SIU SDM Announces New Executive Roles and Team Members

SIU SDM Announces New Executive Roles and Team Members

May 1, 2024, 10:17 AM

The most recent additions to the SIU School of Dental Medicine's executive team are Barbara McCracken, PhD and Nathalia Garcia, DDS, MS. Both faculty members are originating the positions of Assistant Dean for Research and Assistant Dean for Career Development respectively. Saulius Drukteinis, DMD, MS, PhD, and Dean at SIU SDM noted that these positions will be critical to the continued growth and progress of the School of Dental Medicine (SIU SDM).

"We are particularly fortunate to have such talented and dedicated faculty right here at SIU SDM who continue to serve and achieve exceptional successes," said Drukteinis. "As a campus community, we are so proud of Dr. McCracken and Dr. Garcia, and we are grateful for all that they do for the School and the University. With these two exceptional faculty members in these new leadership roles, we are extremely excited for what lies ahead for the School and our students."

As Assistant Dean for Research, McCracken's primary responsibilities will include oversight of all SDM research activities, including the implementation and organization of student research programs. She will also work toward the continuous quality improvement of SIU SDM research infrastructure, research development and research compliance.

Additionally, McCracken will be asked to seek funding support and to foster collaboration for research initiatives involving basic science, clinical science, and educational research. She will also help facilitate the engagement of faculty, students and residents in International Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research / American Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research, as well as other research organizations.

"I am truly excited about the possibilities ahead for research at the School of Dental Medicine. Increasing opportunities for students to engage in research fosters critical thinking and engagement with scientific literature that helps them connect evidence and what they see in the clinic," said McCracken. "Furthermore, I am excited to facilitate and support the research goals of the faculty, both clinical and biomedical, to elevate the research portfolio and reputation of the school."

In her new role as Assistant Dean for Career Development, Garcia will be responsible for the implementation and organization of career development and mentorship programs for faculty and students, as well as identifying educational and development opportunities for staff.

Garcia will also work to establish pathways to dental school for undergraduate students interested in careers in dentistry, especially for those who are presently underrepresented in the profession. Garcia will bring considerable experience to this role, having been actively involved in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. Her work includes serving the American Dental Education Association (ADEA) as the co-chair of the Diversity and Advisory Committee, Chair of the Women in Leadership Section, and a member of the Task Force on Envisioning and Transforming the Future of Oral Health and Education. She is also a certified trainer for the IMPACT Academy at SIUE.

"Advancing our students, faculty, and staff is at the heart of our mission. I am committed to evolving strategies that will effectively mentor, support, and empower the members of SIU SDM, all while fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment that encourages innovation, development, and an increased sense of belonging," said Garcia. "I also aim to generate awareness of our students, faculty and staff successes and leverage resources from the University and professional organizations to help each individual achieve their professional aspirations and personal growth."

McCracken will continue to teach in the section of microbiology and Garcia will continue to teach in the section of periodontics. Garcia will also continue her duties as Chair of Applied Dental Medicine and Section Head of Periodontics through June 30.

PHOTOS: Barbara McCracken, PhD, SIU SDM Assistant Dean for Research; Nathalia Garcia, DDS, MS, SIU SDM Assistant Dean for Career Development