Our People

Gerry Kugel, DMD, MS, PhD

Dean

Gerard “Gerry” Kugel, DMD, PhD, became dean of the UNMC College of Dentistry in 2023. Formerly, he was associate dean for research and professor of comprehensive care at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine. An expert in clinical research and esthetic dentistry, Dr. Kugel is a fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry and the Academy of Dental Materials.

Dr. Kugel earned his DMD from Tufts University in 1985 and a PhD in dental materials from the University of Siena in 2004. He also holds a master’s in anatomy and cellular biology from Tufts and an executive management certificate from MIT. With over 200 published articles, 300 abstracts, and 400 lectures worldwide, Dr. Kugel is a leading figure in restorative dentistry.

Amir Farhangpour, DDS

Executive Associate Dean

Dr. Farhangpour plays a vital role in achieving and maintaining the college's mission, vision, and accreditation. He is instrumental in shaping the strategic direction of the college, fostering innovation, advancing the college's mission, and overseeing all facets of the College of Dentistry. Before joining UNMC in 2019, Dr. Farhangpour served as an associate professor and co-director of the predoctoral clinic at Nova Southeastern University College of Dental Medicine in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

Yun Saksena, BDSc, MMSc, DMD

Associate Dean for Education and Campus Culture

Dr. Saksena works to help each student fulfill their potential and help the college community become better teachers and learners. Before joining UNMC in 2018, Dr. Saksena served as an associate professor and director of predoctoral clinical education at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine in Boston. Her research interests include student learning, teaching, classroom and clinic dynamics, student life, and admissions.

Merlyn Vogt, DDS

Associate Dean for Student Affairs and External Relations

Dr. Vogt joined the college in 1996 as a part-time clinical instructor. He became an assistant dean in 2005 and an associate dean in 2022. During his time as associate dean, Dr. Vogt has advanced the college’s admissions, student affairs, alumni relations, and government relations. He plays a key role in student affairs initiatives and serves as a government relations representative for UNMC.

Sumit Yadav, BDS, MDS, MBA, PhD

Interim Associate Dean for Research

Dr. Yadav is an accomplished researcher with funding from the NIH and the American Association of Orthodontists Foundation. His research focuses on TMJ degeneration, biomolecules for TMJ regeneration, and alleviating musculoskeletal pain. His work on orthodontic tooth movement and alveolar bone regeneration has received extensive support from NIH grants, and he has published over 150 peer-reviewed articles.

Jodi Isom, MBA

Assistant Dean for Finance

Ms. Isom oversees the college’s financial and administrative affairs and serves as a member of the college’s leadership team. She joined the College of Dentistry in August 2005 as an office assistant and has since held the roles of accountant, finance administrator, and chief financial officer before being named assistant dean for finance in April 2024.