Each month an active member of our AAE Connection Community will be highlighted.
Say hello to Dr. @Stephen J. Clark
Position: I teach full-time at the University of Louisville and am the Director of the Endodontic Post-graduate Program.
Career Highlights: I’m a graduate of the University of Kentucky (both DMD degree and endodontic certificate). I practiced full-time in endodontics in Louisville for 23 years and have been a full-time faculty member at the University of Louisville for over 20 years. I became board certified 26 years after I completed my graduate program and was extremely fortunate to have the opportunity to serve on the American Board of Endodontics for two 3-year terms followed by several years as Counselor. I still participate on the Written Examination Committee and serve as an Oral examiner. The privilege to work with the Directors and staff of the ABE has been a blessing.
Why Endodontics: I wanted to be an orthodontist when I went to dental school but didn’t like either the specialty or my advisor who was an orthodontist. The two endodontic faculty, Drs. Tom Mullaney and Ron Duell, were exceptional teachers and mentors and I grew to love what they taught.
Best Piece of Career Advice: Enjoy your practice. Don’t worry too much about production. Relationships with your patients, referring doctors, and staff should be a rewarding part of your career.
Endo Challenge: After 23 years, I transitioned to full-time teaching and one day/week practice. It was a transition that I’ve never regretted. Endodontic education has been very rewarding for me.
Reason for Becoming an AAE member: Not joining was never an option for me. The AAE was always a “must” for membership.
Fun Fact: Working out with a trainer twice/week and tennis 2-3 times/week are my hobbies. Sanibel, FL is our favorite vacation destination.
Community Question: Won’t you consider volunteering at the closest dental school or your alma mater to help those teaching endodontics to the next generation of general dentists and specialists? It will be one of the most rewarding activities that you can do.
If you have a member you would like to recommend, please email your submission to communityadmin@aae.org