Pamela Sparks-Stein was appointed dean of the College of Dental Health at the University of Pikeville in Kentucky. Dr. Sparkes-Stein has been serving as division chief of dental public health at the University of Kentucky. Prior to her roles in education, Dr. Sparks-Stein served in private practice in Kentucky for 13 years.
“I am a public health dentist and my heart has a passion for helping vulnerable and underserved populations,” said Dr. Sparks-Stein. “My years of working with grants and projects in Eastern Kentucky have shown me there are so many wonderful partners who are willing to help, making it a great place to forge partnerships that will allow us to make a true impact in Central Appalachia. I’m thrilled to be part of the UPIKE family and I cannot wait to get started. When I stepped on campus, I had the sense that this is where I belong.”
Burton Webb, president of the University of Pikeville stated that “among several strong candidates, Dr. Sparks-Stein stood out for her incredible alignment to the mission of the University of Pikeville. Her compassion and empathy will help her create the kind of dental school where care for the underserved is central to our identity, where the health of the public is paramount, and where quality care is an absolute necessity.”
Dr. Sparks-Stein holds a master of public health degree and a doctor of dental medicine degree from the University of Kentucky.