S. Elmer Bear Chair
The S. Elmer Bear Chair was established to honor the man who brought the study and practice of oral surgery to the VCU School of Dentistry.
S. Elmer Bear began teaching at the MCV School of Dentistry in 1951. He lectured in oral surgery, exodontia and anesthesia. Over the next few years, Bear became a full tenured professor, chief of the MCV Hospital Division of oral surgery and chair of the dental school's oral surgery department. In 1974, Bear's role expanded to include appointments at the School of Medicine and the School of Dentistry. Bear remained active as professor and chair until his death in 1981.
The S. Elmer Bear Chair ensures the continuing presence at the VCU School of Dentistry of a nationally respected expert in the specialty of oral surgery.