Claire Coleman, DDS, DMD, selected as 2025 awardee of Kramer Scholar Award

Claire Coleman, DDS, DMD, a graduate of the periodontics residency program at the School of Dentistry, has been named the 2025 Dr. and Mrs. Gerald M. Kramer Scholar Award for Excellence recipient by the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) Foundation.

“It’s an honor to be recognized with the Kramer Scholar Award. Receiving this award is a testament to all of my amazing faculty who provided constant guidance and encouragement throughout residency. Receiving this award serves as motivation to continue to pursue excellence in my private practice career,” said Coleman.

The Kramer Scholar Award is among the most prestigious honors in periodontology, recognizing individuals who demonstrate motivation for excellence in both character and academic achievement. Selection is based on integrity, leadership, community involvement and concern for the needs of others. The award honors the legacy of Dr. Gerald M. Kramer, an internationally renowned practitioner, teacher and lecturer who championed continuing education and excellence in dentistry.

Coleman is the 11th graduate from the School of Dentistry to receive this honor and the third consecutive recipient from the program, following Julia Lacy, DMD, MS, in 2023 and Francis L. Keeling, DDS, in 2024.

“Never before has one program produced three consecutive Kramer Scholars. This is not a coincidence, it is the level and quality of our graduates, their hard work and dedication to achieve excellence that gives us this tremendous recognition. Our residents are the best in the country,” said Angela Palaiologou-Gallis, DDS, MS, professor and program director of the periodontics residency program.

Coleman’s recognition highlights both her individual achievements and the program’s tradition of preparing graduates who embody the highest standards of the profession.