Michael A. Landers—Alumni Award recipient

Few individuals have shaped the fabric of Case Western Reserve University School of Dental Medicine quite like Michael A. Landers, DDS (DEN ’76). This year’s Special Recognition Award—presented to those who have made exceptional and lasting contributions to the school—recognizes Dr. Landers, professor emeritus in the Department of Oral & Maxillofacial Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences, for more than 50 years of academic excellence, student mentorship and innovative contributions to the field.

Before attending CWRU School of Dental Medicine, Dr. Landers earned a Master of Arts from The Ohio State University, with a concentration in anatomy, physiology and neuroscience. This education laid the groundwork for him to begin teaching during his second semester as a dental student. He joined the faculty immediately after graduating from CWRU in 1976. Building on this early commitment, he led educational innovation by helping establish the school's original simulation clinic, integrating the DentSim virtual reality system and earning awards for his research in digital simulation. He later co-developed holographic neuroanatomical models for the HoloLens, including the virtual skull used for the "Jaws in Motion" application.

In addition to his clinical and technological contributions, Dr. Landers demonstrated a lifelong commitment to organized dentistry and student support. From 1982 to 2023, he served as the undergraduate faculty advisor, guiding generations of dental students. He also held key leadership roles as president of the Upsilon Chapter of Omicron Kappa Upsilon (OKU) and as a national board member of the American Dental Education Association (ADEA).

This dedication and impact led Theresa Roma Jasinevicius, DDS, MEd, associate professor in the Department of Comprehensive Care, to nominate Dr. Landers for the honor.

“Michael demonstrated his collegial nature even as a first-year dental student,” Jasinevicius said, recalling how he volunteered to tutor their entire first-year class in anatomy. “His leadership, passion for teaching, and unwavering commitment to excellence make him a deserving candidate for this special recognition. Even when health issues arose, he participated in university committee meetings from his hospital bed.”