Nova Southeastern University Names Dr. Andres Pinto Dean
The dental medicine expert brings 27 years of experience in healthcare and academics to the Fort Lauderdale institution.
Updated on Oct. 15, 2026 in People
Nova Southeastern University has appointed Dr. Andres Pinto as the new dean of its College of Dental Medicine. Dr. Pinto will also assume the role of director of oral health integration.
Why it matters
The appointment marks a transition in leadership for the college as it looks to leverage Dr. Pinto's extensive background in clinical operations and research administration.
Dr. Pinto has authored more than 100 refereed papers and abstracts while serving as a principal investigator on over 35 research grants. He brings a total of 27 years of academic and healthcare administration experience to the position.
The players
Dr. Andres Pinto
Dr. Pinto is a dental medicine expert with a background in clinical operations and graduate studies who is transitioning to a leadership role in Florida.
Nova Southeastern University
Based in Fort Lauderdale, this private research university maintains a prominent College of Dental Medicine serving the local community.
The details
Dr. Pinto currently serves as the vice-chair for clinical operations at the MetroHealth System Department of Dental Medicine and as associate dean of graduate studies at Case Western Reserve University. He holds a D.D.S. from Universidad Javeriana and a D.M.D. from the University of Pennsylvania.
Timeline
1995: Earned doctor of dental surgery degree.
1999: Earned doctor of medicine degree in dentistry.
October 15, 2026: Nova Southeastern University announced Dr. Pinto's appointment.
January 2, 2027: Dr. Pinto joins Nova Southeastern University.
Market Landscape
This appointment reflects a broader trend of institutions recruiting seasoned clinical administrators to oversee complex medical training programs. It positions Nova Southeastern University to compete more effectively with national peers by integrating academic research with clinical operations.
Students and faculty at the College of Dental Medicine will see new leadership beginning in early 2027. The change may influence future curriculum priorities and research initiatives within the department.
The takeaway
Dr. Pinto's dual focus on clinical operations and graduate studies suggests a specialized approach to dental education. His transition emphasizes the growing importance of oral health integration within broader healthcare systems.
Further reading
Learn more about local leadership shifts on the Fort Lauderdale People page.
