The Board of Trustees of The University of Alabama System approved the appointment of Chung How Kau, B.D.S., M.Sc.D., M.B.A., Ph.D., as the first holder of the endowed professorship named for Dr. Don Speed, a longtime UAB orthodontics faculty member known for his mentorship and dedication to students.
The Don Speed Endowed Professorship for Orthodontics was established to enhance orthodontic education, stimulate continued research, and support the success of future specialists. Kau, professor and chair of the Department of Orthodontics, joined UAB in 2010 and has helped position the department as a hub for advanced orthodontic care and research. Internationally recognized for expertise in craniofacial anomalies and advanced imaging, his clinical specialties include cleft and craniofacial care, orthognathic surgery, and customized digital appliances.
Kau earned his Bachelor of Dental Surgery at the National University of Singapore, received a master’s degree in orthodontics at the University of Wales, College of Medicine, an Executive Master of Business of Administration from the University of Leeds, and a PhD from Cardiff University. He completed a certificate in orthodontics from the University of Alabama at Birmingham and is a diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics.
In 2012, Kau was awarded the King James IV Professorship from the Royal College of Surgeons Edinburgh. He is a fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh, the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow, the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, the American College of Dentists, the International College of Dentists, and the Academy of Medicine. He has authored more than 450 peer-reviewed publications and presentations.
“Dr. Speed’s unwavering integrity and dedication to his students and patients set a standard that continues to inspire all of us at UAB,” Kau said. “This professorship not only honors his remarkable contributions but also helps provide valuable resources to our department to advance our mission.”
Bryant G. “Don” Speed, D.M.D., was a beloved instructor who taught in the UAB Department of Orthodontics. Speed earned his dental degree in 1960 from UAB, where he went on to complete his orthodontic residency in 1965. His first private practice job was as an associate in Daphne, Ala., before establishing his own orthodontic practice in his hometown of Selma, Ala. in 1967.
Speed concurrently taught at UAB for 31 years beginning in 1980 and dedicated much of his career to the orthodontic residents. He also served as the director of the TMJ and Facial Pain Clinic at UAB. In 2010 and 2011 respectively, he retired from private practice and teaching.
“Dr. Speed’s legacy is woven into the fabric of our department,” Kau said. “He was a mentor to so many, and this professorship ensures that his spirit of kindness, integrity, and service continues to guide our work and inspire future generations of orthodontists.”