05 August 2025

---

Celebrating Years of Dedication

---

Rutgers School of Dental Medicine (RSDM) held its annual Employee Recognition Event to recognize faculty and staff who have been part of our community for years and celebrate their outstanding achievements.

This year, two faculty members, Pamela L. Alberto, associate professor of oral and maxillofacial surgery, and Andrew I. Brafman, associate professor of restorative dentistry, celebrated 45 years at the school. Among our staff members, Carmen Logatto, management assistant at the Oral Biology Department, and James Mcintosh, director of facilities administration, celebrated their 30 years.

The school’s Team Award was presented to Director of Enrollment Services Tracy Chacon, Management Assistant Lillian Vega, and Executive Assistant Kenneth Wolpin. This trio was honored for their dedication and responsiveness in enhancing the student experience. They play a vital role in organizing key events such as the White Coat Ceremony and Convocation, as well as initiatives that foster connection among faculty and staff.

Monica Williams-Riley, senior management assistant in the Office of the Chief Operating Officer (COO), received the Collaboration Award. Although she primarily supports the COO, she extends her assistance across the school, working closely with the Office of Research, Dean’s Office, Student Affairs, and Alumni Relations. Her welcoming nature makes her a dependable and beloved colleague within the RSDM community.

Cheila Garcia, administrative coordinator, was selected for the Customer Service Award. Nominated by her colleagues, Garcia is a role model, who represents professionalism and excellence. With 24 years at RSDM, she has been integral to the seamless operation of the school’s extramural clinics.

Associate Professor of Diagnostic Sciences and Clinical Affairs John Moran received the New Jersey Health Foundation’s Excellence in Teaching Award. Moran oversees approximately 60 third- and fourth-year predoctoral students as a Group Practice Administrator. He ensures a comprehensive clinical experience for our students, guiding them to “on-time” graduation with the necessary skills while embodying professionalism and sincere care for our patients.

Georgios Kotsakis, professor of oral biology and assistant dean for clinical research, was awarded the New Jersey Health Foundation’s Excellence in Research Award. His groundbreaking research explores the complex interactions between the immune system, oral bacteria, and dental biomaterials in peri-implantitis. With over 100 peer-reviewed publications and more than 30,000 citations, Dr. Kotsakis is among the few dental researchers published in top-tier medical journals such as The Lancet and PNAS. He also serves as Associate Editor for the Journal of Periodontology.

Author: Kardelen Koldas

Source: https://sdm.rutgers.edu/