Fotinos Panagakos, PhD, will assume the role, following the retirement of Anthony Tom Borgia, DDS, MHA, who served as dean for 10 years.
West Virginia University (WVU) School of Dentistry has named Fotinos Panagakos, PhD, as its interim dean, effective July 1.
Panagakos assumes the role following the retirement of Anthony Tom Borgia, DDS, MHA, who served as dean for 10 years. Panagakos will also continue to serve in his current position as vice dean of administration and research.
“Foti’s extensive knowledge in oral health research, experience in clinical care and his capable leadership abilities will allow the school to transition seamlessly over the next several months,” says Clay Marsh, MD, WVU Health Sciences vice president and executive dean.
Panagakos has been instrumental in the dental school’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic that put academics and patient care on hold for several weeks, according to a news release. He joined the WVU School of Dentistry in August 2018, and is also the co-editor of three books focusing on gingival disease, oral lesions, and evidence-based interventions for common oral conditions. His research had focused on the effects of improved oral health on chronic diseases.
“I am very fortunate to be following Dr Borgia as he has worked tirelessly over the past 10 years to raise the school up to where it is today,” Panagakos notes. “I realize the foundation that he has provided makes the path forward easier, in light of our current situation. Before COVID-19, I had described the task ahead as akin to climbing a hill. COVID-19 has made that hill steeper.”
