The School of Dentistry faculty member supports students throughout their academic journey at the school, helping to produce competent and compassionate oral health professionals.
Every fall, the University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB) commemorates our rich history and celebrates the future we’re building together during Founders Week, which this year runs Oct. 20-23. Among the highlights is recognizing the extraordinary work of UMB’s faculty, staff, and students with five awards, each signifying outstanding accomplishment in one facet of our mission. Leading up to Founders Week, we will highlight the award winners every Wednesday on The Elm. For more information on UMB’s annual celebration and associated events, please check out the Founders Week website. (Photo by Matthew D’Agostino)
If there is one constant presence during a student’s academic journey at the University of Maryland School of Dentistry (UMSOD), it’s Andrea Morgan, DDS, MS.
As a clinical assistant professor, director of student advocacy and cultural affairs, and director of student recruitment, Morgan is with students from start to finish, helping them to become not only oral health professionals, but also well-rounded practitioners who deliver attentive care to their patients.
“Dr. Morgan teaches with a rare combination of clarity, structure, and empathy,” said Jade Weatherington, a fourth-year UMSOD student and president of the school’s Student National Dental Association (SNDA) chapter. “She incorporates visual aids, hands-on tools, and innovative techniques that make even the most complex material feel accessible and memorable.
“But more than her methods, it is the intention behind her teaching that sets her apart,” Weatherington added. “Dr. Morgan not only wants us to succeed, she also sets the foundation for us to become compassionate, competent clinicians, and she works tirelessly to ensure that we get there.”
These traits have helped Morgan make an indelible impact at UMSOD and are among the reasons she was chosen as the University of Maryland, Baltimore’s (UMB) 2025 Founders Week Educator of the Year.
Upon learning of her award, Morgan said she immediately thought of her mother, who was an elementary school teacher.
“My teaching career is a tribute to her,” she said. “Growing up, I watched her give of herself to her students. She spent many evenings and weekends preparing lesson plans and grading papers with no complaints, which was her job and her passion. The thing I remember most is how she ‘took care’ of her students in big and small ways. This award honors all the work she demonstrated to me.”
As course director for Dental Anatomy, Morgan teaches the first course that dental students encounter. She works closely with students to identify areas for growth and help them develop the skills and strategies they need to succeed academically.
“The class is challenging and, for some students, it is the first time they are thinking of the ‘art’ of dentistry,” Morgan said. “For those of us that are not naturally artistic, it is a challenge. But the growth that I am able to see during their first years as students perfect their hand skills is exciting for me as one of their instructors.”
As director of student advocacy and cultural affairs and director of student recruitment, she is a trusted mentor and advocate. Morgan pairs students with faculty or peer mentors, provides academic support and guidance for students taking the National Board Dental Examination, and helps students access a range of on-campus services.
“Dr. Morgan is known for her high standards and honest feedback, and she does not shy away from tough conversations,” said UMSOD Dean Mark A. Reynolds, DDS, PhD, MA, who nominated Morgan for the Educator of the Year Award. “She meets students where they are, working closely with them to identify areas for growth and helping them develop the skills and strategies they need to succeed in their coursework. Her classroom is a place where students feel both challenged and supported — a balance that reflects her deep commitment to their long-term success.”
Success with SNDA
Morgan is the faculty advisor to UMSOD’s SNDA chapter, which promotes and supports dental students from underrepresented groups. The chapter has received first or second place in the SNDA Chapter of the Year competition (large chapter category) for 13 years, recognizing its fundraising, public service, and outreach efforts aimed at encouraging high school and undergraduate students in underrepresented populations to pursue oral health careers. In 2024, the chapter was honored with a UMB Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Diversity Recognition Award for outstanding student group.
“I am proud of the awards that our students, especially the SNDA group, have amassed over the years,” Morgan said. “I am proud that I’ve helped to create an atmosphere for the group where the students both work hard and do important things for the community, which is very exciting.”
Weatherington said Morgan plays an essential role in supporting the mission of UMSOD’s SNDA chapter.
“Dr. Morgan is a committed advocate for equity in dental education,” Weatherington said. “She is deeply involved in our projects, from community outreach to mentorship and educational initiatives. Notably, she has supported our Impressions Day program, which introduces pre-dental students across the country to the profession of dentistry and UMSOD’s core values. Her input helped strengthen the structure and success of the program, and she continues to show up for our future colleagues just as she shows up for us.”
Morgan also has served on UMB’s Diversity Advisory Council in various capacities, including chair of its Education and Awareness Committee. Her work has been recognized with numerous honors, including UMSOD’s Russell Gigliotti Award for Excellence in Teaching (twice) and induction into the International College of Dentists, the oldest and largest international dental honor society.
Staying Connected
Asked what she likes most about teaching, Morgan said, “I love when I see the light bulb go off in the eyes of a first-year student when I am explaining a dental concept. Then in the clinic, I get to witness students transition into caring and competent dental professionals as they provide care to their patients.
“Also, thanks to social media, I’ve been able to stay connected with many alumni. So, when I attend conferences, I can reconnect with the alums and see how their lives are going, both personally and professionally. I always feel like a proud parent to see the wonderful things the alums are accomplishing in their lives.”
In his nomination, Reynolds noted that Morgan often goes above and beyond to support UMSOD students, pointing out that she once personally transported a student with a knee injury from their residence to the UMSOD building.
“Dr. Morgan ensured that the student’s education continued without interruption,” Reynolds said. “This is just one of many instances where Dr. Morgan ensured that no student feels left behind.”
Weatherington agreed, saying that UMSOD students can always rely on Morgan to have their backs.
“To be a student under Dr. Morgan’s guidance is to know that someone is always in your corner, someone will advocate for you, support you, and believe in you even when you struggle to believe in yourself,” Weatherington said. “She is the kind of educator whose impact ripples far beyond the classroom. She shapes better students, better dentists, and better people.”