University of Manitoba's Faculty of Dentistry--"traditions of excellence: horizons of change".

The year 2008 marks the anniversary of the first class enrolled at the University of Manitoba’s faculty of dentistry in 1958. There is no better way to celebrate 50 years of proud traditions and accomplishments than to build on that history and launch an aggressive new campaign. Presently, the faculty enjoys a solid reputation as a premiere educational institution, but there is always room for improvement. Thus, the faculty has developed a 5-year strategic plan that is based on a “Drive for Top Five.” Very simply, the faculty wants to be regarded as one of the top 5 dental schools in North America within the next 5 years. There is no credible objective measure for ranking schools of dentistry; however, an even stronger and more beneficial barometer of status is the opinion of peer institutions and stakeholders, which means much more than any published rankings. Perception of the dental school and the image that it generates, both in and outside the dental community, are the key components to success. The 50th anniversary year provides an opportunity for the faculty of dentistry to move forward with new approaches and visions. The “Drive for Top Five” is based on the faculty’s strategic plan, featuring the 9 “Pillars of Innovation,” which expand existing areas of strength and add programs that do not exist in any other dental school. When fully implemented, these 9 initiatives will provide a distinct brand and reputation for the University of Manitoba’s faculty of dentistry.