Who Will Lead Dental Education in the Future?

Schools of dentistry, like virtually every other modern organization, are facing a sea of change within and without, and the decisions made in the next few years will have major ramifications. In a 1995 report, the Institute of Medicine’s Committee on the Future of Dental Education asserted that “dental educators have leadership roles that stretch well beyond the dental school.” The leaders who are most effective in the current climate manifest a great diversity of styles. Nevertheless, some important qualities run through them as a group. This paper explores the current context for leadership in dental education, describes the qualities needed from dental education leaders today, and points out some of the barriers and obstacles to effective leadership.