Georgios Romanos, DDS, PhD, Prof Dr med dent, professor in the Department of Periodontics and Endodontics at Stony Brook School of Dental Medicine, was the recipient of this year’s Glenda Payas Outstanding Educator Award, given annually by the Academy of Laser Dentistry.
Established in 2021, the Payas Award recognizes individuals who have demonstrated excellence in education and leadership throughout their careers, especially acknowledging original research, published articles, volunteer participation and years in education across numerous environments. Romanos’ distinction was recognized by the ALD at its annual meeting in Phoenix, Arizona, last month.
“It is a humbling experience to be recognized by my peers who are all just as passionate about advances in laser dentistry as well as in education as myself,” Romanos said.
The award is named for Dr. Glenda Payas, past president of the ALD and currently a member of its Board of Trustees. Payas recently retired from her longtime private practices in Tulsa, Oklahoma.
Dr. Romanos has been on faculty at Stony Brook since 2012, a tenure that followed professor appointments at Eastman Institute of Oral Health at the University of Rochester, New York University College of Dentistry, as well as the University of Frankfurt in Germany. In his time at Stony Brook, he has served as an associate dean for clinical affairs and mentor on more than 100 student research projects, a role he cherishes.
“What I enjoy the most in academia, and about Stony Brook, is the interaction and mentoring of students,” Romanos said. “Our dental students come from very different backgrounds, are all very driven, hardworking, talented, inquisitive and, most importantly, excited about discovery and research. I am constantly inspired by my students and very happy to see them to be successful lecturers, mentors and critical thinkers.”
Dr. Romanos earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of Athens in Greece. He obtained his certification in periodontics, prosthodontics and oral surgery, as well as two doctorate degrees, at institutions throughout Germany. Romanos completed his periodontology residency in the United States at Eastman and stayed on to earn his certificate in general dentistry. He also owns advanced training certification in laser dentistry and laser safety, and accolades include having earned the T. Maiman Award for Excellence in Laser Research from the ALD as well as the Distinguished Scientist Award from the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP).
