School of Dentistry announces leadership transitions to advance clinical growth, partnerships and alumni engagement
The UT San Antonio School of Dentistry recently announced two key leadership transitions designed to support the school's vision for continued clinical growth, expanded partnerships, alumni affairs and excellence in patient care, education and research.
Scott Stafford, DDS, MBA, has officially transitioned from his role as Associate Dean for Patient Care to serve as Associate Dean for Corporate and Alumni Affairs, and Anibal Diogenes, DDS, PhD, has transitioned from Associate Dean for Special Initiatives to Associate Dean for Clinical Affairs
In Stafford’s new position, he will lead the school's corporate relations, alumni engagement and Continuing Dental Education efforts while focusing on developing new clinical opportunities through corporate and community partnerships.
“As we broaden our reach, we also want to re-establish our connection with our alumni. Our program is now 56 years old, and we have launched the careers of over 7,000 dental professionals. We want to hear their stories, benefit from their experience, and, along the way, perhaps provide the next provider in their practice,” shared Stafford.
Diogenes will provide strategic leadership and oversight at UT Dentistry, located in the Center for Oral Health Care and Research, working closely with departments to advance patient care and support educational initiatives across the clinics. With his new role, he will also continue to serve as chair of the Department of Endodontics.
Diogenes is widely recognized for his contributions to endodontics, research and academic leadership. His work has significantly advanced understanding of dental pain mechanisms and regenerative endodontics, while his leadership has strengthened academic and educational programs throughout the School of Dentistry.
“Dr. Diogenes’s experience as a clinician, researcher and administrator positions him to further enhance clinical operations and patient-centered care across the school's multidisciplinary clinics,” shared Ken Hargreaves, DDS, PhD, dean of the School of Dentistry. "Dr. Stafford's extensive experience and demonstrated strength in business development make him uniquely well-suited for this new role.”
The transition comes at a pivotal time for the School of Dentistry, which is nationally recognized for excellence in oral health education and patient care. Ranked ninth nationally and first in Texas among all dental schools in the United States, according to the 2025 Blue Ridge Institute for Medical Research rankings, the school continues to expand its impact through innovative educational programs, groundbreaking research and a growing clinical enterprise.
These appointments position the School of Dentistry to continue building on its reputation for excellence while creating new opportunities to expand access to care, strengthen partnerships and prepare the next generation of oral health professionals.