Kevin Donly, D.D.S., M.S., an experienced researcher and clinician, has been appointed chair of pediatric dentistry at the Health Science Center, effective Feb. 1.
Dr. Donly joined the Health Science Center six years ago and has served the Dental School as director of the pediatric dentistry clinics and post doctoral program director.
Dr. Donly is recognized nationally for leadership. Last year the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) Foundation named Dr. Donly the Pediatric Dentist of the Year. He is a diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, past president of the American Society of Dentistry for Children and previous chair of the Public Information Committee for the AAPD. He has published over 250 chapters, manuscripts and abstracts associated with pediatric dentistry, dental restorative materials research and the clinical utilization of these restorative materials. Included in his research interests are cariology, which deals with the prevention and restoration of tooth decay, fluoride and dental materials.
Dr. Donly is proud of the uniqueness and strengths of the pediatric dentistry department. Recently, the Commission on Dental Accreditation, which operates under the auspices of the American Dental Association, reviewed the pediatric dentistry post-doctoral program and gave an outstanding exit report. The program remarkably received no recommendations – only commendations. Among the commendations, the school was praised for its diversity, community service and facilities.
“We have an unbelievable department,” Dr. Donly explained. “They thought our faculty was extremely strong and loved our facilities. I’m proud to be part of such a successful, dedicated group.”
Dr. Donly is originally from Iowa, where he ran a clinical research center prior to moving to San Antonio. He initially taught for five years at The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston and in 1999 moved from Iowa with his wife, Adriana Segura Donly, D.D.S., M.S., professor of general dentistry at the Health Science Center, and three children.
