bouquet. She began working as a dental assistant for the School in 1972.