Lincoln Memorial University (LMU) President Jason McConnell, DBA, has announced the appointment of Qi Wang, DDS, as the permanent dean of the Lincoln Memorial University-College of Dental Medicine (LMU-CDM), effective immediately.
Dr. Wang has served as interim dean since May 2024 and brings decades of clinical, academic, and leadership experience to the role. Her appointment follows a distinguished tenure as associate dean for academic affairs at LMU-CDM, where she played a pivotal role in curriculum development, faculty support, and student success initiatives.
“Dr. Wang has earned the respect of her colleagues and the confidence of university leadership through steady, capable leadership,” said McConnell. “I have full faith in her ability to guide an exceptional team and continue building a dental school that not only meets the highest academic standards but also lives out LMU’s mission of service to humanity. The College of Dental Medicine is an essential part of LMU’s future, and we are fortunate to have her at the helm.”
A graduate of Creighton University School of Dentistry, Wang earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree before completing a two-year residency in advanced general dentistry at the University of Missouri–Kansas City. She has held leadership roles at other dental institutions and is an internationally recognized speaker in dental implants. Wang also currently serves as a clinical board examiner.
Prior to joining LMU, Wang practiced in both private and public health settings, gaining broad clinical experience. Since the founding of LMU-CDM, she has played an instrumental role in the college’s development. Her leadership includes serving as Implant Center Director, Associate Dean of Academic Affairs, and overseeing preclinical sciences.
“As dean, I am committed to leading with integrity, advancing excellence in dental education, and fostering a culture of compassion and innovation,” said Wang. “Our graduates will not only transform oral health care but also serve their communities with skill, empathy, and purpose.
LMU-CDM remains a vital part of Lincoln Memorial University’s long-standing commitment to improving health care in Appalachia and beyond. Located in the state-of-the-art LMU Tower in Knoxville, the college is home to both Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry (DMD) and Dental Hygiene (DH) programs. With Dr. Wang’s leadership, LMU-CDM is poised to continue growing as a hub of excellence, preparing students to become leaders in oral health care across the region and the nation.
For more information about LMU-CDM programs, visit dental.LMUnet.edu or contact CollegeofDentalMedicine@LMUnet.edu.