An endowed fund has been established by former director of Eastman Dental Center Ron Billings, DDS, MSD and Renate Porsche-Billings, BA, MS, NP, in memory of Dennis and Joyce Leverett. The Dennis and Joyce Leverett Endowed Fund at the University of Rochester Medicine Eastman Institute for Oral Health will support research and community impact initiatives
A distinguished dental public health scholar, the late Dennis H. Leverett, DDS, MPH, served as chair of Community Dentistry from 1973-1992 and as acting director of Eastman Dental Center the following year. Nationally recognized for his contributions
Dennis and Joyce Leverett
Dr. Leverett dedicated his career to expanding access to oral health care, promoting disease prevention, and advancing evidence-based approaches that improved the oral health of communities across the country
His wife, the late Joyce Leverett, made meaningful contributions through the arts. She helped establish the Eastman Dental Center Atrium Art Gallery, hosting many exhibitions featuring local, regional and international artists. Proceeds from artwork sales were donated to Eastman Dental to help offset the cost of dental care for patients living in underserved communities
“So much of our lives were influenced by Dennis and Joyce,” said Dr. Billings, who guided the institution through one of the most significant periods in its history, leading its integration into the University of Rochester Medical Center. “Dennis was not only a leader, he was the consummate role-model, mentor and colleague, while, from the beginning, Joyce was a guiding light and inspiration in so many ways. Together, over the years, their encouragement, support and unconditional friendship were instrumental in shaping our lives and careers. It only seemed natural to honor their selfless commitment to Eastman, its mission, its people, programs and commitment to the community.”
“Even from humble beginnings, my parents always wanted to help those less fortunate in any community they called home,” said daughter Amanda Leverett. “Ron and Renate have been a constant, generous and loving presence in our lives for decades. Their thoughtful decision to honor my parents in this way is a testament to their commitment to continue the spirit of community that was a big part of my parents’ lives.”
(l to r) Tim, Joyce, and Amanda Leverett
Dr. Leverett was also widely known for his commitment to education and mentorship. He helped shape generations of dental professionals, researchers, and public health leaders, fostering a culture of inquiry, service, and compassion. His influence extended beyond Rochester through his research, professional leadership, and editorial stewardship of leading publications in dental public health
A graduate of Ohio State and Harvard Universities, Dr. Leverett’s distinguished career included serving as advisor to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, editor-in-chief of the Journal of Public Health Dentistry,and dental director for the Monroe County Health Department
“I am deeply moved to learn that Ron and Renate have made a donation to establish this endowment,” said Clare Shaffer, RDH, MS, who worked closely with Dr. Leverett for two decades during her 50-year career at Eastman. “In his quiet, yet challenging ways, Dennis encouraged everyone to take an active role in professional, community and cultural programs that promoted quality patient care and research in dentistry. Through his leadership and guidance, many of us became deeply engaged in public health.”
The Dennis and Joyce Leverett Endowed Fund will support scholarly activity, research, academic development, and community engagement initiatives aligned with EIOH’s mission. Areas of focus will include cariology research, public health or community dentistry research related to oral health, a public health or community dentistry initiative related to oral health, and oral health research related to neurodegenerative disease
The endowment reflects not only the influence of Dr. Leverett, but also Dr. Billings’ lifelong dedication to advancing oral health through research, prevention and service to the community
Dennis and Joyce Leverett
An internationally respected researcher in cariology and pediatric oral health, Dr. Billings advanced understanding of the causes, risk factors and prevention of early childhood tooth decay, identifying children at risk and slowing disease progression
“This endowment will encourage new generations of compassionate scientists and philanthropists to pay it forward,” added Amanda Leverett
“We are deeply grateful to Ron and Renate for this endowment honoring the Leveretts,” said Eli Eliav, DMD, PhD, MBA, director of Eastman Institute for Oral Health. “Their shared beliefs that education, research and service have the power to transform lives will continue to inspire learners, faculty, and researchers for generations.”
“My family and I are extremely proud, honored and moved by this generous endowment in memory of my parents,” said son Tim Leverett. “My dad dedicated his life and passion to EDC and the betterment of public health, while my mom steadfastly supported both the mission and the institution. They both considered Ron and Renate to be amongst their very best friends. To have my parents honored in this way makes my heart smile and creates loving thoughts.”
