Ann Arbor, MI — January 26, 2012 — “Longevity is not important.  Impact is.  The dental hygiene program is in great shape because of the great people here.  That gives me confidence to retire now.  It’s time to move on,” said Prof. Wendy Kerschbaum who will step down as program director at the end of the year.

She’s only the third dental hygiene director since the program was created in the 1920s.  Dorothy Hard was the first director for 44 years (1924-1968); Pauline Steele, the second, for 20 years (1968-1988).

Kerschbaum began her career at the School of Dentistry as a part-time clinical instructor after earning her bachelor’s degree from U-M in 1970.  She also worked part time at a dental practice in Ann Arbor.

“I’ve had so many great opportunities to work with so many wonderful people including five deans and five or six department chairs,” she said with a smile.  “Their support and the support I have received from the faculty, and staff is something I will always remember.”

Major Achievements Cited

Talking about her career Kerschbaum said she “is proud to see the dental hygiene program has established itself in three important areas — education, community service, and research.  But those successes were a team effort, not an individual one.  Because of the continuous progress the dental hygiene program has made, we are nicely positioned to meet the current and future trends in oral health and education.”

She cited the degree completion and graduate programs as examples.  “Since they are now offered in an online format, dental hygienists can advance their education without needing to relocate or give up employment.”  She also cited the involvement of entry-level students in research and community service activities.  “These are taking place at unprecedented levels and receiving local and national attention and awards for projects and publications,” Kerschbaum said.

A committee is searching for a successor.  Dr. Paul Edwards, clinical associate professor in the Department of Periodontics and Oral Medicine, chairs the search committee.  Other members are Anne Gwozdek, Karen Ridley, Lisa Dodge, Jean Klark, and Drs. Berna Saglik, Nikki Sweier, and Hector Rios.

Kerschbaum said she hopes that a new program director is named before the start of the academic year later this summer.  “That’s always a busy time of year.  Having a new person on board would allow for a smooth transition,” she said.  “But I still will be here teaching until the end of the year and will help, if asked.”

Asked about her future, Kerschbaum said she’s not making any big plans or moving from the Ann Arbor area.  “It will be nice to see members of my family and my husband’s family, work on my vegetable and flower gardens and, yes, even mow the lawn,” she said with a smile.