Lyon College dental school receives accreditation

The Lyon College School of Dental Medicine announced Monday (Feb. 10) it received initial accreditation from the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). It will welcome its inaugural class in June.

“Achieving initial accreditation reflects the hard work and dedication of our faculty, staff, and supporters,” said Dr. Melissa Taverner, president of Lyon College. “This achievement is a critical step toward addressing Arkansas’ urgent oral health needs and expanding access to care for underserved communities.”

“Initial accreditation from the Commission on Dental Accreditation marks a historic milestone for Arkansas,” said Dr. Burke Soffe, founding dean of the Lyon College School of Dental Medicine. “This moment signifies the foundation of a new era in oral health for our state. I am beyond proud of our team and excited for the future of oral health in Arkansas.”

The dental school is located in Riverfront Plaza in Little Rock’s Riverdale neighborhood. The seven-floor renovation project includes classrooms, a simulation clinic, and a 100-chair patient care clinic.

“Our patient care clinic will be a vital resource for Arkansas, ensuring access to high-quality dental services for thousands of residents each year,” said Soffe. “With a particular focus on serving vulnerable populations, including children, the elderly, and those with special needs, this clinic will also act as an exceptional training ground for our students, preparing them to deliver compassionate care throughout their careers.”

The program integrates foundational biomedical sciences with early exposure to clinical practice, emphasizing a comprehensive approach to patient care.

“Our innovative curriculum combines classroom instruction, simulation training, and direct patient care from the beginning,” said Soffe. “This model allows students to develop both the technical skills and the interpersonal communication needed to become skilled clinicians and compassionate caregivers. We’re preparing a new generation of dental professionals to address the growing oral health care needs across Arkansas and beyond.”

With a class size of 80, the program will serve 240 students at full enrollment, making it a major economic driver for central Arkansas.

“Oral health is closely tied to overall health, and as the population ages, the demand for skilled dental professionals is growing exponentially,” said Taverner. “The Lyon College School of Dental Medicine will not only help meet this demand but also serve as a beacon of hope for the communities we serve. We are investing in Arkansas’ future and building a program that will transform lives for generations.”

In 2024, U.S. Sen. John Boozman, R-Ark., supported a $15 million federal appropriation to support the Lyon College School of Dental Medicine, underscoring the urgent need for dental professionals in Arkansas.

“From our modern facilities to our talented faculty and staff, every aspect of this project reflects our commitment to excellence and innovation,” said Taverner. “This school will be a game-changer for Arkansas, providing both an economic boost and much-needed health care resources.”

In addition to training dental professionals, the Lyon College School of Dental Medicine’s patient care clinic is expected to serve thousands of Arkansans annually, offering affordable, high-quality care to residents who might otherwise lack access to essential dental services.

“Our mission extends far beyond education,” said Soffe. “We are here to serve the community and make a lasting impact on the lives of Arkansans. This clinic will not only provide critical care but also foster a culture of service and compassion among our students.”