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February 13, 2025
School News

Sarah Hardin, DDS, FAGD, Named Chair of Clinical Sciences for Lyon College School of Dental Medicine

LITTLE ROCK, Arkansas — The Lyon College School of Dental Medicine has announced the appointment of Sarah Hardin, DDS, FAGD, as chair of Clinical Sciences and associate professor. Dr. Hardin brings extensive experience, leadership and a passion for education to this pivotal role as Lyon College prepares to launch its highly anticipated dental program.

A native of Magnolia, Arkansas, Dr. Hardin earned a Bachelor of Arts in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from Hendrix College and a Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center in Memphis. She further advanced her clinical training through a General Practice Residency at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS).

Dr. Hardin’s career has been marked by a commitment to hands-on clinical education and advancing the standards of dental training. She began her professional journey at the Arkansas Children’s Dental Clinic before returning to UAMS as faculty and assistant program director of the General Practice Residency program, a role she has held since 2020. There, she played a key role in curriculum development, clinical instruction and ensuring compliance with Commission on Dental Accreditation standards for accreditation.

In addition to her academic and clinical roles, Dr. Hardin is an accomplished leader within organized dentistry. She became a Fellow in the Academy of General Dentistry in 2023, a distinction that reflects her dedication to lifelong learning and professional development. Currently, she serves as president of the Arkansas Academy of General Dentistry and as Arkansas’s delegate to the AGD House of Delegates. Dr. Hardin is also a past president of the Arkansas Central District Dental Society and an active member of both the AGD and the American Dental Association on state and national levels.

Dr. Hardin expressed her enthusiasm for her new role: “I am deeply honored to join the Lyon College School of Dental Medicine as the chair of Clinical Sciences. This is an incredible opportunity to help build the foundation for a dental school that will not only train students to excel clinically but also inspire them to embrace lifelong learning and professional growth. I am eager to work alongside Lyon’s talented team to establish a program that prepares our graduates to confidently and competently serve their communities from day one.”

Dr. Burke Soffe, founding dean of Lyon College School of Dental Medicine, highlighted the significance of Dr. Hardin’s appointment: “Dr. Hardin’s expertise and leadership in clinical education make her an invaluable addition to our team. Her commitment to excellence and her passion for mentoring future dentists align perfectly with our vision for the dental program. We are thrilled to have her as a key part of building a program that prioritizes clinical preparedness and lifelong learning.”

The Lyon College School of Dental Medicine, located in Little Rock, is committed to preparing its students to become skilled, compassionate professionals who meet the oral health needs of diverse populations.

For additional information about the Lyon College School of Dental Medicine and to apply, please visit LyonInstitute.com.

For more information about supporting the Lyon College School of Dental Medicine or exploring giving and naming opportunities, please visit Lyon.edu/forarkansas.

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About Lyon College

Lyon College is a private, liberal arts institution founded in 1872. Located in Batesville, Arkansas, Lyon is the oldest college in the state with its original charter. Ranked by US News & World Report as a 2024 “Best College,” Lyon currently enrolls approximately 660 students from more than 30 states and 18 countries. Students can tailor their education, selecting from 25 majors, as well as pre-professional and individualized options. Learn more at lyon.edu.  

Photo: Dr. Sarah Hardin

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