Four West Virginia University School of Dentistry faculty and staff members were recently honored for their extraordinary contributions to the School and its students and patients with the WVU Impact Award.
During a school-wide gathering, Dr. Lester Bakos, Jetta Peterkin, Martha Sturms and Dr. Robert “Coach” Wanker were presented with the award by Dean Dr. Stephen Pachuta who noted their sustained superior performance.
The WVU Impact Awards program is designed to honor the extraordinary contributions made by faculty and staff whose commitment to excellence has made a lasting impact on the University.
Dr. Bakos, professor in the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, has served as an oral and maxillofacial surgeon and professor at WVU for more than 45 years following his graduation from the WVU Doctor of Dental Surgery program in 1972 and Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery residency program in 1975.
Peterkin, administrative associate in the Office of Education and Student Affairs, joined the School of Dentistry in March 2023 and provides essential student support in academics and overall well-being, from rural rotation assistance and career services to Commencement planning and wellness activities.
Sturms, senior administrative assistant in the Office of the Dean, began working at WVU in 1974 in the Department of Operative Dentistry. After taking some time away to raise her son, she returned to the School, dedicating nearly 40 years to its students, faculty, staff and patients.
Dr. Wanker, clinical professor in the Department of Periodontics, graduated from the WVU Doctor of Dental Surgery program in 1971 and began teaching part-time at the School while operating his private practice. He has served in various roles, including assistant dean of student and alumni affairs and director of continuing education, for more than 50 years.
Each year, leaders across the University recognize employees or groups of employees with medallions designed and produced by Bear Wood Company. The medallions, adorned with a Flying WV and the state of West Virginia and encircled by the University’s five core values, symbolize the recipients’ outstanding contributions to the University and the state.
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WVU School of Dentistry | WVU Dental