The UNMC College of Dentistry recently made new appointments to its leadership team.
Amy Killeen, DDS, associate professor and chair of surgical specialties, will become assistant dean of postgraduate education. Dr. Killeen, whose clinical research focuses on multi-institutional collaborations studying inflammation in oral wound healing, is active in mentoring undergraduate and graduate students. She oversees the college’s oral mucosal immunity consortium and has been full-time at UNMC since 2018.
“With her extensive experience in clinical care, research and academic leadership, Dr. Killeen is well positioned to advance and support the continued growth of the UNMC College of Dentistry’s postgraduate programs,” said Dean Gerry Kugel, DMD, PhD.
Julie Marshall, DDS, associate professor of adult restorative dentistry and director of the advanced standing dental program, will be associate dean for education. Her work on curriculum development, competency-based education and innovative teaching methods, including widely adopted e-learning modules and digital education initiatives, has made her a nationally recognized educator.
“Dr. Marshall is a highly respected educator and leader who has served the college for over three decades in multiple roles, demonstrating a strong commitment to academic excellence, faculty development, and program innovation,” Dr. Kugel said. The dean also thanked previous associate dean Yun Saksena, DMD, for her service and leadership in this position.
Upoma Guha, BDS, associate professor of adult restorative dentistry, will succeed Dr. Marshall as director of the advanced standing dental program. She previously served as director of clinics, overseeing the college’s clinical operations. She brings extensive experience in advanced standing dental education, having held faculty positions at the University at Buffalo and the University of Florida, where she was actively involved in admissions and education within international dental programs.
“Dr. Guha is a recognized leader in dental education, including participation in the ADEA (American Dental Education Association) Leadership Institute and service in national organizations. She is committed to mentorship, academic excellence and student success,” Dr. Kugel said.
Nancy Adams, PhD, assistant professor of oral biology, will serve as interim chair of oral biology. Dr. Adams has been an active contributor to regional and national educational initiatives, including anatomy outreach programs, student competition programs, and the development of anatomy workshops for students pursuing careers in the health professions.
“Her dedication to both her discipline and her students reflects exactly the kind of leadership our department deserves,” Dr. Kugel said. “We are grateful for her willingness to step into this leadership role and are confident the department will thrive under her guidance.” The dean also thanked former chair Tom Petro, PhD, who will transition to emeritus status.
The new appointments are effective July 1.