LLU School of Dentistry Journal

Alumni of the Year
Judson and Arlene Klooster named Alumni of the Year, 2001

Judson Klooster, DDS, MS, Dean Emeritus (left) and Arlene Klooster, SD'71 (dental hygiene), receive the alumni of the year award, 2001, from Tom Rogers, SD'83

The Alumni of the Year Award, 2001, was jointly presented to Judson Klooster, DDS, MS, dean emeritus, and Arlene Klooster, DH’71. The award was presented during the 41st Annual Alumni Student Convention Homecoming banquet.

Judson Klooster
Judson Klooster served as dean of the School of Dentistry for more than 20 years after having taught on a part-time basis for many years. A graduate of the University of the Pacific in 1947, Dr. Klooster was made an honorary alumnus of Loma Linda University School of Dentistry on February 8, 2001.

In 1968, he came to Loma Linda University as a full-time faculty member and director of continuing education. Dr. Klooster was named associate dean for academic administration in 1969. Two years later, he succeeded Charles T. Smith, DDS, as dean of the School of Dentistry.

Dr. Klooster continues to be involved in national and international organizations, serving as a consultant and contributor to many projects benefiting both the dental profession and the Seventh-day Adventist Church. Dr. Klooster is a past president of the Tri-County Dental Society, the American Fund for Dental Health, and the Rotary Club of San Bernardino Crossroads. He has received many honors, and has made significant contributions to the dental literature.

Arlene Klooster
Arlene Klooster met her future husband while attending Pacific Union College, Angwin, California. In 1948, she received her RN degree from White Memorial Hospital (now White Memorial Medical Center) in Los Angeles.

The Kloosters settled in Escondido where she became heavily involved in the activities of the Seventh-day Adventist Church and school. Mrs. Klooster served her Church for many years as an organist. The Kloosters raised three daughters: Cherylin, Lynette, and Terri.

The family moved to Loma Linda when Dr. Klooster became a full-time faculty member of the School of Dentistry. Dean Charles T. Smith, DDS, encouraged Mrs. Klooster to pursue a degree in dental hygiene. In 1971, she graduated from the School with a Bachelor of Science degree in dental hygiene. She also served as president of her senior class. Mrs. Klooster practiced in dental offices throughout the Inland Empire.