Lee Receives Pediatric Dentist of the Year Award

Dr. Jessica Y. Lee, an associate professor in the Department of Pediatric Dentistry, received the 2011 Pediatric Dentist of the Year Award from the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD).

Established in 1998, this annual award is sponsored by NuSmile Primary Crowns and honors a pediatric dentist who has made significant contributions to the dental profession and the specialty of pediatric dentistry through clinical practice, academics or policy development over the past year. Lee was recognized for her significant contributions in the areas of research and policy development.

Previously, Lee had received the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry’s 2008 Jerome B. Miller “For the Kids” Award for her outstanding efforts directed to advancing childhood oral health and well-being.

Lee is a board-certified pediatric dentist and practices within the Dental Faculty Practice. She is involved in teaching, clinical practice and research (both her own and mentorship of student research), and maintains several research grants. Her major research interests include health literacy, outcome assessment, access to oral health care and health disparities in young children.

Lee received her Master of Public Health and D.D.S. degrees from Columbia University, and her certificate in pediatric dentistry and doctorate in health policy analysis and administration from UNC.