LAS VEGAS - November 3, 2006 - The University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) announced the appointment of Karen P. West, D.M.D., M.P.H., as Dean of the UNLV School of Dental Medicine, effective April 2007. Dr. West is currently the Associate Dean for Academic Affairs at the University of Kentucky College of Dentistry.

Dr. West earned a Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from the University of Louisville and a Master of Public Health degree from the University of South Carolina. Additionally, she holds a Certificate of Medical Management from the Gatton School of Business at the University of Kentucky and a fellowship with Executive Leadership in Academic Medicine (ELAM). Dr. West has served extensively on the faculty of the University of Kentucky College of Dentistry and the Medical College of Georgia School of Dentistry.

"We are delighted to have Karen West, an accomplished leader in the field of dentistry, join our School of Dental Medicine" said UNLV President Dr. David Ashley. "I have great confidence that her vision, enthusiasm and experience in academic dentistry will enhance our dental education programs and research activities."

The UNLV School of Dental Medicine has a developed national reputation for innovation in its curriculum and was recently reaccredited by the Commission on Dental

Accreditation with seven major commendations. The school is dedicated to improving the health of the citizens of Nevada through unique programs of oral healthcare services, integrated curricula and biomedical discovery.

Victor Sandoval, D.D.S., M.P.H., will continue in his role as Interim Dean of the UNLV School of Dental Medicine through Dr. West's arrival in April 2007.