Dean Marnie Oakley was recognized as a trailblazer by City & State PA

Marnie Oakley, dean of Pitt’s School of Dental Medicine, was recognized by City & State PA as a health care trailblazer. On this inaugural list, the publication assembled a group of the most dynamic leaders in the health care industry in Pennsylvania.

Marnie Oakley (A&S ’89, DENT ’92G) served as a faculty member before becoming dean of Pitt Dental Medicine in 2023. As dean, Oakley has guided the school’s ongoing expansion of hybrid and online education. Passionate about dental education and care equity, she launched an innovative paid dental assistant apprenticeship program to address the national shortage of dental care auxiliary staff while also increasing educational opportunities and dental services in underserved areas.