RSDM’s Beloved Pediatrics Chair Rosivack Retires

Glenn Rosivack, the chair of the Department of Pediatric Dentistry and Community Health, has retired from Rutgers School of Dental Medicine (RSDM) after nearly four decades as a faculty member and almost a decade as department chair.

“Dr. Rosivack has been an incredible colleague and leader,” said Dean Cecile A. Feldman. “With his kindness and knowledge, he shaped his department to provide exceptional education for our students and essential care to our community. We will miss him greatly.”

Rosivack graduated from Rutgers-New Brunswick and attended the College of Medicine and Dentistry (now RSDM) in 1978. He joined the RSDM faculty during his postgraduate training in pediatric dentistry at the school, became a full professor in 2003 and the department chair in 2017. On March 21, his colleagues and students gathered to celebrate him.

“Dr. Rosivack really helped shape me into the pediatric dentist I am today,” said Justin Dinowitz ’20, Rosivack’s former student. “He's very passionate about pediatric dentistry and has an incredible memory; he can tell you exactly what page, what book something was stated.” Besides pediatric dentistry, the two bonded over Rutgers sports, and Rosivack became more than a teacher but a friend. “He definitely played a huge part in my dental school experience,” said Dinowitz, adding that some of his co-residents came from Maryland and Virginia to celebrate and show their gratitude to Rosivack.

Throughout his tenure, Rosivack mentored countless students, was selected for the school’s excellence in teaching award twice, and received the Award of Distinction from the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. He also served as a CODA site examiner, participated in numerous committees across the university, and was involved in the American Association of Pediatric Dentistry and its committees, including the Council on Scientific Affairs. He led several community outreach programs, such as Give Kids a Smile Day.

“Dr. Rosivack's office door was never closed, both figuratively and literally,” said Assistant Professor of Pediatric Dentistry Mary Beth Giacona. “He graciously and patiently handled torrents of complaints, requests, and problems. His willingness to listen and support … has allowed our department to grow and function better while improving patient care and expanding our community outreach programs. He will be missed.”

Amanda Rodriguez, senior management assistant at the Pediatric Dentistry Department, said: “Dr. Rosivack is an amazing boss leaving behind a legacy of exceptional leadership, kindness, and unwavering support. He inspired the team to strive for excellence while always fostering a sense of camaraderie and respect. I’m very grateful for the privilege of working with him.”

Rosivack also feels lucky to be surrounded by such a supportive community. “I was very fortunate to have Dr. Milton Houpt as my mentor,” he said. “I would like to thank Dean Feldman for her support and guidance. I could not have been successful without the amazing support of our department staff and faculty. We truly feel as though our department is a family. I, too, want to thank Dr. Madhu Mohan for all her help over the years, and I’m confident that she will thrive as [interim] department chair as we begin our next chapter.”

Rosivack’s next chapter, on the other hand, will be filled with more family time. “I am looking forward to spending time with my wife,” he said, “my daughters and my four wonderful grandsons!”