Thursday Talks: Donald Lapine ’97

Our next faculty feature is Assistant Professor of Restorative Dentistry and President of RSDM Alumni Association Donald Lapine of the Class of 1997.

How long have you been here, and why did you decide to come to RSDM? 

I've been fortunate enough to have a faculty appointment in the Department of Restorative Dentistry at RSDM for about seven years now. I completed a program here in 2016 called “From Practice to Preceptor.” The goal of this program was to appeal to dentists from private practice who they thought might want to be involved in dental education. I had to commit one day a week for two years and was exposed to the many facets of life in academia. At the completion of the program, I was offered a part-time faculty appointment. In the years that followed, I fell in love with dental education. Two days went to three and eventually to full time. Because I am an alum, I was very familiar with the school, its vision, and the people. It was great to return to my alma mater and realize how much it had grown, while the values and comradery had stayed the same.  

What do you like the most about RSDM? 

What I enjoy most about it is the interaction with the students. I think it keeps us fresh. It keeps us young. They are so enthusiastic, and it's just a fun interaction. There are times when you have a full day of students and you're doing difficult procedures. It can be exhausting and energizing at the same time. But when I wake up in the morning, I'm always happy to go to work. So, I consider myself very lucky.

What do you enjoy doing outside the school?

I have a lot of close family and friends, and I really enjoy spending time with the important people in my life. My friends and I have a little supper club. We go out for dinner at least once a month to try different places and unique foods. I would say the older I've gotten, the more adventurous I've become. I rarely turn down an invitation. I also enjoy movies, theater, concerts, and I love a nice trip on occasion.