Tiwari inducted into American College of Dentists

Tamanna Tiwari, MPH, MDS, BDS, Chair of the Department of Primary Dental Care, was inducted into the American College of Dentists on October 24, 2025. 

Founded in 1920, The American College of Dentists is an invitation-only organization that seeks to “advance excellence, ethics, professionalism, and leadership in oral healthcare.” Fellows “must be of good moral character, and have a reputation for ethical conduct and professional standing that is unquestioned. Personality, integrity, education, unselfishness, and high professional ideals as well as freedom from mercenary tendencies shall be considered in evaluating the qualifications of all candidates considered for fellowship.” 

“Selection for Fellowship reflects your exceptional leadership, contributions and dedication within the dental profession and in your community,” shared Robert A Faiella, DMD, MMSc, MBA, president of the American College of Dentists, in the letter notifying Tiwari of her selection. “You will be joining a distinguished group of colleagues, all nominated by two Fellows and reviewed by a committee of highly respected peers.”

Tiwari, who joined the School of Dentistry in July 2025, has dedicated her career to leadership, mentorship and inclusion in the profession. Her pursuit of a Master of Public Health in Global Health Leadership at New York University first introduced Tiwari to public health and, more specifically, public health research. After completing her degree, she received funding to work with Native communities in reservations, Hispanic communities and African immigrant populations. 

“I worked with a lot of diverse populations, and I really enjoyed my work,” she recalled. 

In addition to her service in the community, Tiwari began to serve in organized dentistry—becoming the second president of the International Association for Dental Research’s Women in Science group, Chair of the American Public Health Association’s Oral Health Section and more. 

No matter where she’s serving, Tiwari values her role as a mentor and takes that responsibility seriously. “I’m a true believer in mentoring the next generation: we aren’t going to be doing this forever,” she said. “We want to ensure that the next generation of researchers is nourished and knows how to carry this work forward.” 

Tiwari was honored when Teresa Dolan, DDS, MPH, chief dental officer at Overjet and immediate past president of the American College of Dentists, nominated her. “It feels good to be recognized for doing good work,” she said.

But more important than the recognition, to Tiwari, was what the honor means for the oral health community. “It gives a chance for people like me—people who look different, who are diverse, to bring our thoughts to the table,” she reflected. “I look forward to bringing other people with me—bringing a diverse slate of candidates to the college.”