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September 23, 2011

ULM's Geist named Outstanding Alumnus

Dr. Eric Geist, an associate professor in the University of Louisiana at Monroe's Department of Dental Hygiene, will receive the top honor awarded by the Louisiana State University School of Dentistry - Outstanding Alumnus for 2011.

Geist, a graduate of the doctoral and oral surgery programs at the LSU School of Dentistry in New Orleans, is also currently a private practice oral surgeon in Monroe.

The Alumnus of the Year award is given to a graduate who has advanced the ideals of dentistry through distinguished teaching, service, patient care, and research. The award was established in 1998.

Dr. Henry Gremillion, dean of LSUSD, announced the award.

"For decades, Dr. Geist has consistently reached out to serve his profession and his community, both nationally and throughout Louisiana. He gives wholeheartedly of himself as a teacher, leader and practitioner. In the process, he exemplifies the finest qualities of dentistry and medicine. He's a credit to the many organizations he is involved with."

Geist, a native of Houma, received his doctorate of dental surgery from LSUSD in 1979.

One year later, he completed his internship at LSU Medical Center in Shreveport, followed by the completion of his residency at LSU Medical Center in New Orleans in 1984.

Two years later he became a diplomat of the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. He is an assistant clinical professor in the LSU Medical Center in Shreveport's Department of Surgery.

Leadership Roles:

Since 1989, Geist has served in 22 different leadership positions in the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and received awards for fundraising and achievement.

He has been integral to the leadership of the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, including service as president, vice-president and member of the board of directors. In 2002, he was honored with their Examination Committee Award.

The LSU Tiger Athletic Foundation has recognized him for outstanding service.

Since 1990, he has served in various leadership roles in the American Dental Association, which awarded him its "Grassroots Award for Outstanding Service" in 1999.

He has been equally active in professional organizations in the state, including the Louisiana Dental Association, Northeast Louisiana Dental Association and the Louisiana Society of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery.

Geist has co-authored or edited 16 peer-reviewed publications. His research interests include the effects of diet, tobacco and alcohol on dental health.

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