Rodriguez wins Scott McClanahan Full-Time Educator Award
Carolina Rodriguez, DDS, MS, has been named as the 2025 Foundation for Endodontics' Dr. Scott B. McClanahan Full-Time Educator Award—named for the former University faculty member. Rodriguez, a clinical associate professor and director of undergraduate endodontics, was chosen as a full-time educator who embodies excellence for students while making significant contributions to her institution and the specialty of endodontics.
The award has special significance for Rodriguez, a University alumna who describes McClanahan as one of the most influential figures in her life and career. “To receive an award that bears his name is deeply personal and incredibly meaningful to me,” she said. “He was not only my program director during residency, but also a true mentor and father figure to me. His guidance, high standards and unwavering belief in doing what's best for patients and his students continue to shape the way I practice and teach today.” At the University, she earned a Master of Science degree and Certificate in Endodontics, along with a certificate in Oral Health Services for Older Adults.
Throughout her career, Rodriguez has made significant contributions to the curriculum at the School of Dentistry. “I’ve had the privilege of shaping the foundational endodontic education that our students receive,” she said. “I take great pride in continuously evolving the curriculum to better prepare students for real-world practice. I emphasize teaching a variety of techniques, rather than a one-size-fits-all approach, so students are exposed to different methods and technologies. My goal has always been to create a learning environment that is both rigorous and supportive, where students are challenged to think critically and empowered to succeed.”
Rodriguez’s thesis and published article focused on irrigation and enhancing the effectiveness of irrigation techniques while maintaining safety and minimizing the risk of hypochlorite accidents. Her interests have recently expanded to include vital pulp therapy and the wide range of materials being developed and studied for its application. “I see this as a field I’d like to explore further, particularly as new biomaterials and techniques continue to emerge,” she said. “It’s an area where clinical innovation and scientific discovery are closely linked, and I’m eager to contribute to its advancement in the near future and to be able to make it available for my undergraduate students.”
As she reflects on the award, Rodriguez said, “I’ve been genuinely honored and humbled. Being recognized by my peers and the Foundation for Endodontics is incredibly meaningful. It’s one thing to be committed to your work, but it’s deeply validating to know others see and value that commitment.” As she considers her role as a dentist and educator, she said, “I have the privilege of teaching and mentoring future dentists, which allows me to combine clinical expertise with academic leadership. Endodontics has given me a rewarding and dynamic career path, and I’m grateful for the many opportunities I’ve had to grow within this specialty.”