When I first stepped into the School of Dentistry building to interview with then Dean Dr. Huw Thomas in the Spring of 2004, little did I know I would eventually be offered the job to become the School’s chief development officer. Well, I was offered, and I accepted. The rest as they say is history. Serving as your Executive Director of Development and your University of Alabama School of Dentistry Alumni Association Executive Director has been the most rewarding job of my lifetime. With that said, I have decided to retire from UAB, hopefully leaving the School of Dentistry and the Alumni Association in much better shape.

Dr. Hearn and Scott Huffman Through the years I’ve had the privilege of working with countless alumni, faculty, staff, students and other supporters to help make the School of Dentistry the best among all dental schools. Your contributions, whether they’re your money, time, or expertise have helped the School of Dentistry and the Alumni Association stand out among their peers.

To our alumni, thank you for allowing Susan and me to be a part of your dental family. The relationships we’ve formed will last a lifetime. We fully plan to continue to volunteer our time and money to help our dental family grow and flourish.

Scott Huffman (pictured right) with alumni and staffTo my colleagues within the School of Dentistry, thank you for your support. Your professionalism and drive to maintain the highest standards in dental education are to be applauded. We have had the most caring and competent faculty and staff anywhere. Our students are lucky to have you!

To my staff of Charlene Phillips, Abby Vinson, Cherri West, Kerry Chestnut, Ben Moffatt and others during the past 21 years, thank you for challenging me on a daily basis. You all strive for excellence, always ensuring our alumni and friends get your very best.

The School of Dentistry is in great hands under the leadership of Dr. Nico Geurs. Like other great deans before him, I am confident he will take the School to even greater heights. He is dedicated and has a true passion for leading the organization.

Although I am retiring, I won’t be far away. Susan and I will continue to live in Alabama and we’ll continue to be involved with our dental family. I will continue to look for opportunities to improve access to care and promote academic healthcare. No matter what the next chapter holds, please know we are committed to our dental family for the duration. Feel free to reach out to me anytime.

Sincerely,

J. Scott Huffman, CFRE