For 19 years, the Dr. Arthur A. Dugoni Faculty Award has honored California dental school faculty for contributions to the scholarly and creative activities of their students. The CDA Foundation will accept nominations for the 2026 award through March 31.
CDA members, including student members, can champion an eligible faculty mentor for the Dr. Arthur A. Dugoni Faculty Award. Self-nominations are also welcome.
Dugoni Award celebrates a legacy of leadership and compassion
The late Dr. Arthur A. Dugoni championed a student-centered, caring, humanistic approach that became a paradigm in dental education. A renowned leader in dental education, he served as dean of the University of the Pacific School of Dentistry from 1978 to 2006. For decades, he inspired students, faculty and staff and also led and advised colleagues globally. In 1998, Dugoni became one of only 30 living members of the FDI World Dental Federation’s List of Honour.
The Foundation’s annual award continues his legacy by honoring exceptional leadership, innovation, collaboration, compassion, philanthropy and integrity in dental education.
Nominees from all fields of study or dental specialties that enhance or support dental programs will be considered, but they must:
- Have a history as a faculty member and hold either a full- or part-time teaching position.
- Contribute to the school’s scholarly and creative activity through direct interaction with students.
- Enrich the affiliated dental program through their ongoing involvement.
Dr. Mark Mintline, recipient of 2025 Dugoni Award
Mark Mintline, DDS, associate professor at Western University of Health Sciences, received the 2025 Dugoni Faculty Award. He directs the WesternU Health Oral Pathology Laboratory and co-coordinates the Advanced Oral Diagnosis Workgroup. Mintline is recognized for excellence in training future health care professionals in humanistic, evidence-based care at WesternU.
Elizabeth Andrews, DDS, MS, dean of WesternU’s College of Dental Medicine, noted, “His office door is always open to answer student questions, and he frequently comes to the Dental Center on his off days to assist students with patient consultations.” She added that Mintline is a favorite among students for his ability to break down tough topics, create clinically relevant lectures and put students first. This day-in, day-out generosity embodies the philanthropic spirit celebrated by the Dugoni Award.
Nominations open through March 31
Nominate an outstanding faculty member for the Dr. Arthur A. Dugoni Faculty Award before the March 31 deadline. Review the eligibility criteria, read about past recipients for inspiration and submit nominations online.
The Foundation welcomes nominations from CDA members, including students, California dental school faculty and self-nominations. The recipient will be notified this fall.
As a nonprofit organization founded by the California Dental Association, the CDA Foundation has represented the humanitarian values of the diverse dental profession for 25 years. Learn more about the Foundation’s mission to improve the oral and overall health of all Californians. To stay connected, sign up to receive the latest updates and get involved with CDA Foundation.