LSU Health School of Dentistry

07/30/2026

As we continue our faculty spotlight series, Dr. Eswar Kandaswamy, Associate Professor of Periodontics, describes the values essential for the success of future dental professionals: "I believe the two most important qualities dentists should have are, first, a willingness to be lifelong learners. Dentistry is evolving so quickly that professionals must continuously learn and update their knowledge to keep up with advances in the field. Second, dentists must have strong ethics to ensure they always act in the best interest of their patients."

07/29/2026

Please join us in congratulating Dr. A.C. Liles on his appointment as Assistant Dean of Clinical Affairs, effective August 1. An LSUSD alumnus and respected educator, clinician, and leader, Dr. Liles brings more than 30 years of service to the dental profession. He has been recognized with numerous honors throughout his career, including the Allen A. Copping Excellence in Teaching Award—one of LSU Health's highest faculty distinctions. In his new role, he will oversee clinical operations, patient care, and initiatives that advance excellence in clinical education at LSUSD. We also extend our sincere gratitude to Dr. Tom Giacona for his many years of unwavering dedication to the School and outstanding service as Interim Assistant Dean of Clinical Affairs over the past two years.

07/28/2026

Nominations are now open for the 2026 LSUSD Alumnus of the Year and Distinguished Alumnus Awards! From leadership and service to groundbreaking professional achievements, our graduates continue to make a lasting impact on the profession and their communities. The nomination deadline August 16, 2026. Help us recognize a deserving colleague, mentor, classmate, or friend. Submit your nomination today! tinyurl.com/dn58vrfs

07/23/2026

Our faculty reflections continue with these thoughts from Dr. Donald Bennett, Clinical Assistant Professor, Comprehensive Dentistry, about the high-quality hands-on training LSUSD offers: "Our clinical training provides students with extensive hands-on experience while serving a diverse patient population with a wide range of oral health needs. Students are introduced to patient care early in their education and progressively assume greater responsibility as they develop their clinical skills and judgement. The comprehensive care model, which is emphasized to incoming patients at their screening appointment, allows students to diagnose, treatment plan, and manage patient care across multiple disciplines, all while under the guidance of experienced faculty. The students learn critical thinking and interdisciplinary collaboration and build confidence in their skills and clinical decision making. Graduates leave with a high level of clinical competence, adaptability, and professionalism, making them well prepared for entering private practice or advanced education residency programs."

07/23/2026

Congratulations to Tricia S. Barker, RDH, MEd, Associate Professor of Clinical Comprehensive Dentistry, who has been permanently named Director of the Program in Dental Hygiene! Since joining LSUSD in 2007, Barker has been recognized for her excellence in teaching and service, including receiving the LSU Health New Orleans Chancellor’s Excellence Award (2024) and the Golden Apple Excellence in Teaching Award (2026). We look forward to her continued leadership and dedication to advancing LSUSD’s Program in Dental Hygiene and supporting the success of our students, faculty, and community.

07/21/2026

Join us at Alumni Day to learn from internationally renowned speakers Dr. Steve Carstensen and Dr. Aaron (Seok Hwan) Cho. Register now! tinyurl.com/yr93srp8

07/20/2026

Students interested in exploring careers in dentistry got a closer look at the path to dental school during LSUSD’s annual Summer Enrichment Program on July 11–12. Participants learned about the dental admissions process and gained hands-on experience through skill-building activities modeled after exercises taught to first-year dental students. Students represented Howard University, the University of Alabama, Louisiana State University, Florida State College at Jacksonville, Spelman College, East Carolina University, the University of Houston, and Nicholls State University. The program was organized by LSUSD’s chapter of the Student National Dental Association (SNDA) and supported by Louisiana Dental Center.

07/17/2026

07/16/2026

This week's faculty commentary is from Dr. Cathy Honoré, Clinical Assistant Professor, Comprehensive Dentistry, who shared, "The dental profession has undergone a significant metamorphosis over the years. While the concept of 'change' may not be embraced by all, it is certainly inevitable to create and sustain an environment that represents progress. Integrative healthcare requires effective interactions from all involved in a professional environment. The recent renovations within the dental school have been a reminder that in time, change is essential for ongoing progress, academic growth, and advancement in patient-centered care. In fostering relationships among faculty, staff, and students, the atmosphere within LSUSD is a consistent reminder that our goal is to provide access to oral healthcare for the community."

07/15/2026

Are you a dental student looking to come to the U.S.? Enter our curriculum as a second-year student and complete your degree! Learn about our IEDP requirements at tinyurl.com/4pruemkk and apply now!