The University of Kentucky College of Dentistry Distinguished Alumnus of the Year Award for 2015 was awarded to Mark Davis, DMD. Davis, a 1967 UKCD graduate, received many nominations from classmates and peers, as well as from his daughter and fellow UKCD alum, Dr. Lea Wheeler.

For over 30 years, Davis practiced comprehensive reconstructive implant and cosmetic dentistry in Clearwater, Florida. From 1983 through 1991, he returned to UKCD to serve in a faculty role and lecture on implant and restorative dentistry. 

Davis has served in numerous elected and appointed positions in many dental organizations, including editor of the first edition of the Journal of the American Dental Association dedicated to implant dentistry published in 1990 and president of the American Board of Implantology in 2000. 

A recipient of the Aaron Gershkoff Award in 2008 from the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, he was recognized with the Academy's highest award, presented each year to one individual for outstanding contributions to the advancement of implant dentistry. Davis is a Diplomate, examiner, and past President of the American Board of Oral Implantology, which is the national board in dentistry that tests for the highest level of competence in the area of Implant Dentistry.

“Recognition as the recipient of the University of Kentucky College of Dentistry 2015 Distinguished Alumnus of the Year is a greatly appreciated honor and validates my lifelong professional career effort to practice dentistry based on principles taught by the founding faculty,” shared Davis. “The University of Kentucky College of Dentistry is a special place, and I was most fortunate to be a student at a special time in the history of the school. I am grateful for the gifts UKCD provided me and must mention the tremendous support of my wife Karen and her work in our practice that made this award possible.” 

The Distinguished Alumnus of the Year Award began 11 years ago to honor UKCD graduates who display community leadership, excellence and merit in the profession of dentistry, and loyalty to their college. Award recipients are selected by members of the UK College of Dentistry Alumni Association.

“The Alumni Association takes great pride in honoring a distinguished alum every year at the Fall Symposium.  When we read through the CVs of candidates and recommendation letters of their nominating peers, we are continually in awe of what great achievements UKCD graduates have accomplished during their careers,” said UK College of Dentistry Alumni Association President Michael Day (UKCD, ’03). “We have an amazing group of alumni from UKCD to be proud of, who have gone on to great things!”