VCU School of Dentistry has named Sharon K. Lanning, D.D.S., as senior associate dean for academic affairs, effective July 10. 

Lanning has been a faculty member at VCU School of Dentistry since 2004. She currently serves as professor and chair of the Department of Periodontics. In addition to her work for periodontics, Lanning is the Director for the Health Professions Faculty Development Initiative, a program aimed at enhancing teaching of faculty across campus.  

Education has always been a passion and focus of study for Lanning. She has conducted studies on how to effectively improve health science education and her work is featured in many peer-reviewed journals.

“I am really excited by the distinct combination of experience and leadership that Dr. Lanning brings to the role of senior associate dean for academic affairs,” said Lyndon Cooper, D.D.S., Ph.D., dean of VCU School of Dentistry. “I believe she will add valuable expertise to our leadership team as we move into our accreditation period. She is also someone who supports interprofessional education and has led an outstanding department here at the School of Dentistry in the past.” 

As senior associate dean for academic affairs, Lanning will serve as the chief academic officer and provide leadership, planning, coordination, management and assessment of educational programs, including our Doctor of Dental Surgery (D.D.S.) curriculum.

She will work collaboratively with the school’s leadership including assistant/associate deans, department chairs, and program directors as well as university and health system colleagues. She aims to support faculty development around teaching excellence and identify opportunities for continued improvement of our academic programs. 

Additionally, Lanning will lead efforts for the upcoming accreditation site visit by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) in the fall of 2025.

“I'm excited to take on the role of senior associate dean for academic affairs, which has been a long-time goal,” said Lanning. “I take great satisfaction in working on curriculum development and assessment to ensure the success of our students. I look forward to building strong relationships with the academic affairs team, faculty, staff, and students to evolve our educational programs.”

While she is excited for the next chapter, Lanning says it is bittersweet.

“I consider the members of the Department of Periodontics my family,” said Lanning. “I'm proud of our talented and dedicated faculty and staff. It's truly rewarding to witness our residents grow into accomplished periodontists. Although I'll still be a part of the department and will teach in the predoctoral program, the day-to-day interactions will be different. I have full confidence that the department will continue to thrive.

Nationally recognized in periodontics, Lanning has served as president of the Virginia Society of Periodontology, chair of the Periodontics Section of the American Dental Education Association and liaison to the Commission on Change and Innovation of the American Dental Education Association. She brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her position at VCU, one that will be well utilized as dean of academic affairs.

Among her achievements are the VCU WISDM Annual Professional Development Award, and American College of Dentists Outstanding Faculty Award.

Lanning’s expansive career started at Canisius College, where she received her B.A. in Biology. She received her D.D.S. at State University of New York at Buffalo, School of Dental Medicine. She also received a certificate in Periodontics from VCU and is board certified with the American Board of Periodontology. 

Hailing from Buffalo, New York, Lanning credits her family for instilling in her a value for education and community. Her grandmother, a Polish immigrant, served as a major influence in her work ethic and tenacity. Buffalo is known as “The City of Good Neighbors”, Lanning said, and she spoke of how fortunate she feels to have carried these values with her throughout her life. She plans to incorporate these values into her role as dean for academic affairs.

Lanning succeeds B. Ellen Byrne, D.D.S., Ph.D., who is retiring after 50 years at VCU as a student, resident, faculty member and academic dean, respectively. While Byrne is retiring from her role as senior associate dean of academic affairs, she will stay on as interim associate dean for student services until the position is filled.

“Dr. Bryne has had a profound impact on various aspects of dental education. Upholding the high standards she has established as an academician and leader within our institution and profession is a significant responsibility. Dr. Byrne has been an exceptional mentor, role model and friend,” said Lanning. “She has been my sounding board, confidant, and a source of invaluable wisdom. Dr. Byrne taught me the importance of resilience, humility, and a sense of humor.  I wish my friend all the best in her pending retirement; Dr. Byrne truly deserves time in her garden and to enjoy being a proud grandmother to Eliza and Henry.”