University of Maryland School of Dentistry

Associate Dean for Organizational Wellness and Engagement: Dr. Dawn Roberts

Dr. Dawn Roberts joined the University of Maryland School of Dentistry as the Associate Dean for the newly established Office of Organizational Wellness and Engagement on July 1, 2025. She also holds a faculty appointment as Assistant Professor in the Department of Public Health. Dr. Roberts brings a wealth of experience in student affairs, wellness, diversity, and leadership, with a commitment to creating an inclusive and supportive environment for all members of the university community.

Educational Background:

Dr. Roberts earned her Doctor of Education (EdD) in Educational Leadership from Liberty University, where she explored student and faculty perspectives of the learning environment in an international medical school. Her academic journey also includes a Master of Arts in Sociology from the University of Maryland Baltimore County (UMBC) and a Bachelor of Science in Human Resources/Consumer Economics from the University of Delaware.

Professional Experience:

Before joining the University of Maryland, Dr. Roberts served as the Associate Dean and Head of Student Affairs at the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine (WVSOM). In this role, she led student success, wellness, and leadership development programs, securing significant grant funding and directing key student-centered events. She played a key role in the creation of wellness initiatives, including a Wellness Room, and spearheaded strategic planning efforts that focused on student support and engagement.

Previously, Dr. Roberts was the Director of Student Affairs and Wellness at the American University of Antigua College of Medicine (AUACOM), where she founded the institution's Wellness Program and managed a range of academic and student support services. She also served as a faculty advisor for several student organizations, including the Student National Medical Association and the Latino Medical Student Association.

Her career in student affairs and wellness also includes significant experience at the University of Maryland Baltimore School of Medicine (UMBSOM), where she managed leadership development programs, facilitated mentoring initiatives, and provided crucial advising support to medical students.

Contributions to Wellness and Diversity:

Dr. Roberts has been recognized for her tireless work in advancing equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) efforts within academic settings. She founded and chaired several wellness and diversity committees, always aiming to foster a culture where students, faculty, and staff feel supported and valued. Her leadership in diversity and inclusion initiatives has been acknowledged through various awards, including the Humanitarian Award from AUACOM and recognition for her community service and leadership.

Scholarly and Research Activities:

Dr. Roberts is an active presenter and researcher, with a focus on student well-being, leadership development, and stress reduction strategies. She has presented at various national and international conferences on topics such as emotional intelligence, student leadership, and academic success strategies. In 2023, she co-presented a poster on hypertension awareness and management in Appalachian minority communities, which won 1st place at the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine.

Vision for Organizational Wellness and Engagement:

As Associate Dean for Organizational Wellness and Engagement, Dr. Roberts is focused on cultivating a workplace culture that promotes well-being, inclusivity, and engagement. Her office will continue to build on past work in equity and diversity while emphasizing the importance of mental, emotional, and social health for all members of the school community. By creating a 

space where students, staff, and faculty can thrive both personally and professionally, Dr. Roberts is dedicated to ensuring that everyone at the School of Dentistry feels they belong, are supported, and can fully engage with their work.

With a deep commitment to organizational wellness and community engagement, Dr. Roberts is poised to make a lasting impact at the University of Maryland School of Dentistry, creating an environment where well-being is at the forefront of the school’s culture and mission.