Dr. Judith Jones Receives the William J. Gies Award for Innovation

On January 12 the ADEAGies Foundation announced it will honor Boston University Goldman School of Dental Medicine (BUGSDM) Professor and Chair of General Dentistry Dr. Judith Jones for her outstanding innovation in support of global oral health and oral health education at the Gies Awards celebration held on March 14 in Phoenix, Arizona, in conjunction with the 86th ADEA Annual Session.

The William J. Gies Awards for Vision, Innovation, and Achievement recognize contributions to and support of global oral health and education initiatives.

Dr. Jones was nominated for the award based on her work over the past seven years as the inaugural Chair of the BUGSDM Department of General Dentistry. She led a large and diverse faculty, gathered from different specialty departments, into a cohesive force with common goals. Through small focus groups, large departmental meetings, and an Outward Bound team-building experience, Dr. Jones led the development of a Departmental Strategic Plan, guided by the mission of the School, and focused on the educational program and the comprehensive care of patients as our students attained competency. This vision led to innovations to the curriculum and course content and a change in culture for the teaching faculty.

“Dr. Jones embodies the leadership and commitment to excellence and innovation that we value strongly at the Boston University Goldman School of Dental Medicine,” said Dean Jeffrey Hutter. "Dr. Jones is an advisor to both her students and faculty members, a lecturer and clinical instructor to our students and a mentor to faculty members seeking to broaden their horizons. The recipient of both an NIDCR K24 Award for patient-oriented research and mentoring and the International Association for Dental Research’s Distinguished Scientist in Geriatric Oral Research, she mentors students and faculty in cutting edge oral health services research." Dean Hutter continued, "She is an innovative educator, and much respected by her students and colleagues. She truly embodies the concept of this William J. Gies Award for Innovation."