For Justin Norbo, D.D.S., (D.D.S. ‘10)  the pathway to dentistry was introduced by his father. Kirk Norbo, D.M.D., is a former president of the Virginia Dental Association (2012-2013) and former adjunct faculty member at VCU School of Dentistry.

Although his father never pushed him to be a dentist, Norbo found himself fascinated by both the science and craft of dentistry as well as the ability to help others.

“My father has been the most influential person in my professional life,” Norbo said. “I was able to see firsthand how he was able to help people and serve the public through his work.”

Norbo graduated from VCU School of Dentistry in 2010. As a student, he recalled the plethora of opportunities available to him for mentorship and experience. Like his father, he wanted to do more than just treat patients in private practice. He wanted to use his skills to not only advance the profession, but serve the community.

“I believe that as dentists we are leaders of our communities,” Norbo said. “As a leader, you lead by example. What better way to lead than to take care of your community and neighbors through volunteership?”

The Missions of Mercy project played a significant role in Norbo’s dental education. He recalled volunteering at every opportunity he had. Not only did he fulfill his desire to help underserved communities, but he also was able to hone his skills and work directly with practicing dentists across the state.

“To volunteer at MOM projects as a dental student was invaluable,” Norbo said. “It was a unique setting and opportunity to begin practicing the skills and procedures learned within the walls of the dental school while providing care to patients in need in those rural areas.”

Missions of Mercy recently celebrated its 25th anniversary. Founded by Terry Dickinson, D.D.S., former executive director of the Virginia Dental Association, the Virginia Dental Association Foundation has provided free dental care to thousands of patients across Virginia and inspired similar initiatives across the country. Since the start of the project, VCU School of Dentistry has proudly provided faculty, staff and student volunteers, many of whom continue to volunteer post-graduation.

“To this day, I still give back whenever and wherever possible. I feel that this should be our obligation as dentists and leaders in the community… to give back,” Norbo said.

Dental school is not without its challenges. Finding mentors during school shaped his education and mindset in many ways. He fondly recalled working closely with dentists that inspired him both in school and outside of it at events such as Missions of Mercy and external rotations. Post-graduation, Norbo was able to find a similar source of community and mentorship by joining the VDA.

“I’ve been involved with the VDA since I graduated because the people I wanted to be surrounded with and continue to learn from were the ones who got involved,” Norbo said. “I take pride in being able to serve as a mentor to the next generation as well.”

A dedication to serving and giving back through oral healthcare culminated in Norbo’s election as VDA president, following once again in his father’s footsteps. He was installed as president during the VDA Dental Showcase in September 2024. 

“This role comes with a lot of responsibility,” Norbo said. “We have a wonderful staff who I always feel supported by. I’m confident that we will be able to accomplish wonderful things together.”

As VDA president, Norbo expressed his goals of advocating for the profession on a legislative level, continuing dental education and addressing the nationwide workforce shortage in oral health care. Above all, he hopes to continue to uphold the reputation of the dental profession.

“Dentistry is a well respected profession and because of that, much is expected of us as dentists,” Norbo said.  “To continue the esteemed reputation of our profession it is necessary to take care of one another whenever possible.”

In addition to his advocacy work, Norbo currently owns and operates Norbo Dental, PLLC, a private practice in Purcellville, Virginia. The practice was founded and previously owned by his father. Justin Norbo became partners with his father in Norbo Dental in 2012 until Kirk Norbo's retirement in the summer of 2024, where Dr. Justin remains the owner. It’s another testament to the impact and example that a father set for his son.

As a practice owner, Norbo focuses on creating a safe and welcoming environment for his patients.

“Patients don’t remember what you say, but how you make them feel,” Norbo said. “My practice is not about me, but the patients’ experience.”