E. Gordon Gee President at West Virginia University | Official website
E. Gordon Gee President at West Virginia University | Official website
Construction will begin next year on a significant expansion and renovation project for the West Virginia University School of Dentistry. This initiative is partially funded by a $12.6 million award from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
The project involves approximately 50,000 square feet at the Health Sciences Center on WVU's Morgantown Campus, which has remained largely unchanged since the school's founding in 1957. The facility has been redesigned to meet modern needs through collaboration with WVU Facilities Management and SmithGroup, an international architectural design firm.
In September, the WVU Board of Governors approved the first phase of this capital improvement project following the award appropriation. The aim is to modernize and unify facilities to enhance oral health education and patient care for West Virginians and beyond.
Dr. Stephen Pachuta, dean of the WVU School of Dentistry, expressed gratitude: “We are incredibly grateful for those who have helped bring this project to fruition, including our generous donors and Sens. Shelley Moore Capito and Joe Manchin, President Gordon Gee and Dr. Clay Marsh.” He emphasized that this support allows them "to create a state-of-the-art environment that facilitates excellence in education, patient care and research."
In 2021, an initial $1.5 million renovation improved various aspects such as radiology services at the Urgent Care Clinic. Future renovations are planned in two phases.
Phase one will focus on modernizing clinics like Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics while upgrading essential systems like heating and ventilation. Completion is expected before Fall 2026.
Caroline Cartwright, a Doctor of Dental Surgery student from Huntington, shared her excitement: “Working in these new facilities during my final year will significantly enhance my practical skills.”
Phase two will address areas such as surgical suites and specialty clinics.
WVU’s dental school offers various programs addressing workforce shortages in West Virginia and nationwide. It integrates with WVU Dental to provide comprehensive oral health care.
Dr. Pachuta noted: “This renovation project will ultimately enhance student education to the benefit of patients statewide.”
Those interested in supporting can contact Director of Development Karen Coombs or donate online at give.wvu.edu/dentistry.
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