The Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry is built around the core value of humanism. We are known for our family atmosphere and the people who contribute to this unique culture. Discover the stories of some of the students, alumni, faculty, staff and administrators that make up "Our Family."
Students | Alumni | Faculty | Donors | Staff | Administration
Karl Brose Santa Cruz, California
“Working with patients involves education. You teach all the time, every day. We’re all teachers all the time.”
Tyler Nelson Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Residency Program, Oakland, CA
"My experience at the dental school was outstanding, and I hope to be an alumnus who helps to make it just as wonderful for future students."
Tom Keller Encinitas, California
“As Dugoni graduates, we understand the importance of giving something back.”
Timothy Cross DDS Class of 2010
"There are too many populations that have never been touched by the profession of dentistry. Everywhere you go, there’s a need for dentists and oral health education."
Nima Aflatooni DDS Class of 2010
“Pacific creates an atmosphere for its students that make you want to give back. I saw an opportunity here to make a difference.”
Nalani Oda DDS Class of 2010
“I do really feel that the school fosters the feeling of ‘you’re all in this together, work together.’”
Nava Fathi San Jose, California
“There’s a definite family feeling that develops at our school and that feeling doesn’t end after graduation.”
Debra Finney Folsom, California
"I'm grateful for the respect that I was shown as a student which contributed to a positive attitude and a desire to be involved and hopefully make a difference in our profession."
Nader Nadershahi Associate Dean for Academic Affairs
“People wanted to get to know me and cared about my success. That environment is really why I came back to teach.”
Marc Geissberger Chair, Department of Restorative Dentistry
“I have a lot of graduates come back years later and tell me that I’ve taught them more than they realized while they were here.”
Cindy Lyon Chair, Department of Dental Practice
“I love the student interaction that comes with teaching.”
Christine Miller Associate Professor, Director of Community Programs
“Working with people with developmental disabilities transformed and expanded my views as an oral health professional.”
Ove Peters Professor, Department of Endodontics
“The people in this school are filled with a particular spirit that makes it a pleasure to work here. There is a positive attitude here that serves as motivation to get things done.”
Duke Dahlin Student Accounts Coordinator, Business Office
“The relationships we build with our students separate us from other schools.”
Torri Keever Senior Admissions Advisor
“I enjoy getting to know the incoming class. I’ve watched some of our students progress from the day they were interviewed to becoming faculty members here.”
Sandra Shuhert Graphic Designer, Design & Photo Department
“When I started working at the dental school, I heard that there were many long-time employees here. Now I know why.”
Robert Trezia Clinic Business/Intake Manager
“We help people in the community in so many different ways.”
Patrick J. Ferrillo, Jr. Dean
"I have long known and respected this dental school for its humanistic model of education and its strong commitment to patient care, research and clinical education."
Arthur A. Dugoni Dean Emeritus, Professor of Orthodontics and Senior Executive for Development
"At Pacific we build people, and along the way they become doctors."
Craig Yarborough Executive Associate Dean
"The humanistic model was probably the single greatest driver of why I am a full-time educator here."
