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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.