Dr. Oreste Zanni Awarded for Excellence in Teaching

Boston University Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine (GSDM) Clinical Assistant Professor Dr. Oreste Zanni was the recipient of the 2009 Educator Award from the American Academy of Periodontology. This award recognizes Dr. Zanni’s outstanding teaching and mentoring of GSDM postdoctoral periodontology students. He was nominated for the Educator Award by other faculty members and this is the second consecutive year that he has won.

"Dr. Zanni is a fantastic teacher who is beloved by students and faculty," said Professor Dr. Serge Dibart. "He brings classical training, as well as new techniques pioneered here at GSDM, to the program which makes it attractive to students. Teaching is his life’s passion and he is able to convey this to students and inspire them to become great periodontists."

Dr. Zanni was also honored with the Excellence in Teaching Award presented by the postdoctoral periodontology students at the department’s graduation reception on June 19.

"Dr. Zanni, not only has knowledge, but also passion and the ability to transmit it," said Anastasios Moschidis PERIO 09. "He taught me most of what I know about clinical periodontology, and especially the importance of ‘finesse’ to the outcome of any procedure. He is a excellent teacher and a great person!"

"With over 30 years of experience as an outstanding periodontist Dr. Zanni brings to the BU program a unique and rich scope of qualifications," said Professor and Chair of Periodontology and Oral Biology Dr. Frank Oppenheim. "His knowledge and skills range from the armamentarium of classical periodontal procedures to more revolutionary and cutting edge techniques of today. In addition to his clinical track record and teaching skills, Dr. Zanni enriches our residency program with a range of human qualities including communication abilities, positive encouragement, and supportive guidance." Dr. Oppenheim continued, "It is therefore not surprising that he is highly admired by our residents. Many of them praise Dr. Zanni for making a significant contribution to their future career in periodontics."