Marc Ottenga, D.D.S., a clinical associate professor, has been appointed to serve as the interim director of the Division of Operative Dentistry, effective July 1, 2011.
His responsibilities will include providing leadership to the division faculty and staff during the transition of phasing in the new Department of Restorative Dental Sciences, continuing his active, insightful participation in the department planning process, overseeing all aspects of the D.M.D. curriculum in Operative Dentistry, and facilitating professional development for division faculty. Ottenga takes the leadership reigns from Marc Gale, D.M.D., associate professor emeritus.
“Dr. Gale has served as interim chair for Operative since May 2010, and has done an excellent job shepherding the change process for the division during the creation and launch of the new department. I am extremely grateful for his willingness to assist during this time. He has been a valuable asset to the process,” said Teresa A. Dolan, D.D.S., M.P.H., professor and dean.
Marc Ottenga joined the college in 2004, having earned his D.D.S. from The Ohio State University in 1980. Just two years later he was voted Teacher of the Year by the students and he also served as Faculty Advisor for the Class of 2009.
Dolan said, “I am very happy that Marc accepted this appointment and am confident his leadership will be of great benefit to the division, department and to the college.”