Lyon College School of Dental Medicine selects inaugural class

For the first time ever, an Arkansas school has a class of students on their path to become dentists. The Lyon College School of Dental Medicine has officially announced its inaugural class of 80 students, marking a milestone as Arkansas’ first dental school opens its doors in the heart of Little Rock.

“This is a historic moment for Lyon College and for the state,” said Dr. Burke Soffe, founding dean of the dental school. “We are excited to welcome our first cohort of students, who will help shape the future of oral health care in Arkansas and beyond.”

The Class of 2028 hails from 17 states, with 43% of students from Arkansas and 33% from bordering states. The cohort includes 17 first-generation college students and three active-duty U.S. Army members. More than 60% of the students bring prior experience working in dental clinics.

“We’ve intentionally built a dynamic class of student leaders who are passionate about improving oral health in their communities,” said Soffe.

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.

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 need for dental professionals in Arkansas.

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.