Dr. Edmond Hewlett Profiled in Book Celebrating Black Leaders in Oral Health

Edmond R. Hewlett, D.D.S., professor emeritus and associate dean for equity, diversity, and inclusion at the UCLA School of Dentistry, is among 33 distinguished leaders profiled in Undaunted Trailblazers II: Contemporary Men of Color Shaping Oral Health, a recently released book recognizing individuals whose careers have transformed dental education, clinical care, and the oral health profession.

Published by the American Dental Education Association (ADEA), Undaunted Trailblazers II chronicles the personal and professional journeys of men of color who have overcome barriers while making lasting contributions as educators, clinicians, researchers, and mentors. The collection – authored by University of Minnesota School of Dentistry Dean Emeritus Dr. Keith Mays, University of Michigan School of Dentistry Associate Dean for Well-Being and People Dr. Todd Ester, and Howard University College of Dentistry Dean Emeritus Dr. Leo E. Rouse – aims to inspire future generations of oral health professionals through stories of perseverance, leadership and service.

“I am proud and humbled to be included in this book along with so many of my heroes; men who have inspired and supported me and whom I have emulated throughout my career,” said Dr. Hewlett, who retired in June 2025 but continues in his associate dean position on a recall assignment. “I wrote of my background and my professional journey and shared these lessons learned: the profound effect of even the smallest acts of kindness, compassion, and encouragement by faculty on our students, and the essential need for a diversity champion among a school’s leaders.”

On July 18, Dr. Hewlett joined fellow contributors and the book's lead authors at the National Dental Association's annual convention in Richmond, Va., where they participated in a panel discussion about the book and its themes. Following the session, Hewlett took part in a book signing with attendees.

Throughout his more than four decades at UCLA, Hewlett has been a respected educator, clinician and advocate for inclusive excellence. A double UCLA alumnus who earned his D.D.S. from the School of Dentistry in 1980, he has taught restorative dentistry since 1982 while helping shape generations of dental students. His leadership has extended beyond the classroom through his service as associate dean, where he has advanced initiatives that foster equity, diversity, and inclusion across the school and the broader oral health community. Additionally, he serves as an expert spokesperson for the American Dental Association.

In addition to his work in dental education and restorative dentistry, Hewlett is widely recognized for his commitment to mentorship, community engagement, and expanding opportunities for underrepresented groups in the profession. He leads the dental cohort within UCLA Health’s annual Summer Health Professions Education Program (SHPEP) for first- and second-year undergraduate and community college students and is a founding board member for Mentorships in Dentistry.

Undaunted Trailblazers II: Contemporary Men of Color Shaping Oral Health is available through major booksellers.