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Honoring the Life and Legacy of Dr. James E. Lassiter, Jr.
Past President, National Dental Association
First President, National Dental Association Foundation
The National Dental Association family
mourns the passing of Dr. James E. Lassiter, Jr., a dedicated leader, educator,
and advocate whose service to the profession and to our Association leaves a lasting legacy.
A proud graduate of Howard University, Dr. Lassiter earned his Bachelor
of Arts Degree in 1956 and his Doctor of Dental Science Degree from the
Howard University College of Dentistry. He went on to shape generations
of oral health professionals, remaining actively involved in training dental
students at the College of Dentistry in Newark and at Farleigh Dickinson
University of Dentistry, preparing them to become highly qualified
dentists.
Dr. Lassiter served as President of the National Dental Association from
1978–1979 and made history as the first President of the National Dental
Association Foundation (NDAF) when it was reactivated in 1976 as
a 501(c)(3) non-profit entity organized to pursue charitable, educational,
and scientific research. His leadership in both organizations reflected his
vision for advancing oral health equity and ensuring that future
generations of African American dentists would have opportunities to
lead, serve, and innovate.
His professional contributions extended far beyond the NDA. Prior to
becoming a consultant to the Colgate-Palmolive Company, the Head Start
Program, the Job Corps, and the Medicaid Utilization and Review
Committee, he served as a consultant to the W. K. Kellogg
Foundation and the Congressional Black Caucus Braintrust. Through
these roles, he advanced oral health policy, expanded access to care,
and championed underserved communities across the nation.
Dr. Lassiter will be remembered not only for his professional
achievements but also for his mentorship, his advocacy, and his deep
commitment to service. The National Dental Association extends its
heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, colleagues, and all who were
touched by his remarkable life.
His legacy will continue to guide the work of the NDA and NDAF for
generations to come.
“My grandfather, Dr. James E. Lassiter, Jr., loved the National Dental Association—
he loved the people, and he loved the entire family of organizations that make up
this great institution. His dedication to our profession and our community has always
inspired me. As I mourn his passing, I am committed to carrying forward his legacy,
making him proud, and ensuring that the Lassiter name continues to shine in the
future of dentistry."
~ Dr. Josh Tyson, Speaker of the House, National Dental Association
“Dr. Lassiter was both a dear friend and a trusted mentor to me. His wisdom,
encouragement, and example profoundly shaped my own path in dentistry and
leadership. We honor his memory by continuing the work he so passionately began."
~ Dr. John E. Maupin Jr., President, National Dental Association Foundation.
"As President of the National Dental Association, I join our NDA family in honoring
the extraordinary life and legacy of Dr. James E. Lassiter, Jr. Dr. Lassiter was more
than a past president—he was a bearer breaker, a mentor, and an advocate for
equity in oral health. His visionary leadership helped shape the NDAF and opened
doors for countless African American dental professionals. A proud Howard alumnus
and lifelong educator, Dr. Lassiter poured his heart into lifting others, always with a
deep sense of purpose and service. His legacy continues to inspire our work, and we
remain forever grateful for his enduring contributions to our profession and our
community."
~ Dr. Cheryle Baptiste, President, National Dental Association