Leadership Change at Georgia School of Orthodontics

Students learning orthodontics at Georgia School

News Summary

The Georgia School of Orthodontics welcomes Dr. Cintia Mendes as the new Program Director. With 18 years of experience and the launch of the John Lewis Legacy Scholarships, GSO is poised for exciting developments in orthodontic education.

Exciting Changes at Georgia School of Orthodontics

Atlanta, GA – There’s some thrilling news coming from the Georgia School of Orthodontics (GSO), the largest orthodontic residency program in the world! If you’re interested in orthodontics or just curious about how education is evolving in this field, you’ll want to read on!

Dr. Cintia Mendes Takes the Helm

In a significant leadership change, Dr. Cintia Mendes has officially stepped up as the new Program Director at GSO. Coming aboard as the Assistant Program Director only a few months ago in March 2024, Dr. Mendes has truly hit the ground running. With 18 years of clinical and academic experience under her belt, she is all set to guide the next generation of orthodontic specialists.

Before joining GSO, Dr. Mendes successfully managed her own orthodontic practice in Virginia, showing her impressive versatility in the field. Quite notably, she also spent a decade in Rio de Janeiro, where she served as both Program Director and professor at a local orthodontic residency. That’s a lot of background and expertise to bring to an already incredible institution!

Deep Clinical Knowledge

Dr. Mendes isn’t just a number cruncher or someone who stays in the classroom. Her actual hands-on experience covers a wide array of specialties, including treatments for cleft lip and palate, various syndromic cases, and care for special needs children. Her rich background not only enhances her ability to lead, but it makes her a beacon of hope and knowledge for students and patients alike.

The President and Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Randy Kluender, couldn’t be happier with this choice. He emphasizes that her commitment to orthodontic education and her passion for patient care make her an exemplary leader as she takes on this new role.

Impressive Credentials

Dr. Mendes is a proud Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics, showcasing her mastery in the field. She earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery, master’s degree, and Ph.D. in orthodontics from the Bauru Dental School at the University of São Paulo. Additionally, she completed a rigorous Certificate in Orthodontics through the Orthodontic Residency Program at MedStar Washington Hospital Center. With such a solid foundation, students can feel confident learning from her.

Expanding Opportunities: The John Lewis Legacy Scholarships

Along with this excellent news about Dr. Mendes, GSO is also excited to announce the launch of the John Lewis Legacy Scholarships. This initiative is set to provide a whopping $8.5 million in scholarships, which were established in partnership with the John and Lillian Miles Lewis Foundation. Talk about paving the path for future orthodontists!

The scholarships aim to honor the contributions of late Congressman John Lewis, a champion of equality and education. Over the next 12 years, these funds will assist 141 orthodontic residents—that’s a lot of aspiring orthodontists getting the chance to shine under this generous initiative! The first wave of scholarship recipients will begin their educational journey in August 2025, starting with an initial cohort of three students.

What’s Next for GSO?

As GSO embarks on this exciting new chapter with Dr. Mendes at the helm and the John Lewis Legacy Scholarships on the horizon, there’s a palpable sense of enthusiasm around the school. The 36-month advanced specialty education program in orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics aims not only to produce skilled practitioners but to foster collaborative and evidence-based learning. It’s a win-win for students and future patients alike!

In summary, with leadership changes and new scholarship opportunities, the Georgia School of Orthodontics is making headlines not just as an educational institute, but as a place that values community, education, and the future of orthodontics.