01/10/2025
Our heartfelt condolences 💐 goes out to Dr. Sinkford a pioneer in the world of Dentistry for us as black women dentists. She was the first female dean of a U.S. dental school and trailblazer in her own regard certainly.
May God welcome her into his kingdom and tell her “job well done my child!” 🙏🏾
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It is with heavy hearts that the National Dental Association acknowledges the passing of Dr. Jeanne Craig Sinkford, a towering figure in the field of dentistry and a trailblazer whose legacy will continue to inspire generations to come. As the first female dean of a U.S. dental school and a passionate advocate for equity in healthcare, Dr. Sinkford broke through barriers with grace, intelligence, and unwavering commitment. Her extraordinary leadership at Howard University College of Dentistry and her decades-long impact on dental education reshaped the profession to be more inclusive and forward-thinking.
Dr. Sinkford’s contributions extended far beyond her academic accolades. She was a mentor, a visionary, and a fierce advocate for women and underrepresented minorities in the dental profession. Her work with the American Dental Education Association and her guidance in shaping national health policy opened doors for countless individuals who might otherwise have been overlooked. Her commitment to excellence and justice earned her numerous honors, but it was her humility and integrity that truly defined her legacy.
As we remember Dr. Sinkford, we celebrate not only her remarkable achievements but also the lives she touched with her wisdom, compassion, and dedication. The National Dental Association mourns this profound loss, yet we are comforted in knowing that her pioneering spirit will live on through every student she inspired, every barrier she dismantled, and every future leader she paved the way for. Her legacy is one of courage, brilliance, and service — a lasting gift to the profession and the world.
