On Oct. 29, 2004, Dr. Arthur A. Dugoni, dean of the University of the Pacific, Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry, announced that he will conclude his service as dean on June 30, 2006.
"These past 26 years have truly been a labor of love filled with wonderful experiences, and dedicated, caring and generous individuals who have touched my life, made a difference and contributed significantly to the dental school' s successes and my growth as a person," said Dugoni during his remarks to the leadership at the dental school. "Although my role will change, my love and dedication for Pacific, dental education and the dental profession will continue to be a primary passion for me."
Dugoni will have a continuing relationship with Pacific after June 2006. He will assist the broader university in fund raising for the undergraduate science program on the main campus as well as the next dean for dental school objectives. "Art's talents and abilities will continue to enrich the education of Pacific students beyond his time as dean and we will all benefit from his continuing effort," stated University President Donald V. DeRosa.
During his tenure as dean, Dugoni developed and managed many innovations that have taken Pacific to its current level of national prominence, including the enhancement of the humanistic model of education. He is also credited for raising $50.8 million (as of October 2004) towards the School of Dentistry's capital campaign, one of the largest in the history of dental education, scheduled for completion in 2005. The dental school was named in his honor on August 28, 2004.
A national and international search for the next dean has begun. President DeRosa appointed Dr. Phillip Oppenheimer, dean of the Thomas J. Long School of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, as chair of the search committee which consists of a diverse representation of Pacific's constituents from alumni to students.
"What an Olympic run Art has had in over 26 years as dean. His remarkable leadership has built a great school and has shaped dental education and the profession nationally and internationally," said University Provost Philip Gilbertson.
