Ann Arbor, MI - December 16, 2008 - Dr. Jose Vivas, a clinical assistant professor of dentistry, received the Instructor of the Year Award for 2007-2008 from the Michigan Section of the Pierre Fauchard Academy during its recent meeting.

Dr. Jose Vivas receives the Pierre Fauchard Academy's Instructor of the Year award from the chair of the organization's Michigan section, Dr. Edward Hirsch.

The award is presented to dental faculty members who have been recognized by the instructor's academic colleagues for their outstanding contributions to dental education. Vivas, who has been with the U-M School of Dentistry since 1997, teaches dental anatomy to first-year dental students in the School's preclinical laboratory, restorative dentistry in the graduate restorative clinic, and to students in the International Training Dental Program.

"It's an honor to receive this award from this prestigious academy, especially since it was bestowed by dedicated colleagues who have spent their professional lives serving others," Vivas said.

The Pierre Fauchard Academy is an international dental organization dedicated to the advancement of the dental profession. Its members are individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the science and art of dentistry.

The University of Michigan School of Dentistry is one of the nation's leading dental schools engaged in oral health care education, research, patient care, and community service. General dental care clinics and specialty clinics providing advanced treatment enable the School to offer dental services and programs to patients throughout Michigan. Classroom and clinic instruction prepare future dentists, dental specialists, and dental hygienists for practice in private offices, hospitals, academia, and public agencies. Research seeks to discover and apply new knowledge that can help patients worldwide. For more information about the School of Dentistry, visit us on the Web at: www.dent.umich.edu.

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