Dean John A. Valenza, DDS, shares School of Dentistry retirement plans

After nearly four decades of unwavering dedication to the success of UTHealth Houston School of Dentistry and its students, John A. Valenza, DDS, announced today his plans to retire at the end of the fiscal year, effective Aug. 31, 2026.

Although I’ve had the privilege of working alongside Dean Valenza for only a short time, his reputation as a visionary leader, educator, and innovator is well known across our community and beyond.

From his early days on the faculty—where he started and directed a new general practice residency program, served as clinical dean and later as executive associate dean—to his transformative tenure as dean, he has consistently championed the UTHealth Houston mission.

Under his leadership—starting as interim dean in 2009 before being appointed to the permanent role in 2011—the school ranked No. 1 in Texas and No. 10 in the nation for research funding, and has been celebrated for its world-class facilities and excellence in high-quality education, clinical care, discovery, dental technology, and service.

True to form, Dean Valenza has made it clear that he has no intention of slowing down in the months ahead. He remains deeply focused on advancing the school’s vision—Improving Oral Health … Improving Overall Health—and will continue to work closely with me and others to ensure a smooth, thoughtful leadership transition.

In the coming weeks, we will launch a national search for the next dean of UTHealth Houston School of Dentistry. A search committee will be convened to identify exceptional candidates who will build upon Dean Valenza’s legacy. 

In this personal message, Dean Valenza reflects on his decision to retire and shares his optimism for what is to come. I encourage you to take a moment to read his reflections, and to join me in thanking Dean Valenza for his extraordinary leadership, strategic focus, and impact. As a proud alumnus, he has helped shape the school into the powerhouse it is today—an enduring story of service that will continue to inspire future generations.

As we look ahead, I share Dean Valenza’s excitement. Together, we will honor the past, embrace the present, and boldly shape the future of UTHealth Houston School of Dentistry.

Melina R. Kibbe, MD

President and Alkek-Williams Distinguished Chair