Kenneth B. Chance, DDS (DEN β79)
Kenneth B. Chance, DDS (DEN β79), former 2004 recipient of the Distinguished Alumnus Award, is being honored with the 2025 Special Recognition Award for his twenty years of distinguished leadership service to Case ΒιΆΉΣ³» and the School of Dental Medicine. Dr. Chanceβs unwavering commitment to excellence, innovation, and community service has not only transformed the dental education landscape but has also left an indelible mark on the institution and the broader dental community.
As the first dentist elected to the CWRU Board of Trustees and later as Dean of the School of Dental Medicine, Dr. Chance has been a beacon of leadership, guiding the school through significant milestones and challenges. His leadership has been instrumental in raising $81.8 million through the schoolβs largest fundraising campaign, facilitating the design and construction of the Health Education Campus, and implementing cutting-edge technologies such as HoloLens mixed-reality software and Yomi robotic systems. During the pandemic, Dr. Chance navigated the complexities with grace and determination, ensuring the continuity of education and patient care while prioritizing the health and safety of students, faculty and patients.
Under Dr. Chanceβs stewardship, the School of Dental Medicine has continued to attract the best and brightest students, with the Class of 2027 setting new academic benchmarks. The schoolβs strategic initiatives, including the launch of βThe Business of Dental Educationβ strategic plan, the $2.6 million Simulation Clinic upgrade, and the integration of digital dentistry technology, reflect a commitment to excellence and innovation. Moreover, the expansion of community outreach programs provided over $5 million in dental care to 35,000 patients last year alone, underscoring the schoolβs dedication to serving the community.
Dr. Chanceβs contributions extend beyond academia, with life fellowships in prestigious organizations such as the American and International College of Dentists, Pierre Fauchard Academy, and the Academy of Political Science. His service as past president of the Supreme Chapter of Omicron Kappa Upsilon, the National Dental Honor Society, a Pew National Dental Leadership Fellow and a Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Health Policy Fellow and board member, further highlight his commitment to advancing dental health, professionalism and policy.
The Dean Kenneth B. Chance, DDS Endowed Distinguished Lectureship, established in 2021, is a testament to Dr. Chanceβs legacy. This lectureship series showcases distinguished leaders discussing emerging topics to foster interdisciplinary dialogue and collaboration across the health sciences. Dr. Chanceβs impact on the School of Dental Medicine and the broader dental community is immeasurable, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of dental professionals.