February 8, 2010

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. - The University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) School of Dentistry has established the Dr. John B. Thornton Endowed Support Fund for Pediatric Dentistry in the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) School of Dentistry. The action was approved by the University of Alabama System Board of Trustees at its Feb. 5 meeting.

The fund will be used to support residents in the Department of Pediatric Dentistry who engage in the community outreach programs of the school to bring pediatric dental care to underserved areas through clinics and screening programs throughout Alabama.

A native of Birmingham, Thornton received his bachelor's degree in chemistry from the University of Alabama in 1968 and his Doctor of Dental Medicine from the UAB School of Dentistry in 1972. He has served as chairman of the Department of Pediatric Dentistry, director of community outreach for the School of Dentistry and director of the post-graduate program in pediatric dentistry.

About the UAB School of Dentistry

The UAB School of Dentistry maintains a national reputation for excellence. In addition to its professional degree program leading to the doctorate of dentistry, the school offers accredited postdoctoral programs in eight areas of study.