Janice G. Jackson, D.M.D., professor and chair of the Department of Pediatric Dentistry at the UAB School of Dentistry, has been selected as the 2026 Ronald A. Bell Mentor of the Year Award recipient by the Foundation of the College of the Diplomates of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry.
The award honors individuals whose careers reflect sustained commitment to mentoring pediatric dentistry residents and early‑career pediatric dentists. It recognizes long‑term influence through teaching, leadership, and professional development within the specialty.
Jackson has served on the UAB faculty for more than two decades and has played a central role in the growth and stability of the pediatric dentistry program. In addition to her responsibilities as department chair, she is director of the UAB Pediatric Dentistry Residency Program and serves as Dental Services Director at Children's of Alabama Hospital, where pediatric dentistry residents receive hospital‑based clinical training.
Through these roles, Jackson oversees advanced education curriculum, resident supervision, and faculty coordination across clinical and academic settings. Her leadership spans outpatient and hospital environments, ensuring continuity between didactic instruction, clinical experience, and patient care. She teaches extensively in clinical pediatric dentistry, hospital dentistry, advanced case presentation, and board preparation, and has guided residents through all stages of training, from early clinical development through transition to practice and leadership roles.
Colleagues describe Jackson as a mentor whose approach emphasizes consistency, accountability, and long‑term professional support. Her mentorship has extended across generations of residents, many of whom have gone on to serve in academic, clinical, and leadership positions within pediatric dentistry.
“Mentorship has always been central to my work,” Jackson said. “Supporting residents as they develop their clinical skills, confidence, and professional direction is one of the most meaningful parts of academic dentistry. I’m grateful to be part of a program and institution that values that commitment.”
“Dr. Jackson’s dedication to mentorship and education has been central to the strength of our pediatric dentistry program,” said Nicolaas Geurs, D.D.S., M.S., dean of the UAB School of Dentistry. “This national recognition recognizes the influence she has had on generations of residents.”
Jackson is a diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry and is active in national organizations that support pediatric dental education, certification, and leadership development. She is a Senior Scientist in the UAB Civitan International Research Center and Global Center for Craniofacial, Oral and Dental Disorders.
The Ronald A. Bell Mentor of the Year Award is presented annually by the Foundation of the College of the Diplomates and includes a donation to the pediatric dentistry program of the recipient’s choice. The award will be formally presented at the College of Diplomates annual meeting.